JP2001245072A - Communication system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To operate a center in a neutral situation in a communication system where a communication line of the least charge for communication is selected from plural communication lines to start the communication. SOLUTION: When a communication device B performs the calling operation to access a center device A and transmits an application where required items are written as a picture signal, the center device A generates the most suitable LCR table for each of plural validity times on the basis of originating source information received at the time of incoming and information read from the application restored from the picture signal and adds data like the validity times to plural generated LCR tables to transmit them to the communication device B.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a communication system capable of starting communication by selecting a communication line having the lowest communication fee from a plurality of communication lines, and a communication device used for the communication system.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a communication device capable of starting a communication by selecting a desired communication line from a plurality of communication lines, an LCR in which a charge is stored when a call is made via each communication line is stored. (Least Cost Routing) LCR function for selecting a communication line with the lowest communication fee based on a table and adding a number for using the selected communication line to a telephone number entered by the user and dialing. There was something with.

[0003] In a system having such an LCR function, a communication carrier (a business entity having a communication line) operates a center, and the center accesses a communication device having an LCR function. The latest L for communication equipment
I was downloading a CR table.

[0004]

However, when the business entity operating the center is a telecommunications carrier as in the above-mentioned conventional system, the number of communication lines to be compared is small, Since the LCR table is created so that the communication lines owned by the company that operates the Internet are actively used, the communication line with the lowest communication fee may not be selected in some cases. Yes, and when the center is operated by a telecommunications carrier, if the number of communication lines to be compared is increased and the LCR table is created from a neutral standpoint, the communication line with the lowest communication fee is selected appropriately. Although it is possible to do so, the communication cost for downloading the LCR table cannot be recovered, and the operation of the center cannot be established. Was Tsu.

[0005] In addition, even when the center is operated by a business entity other than a telecommunications carrier, the LCR table can be created from a neutral standpoint, so that the communication line with the lowest communication fee can be selected accurately. However, since the burden of communication costs for downloading the LCR table has a great effect on the management as a business entity, there has been a problem that the center cannot be operated.

An object of the present invention is to provide a communication system capable of establishing the operation of a center from a neutral standpoint, and a communication device used for the communication system.

[0007]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a center for storing an LCR table for obtaining a communication fee for each communication line, and a communication system used based on the LCR table downloaded from the center. A communication system comprising a communication device for selecting a line, wherein the center downloads a plurality of LCR tables with expiration date information added to the communication device, while the communication device downloads a plurality of LCR tables from the downloaded LCR tables, The LCR table used for line selection is selected based on the expiration date information added to the LCR table.

Therefore, according to the present invention, the center downloads a plurality of LCR tables to which the expiration date information has been added to the communication device, and the communication device adds the plurality of LCR tables from the downloaded plurality of LCR tables to the LCR table. Used for line selection based on expiration date information
By determining the R table and selecting a communication line to be used based on the determined LCR table, the function of selecting a line based on the LCR table can be maintained for a long time by one download.

Further, the present invention is a communication system comprising a center for storing an LCR table for obtaining a communication fee for each communication line, and a communication device for selecting a communication line to be used based on the LCR table downloaded from the center. The center downloads an LCR table including information on a new communication line to be opened to the communication device, while the communication device checks the open state of the new communication line, while the new communication line remains unopened. At one time, the information of the new communication line is excluded, and when the new communication line is opened, the information of the new communication line is included.
It is configured to perform line selection based on a table.

Therefore, according to the present invention, the center downloads the LCR table including the information of the new communication line to be opened to the communication device, and the communication device confirms the open state of the new communication line, and confirms the new communication line. By excluding the information of the new communication line when the line is not opened, and including the information of the new communication line when the new communication line is opened, the line selection based on the LCR table is performed. The function of line selection based on the LCR table can be maintained for a long period of time by downloading once.

Further, the present invention is a communication system comprising a center for storing an LCR table for obtaining a communication fee for each communication line, and a communication device for selecting a communication line to be used based on the LCR table downloaded from the center. The center downloads an LCR table to which information indicating that the communication device is for demonstration is added to the communication device, while the communication device allows the information indicating that the communication device is for demonstration to be changed. When information indicating that the communication line is used is added to the LCR table, the line selection based on the LCR table is not performed, and the communication charge and the communication line actually used when the communication line selected by the line selection is used. Is displayed, and when the information indicating that it is for demonstration is changed, the information is changed. It performs a line selection based on R table.

Therefore, according to the present invention, the center downloads the LCR table to which the information indicating that it is for demonstration is added to the communication device, while the information that indicates that the communication device is for demonstration is provided in the LCR table. Is added, the line selection based on the LCR table is not performed, the communication charge when the communication line selected by the line selection is used, and the communication charge on the actually used communication line are displayed. When the information indicating that the information is for demonstration is changed, the line is selected based on the LCR table whose information has been changed.
A demonstration function based on the CR table and a line selection function can be realized.

In addition, in addition to any one of the above-described configurations, the present invention is configured such that when the center receives an access from the communication device, the center downloads the LCR table to the communication device.

Therefore, according to the present invention, when the center receives an access from a communication device, the center downloads the LCR table to the communication device, so that the LCR table can be downloaded.
The communication fee associated with the download of the table can be borne by the communication device, and the burden of the communication fee can be reduced.

Further, according to the present invention, a plurality of LCR tables to which expiration date information is added are downloaded from a center storing an LCR table for obtaining a communication fee for each communication line to a communication device, and the downloaded LCR table is stored in the downloaded LCR table. While providing control means for selecting a communication line to be used based on the information, the control means selects, from the plurality of LCR tables, an LCR table used for line selection based on expiration date information added to the LCR table. It is composed.

