JP2004304510A - Exchange and charging system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an exchange whereby an existing ISDN subscriber's home facility can be used as it is without the need for imposing a new facility load on the user and which attains a channel distribution district system communication service wherein the number of users or the number of channels available for simultaneous connection is not restricted by the exchange, and to provide a charging system. <P>SOLUTION: A Bch distributor 2 distributes a B channel 300B to a B channel 110B connected to a public telephone switched network 100 and to a B channel 210B connected to a leased line network 200. A storage section 12 stores the information representing to which side the B channel is connected. A signal processing section 16 of the exchange 1 performs processing to terminate D channel signals with respect to the B channel distributed to the leased line network 200. Further, when the B channel to connect with an incoming call request received by the exchange 1 is distributed to the leased line network 200, the signal processing section 16 returns a response to reject the arrival of a call. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an exchange in a communication network and a charge system for receiving data from the exchange and calculating a charge. In particular, when a channel is distributed on the subscriber line side, an exchange having a control function for a channel that will perform communication without passing through the exchange due to such distribution, and charging of a fee for such a channel A charge system for appropriately controlling the system.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, the spread of the Internet has been remarkably advanced, and its use by businesses and individuals has been more and more widespread. The types of information exchanged via the Internet are also diversifying, and they are not only used for information transmission and information collection through web pages, but also in various areas, such as exchanging messages in real time, and used for commercial and financial transactions. Is spreading. Also, with the expansion of such a use range, demand for long-term continuous Internet connection has been increasing, and it has been required to provide such services at a low price.
[0003]
There are several communication methods for connecting a user's computer to the Internet. The first method is to use a telephone line (voice line or ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network, integrated digital service network) line) and provide a ISP (Internet Service Provider) access point from a user only when necessary. This is a method of dial-up connection. Using such a method, a service that enables communication for connection to the ISP at a fixed charge regardless of the usage time (hereinafter, referred to as an “IP connection service”) is also used as a local telephone communication. Already provided by service companies. The second method is a method in which a connection from a user's home or premises to an ISP is connected by a digital leased line and is always connected. The third method is a method of utilizing the CATV network to connect to the Internet via a CATV base station.
[0004]
FIG. 22 is a reference diagram showing a control sequence from the connection start to the disconnection in the “IP connection service” described above. As shown in “exchange data of called party” in FIG. 22, in the “IP connection service”, the contracted party number of the called party is stored in the exchange accommodating the terminal of the called party. The correspondence relationship between (the called party number and the telephone number) and the calling party number of the calling party who is allowed to set up a call to the called party (the incoming call permitted numbers 1 to n and the phone number) is represented as data. It is held (sequence (1) in FIG. 22).
[0005]
From the terminal of the calling party, a call is made to the terminal of the called party according to a normal dial-up procedure, and a "SETUP" signal arrives at the exchange (sequence {circle around (2)}). The exchange identifies from the held data that the telephone number “03-9876-5432” of the connection destination is a terminating contract target of the “IP connection service”, and the contract number of the calling contractor is A check is made to see if the call is included in the incoming call permitted numbers 1 to n of the incoming contract (sequence (3)). As a result of this collation, if it is included, the exchange sends a "SETUP" signal to call the terminating contractor in the same manner as in the normal incoming call procedure (sequence (4)). After that, communication is started through a procedure of exchanging signals of “CALL PROC”, “ALERT”, “CONN”, and “CONN ACK”. The disconnection procedure after the end of the communication is the same as the normal disconnection procedure. A "DISC" signal is sent from the terminal on the disconnecting side (sequence (5)), and thereafter, exchange of "REL" and "REL COMP" signals is performed. After that, the resources in the network are released.
[0006]
As data for communication charges, data including the following items is normally passed from the exchange to the charge system for each call. That is, the name of the calling exchange, the calling telephone number, the subscriber class (for example, “general”, “public”, etc.), the call mode (for example, “voice”, “64 kbps (kilobits per second) unrestricted”, etc.), outgoing call Data items such as time ("YYYY / MM / DD, hh: mm: ss.s" format), communication start time (same format), communication end time (same format), incoming telephone number, and the like. In the case of communication using the above-mentioned “IP connection service”, since data indicating that fact is included, the charge system is exempt from the charge-based charge-based communication.
