JP2003143235A - Communication data input output path apparatus for ip phone service and service controller, ip phone system and its communication management method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an IP phone system for an IP phone service that can solve mismatching of communication management to be caused between call/ connection control and IP data communication control. SOLUTION: A router 120A conducting communication data input output path management in the IP phone system 100A of this invention has a communication notice section 126A that controls establishment or disconnection of communication between the router 120A and an IP phone 110A on the basis of a start or end request of the IP phone service from the IP phone 110A and informs a service controller 140A about the execution, and the service controller 140A has a service management section 146A that conducts call/connection control of the IP phone service on the basis of the notice.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a communication control technology for an IP telephone service, and more particularly to a service control device for controlling a call / connection during the service and a communication data input / output device for controlling a communication data transmission route. And the call at
The present invention relates to a communication data entry / exit device and a service control device for an IP telephone service, an IP telephone system and a communication management method thereof for solving a communication management inconsistency that may occur between connection control and IP data communication control.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art At present, several types of system IPs are used to transfer and control call voice as IP (Internet Protocol) packets by using VoIP (Voice over IP) technology.
Telephone service is proposed. Figure 8 shows the LAN (Loca
1 shows an example of the entire configuration of an IP telephone system using a VoIP function, which is constructed by using an IP telephone having an interface to Ethernet (registered trademark), which is connected to an Area Network). In this IP telephone system 800, a plurality of LANs 830 accommodating an IP telephone 810, a personal computer (hereinafter, referred to as PC) 812, and a server 814 are constructed in each user's business. In order to distinguish each individual device in the description of the operation of FIG. 9 described later, 1 to N (N: a natural number of 3 or more) is inserted after the hyphen “−” in the description of each reference symbol in the drawing. Differentiate each one. When all of the devices are shown, hyphens are not added to the reference numerals. A router 8 which is a communication data entry / exit device for controlling a communication data transmission route connected to the LAN 830.
The communication data is transferred by connecting to the IP network 802 via 20.

The IP telephone 810 has various communication protocols (H.323, SIP (Session Initiation P) for realizing an IP telephone service via the LAN 830.
rotocol) etc.) is configured with the device is installed. For example, a function for a voice codec (G.711
Devices, etc.), functions for controlling the establishment of channels (communication connections) between terminals (H.245 devices, etc.), and functions for call control / connection / synchronization control (H.225 devices), etc.

The service control unit 840 is an IP network 802.
, And performs call / connection control for transmission / reception of communication data between the IP telephones 810 based on an IP telephone service usage request from the IP telephone 810 on the user side. The connection control function performs permission management for the communication connection when using the IP telephone service. The call control function manages permission / rejection of calls and call information such as communication status.

The IP telephone system 80 shown in FIG. 8 will be described below.
Based on 0, the setting operation at the start and end of the service will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of FIG. At this time, in FIG. 8, the calling side will be described as an IP telephone set 810-1, and the receiving side will be described as an IP telephone set 810-2.

[0006] In the IP telephone 810-1, the telephone number corresponding to the IP address of the IP telephone 810-2 of the called party (callee) is input when the telephone is off-hook, such as when the handset is lifted. By this call, the first call setup request signal for call setup is transmitted to the service control device 840 via the router 820-1 (step S90).
1). The service control device 840 that has received the first call setup request signal transmits a second call setup request signal for call notification to the IP telephone 810-2 on the called side (step S902).

Upon receiving the second call setting request signal, the IP telephone 810-2 on the receiving side receives the service control device 840.
A call setting acceptance signal for notifying acceptance of a call is transmitted (step S903), and a first call control signal for notifying a calling state is transmitted (step S904). Upon receiving the first call setting acceptance signal, the service control device 840 determines that the calling side IP
IP telephone 810 of the receiving side with respect to telephone 810-1
The second call control signal notifying that the call is being made at -2 is returned (step S905).

After that, when the receiver side IP telephone 810-2 picks up the handset or the like to go off-hook,
The first response signal indicating the state is the service control device 8
40 (step S906). Upon receiving the first response signal, the service control device 840 recognizes the start of service use by permitting the call. Then, for the calling IP telephone 810-1,
A second response signal notifying that the called IP telephone 810-2 has gone off-hook is transmitted (step S90).
7).

I on the calling side that received the second response signal
The P telephone set 810-1 transmits a first confirmation response signal for confirming the response to the service control device 840 (step S908). The service control device 840 that has received this first confirmation response signal transmits a second confirmation response signal for confirming the response to the IP telephone 810-2 on the receiving side (step S909). By receiving the second confirmation response signal, the communication port of the IP telephone 810-1 on the calling side is set, and the VoIP control between the IP telephone 810-1 and the IP telephone 810-2 on the receiving side is performed. A communication connection is established to enable communication (step S910).

Next, the control operation until the termination of the IP telephone service established in FIG. 9 will be described.