Therefore, according to the present invention, from a plurality of LCR tables downloaded from the center,
An LCR table used for line selection is determined based on the expiration date information added to the table, and the determined LCR table is determined.
By selecting the communication line to be used based on the table, the function of line selection based on the LCR table can be maintained for a long time by one download.

Further, according to the present invention, a center storing an LCR table for obtaining a communication fee for each communication line downloads an LCR table including information on a new line to be opened to the communication device, and stores the downloaded LCR table in the downloaded LCR table. A control means for selecting a communication line to be used based on the information is provided. On the other hand, the control means checks the open state of the new line, and when the new line is not open, excludes the information of the new line and adds a new line. Is opened, the information of the new line is included, and the line is selected based on the LCR table.

Therefore, according to the present invention, the open state of the new communication line included in the LCR table downloaded from the center is confirmed, and when the new communication line is not opened, information on the new communication line is read from the LCR table. In the meantime, while selecting a line, when a new communication line is opened, the information of the new communication line is included in the LCR table and the line is selected, so that the line selection function based on the LCR table can be performed by one download. It can be maintained for a long time.

Further, according to the present invention, an LCR table to which information indicating a demonstration is added is downloaded from a center storing an LCR table for obtaining a communication fee for each communication line to a communication device, and the LCR table for the demonstration is added to the communication device. While the control means for enabling the change of the information indicating the existence is provided, the control means does not perform the line selection based on the LCR table when the information indicating the demonstration is added to the LCR table. The communication fee when using the line selected by the line selection and the communication fee on the actually used line are displayed, and when the information indicating the demonstration is changed, the information is changed. LC
It is configured to perform line selection based on the R table.

Therefore, according to the present invention, when information indicating that it is for demonstration is added to the LCR table downloaded from the center, line selection based on the LCR table is not performed, and the line is selected by the line selection. While displaying the communication charge in the case of using the communication line and the communication charge in the communication line actually used, when the information indicating the demonstration is changed, the information is based on the changed LCR table. By performing line selection,
The demo function and the line selection function based on the LCR table can be realized by one download.

Further, according to the present invention, as a method of downloading an LCR table, an LCR table for obtaining a communication charge for each communication line is provided.
Storing the table in the center device; and transmitting the expiration date to the communication device for selecting an LCR table to be used for line selection based on the expiration date data added to the LCR table from the plurality of downloaded LCR tables. Downloading a plurality of LCR tables to which data has been added.

Therefore, according to the present invention, the center device obtains the L information from the plurality of downloaded LCR tables.
A communication device for selecting an LCR table used for line selection based on expiration date data added to the CR table,
By downloading multiple LCR tables to which expiration date data is added, LCR can be performed by one download
The function of selecting a line based on a table can be maintained for a long time.

Also, the present invention provides a method of downloading an LCR table as an LCR table for obtaining a communication charge for each communication line.
Storing the table in the center device, and excluding the information of the new line when the new line included in the downloaded LCR table is unopened, and the information of the new line when the new line is opened And a step of downloading an LCR table including information on a new line scheduled to be opened by the center device to a communication device that performs line selection in a state in which is included.

Therefore, according to the present invention, when the new line included in the downloaded LCR table is not opened, the center apparatus removes the information of the new line and when the new line is opened. By downloading an LCR table including information on a new line to be opened to a communication device that performs line selection with the information on the new line included, a line download function based on the LCR table can be performed in one download. It can be maintained for a long time.

Further, the present invention provides a method of downloading an LCR table as an LCR table which obtains a communication charge for each communication line.
A step of storing the table in the center device, and change of the information indicating that it is for demonstration is enabled. When the information indicating that it is for demonstration is added to the LCR table, the line selection based on the LCR table is performed. No, the communication fee when the line selected by the line selection is used and the communication fee on the line actually used are displayed, and when the information indicating the demonstration is changed, the information is changed. A step of downloading an LCR table to which information indicating that the center device is for demonstration is added to a communication device that performs line selection based on the changed LCR table.

Therefore, according to the present invention, when the information indicating that the center device is for demonstration is added to the LCR table, the center device does not select the line based on the LCR table, but selects the line by the line selection. Displays the communication charge when using the line and the communication charge for the line actually used, and when the information indicating that it is for demonstration is changed, selects the line based on the changed LCR table. By downloading the LCR table to which the information indicating the demonstration is added to the communication device that performs the demo, the demo function and the line selection function based on the LCR table can be realized by one download.

[0027]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration of a center device used in the communication system, and FIG. FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration of a facsimile machine as an example of a communication device used, and FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration of a home computer used in the communication system.

FIG. 5 shows a communication line D in the communication system.
FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram showing an operation control at the time of user registration using the same, FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an application form at the time of the user registration, and FIG. 7 is an operation at the time of user registration using the large-scale network E in the communication system. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the control, FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a registration screen at the time of the user registration, and FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing operation control at the time of transfer, FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing operation control at the time of transfer, and FIG.
FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a CR table transfer screen, and FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing operation control at the time of updating an LCR table using the communication line D in the communication system.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the form of telephone numbers in the United States, FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of an LCR table, and FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the LCR table update timing.

Hereinafter, a communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

1 to 4, A is a center device, B is a communication device (for example, a telephone or facsimile device), C is a home computer, and is a PSTN or I
The center device A and the communication device B are connected by a communication line D such as SDN, the center device A and the computer C are connected by a large-scale network E such as the Internet, and a small-scale network F such as a home LAN.
The communication device B and the computer C are connected to each other.

Reference numeral 101 denotes a connection with the communication line D or a communication line D
An interface for monitoring the status of the large-scale network E, an interface for monitoring the status of the large-scale network E, and the like 103 modulates image data into an analog signal suitable for the communication line D or the large-scale network E Or a modem for demodulating an analog signal from the communication line D or the large-scale network E into image data, a data modem 104 for demodulating a data signal such as source information included in a call signal, and a 105 A DTMF signal processing circuit for converting predetermined data into a DTMF signal suitable for the communication line D or the large-scale network E or detecting a DTMF signal from the communication line D or the large-scale network E; A user data management file that stores and manages user data obtained from the network E Le, 107 stores LCR data
LCR data management file for management, 108 is a control data management file for storing and managing image data for facsimile, audio data for telephone, program data for the Internet (for homepage), control program data, etc., 109 is an image A printing device that prints data on predetermined paper, an input device 110 that performs various operations, a display device 111 that displays various states, and a control device 112 that controls each unit are provided.

Then, these interfaces 101,
102, image modem 103, data modem 104, DTMF signal processing circuit 105, user data management file 106, LCR data management file 107, control data management file 108, printing device 109, and input device 1.
The center device A is configured by the display device 111, the display device 111, and the control device 112, and the center device A configured as described above is stored in the user data management file 106 based on the program stored in the control data management file 108. A list is created by extracting desired data from the stored user data, an LCR table stored in the LCR data management file 107 is transmitted to the communication line D or the large-scale network E, It is configured to open a homepage.

Reference numeral 201 denotes a connection with the communication line D or a communication line D.
An interface for monitoring the status of the small network F, an interface for monitoring the status of the small network F, and the like, and modulating image data into an analog signal suitable for the communication line D or the small network F. A modem for demodulating an analog signal from the communication line D or the small-scale network F into image data, a modem 204 for demodulating a data signal such as source information included in a call signal, and a 205 A DTMF signal processing circuit for converting predetermined data into a DTMF signal suitable for the communication line D or the small-scale network F or detecting a DTMF signal from the communication line D or the small-scale network F; An image reading device comprising a combination of a lens and a CCD line sensor or a rod. It is constituted by contact sensor or the like using Nzuare.

Reference numeral 207 denotes a control data management file for storing and managing control program data and the like; 208, an LCR data management file for storing and managing LCR data obtained from the communication line D or the small network F;
Denotes image data for storing and managing image data from the communication line D demodulated by the image modem 202, image data from the small-scale network F transmitted through the interface 205, and image data read by the image reading device 206. A management file 210 is a printing device that prints an image based on the image data stored in the image data management file 209 on a predetermined sheet, and a thermal system, an electrophotographic system, an inkjet system, or the like is often used. An input device 211 performs various operations, a display device 212 displays various states, and a control device 213 controls each unit.

Then, these interfaces 201,
202, image modem 203, data modem 204, DTMF signal processing circuit 205, image reading device 206, control data management file 207, LCR data management file 208, image data management file 209, and printing device 2.
10, input device 211, display device 212, and control device 21
3 constitutes a facsimile apparatus which is an example of the communication apparatus B. The facsimile apparatus thus configured has a telephone number to be dialed by the control apparatus 213 when a dial call is instructed by the input device 211. The LCR data management file 208 is searched based on the current time of the built-in clock, a communication line with the lowest communication fee is selected from a suitable LCR table, and a number necessary for using the selected communication line is entered. The DTMF signal processing circuit 204 converts the dial data created by the addition or the like into a DTMF signal, and then transmits the DTMF signal to the communication line D through the interface 201.

An interface 301 connects to the large-scale network E and monitors the status of the large-scale network E. An interface 302 connects to the small-scale network F and monitors the status of the small-scale network F.
An image modem 303 modulates image data into an analog signal suitable for the large-scale network E or the small-scale network F, or demodulates an analog signal from the large-scale network E or the small-scale network F into image data.
Reference numeral 4 denotes a data modem for demodulating a data signal. Reference numeral 305 denotes a converter for converting predetermined data into a DTMF signal suitable for a large-scale network E or a small-scale network F, or a DTMF signal from the large-scale network E or a small-scale network F. DTMF signal processing circuit for detection; 306, an LCR data management file for storing and managing LCR data obtained from the large-scale network E; 307, image data for storing and managing image data from the large-scale network E or the small-scale network F A management file, 308 is a control data management file for storing and managing control program data and the like, 309 is a display device for displaying images and various states based on the image data stored in the image data management file, and 310 is for various operations Input device to perform, 311 is a control device that controls each part A.

Then, these interfaces 301,
302, an image modem 303, a data modem 304, a DTMF signal processing circuit 305, an LCR data management file 306, an image data management file 307, a control data management file 308, a display device 309, and an input device 310
And the control device 311 constitute a home computer C. When the input device 310 instructs printing of the image displayed on the display device 309, the control device 311 The image data management file 307 is searched and the corresponding image data is transmitted to the small-scale network F via the interface 302, while the input device 310 instructs to capture an image from another device connected to the small-scale network F. At this time, the control device 311 is configured to take in the image data transmitted to the small-scale network F via the interface 302 and store it in the image data management file 307.