When the calling or terminating IP telephone enters an on-hook state such as placing a handset, a disconnection signal for notifying the on-hook state is transmitted to the service control device 840. Here, for example, the IP of the calling side
It shows the case where the telephone 810-1 goes on hook,
The IP telephone 810-1 on the calling side is connected to the service control unit 8
The first disconnection signal is transmitted to 40 (step S
921). The service control device 840 that has received the first response signal recognizes the end of service use. Service control device 840 that has received this first disconnection signal
Transmits a second disconnection signal for notifying the off-hook state to the called IP telephone 810-2 (step S922).

The IP telephone 810-2 on the receiving side transmits a first disconnection response signal notifying that the service end has been confirmed to the service control device 840 (step S923). Upon receiving the first disconnection response signal, the service control device 840 transmits to the calling IP telephone 810-1 a second disconnection response signal notifying that the service has been used (step S924). ). By receiving the second disconnection response signal, the communication port of the IP telephone 810-1 on the calling side is closed, and Vo between the IP telephone 810-1 and the IP telephone 810-2 on the receiving side is Vo.
The communication connection for IP control is released.

[0013]

However, the following problems may occur in the conventional IP telephone system that performs the communication control as described above. For example, even if the calling permission is given and the start of the service provision is recognized in step S906 during the service start processing, the communication port is actually assigned due to the influence of the system trouble thereafter. The communication connection is not established without fail. Even when the disconnection signal for ending the service is transmitted in step S921 during the service ending process, the communication connection itself is actually established due to the influence of the system trouble thereafter. Further, when the communication connection is cut off and communication becomes impossible due to the influence of a system trouble or the like, the service control device 130 recognizes that the service is continuing without recognizing this.

As described above, the service control device uses the IP
In the system where the telephone service is controlled, due to the trouble of the system, etc., there is inconsistency between the state managed by service control and the actual data communication in the established communication connection. There was a possibility that it would end up. With this, it is not possible to accurately manage the history of provision and use of communication services, and when introducing a pay-as-you-go billing system, it is not possible to perform accurate billing commensurate with the user's use.

Therefore, in the present application, in the present application, the router 820 which controls the entry / exit of communication data is defined as I
It has the function of routing and transferring P packets,
Bidirectional communication management with the service control device 840 is not performed, and conversely, when viewed from the service control device 840,
Focusing on the fact that bidirectional communication management with the router 820 is not performed, an attempt is made to solve the above problem.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is a service control device for controlling a call / connection during an IP telephone service and a communication data input / output device for controlling a transmission route of communication data. Provided are a communication data entry / exit device and a service control device of an IP telephone service, an IP telephone system and a communication management method thereof for solving a communication management inconsistency that may occur between a call / connection control and an IP data communication control. To do.

[0017]

(1) In order to achieve the above object, in the communication data input / output device according to the present invention, I
A communication data input / output device for controlling a transmission route of communication data between a plurality of communication terminals used for an IP telephone service, which is connected to a P (Internet Protocol) network,
Based on a request to start or end the IP telephone service from the communication terminal, the establishment or disconnection of communication between the requested communication terminals is controlled, and the establishment or disconnection is performed to the service control device that performs call / connection control of the IP telephone service. It is characterized by having a communication notification means for transmitting a communication notification signal for notifying the execution of the disconnection process.

(2) In order to achieve the above object, another communication data input / output device according to the present invention uses an IP (Intern)
et protocol), a communication data entry / exit device for controlling a communication data transmission route between a plurality of communication terminals used for an IP telephone service. A service control device that transmits a first communication connection confirmation signal for confirming whether or not a communication connection for transmitting and receiving communication data based on the use of a service is transmitted, and that performs call / connection control of an IP telephone service. On the other hand, it is characterized by having a communication confirmation means for transmitting a second communication connection confirmation signal for notifying the state of the communication connection based on the first communication connection confirmation signal.

(3) In order to achieve the above object,
In the service control device according to the present invention, the IP (Internet P
a service control device that performs call / connection control for communication data transmission / reception between a plurality of communication terminals used for an IP telephone service via a communication data input / output device that is connected to a rotocol network and controls a transmission route, If the signal indicating that the communication connection for transmitting / receiving the communication data based on the use of the IP telephone service is not confirmed from the communication terminal, the call / connection control of the IP telephone service between the corresponding communication terminals is terminated. At the same time, it is characterized by further comprising communication releasing means for transmitting a communication releasing signal for instructing release of the established communication connection to the communication data input / output device.

(4) In order to achieve the above object,
In another service control device according to the present invention, an IP (Inte
rnet protocol) In a service control device that performs call / connection control for transmitting / receiving communication data between a plurality of communication terminals used for an IP telephone service via a communication data input / output device that controls a transmission route. , The communication data input / output device, I
Communication connection confirmation means for transmitting a communication connection confirmation signal for confirming whether or not a communication connection for transmitting / receiving communication data based on the use of P telephone service is established, and the communication connection can be confirmed from the communication data input / output device. For example, the communication data entry / exit device is provided with a communication cancellation unit for transmitting a communication cancellation signal for instructing cancellation of the communication connection.

(5) In order to achieve the above object, the IP telephone system according to the present invention uses an IP (Internet Protocol).
l) A plurality of communication data entry / exit devices connected to the network and controlling communication data transmission routes between a plurality of communication terminals, and connected to the IP network, based on the use request of the IP telephone service from the communication terminals. , An IP having a service control device for controlling call / connection for transmitting / receiving communication data
In the telephone system, the communication data input / output device controls the establishment or disconnection of communication between the requested communication terminals based on a request to start or end the IP phone service from the communication terminal, and executes the establishment or disconnection process. A communication notification means for transmitting a communication notification signal to be notified to the service control device, and the service control device has a communication management means for performing call / connection control of the IP telephone service based on the service control signal; To do.

(6) Further, in order to achieve the above object,
In another IP telephone system according to the present invention, an IP (Inte
rnet protocol) and a plurality of communication data entry / exit devices that control the transmission route of communication data between a plurality of communication terminals and an IP network, and are based on the IP telephone service use request from the communication terminals. In the IP telephone system having a service control device for controlling call / connection for transmitting / receiving communication data, the communication data ingress / egress device has communication data based on the use of the IP telephone service at predetermined intervals. The service control device has a communication confirmation means for confirming whether the transmission / reception communication connection has been established, and the service control device confirms the communication connection based on the communication confirmation means. Terminates the call / connection control of the IP telephone service between the two terminals, and transmits a communication release signal for instructing the communication data input / output device to release the communication connection. It is characterized by having a communication canceling means.

(7) In order to achieve the above object,
In another IP telephone system according to the present invention, an IP (Inte
rnet protocol) and a plurality of communication data entry / exit devices that control the transmission route of communication data between a plurality of communication terminals and an IP network, and are based on the IP telephone service use request from the communication terminals. In the IP telephone system having a service control device for controlling call / connection for transmitting / receiving communication data, the service control device sends an IP telephone service to the communication data input / output device at predetermined intervals. The communication data input / output device has a communication connection confirmation means for transmitting a communication connection confirmation signal for confirming whether or not a communication connection for transmitting / receiving communication data based on the use of If the communication connection cannot be confirmed based on the above, there is a connection confirmation means for transmitting a connection confirmation signal indicating that the communication connection has not been confirmed to the service control device. However, the service control device is further characterized by further comprising communication releasing means for terminating the call / connection control of the IP telephone service between the corresponding communication terminals based on the connection confirmation signal.

[0024]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining an example of the overall configuration of an IP telephone system according to the present invention. FIG. 2 shows the IP in the first embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration of a communication data entry / exit device and a service control device in the telephone system. FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram for explaining a usage setting operation of the IP telephone system using each device of FIG.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining the configurations of the communication data entry / exit device and the service control device in the IP telephone system in the second embodiment. Figure 5
5 is a sequence diagram for explaining a usage setting operation of the IP telephone system using each device of FIG. 4. FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram for explaining the configurations of the communication data entry / exit device and the service control device in the IP telephone system in the third embodiment. FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram for explaining a usage setting operation of the IP telephone system using each device of FIG.

First, the overall system configuration for realizing the IP telephone service will be described with reference to FIG. 1. This FIG. 1 is a configuration in which only the reference numerals are changed from FIG. 8 described in the prior art. For example, the IP telephone 110-1 of FIG. 1 is replaced with the IP telephone 810-1 of FIG. 8 by the router 120-1 of FIG.
Corresponds to the router 820-1 of FIG. This Figure 1
In the IP telephone system 100, the configuration and operation of the router 120 and the service control device 140 are different from those of FIG. The configuration will be described below by dividing it into first to third embodiments and using corresponding FIGS. Further, in each device of FIG. 1, “A” is inserted after the symbol in each device according to the first embodiment, and “B” is added after the symbol in each device according to the second embodiment. It is assumed that each device according to the third exemplary embodiment is expressed by inserting "C" after the code. For example, “router 120-1” in FIG. 1 is expressed as “router 120A-1” in the first embodiment and “router 120C-1” in the third embodiment, and “IP telephone 1” in FIG.
10-1 ”means“ IP telephone 110 ”in the first embodiment.
A-1 ”, and in the third embodiment,“ IP telephone 110C-
It is expressed as "1".

(First Embodiment) In the first embodiment, the router 120A and the service control device 14 are provided.
OA has its characteristic processing unit. Router 120
A has a routing processing unit 122A, a routing table 124A, and a communication notification unit 126A. In addition, the service control unit 140A includes a call control unit 142.
A, connection control unit 144A, and service management unit 146
Have A.