Next, the operation at the time of user registration using the communication line D will be described with reference to the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 5 and the explanatory diagram shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 6, input items such as name, address, occupation, user, main use, average call time, etc., and a message indicating that the obtained information is to be provided to a communication carrier or manufacturer. In addition to filling in the necessary information on the application form consisting of, a call operation is performed to access the center apparatus A, the application form filled in with the necessary information is read by the image reading device 206, and converted into an image signal by the image modem 203. (Step S1), the center device A that has received the image signal transmits the received image signal to the communication device B (facsimile device) that has shifted to the polling mode after transmitting the application form (step S1). At the same time as S2), the sender information received at the time of the incoming call and the information read from the application form restored from the image signal are stored in the user data. Temporarily stored in the data management file 106, then the instruction application indicating receipt of the application is converted into an image signal to the communication device B (step S3).

The application form can be obtained by placing it in a product packaging box, handing it over when purchasing the product, accessing the center device A using a communication line D by a facsimile device, and outputting by polling. It is preferable that the center device A be accessed by the computer C using the large-scale network E and output by download or hard copy.

Then, after transmitting the application instruction, the center device A transmits a start signal indicating that the download of the LCR table is started to the communication device B by a DTMF signal (step S4), and receives the start signal. The device B reads the manufacturer name, model code, serial number, center telephone number, current version of the LCR table, ID number, etc. of the device body from the control data management file 207, and uses DTMF as a request signal for a start signal.
A signal is transmitted to the center device A (step S
5).

Then, the center device A that has received the request signal transmits a reception command to the communication device B by a DTMF signal (step S6), and temporarily stores data included in the request signal in the user data management file 106. The LCR table is read out from the LCR data management file 107, and the optimum LCR table is created by processing the read out LCR table from the LCR data management file 107 based on the temporarily stored data. Then, the read or created LCR table includes management data such as the version, center telephone number, update time, and expiration date of the LCR table, and transmits the data to the communication device B (step S7).

The LCR table download (transmission) is characterized in that when the speed is increased, the possibility of transmission data errors increases due to line noise, and when the speed is reduced, the download takes a long time. As a satisfactory speed, 800 bps to 2500 bps is desirable.
T Recommendation V. Since a start-stop synchronization method is adopted as a 1200 bps frequency modulation method conforming to the ITU-T Recommendation V.23, signals used when downloading the LCR table are specified in ITU-T Recommendation V.23. 23
In particular, a 1200 bps signal conforming to the standard is desirable.

As for the data of the update time, if there is simultaneous access from each communication device B, the center device A overflows. Therefore, it is necessary to level the download request from the communication device B. For example, (the last four digits of the telephone number) × 60 ÷ 1440
There is a method of distributing the remainder in 24 hours in units of minutes, a method of calling after a random number (0 to 50) × 5 minutes, and the like. (Last 4 digits of telephone number × 60) ÷ 1440 divides the remainder. In the case of distributing in units of 24 hours, when a plurality of communication devices B are connected to the same telephone number, the access start time to the center device A matches, and therefore, each communication device B has an ID. Give the number (Last 4 digits of phone number + I
(D number × 60) ÷ 1440 and the remainder may be distributed in 24 hours in units of minutes.

Further, the number of LCR tables to be downloaded is not limited to one corresponding to the average call time, but may be a plurality corresponding to a plurality of call times (for example, long or short) or a plurality of periods ( For example, it is also possible to use a plurality of items that are suitable for up to and from April.

When the number of LCR tables to be downloaded is adapted to a plurality of call times, when the user actually makes a call using the communication device B, the user manually selects or inputs the input telephone number. The average call duration may be calculated in units of numbers, and the average call duration may be automatically selected based on the calculated average call duration. At this time, the current date and time may be grasped, and an automatic selection may be made based on the grasped current date and time.

On the other hand, the communication device B that has received the reception command
The mode is switched to the data modem 204 so that the LCR table can be received, and the LCR table transmitted and received from the center device A is stored in the LCR data management file 208.
And the management data included in the LCR table is stored in the control data management file 207.

After that, when the downloading of the LCR table is completed, the center device A sends an end signal to the DTMF
The communication device B transmits the end confirmation signal to the communication device B by the signal DT (step S8).
The MF signal is transmitted to the center device A (step S9). Then, the center device A having received the end confirmation signal transmits an end signal to the communication device B by a DTMF signal (step S10), and the communication device B having received the end signal transmits the end signal to the center device A by a DTMF signal. The application is transmitted (step S11), and the application operation ends.

Therefore, according to the above-described operation control, user registration can be performed by access from the communication device B, and an optimum LCR table suitable for a use situation is downloaded to the communication device B used for the user registration. And the communication cost can be borne by the communication device B side.

In the operation control described above, the case where the facsimile machine is used as the communication device B and the application form is transmitted as image data has been described. However, the user registration operation using the communication line D is limited to this. Instead, for example, a telephone may be used as the communication device B, and the necessary items of the application form may be transmitted by a DTMF signal based on the announcement transmitted from the center device A.

In the operation control described above, the case where the LCR table is downloaded to the communication device B which has made the application has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The table may be downloaded, and the application form may be sent by mail or the like.