The routing table 124A is a LAN
The list information in which the IP addresses corresponding to the PC 112A, the IP telephone 110A, and the like in the 120A and the next transfer destination router to be sent to the IP addresses are stored is stored. The routing processing unit 122A performs communication data entry / exit processing for transferring the received IP packet to another router based on the routing table.

The communication notifying section 126A controls the establishment or disconnection of communication including a call between IP telephones in response to the request to start or end the use of the IP telephone service, and establishes or disconnects the service control apparatus 140A. A communication notification signal for notifying the execution of the process is transmitted.

The call controller 14 of the service controller 140A
In response to the request to use the IP telephone service, 2A permits or rejects the call, and confirms the communication state whether or not the call is in progress. In addition, a call control signal for notifying the calling side of the IP telephone is transmitted to the calling IP telephone (step S9 in the related art).
04, S905).

When the connection control section 144A confirms that the IP telephone on the called side is in the off-hook state, it recognizes the start of the service provision and sends a response signal notifying the off-hook state to the IP side on the calling side. It is transmitted to the telephone (see steps S906 and S907 in the related art). After that, the connection control unit 144A receives the return signal for the response signal from the calling IP telephone, thereby recognizing that the communication port is set in the calling IP telephone (step S908 in the related art). ~ S910).

The service management unit 146A is the IP of the calling side.
After the communication port is set on the telephone, a communication notification signal indicating whether communication data is being transmitted or received, that is, whether a communication connection is established, is received from the router 120A that mediates the communication. By receiving this communication notification signal, it is possible to check the consistency between the service status managed by the service control device 140A itself and the actual data communication status via the router 120A. In the case of inconsistency, for example, the service continuity indicates that the service control device 140
Despite the confirmation in A, it recognizes that the service is not continuing when the actual data communication is not being performed.

Next, using the sequence diagram of FIG.
The operation of the IP telephone system having the respective devices will be described. Note that, for convenience, the IP telephone 110A-1 in FIG. 1 will be described as the calling side and the IP telephone 110A-2 will be described as the receiving side.

When IP telephone 110A-1 is in an off-hook state such as when the handset is lifted, the telephone number corresponding to the IP address of IP telephone 110A-2 of the called party (incoming side) is input. By this call, the first call setup request signal for call setup is transmitted to the service control device 840 via the router 120A-1 (step S).
301). Upon receiving the first call setup request signal, the call control unit 142A of the service control apparatus 140A receives the I
A second call setting request signal is transmitted to P telephone 810-2 (step S302).

The IP telephone 110A-2 on the receiving side, which has received the second call setting request signal, operates the service control unit 14
A call setting acceptance signal for notifying acceptance of a call is transmitted to 0A (step S303), and a first call control signal for notifying a calling state is transmitted (step S304). The call control unit 1 of the service control apparatus 140A that has received the first call setting acceptance signal
42A responds to the calling IP telephone 110A-1 by
A second call control signal for notifying that the IP telephone 110A-2 on the called side is making a call is returned (step S305). After this, the called IP telephone 1
When 10A-2 goes into the off-hook state by lifting the handset or the like, the first response signal indicating the state is transmitted to service control device 140A (step S30).
6). Upon receiving the first response signal, the call control unit 142A of the service control apparatus 140A gives a call permission, and the start of service utilization is recognized by this. Then, the connection control unit 144A causes the calling side IP telephone 110
A second response signal notifying that the IP telephone 110A-2 on the receiving side has gone off-hook is transmitted to A-1 (step S307).

I on the calling side that received the second response signal
The P telephone 110A-1 transmits a first confirmation response signal for confirming the response to the service control device 140A (step S308). Upon receiving the first confirmation response signal, the connection control unit 144A of the service control apparatus 140A transmits a second confirmation response signal for confirming the response to the IP telephone 110A-2 on the receiving side (step S30).
9). By receiving the second confirmation response signal, the communication port of the IP telephone 110A-1 on the calling side is set,
This IP telephone 110A-1 and the called IP telephone 11
The communication connection for VoIP control with 0A-2 is established, and the call becomes possible (step S310).

Upon confirming that this communication connection has been established, the router 120A-1 transmits a communication notification signal for notifying this to the service control apparatus 140A (step S311).

Next, the control operation until the termination of the IP telephone service will be described.

When the IP telephone set on the calling side or the called side enters an on-hook state such as placing a handset, a disconnection signal for notifying the on-hook state is transmitted to the service control device 140A. Here, a case is shown in which the calling side IP telephone 110A-1 goes on hook, and the calling side IP telephone 110A-1 is the service control device 1
A disconnection signal is transmitted to 40A. At this time, this disconnection signal is transmitted as the first disconnection signal to the router 120A-1 (step S321). In the router 120A-1 which has received the first response signal, the communication port is closed and the service control device 140A is notified to the calling side I.
The second disconnection signal indicating the service end request is transmitted from the P telephone 110A-1 (step S322).

Upon receipt of this second disconnection signal, the service control apparatus 140A recognizes the end of service utilization. Connection control unit 144A of service control device 140A
Transmits a third disconnection signal indicating the end of service to the router 120A-2 (step S323). Upon receiving the third disconnection signal, the router 120A-2 closes the communication port and also receives the incoming call from the IP telephone 110A-.
To the second disconnection signal (step S32).
4).

I on the receiving side that received the fourth disconnection signal
The P telephone 110A-2 closes the communication port corresponding to the established communication connection and transmits the first disconnection response signal for confirmation to the router 120A-2 (step S325). The router 120A-2, which has received the first disconnection response signal, disconnects the established communication connection and transmits the second disconnection response signal for notifying it to the service control device 140A (step S32).
6). Upon receiving the second disconnection response signal, the service control device 140A transmits a third disconnection response signal indicating that the IP telephone service and its communication connection have been normally disconnected.
It is transmitted to the IP telephone 110A-1 on the calling side (step S327). At this time, the service control device 140
In the service management unit 146A of A, communication mismatch,
For example, when it is recognized that the service is continuing, but when the actual data communication is not performed, the service ending process is performed to obtain the matching.

As described above, in the start / disconnection process of the IP telephone service, the communication between the service control device and the router is performed, so that the communication management error that may occur between the call / connection control and the IP data communication control can be prevented. You will be able to resolve the alignment.

(Second Embodiment) Next, an IP telephone system 100B according to a second embodiment will be described.
Here, in the first embodiment described above, “A” is attached to the reference numeral, but since the configuration of the IP telephone system is similar to that of FIG. 1 as described above, “B” corresponds to the reference numeral of each corresponding device.
Will be attached to distinguish each device. Here, the router 120B and the service control device 140B have their characteristic processing units. The router 120B has a routing processing unit 122B, a routing table 124B, and a communication confirmation unit 128B. The service control unit 140B also includes a call control unit 142B and a connection control unit 144.
B and a communication canceling unit 148B. Of these, the routing processing unit 122B, the routing table 124B, the call control unit 142B, and the connection control unit 14
4B has the same function as each device corresponding to the above-described first embodiment.

The communication confirming unit 128B determines whether or not a communication connection for transmitting / receiving communication data based on this use is established with respect to the IP telephone which is using the IP telephone service, at a predetermined interval time, for example, every one second. A first communication connection confirmation signal for confirming whether or not it is transmitted. This confirmation of the communication connection is determined by whether or not the communication port corresponding to this service is established. A second communication connection confirmation signal for notifying a state based on the response of the first communication connection confirmation signal communication connection signal to the service control device 140B that controls the call / connection of the IP telephone service. To send.

The communication canceling unit 148B recognizes the communication state based on the second communication connection confirmation signal received from the router, and if the disconnection state of the communication connection can be confirmed, the IP telephone between the corresponding IP telephones. Terminate the call / connection control of the service. Also, it transmits a communication cancellation signal instructing the router to cancel the established communication connection.

Next, referring to the sequence diagram of FIG.
The operation of the IP telephone system 100B having the respective devices will be described. Note that, here, for convenience, the IP telephone 110B-1 in FIG.
-2 will be described as the called party.

After the start setting of the IP telephone service is performed, the communication confirmation unit 128B- of the router 120B-1
1 indicates the IP telephone 11 at a predetermined time interval, for example, every 1 second.
0B-1, and router 120B-2 is IP telephone 1
A communication connection confirmation signal for instructing confirmation of the communication connection state is transmitted to 10B-2 (step S501). IP telephone 110B-1, which has received this communication connection confirmation signal,
In 110B-2, if the communication port for communication connection is established, the first communication connection confirmation response signal is sent to the router 1
20B-1, 120B-2 (step S5)
02).

By this first communication connection confirmation response signal,
The routers 120B-1 and 120B-2 determine the communication state of whether or not the communication port is established. Here, the second communication connection confirmation response signal for notifying the communication interruption state is transmitted to the service control device 140B (step S503). The communication canceling unit 148 of the service control apparatus 140B that has received the second communication connection confirmation response signal
B recognizes the communication interruption state and terminates the call / connection control of the IP telephone service between the corresponding IP telephones. Accordingly, the communication canceling unit 148B causes the router 120B-
1, 120B-2, a communication cancellation signal for instructing cancellation of communication connection between routers is transmitted (step S
504). As a result, the ports between the corresponding routers are closed and the communication connection is released.

As described above, by allowing the service control device and the router to communicate with each other while the IP telephone service is being provided, inconsistencies in communication management that may occur between call / connection control and IP data communication control can be solved. You will be able to.