That is, for example, when both the facsimile apparatus and the telephone are owned as the communication apparatus B, an application is made by the facsimile apparatus, and when the LCR table is downloaded to the telephone, the data is transmitted as image data from the facsimile apparatus. The information read from the application form and the user ID individually set are temporarily stored in the user management file in the user management file 106 (step S1).
Along with S2), the application command transmitted as an image signal to the facsimile apparatus is instructed to call the user ID, the center telephone number, and the center telephone number from the communication apparatus B from which the LCR table is to be downloaded, and to input the user ID. Add a message (Step S
3) When the center telephone number is accessed and the user ID is input, the operation (steps S4 to S11) after transmission of the activation signal is executed based on the information corresponding to the user ID. You only have to control it. Further, the same processing can be performed when the application form is sent by mail. In this case, the application instruction may be sent by mail.

In the above operation control, the case where the LCR table downloaded from the center device A to the communication device B includes management data such as version, center telephone number, update time, and expiration date has been described. It is not limited, and when a new line is established on the communication line D, the L including the line from the time of the non-establishment is established.
At the same time that the CR table is downloaded, an unopened flag is set on the unopened line so that the line is not reflected in the line selection until the line is opened. When a call is made at specified time intervals to confirm the opening (the destination for confirmation of opening uses the center telephone number or the telephone number specified by the center device A), and when the opening of the new line is confirmed May be changed to open, and then the line selection including the new line may be performed. At this time, the communication device B notifies the center device A that the new line has been opened. May be.

Further, in the above operation control, the communication device B downloads the LCR table from the center device A at the time of user registration, and the communication device B selects a line based on the downloaded LCR table. Without limitation, for example, when the establishment is contacted to the center device A in a communication test or the like, the LCR in which the center device A sets the demonstration flag on the communication device B is set.
The communication device B downloads the table and displays the communication fee and the actual communication fee when the communication device B selects a line based on the LCR table with the demonstration flag set.
In this case, if the user registration is performed in a state where the LCR table with the demonstration flag set is downloaded, a new LCR table is not downloaded. Alternatively, the demo flag that has already been downloaded may be changed to a regular flag, and then the line may be selected based on the LCR table.

Next, the operation at the time of user registration using the large-scale network E will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
Explanation will be made based on the explanatory diagram shown in FIG.

The center apparatus A has established a homepage on a large-scale network E such as the Internet. When the center apparatus A receives access from a computer C or a communication carrier apparatus D connected to the large-scale network E, the center apparatus A shown in FIG. a)
"Telecom registration" and "User registration" as shown in
And "LCR table download" and "list application"
Are displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C (step S21).

When the "user registration" button is clicked by the input device 310 of the computer C while the front page is displayed (step S22), the center device A shifts to a user registration operation. 8B, a character string representing a name, an address, an occupation, a user, a main use, an average call time, a telephone number, a FAX number, and E-mail, and a character string for inputting the same. An input frame and a user registration screen including buttons for “next” and “cancel” are displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C (step S23).

When the communication company registration screen is displayed, the center device A performs user registration when the "cancel" button is clicked by the input device 310 of the computer C (step S24). After the operation is completed, a front page as shown in FIG. 8A is displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C (step S21), and the input device 31 of the computer C is displayed.
When the “next” button is clicked by 0 (step S24), it is determined whether or not data is input in the input box (step S25).

As a result, if the essential data has not been input (step S25), the center device A displays a message indicating that the essential data has not been input, as shown in FIG. And a message requesting re-input and a confirmation screen including a “Next” button are displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C (step S
26), while this confirmation screen is displayed,
When the “Next” button is clicked by the input device 310 of the computer C (step S27), FIG.
A user registration screen as shown in FIG.
Is displayed on the display device 309 (step S23), and the above-described operation (steps S24 to S25) is executed.

On the other hand, if the essential data has been input (step S25), the center device A temporarily stores the input data (step S28) and the center device A shown in FIG.
As shown in (d), a message that warns that the obtained information is to be provided to the telecommunications carrier or manufacturer, a message that confirms whether or not to register, and “OK” and “return”
A confirmation screen including a “Cancel” button is displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C (step S2).
9).

In the state where the confirmation screen is displayed, if the "cancel" button is clicked by the input device 310 of the computer C (step S30), the center device A ends the user registration operation. Then, a front page as shown in FIG. 8A is displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C (Step S).
21) Also, when the “return” button is clicked by the input device 310 of the computer C (step S3)
0), an explanation screen as shown in FIG. 8B is displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C (step S2).
3), execute the above-described operation (steps S24 to S25), and further input “O” by the input device 310 of the computer C.
"K" button is clicked (step S30)
As shown in FIG. 8 (e), "LCR
A download screen including the display of “table” is displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C (step S3).
1).

When the “LCR table” is clicked by the input device 310 of the computer C while the download screen is displayed (step S 32), the center device A determines the application from the temporarily stored data. Read the LCR table optimal for the communication device from the LCR data management file 107, or process the read LCR table to create an optimal LCR table, and add the version of the LCR table to the read or created LCR table. A file including an LCR table including management data such as a center telephone number and an update time and a program for transferring the LCR table to the communication device B is downloaded to the computer C (step S33). Download Storing LCR table and program de the LCR data management file 306 and the control data management file 308.

Then, the center device A determines whether or not the download of the LCR table file has been completed and whether or not the download has been normally completed (step S34). If the download has not been completed, a message notifying the communication carrier that the download has not been normally completed is added to the download screen as shown in FIG. 8 (e) and displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C. (Step S31) While performing the above-described operations (Steps S32 to S34), if the download of the LCR table file is completed normally, as shown in FIG.
A confirmation screen including a message indicating that the download has been normally completed and a “next” button is displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C (step S35).

When the "next" button is clicked by the input device 310 of the computer C while the confirmation screen is displayed (step S36).
Next, the center device A performs data registration such as storing the temporarily stored data in the user data management file 106 of the center device A (step S37), and completes the registration as shown in FIG. A registration completion screen including a message indicating that the registration has been completed, a registration ID, and a “next” button is displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C (step S38). When the “Next” button is clicked by the user 310 (step S3
9) After completing the carrier registration operation, the front page as shown in FIG.
0 is displayed (step S21).

Therefore, according to the above operation control, it is possible to register a user using the large-scale network G and download to the computer C the LCR table most suitable for the communication device B registered by the user.

Next, the operation of transferring the LCR table of the computer C downloaded at the time of the user registration to the communication device B using the small network F will be described with reference to FIG.
Will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 10, the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 10, and the explanatory diagram shown in FIG.

When the user activates the program downloaded from the center device A stored in the control data management file 308 by the input device 310, L
The operation shifts to the CR table transfer operation, as shown in FIG. 11A, a character string representing the transfer destination terminal, an input box for inputting the character string, and an LCR composed of "next" and "cancel" buttons. The table transfer screen is displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C (step S41).

When the "cancel" button is clicked by the input device 310 of the computer C while the LCR table transfer screen is being displayed (step S42), the LCR table transfer operation ends. When the “next” button is clicked by the input device 310 of the computer C (step S
In the step 42), it is determined whether or not data has been input in the input box (step S43).

As a result, if the essential data has not been input (step S43), a message indicating that the essential data has not been input is displayed on the LCR table transfer screen as shown in FIG. In addition, it is displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C (step S41).
The above operation (steps S42 to S43) is executed, and when the essential data is input (step S43), the start signal indicating that the download of the LCR table is started is set as the DTMF signal, and the interface 3 is used.
02 and the destination terminal (communication device B) via the small-scale network F (steps S44 and S61), while the communication device B that has received the activation signal transmits the maker name, model code, and serial number of the device body. The center telephone number, the current version of the LCR table, the ID number, etc. are read from the control data management file 207 and transmitted to the computer C by a DTMF signal as a request signal for a start signal (step S62).

Then, the computer C, which has received the request signal, executes the processing shown in FIG.
(B) As shown in (b), a character string representing a maker name, a model code, a serial number, a center telephone number, a version, and an ID number, and data obtained corresponding thereto, and "OK", "return", and " A confirmation screen including a “cancel” button is displayed on the display device 309 (steps S45 and S46).

When the "cancel" button is clicked by the input device 310 while the confirmation screen is displayed (step S47),
When the LCR table transfer operation is completed and the “return” button is clicked by the input device 310 (step S47), the display device 309 displays an LCR table transfer screen as shown in FIG. (Step S
41), the above-described operations (steps S42 to S47) are executed, and when the “OK” button is clicked with the input device 310 (step S47), FIG.
A download-in-progress screen indicating that the download is being performed as shown in (c) is displayed on the display device 309 (step S48).

Then, in a state where the downloading screen is displayed, the computer C transmits a reception command to the communication device B by a DTMF signal (steps S49 and S63), and simultaneously performs the LCR based on the data included in the request signal. Table to LCR data management file 10
7 and read the read LCR table in IT
U.T. Recommendation V. 23 is transmitted to the communication device B as a 1200 bps signal (steps S50 and S64).
On the other hand, the communication device B that has received the reception command switches to the data modem 204 so that the LCR table can be received, stores the LCR table transmitted and received from the center device A in the LCR data management file 208, and The management data included in the LCR table is stored in the control data management file 207.

Thereafter, when the downloading of the LCR table is completed (step S51), the computer C
An end signal is transmitted to the communication device B by a DTMF signal (step S65), and the communication device B having received the end signal transmits an end confirmation signal to the computer C by a DTMF signal, and receives the end confirmation signal (step S66). A series of end processing in which the computer C transmits an end signal to the communication device B by a DTMF signal (step S67), and the communication device B that has received the end signal transmits an end signal to the computer C by a DTMF signal (step S68). (Step S52), and displays a download end screen indicating that the download has ended, as shown in FIG.
(Step S53), and the LCR table transfer operation ends.

Therefore, according to the above-described operation control, the LCR table downloaded when the user is registered by accessing from the computer C can be downloaded to the communication device B with which the user has been registered.

In the above operation control, when user registration is performed by the computer C, an LCR table optimum for the communication device B is downloaded to the computer C via the large-scale network E, and the downloaded LCR table is converted to a small-scale. The communication device B is downloaded to the communication device B via the network F. However, the present invention is not limited to this. After the user registration is performed by the computer C, an LCR table optimal for the communication device C is stored in the communication device C. May be directly downloaded via the communication line D.

That is, for example, when the communication device B and the computer C are not connected by the small-scale network F, an application is made by the computer C,
When downloading the LCR table to the communication device B, the center device A temporarily stores the information obtained from the computer C and the individually set user ID in the user management file 106 (steps S21 to S28).
At the same time, the user I calls the center telephone number from the communication device B who wants to download the center telephone number and the LCR table to the display device 309 of the computer C.
D. A message instructing the user to input D is displayed, the center telephone number is accessed, and the user ID is
Is input, the operation after transmission of the activation signal based on the information corresponding to the user ID (steps S4 to S4).
What is necessary is just to control by performing 11).

Next, the operation at the time of updating the LCR table using the communication line D will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 12 and the sequence diagram shown in FIG.