(Third Embodiment) Next, an IP telephone system 100C according to a third embodiment will be described.
Here, in the first embodiment, “A” is assigned to a code, and “C” is attached to the code of each corresponding device to distinguish each device. Here, the router 120C and the service control device 140C have their characteristic processing units. The router 120C includes a routing processing unit 122.
C, a routing table 124C, and a communication confirmation unit 128C. Also, the service control unit 140C
Has a call control unit 142C, a connection control unit 144C, and a communication canceling unit 148C. Of these, the routing processing unit 122C, the routing table 124C, the call control unit 142C, and the connection control unit 144C have the same functions as the corresponding devices in the above-described first embodiment.

The communication connection confirming unit 149C determines whether or not a communication connection for transmitting / receiving communication data based on this use is established with respect to the router which is using the IP telephone service, every predetermined interval time, for example, every one second. A first communication connection confirmation signal for confirming whether or not it is transmitted. The communication canceling unit 148C has the same function as the communication canceling unit 148B of the above-described second embodiment. The communication confirming unit 129C has substantially the same function as the communication confirming unit 128B of the above-described second embodiment, but the first one received from the service control device 140C.
The second difference is that the second communication connection confirmation signal for confirming whether or not the communication connection for transmitting and receiving the communication data is established based on the communication connection confirmation signal of 1.

Next, referring to the sequence diagram of FIG.
The operation of the IP telephone system 100C having the respective devices will be described. Note that, here, for convenience, the IP telephone 110C-1 in FIG.
-2 will be described as the called party.

After the start setting of the IP telephone service is performed, the communication connection confirmation unit 149C of the service control device 140C sets the routers 120C-1 and 120C at a predetermined time interval.
A first communication connection confirmation signal for instructing confirmation of the communication connection state is transmitted to 0C-2 (step S70).
1). Router 1 that received this first communication connection confirmation signal
20C-1, 120C-2 communication confirmation unit 129C-1
To the IP phones 110C-1 and 110C-2,
A second communication connection confirmation signal for instructing confirmation of the communication connection state is transmitted (step S702).

I that has received this second communication connection confirmation signal
In P telephones 110C-1 and 110C-2, if a communication port for communication connection is established, a first communication connection confirmation response signal is transmitted to routers 120C-1 and 120C-2 (step S703). .

By this first communication connection confirmation response signal,
The routers 120C-1 and 120C-2 determine the communication state of whether or not the communication port is established. Here, the second communication connection confirmation response signal for notifying the communication interruption state is transmitted to the service control device 140C (step S704). The communication canceling unit 148 of the service control device 140C that has received the second communication connection confirmation response signal
C recognizes the communication interruption state and ends the call / connection control of the IP telephone service between the corresponding IP telephones. Accordingly, the communication canceling unit 148C causes the router 120C-
1, 120C-2, a communication cancellation signal for instructing cancellation of communication connection between routers is transmitted (step S
705). As a result, the ports between the corresponding routers are closed and the communication connection is released.

As described above, by allowing the service control device and the router to communicate with each other while the IP telephone service is being provided, inconsistencies in communication management that may occur between the call / connection control and the IP data communication control are solved. You will be able to.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7 described above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, in the above-described first to third embodiments, the form / operation based on the VoIP function is performed using a router that transfers IP packets as the communication data input / output device, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, frame relay (FR)
Routers and FRAD switches (Frame Relay Access Devic) used for VoFR (Voice over FR) by services
e) or Asynchronous Transf
er Mode) service for VoATM (Voice over AT)
The present invention can also be applied to an IP telephone system via a device corresponding to a node having a communication data input / output function such as a router or ATM switch used in M).

In the above-described first to third embodiments and various modifications, the communication data input / output device and service control device of the IP telephone service, and the IP telephone service for performing each processing in the IP telephone system using the same The communication data entry / exit management, service control and communication management programs may be stored as application software in a recording medium such as a hard disk. This makes it possible to store the program or the like in a portable recording medium such as a CD-ROM and sell or carry it.

[0058]

By using the communication data entry / exit device, the service control device, and the IP telephone system of the IP telephone service according to the present invention, it is possible to start the IP telephone service.
By causing the service control device to communicate with the communication data input / output device during disconnection processing and during service,
It becomes possible to solve a communication management inconsistency that may occur between the call / connection control and the IP data communication control.
Further, by this, it is possible to accurately manage the history of the provision and use of the communication service, and when introducing the pay-per-use system, it is possible to make an accurate charge commensurate with the use of the user.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining an example of the overall configuration of an IP telephone system according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration of a communication data entry / exit device and a service control device in the IP telephone system in the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram for explaining a usage setting operation of an IP telephone system using each device of FIG.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration of a communication data entry / exit device and a service control device in the IP telephone system in the second embodiment.

5 is a sequence diagram for explaining a use setting operation of an IP telephone system using each device of FIG.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration of a communication data entry / exit device and a service control device in the IP telephone system in the third embodiment.