When in the standby state, the communication apparatus B compares the current date and time measured by the clock function with the update time of the LCR table (step S 71), and stores the current date and time in the LCR table stored in the LCR data management file 207. It monitors whether there is any abnormality (step S72), and whether or not a call signal is coming from the communication line D (step S73). If a call signal is coming from the communication line A, It is determined whether or not the source information included in the call signal matches the center telephone number stored in the control data management file 308 (step S7).
4) In the case of a mismatch, a normal incoming call operation is executed, and in the case of a match, a special incoming call operation in which no sound such as a ringing tone or an automatic answering operation is performed is executed (step S).
At the same time, it monitors whether or not a call signal is coming from the communication line A (step S76).

Then, when the call signal no longer arrives from the communication line D (step S76), or when the current date and time has passed the update time (step S71),
When an abnormality is found in the table (step S72),
The interface 201 is controlled to capture the communication line D (step S77), and automatically call the center device A using the center telephone number stored in the control data management file 308 (step S78).

When this communication system is applied in the United States, as shown in FIG. 13, the telephone numbers are area numbers (NPA), LATA numbers (NXX), and individual numbers (X
XXX), and the same LATA number may span two areas like LATA or LATA. When dialing from a telephone, the telephone is in the same LATA in the same area, the telephone is in the same LATA in another area, and the telephone is in the same LATA. LATA, and the telephone number to be dialed is: (a) NX when LATA is the same in the same area
X-XXXX, (b) 1 in case of LATA per same area
-NXX-XXXX, (c) 1-NP for another area
A-NXX-XXXX is obtained, and if this procedure is mistaken, access is not possible. Therefore, the area number, the LATA number, and the individual number are separately stored as the center telephone number, and (c) (b) ( It is preferable that the telephone number is dialed in the order of a), the telephone number at the time when the center device A can be accessed is stored, and thereafter, the automatic calling is performed using the telephone number.

When the center device A responds (step S79), a predetermined procedure (steps S4 to S1) is performed.
According to 1), the latest LCR table optimal for the communication device B is downloaded (step S80), and after the download is completed, the communication line D is released (step S80).
81), end the operation of updating the LCR table, and shift to the standby state. Note that the LC already stored in the communication device B
When the version of the R table is the same as the version of the latest LCR table, it is preferable not to download in order to reduce the burden of communication costs.

Therefore, according to the operation control described above, when the update time included in the LCR table comes, when an abnormality is found in the LCR table, or when there is a request from the center, the center device A is automatically sent to the center device A. It is possible to access and download the latest LCR table to the communication device B.

In addition to the case where the center apparatus A accesses the communication apparatus B, the center telephone number may be changed due to the relocation of the center in addition to the case where the LCR table is updated. It is preferable that the center telephone number can be updated without updating the LCR table itself, and the time when the center telephone number becomes valid is included. It is preferable to control so that the new center number is used when the effective time comes.

Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 14, the communication apparatus B is provided with 0 and 1 planes as areas for storing the LCR table, and each of them can store the scheduled update time and the switching time. As shown in FIG. 15, the LCR that can be used immediately upon user registration is
The table is stored on page 0, and the LCR table that can be used from the first switching time is stored on one side. When the first switching time comes, the LCR table on the first side is duplicated on page 0, The LCR table that can be used from the second switching time when the update time (the second switching time) is reached is stored in the 0 plane, and the LCR table that can be used from the third switching time is stored in the 1 plane. When the third switching time comes, the operation of duplicating the LCR table of one plane on the zero plane is repeated, and the setting of the lowest fee route every time communication starts is always performed based on the LCR table stored on the zero plane. It is preferable to perform such control, and by performing such control, the LCR function can be maintained for a plurality of periods by one download.

Further, in the above-described operation control, the case where the communication line D is used as the operation of updating the LCR table has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the operation control is performed by the computer C via the large-scale network E. In this case, an ID may be assigned to each user at the time of user registration, and L may be input by inputting the user ID.
Whether or not the CR table needs to be updated is displayed on the display device 309 of the computer C, and the LCR table can be downloaded. The center notifies the user that the LCR table needs to be updated. In this case, an electronic mail may be used.

[0088]

As described above, according to the present invention, the center downloads a plurality of LCR tables to which expiration date information has been added to the communication device, and the communication device obtains the plurality of LCR tables from the downloaded plurality of LCR tables. An LCR table used for line selection is determined based on the expiration date information added to the LCR table, and a communication line to be used is selected based on the determined LCR table. Since the selection function can be maintained for a long period of time, it is possible to suppress the generation of communication costs related to the download of the LCR table, and the center can be managed from a neutral standpoint.

Further, according to the present invention, the center downloads the LCR table containing information on the new communication line to be opened to the communication device, and the communication device confirms the open state of the new communication line, and confirms the new communication line. When the line is not opened, the information of the new communication line is excluded, and when the new communication line is opened, the information of the new communication line is included.
By performing the line selection based on the CR table, the function of the line selection based on the LCR table can be maintained for a long time with one download.
It is possible to suppress the generation of communication costs related to the download of the R table, and to operate the center from a neutral standpoint.

Further, according to the present invention, the center downloads the LCR table to which the information indicating that it is for demonstration is added to the communication device, while the information that indicates that the communication device is for demonstration is provided in the LCR table. Is added, the line selection based on the LCR table is not performed, the communication charge when the communication line selected by the line selection is used, and the communication charge on the actually used communication line are displayed. When the information indicating that the information is for demonstration is changed, the line is selected based on the LCR table in which the information is changed, so that the LC can be downloaded by one download.
Since the demonstration function based on the R table and the function of selecting a line can be realized, new subscription can be promoted, and the generation of communication costs for downloading the LCR table can be suppressed, and a neutral The center can be managed from a standpoint.