7 is a sequence diagram for explaining a usage setting operation of an IP telephone system using each device of FIG.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an IP telephone system using a conventional VoIP function.

9 is a sequence diagram for explaining the operation of the IP telephone system of FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

100: IP telephone system 102: IP network 110: IP telephone 112: PC 114: server 120: Router 122: Routing processing unit 124: Routing table 126: Communication notification unit 128,129: Communication confirmation unit 130: LAN 140: Service control device 142: Call control unit 144: Connection control unit 146: Service Management Department 148: Communication release unit 149: Communication connection confirmation unit

Claims (20)

[Claims] 1. A communication data entry / exit device for controlling a communication data transmission route between a plurality of communication terminals used for an IP telephone service, which are connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network. Based on the request to start or end, the establishment or disconnection of communication between the requested communication terminals is controlled, and the establishment or disconnection process is executed to the service control device that controls the call / connection of the IP telephone service. A communication data entry / exit device for an IP telephone service, comprising communication notification means for transmitting a communication notification signal for notification. 2. A communication data entry / exit device for controlling a transmission route of communication data between a plurality of communication terminals used for an IP telephone service, which is connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network, wherein The first communication connection confirmation signal for confirming whether or not the communication connection for transmitting / receiving the communication data based on the use of the IP telephone service is transmitted at every interval time of the A communication control means for transmitting a second communication connection confirmation signal for notifying the state of the communication connection based on the first communication connection confirmation signal to a service control device which controls connection. IP telephone service communication data entry / exit device. 3. A call / connection for transmitting / receiving communication data between a plurality of communication terminals used for an IP telephone service via a communication data input / output device which is connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network and controls a transmission route. In the service control device for controlling, if a signal indicating that a communication connection for transmitting and receiving communication data based on the use of an IP telephone service is not confirmed from the communication terminal, the IP telephone between the corresponding communication terminals While ending the service call / connection control,
A service control device for an IP telephone service, comprising: a communication release means for transmitting a communication release signal for instructing release of an established communication connection to the communication data input / output device. 4. A call / connection for transmitting / receiving communication data between a plurality of communication terminals used for an IP telephone service via a communication data input / output device connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network and controlling a transmission route. A service control device for controlling, for confirming whether or not a communication connection for transmitting / receiving communication data based on use of an IP telephone service is established with respect to the communication data input / output device at predetermined intervals. Communication connection confirmation means for transmitting a communication connection confirmation signal, and a communication release signal for instructing the communication data input / output device to release the communication connection if the communication connection cannot be confirmed from the communication data input / output device. A service control device for an IP telephone service, comprising: 5. A plurality of communication data input / output devices which are connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network and control a communication data transmission route between a plurality of communication terminals, and which are connected to the IP network and are connected from the communication terminals. In an IP telephone system having a service control device that performs call / connection control for transmitting and receiving communication data based on a request for use of the IP telephone service, the communication data input / output device is provided with the IP telephone service from the communication terminal. A communication notification unit that controls establishment or disconnection of communication between the requested communication terminals based on a start or end request, and transmits a communication notification signal that notifies execution of the establishment or disconnection processing to the service control device. The service control device includes a communication management device that performs call / connection control of an IP telephone service based on the service control signal. IP telephone system according to claim further comprising a stage. 6. A plurality of communication data input / output devices which are connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network and control a communication data transmission route between a plurality of communication terminals, and which are connected to the IP network and connected from the communication terminals. In an IP telephone system having a service control device that performs call / connection control for transmitting and receiving communication data based on a request to use an IP telephone service, the communication data input / output device is The service control device has a communication confirmation unit for confirming whether a communication connection for transmitting and receiving communication data based on the use of a telephone service is established, and the service control device confirms the communication connection based on the communication confirmation unit. If the confirmation cannot be made, the call / connection control of the IP telephone service between the corresponding communication terminals is terminated and the communication data input / output device is connected to the communication data input / output device. Te, IP telephone system, characterized by having a communication release means for transmitting a communication release signal instructing the cancellation of the communication connection. 7. A plurality of communication data input / output devices which are connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network and control a communication data transmission route between a plurality of communication terminals, and which are connected to the IP network and are connected from the communication terminals. In an IP telephone system having a service control device that performs call / connection control for transmitting and receiving communication data based on a request for use of an IP telephone service, the service control device, with respect to the communication data input / output device, A communication connection confirmation means for transmitting a communication connection confirmation signal for confirming whether or not a communication connection for transmitting and receiving communication data based on the use of the IP telephone service is established at predetermined intervals. If the communication connection cannot be confirmed based on the communication connection confirmation signal, the communication data entry / exit device confirms that the communication connection has not been established with respect to the service control device. A connection confirmation means for transmitting a connection confirmation signal indicating that the communication control terminal further terminates the call / connection control of the IP telephone service between the corresponding communication terminals based on the connection confirmation signal. An IP telephone system having means. 