Further, according to the present invention, when the center receives an access from a communication device, the center transmits the L to the communication device.
By downloading the CR table, the communication fee associated with downloading the LCR table can be borne by the communication device, and the burden of the communication fee on the communication device can be reduced. The center can be managed from a neutral standpoint while restraining it.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration of a center device used in the communication system.

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating a configuration of a facsimile apparatus which is an example of a communication apparatus used in the communication system.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration of a home computer used in the communication system.

FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing operation control at the time of user registration using a communication line D in the communication system.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an application form at the time of the user registration.

FIG. 7 is a large-scale network E in the communication system.
9 is a flowchart showing operation control at the time of user registration using the.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a registration screen at the time of the user registration.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an operation control when the LCR table of the computer C downloaded at the time of the user registration is transferred to the communication device B using the small network F;

FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing operation control during the transfer.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of an LCR table transfer screen during the transfer.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing operation control at the time of updating an LCR table using a communication line D in the communication system.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a form of a telephone number in the United States.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of an LCR table.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the LCR table update timing.

[Explanation of symbols]

 A center B communication device C computer D communication line E large-scale network F small-scale network

 ────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued on the front page (72) Inventor Takayuki Mizuno 22-22, Nagaike-cho, Abeno-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka F-term (reference) 5K025 AA05 BB06 LL05 5K101 KK02 KK18 MM07 NN48

Claims (10)

[Claims] 1. A communication system comprising: a center for storing an LCR table for obtaining a communication fee for each communication line; and a communication device for selecting a communication line to be used based on the LCR table downloaded from the center. The center downloads a plurality of LCR tables with expiration date information added to the communication device, while the communication device selects a line from the plurality of downloaded LCR tables based on the expiration date information added to the LCR table. A communication system for selecting an LCR table to be used. 2. A communication system comprising: a center for storing an LCR table for obtaining a communication fee for each communication line; and a communication device for selecting a communication line to be used based on the LCR table downloaded from the center. The center downloads the LCR table containing information on the new line to be opened to the communication device, while the communication device checks the open state of the new communication line, and when the new communication line is not opened, A communication system characterized by performing line selection based on the LCR table, excluding information on the communication line and including information on the new communication line when the new communication line is opened. 3. A communication system comprising: a center for storing an LCR table for obtaining a communication fee for each communication line; and a communication device for selecting a communication line to be used based on the LCR table downloaded from the center. The center downloads the LCR table to which the information indicating the demonstration is added to the communication device, while the communication device allows the information indicating the demonstration to be changed while the center downloads the LCR table. Is L
When added to the CR table, the line selection based on the LCR table is not performed, and the communication fee when the communication line selected by the line selection is used and the communication fee on the actually used communication line are displayed. And a communication system for selecting a line based on the LCR table whose information has been changed when the information indicating that the information is for demonstration is changed. 4. The communication system according to claim 1, wherein the center downloads an LCR table to the communication device when the center receives an access from the communication device. . 5. A plurality of LCR tables to which expiration date information is added are downloaded from a center that stores LCR tables for calculating communication charges for each communication line, and a communication line to be used is selected based on the downloaded LCR table. A communication unit, wherein the control unit selects an LCR table used for line selection from the plurality of LCR tables based on expiration date information added to the LCR table. 6. Downloading an LCR table including information on a new line scheduled to be opened in the center, which stores an LCR table for obtaining a communication fee for each communication line, and selecting a communication line to be used based on the downloaded LCR table. While the control means is provided, the control means confirms the open state of the new communication line, excludes the information of the new communication line when the new communication line is not opened, and when the new communication line is opened. A communication apparatus for performing line selection based on the LCR table by including information on the new communication line. 7. Downloading an LCR table to which information indicating a demonstration is added from a center storing an LCR table for obtaining a communication charge for each communication line, and changing information indicating the demonstration is used. While the control means for enabling is provided, the control means uses information indicating that the information is for demonstration use by LC.
When added to the R table, the line selection based on the LCR table is not performed, and the communication charge when the communication line selected by the line selection is used and the communication charge on the actually used communication line are displayed. A communication device for selecting a line based on an LCR table whose information has been changed when the information indicating that the information is for demonstration is changed; 8. A step of storing an LCR table for obtaining a communication charge for each communication line in the center device, and obtaining the LCR table from the plurality of downloaded LCR tables.
A communication device for selecting an LCR table to be used for line selection based on the expiration date data added to the R table is provided with a plurality of LCs to which the center device has added expiration date data.
Downloading the R table. 9. A step of storing an LCR table for obtaining a communication fee for each communication line in the center device, and excluding information of the new communication line included in the downloaded LCR table when the new communication line is not open. In this state, when the new communication line is opened, the center device downloads the LCR table including the information of the new communication line to be opened by the center device to the communication device that performs the line selection with the information of the new communication line included. And downloading the LCR table. 10. An LCR for obtaining a communication fee for each communication line.
A step of storing the table in the center device; and a step of changing information indicating that the line is for demonstration is used. When the information indicating that the line is for demonstration is added to the LCR table, line selection based on the LCR table is performed. No, the communication fee when the communication line selected by the line selection is used and the communication fee on the actually used communication line are displayed. Downloading a LCR table to which information indicating that the center device is for demonstration is added to a communication device that performs line selection based on the LCR table whose information has been changed.
How to download R table.