8. A communication data entry / exit management method for controlling a communication data transmission route between a plurality of communication terminals used for an IP telephone service, which are connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network. The establishment or disconnection of communication between the requested communication terminals based on the request to start or end the request and the execution of the establishment or disconnection process to the service control device that controls the call / connection of the IP telephone service. A communication data entry / exit management method for an IP telephone service, characterized in that a communication notification signal for notifying is transmitted. 9. A communication data entry / exit management method for controlling a communication data transmission route between a plurality of communication terminals used for an IP telephone service, which are connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network, wherein: A first communication connection confirmation signal for confirming whether or not a communication connection for transmitting and receiving communication data based on the use of the IP telephone service is transmitted at predetermined intervals, and a call for the IP telephone service is sent. A second communication connection confirmation signal for notifying the state of the communication connection based on the first communication connection confirmation signal is transmitted to the service control device that controls the connection I
Communication data entry / exit management method for P telephone service. 10. A call / connection for transmitting / receiving communication data between a plurality of communication terminals used for an IP telephone service via a communication data input / output device connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network and controlling a transmission route. In the service control method for controlling, if a signal indicating that a communication connection for transmitting and receiving communication data based on the use of an IP telephone service is not confirmed from the communication terminal, the IP telephone between the corresponding communication terminals While ending the service call / connection control,
A service control method for an IP telephone service, comprising transmitting a communication cancellation signal instructing cancellation of an established communication connection to the communication data input / output device. 11. A call / connection for transmitting / receiving communication data between a plurality of communication terminals used for an IP telephone service via a communication data input / output device connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network and controlling a transmission route. A service control method for controlling, for confirming whether or not a communication connection for transmitting and receiving communication data based on use of an IP telephone service is established with respect to the communication data entry / exit device at predetermined intervals. A communication connection confirmation signal is transmitted, and if the communication connection cannot be confirmed from the communication data entry / exit device, a communication cancellation signal instructing the communication data entry / exit device to cancel the communication connection is sent. A service control method for an IP telephone service, comprising: 12. A plurality of communication data input / output devices which are connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network and control a communication data transmission route between a plurality of communication terminals, and which are connected to the IP network and connected from the communication terminals. In a communication management method in an IP telephone system having a service control device for performing call / connection control for transmitting / receiving communication data based on a request for use of an IP telephone service, the communication data input / output device is provided from the communication terminal. Based on a request to start or end the IP telephone service, the establishment or disconnection of communication between the requested communication terminals is controlled, and a service control signal for notifying execution of the establishment or disconnection processing is transmitted to the service control device. However, the service control device performs call / connection control of the IP telephone service based on the service control signal. Communication management method characterized. 13. A plurality of communication data input / output devices which are connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network and control a communication data transmission route between a plurality of communication terminals, and which are connected to the IP network and connected from the communication terminals. In a communication management method of an IP telephone system having a service control device for performing call / connection control for transmitting / receiving communication data based on a request for use of an IP telephone service, the communication data input / output device has a predetermined interval time. Each time, it confirms whether or not a communication connection for transmitting and receiving communication data based on the use of the IP telephone service is established, and the service control device confirms the communication connection based on the confirmation, and the confirmation can be made. If not, the call / connection control of the IP telephone service between the corresponding communication terminals is terminated, and the communication connection to the communication data input / output device is released. Communication management method characterized in that an instruction. 14. A plurality of communication data input / output devices which are connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) network and control a communication data transmission route between a plurality of communication terminals, and which are connected to the IP network and connected from the communication terminals. In a communication management method of an IP telephone system having a call / connection control for transmitting / receiving communication data based on a request for use of an IP telephone service, the service control device includes the communication data input / output device. A communication connection confirmation signal for instructing whether or not a communication connection for transmitting and receiving communication data based on the use of the IP telephone service is established at predetermined intervals, and the communication data input If the communication device cannot confirm the communication connection based on the communication connection confirmation signal, the outgoing device indicates to the service control device that the communication connection has not been confirmed. It transmits a connection confirmation signal, the service control device further based on the connection confirmation signal, the communication management method, characterized in that to terminate a call and connection control of an IP telephone service between the relevant communication terminal. 15. A communication data entry / exit management program for causing a computer to execute each processing in the communication data entry / exit management method according to claim 8. 16. A service control program for causing a computer to execute each process in the service control method according to claim 10. 17. Each process in the communication management method of the IP telephone service according to claim 12,
A communication management program for IP telephone services to be executed by a computer. 18. A computer-readable recording medium in which the communication data entry / exit management program according to claim 15 is recorded. 19. A computer-readable recording medium in which the service control program according to claim 16 is recorded. 20. A computer-readable recording medium recording the communication management program of the IP telephone service according to claim 17.