[0007]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In the first method of the Internet connection described above, that is, the method of dial-up connection using a telephone line, the resources of the exchange are consumed according to the number of channels used. There is a drawback that the number is limited and it is not possible to service many channels simultaneously. Further, since the call during the channel connection occupies the resources of the exchange, it is difficult to greatly reduce the communication cost, and there is a disadvantage that a low-cost service cannot be provided.
[0008]
In the above-mentioned second method, that is, a method of connecting to an ISP through a digital leased line, a new DSU (Digital Service Unit, digital service device) or TA (Terminal Adapter, Terminal adapter). Also, in order to use such a digital private line connection service, the transmission rate must be selected from limited items such as 64 kbps (kilobits per second), 128 kbps, 1.5 Mbps (megabits per second), and the like. A service with an appropriate transmission speed according to demand cannot be used at an appropriate price. For example, a user who needs a transmission speed of about 768 kbps has to select an expensive 1.5 Mbps item. Also, it is not possible to make detailed settings such as receiving a service at a different transmission rate depending on the time zone.
[0009]
In the third method described above, that is, a method of making a connection using a CATV network, at present, only a few companies provide services at a high transmission rate, and the area where such services are provided is limited. There is a disadvantage that there is. This method also has a disadvantage that it is necessary to provide new equipment inside the user's house.
[0010]
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and can use, for example, existing ISDN subscriber premises equipment as it is, without requiring a new facility burden on the user side. It is an object of the present invention to provide an exchange and a charge system capable of realizing an Internet connection service that can be provided in almost all areas in Japan without being restricted by the number of connectable users or channels by the exchange.
[0011]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 1 provides a subscriber interface for transmitting / receiving a signal on a subscriber transmission line connected to a terminal device, and a relay for transmitting / receiving a signal on a relay transmission line. Network interface using a first channel for transmitting communication data and a second channel for transmitting control data for setting up and releasing a call using the first channel. The first channel on the subscriber-side transmission path is used for connection between the terminal device and the communication network, or is distributed between the terminal device and the switch. A storage unit for holding state identification information indicating whether the terminal device is used for connection with a network other than the communication network, and the state identification information held by the storage unit. In the case where the first channel is used for connection between the terminal device and a network other than the communication network, a signal corresponding to the first channel on the second channel in the subscriber-side transmission path. In this regard, a gist of the present invention is to provide an exchange characterized by comprising a signal processing unit for performing termination processing.
[0012]
Here, a channel is a unit of a logical communication path connecting data between communication entities. A plurality of channels can be multiplexed and set on a transmission path by a time division method, a frequency division method, a code division method, or the like. Specific examples of the channel include a B channel and a D channel in the I interface.
[0013]
With such a configuration of the present invention, the subscriber interface transmits and receives various signals using the channel on the subscriber transmission path. The signal processing unit performs processing according to the signal received by the subscriber interface and the state of the exchange, and generates data relating to the signal transmitted from the subscriber interface as necessary. The storage unit stores information for distinguishing whether the first channel is connected to the communication network or another network. Therefore, when the first channel is connected to another network, the data for setting up and releasing the call from the subscriber-side transmission line relating to the first channel is absorbed without flowing to the relay-side transmission line. It is possible to generate unnecessary data and send it out to the subscriber side transmission path, that is, perform termination processing.
[0014]
In the invention according to claim 2, the first channel is identified by a unique channel number, and the state discrimination information stored in the storage unit is rewritten by designation using the channel number. A state distinction information maintenance means is provided.
[0015]
According to such a configuration of the present invention, the state distinguishing information can be rewritten by the state distinguishing information maintenance means. Therefore, it is possible to switch between using the first channel to connect to the communication network and using the first channel to connect to another network.
[0016]
Here, the state distinction information maintenance means is, for example, a maintenance terminal device capable of inputting and outputting maintenance data. When "designation using channel numbers" is performed, a method of designating the number of first channels to be connected to the exchange for each subscriber line may be used, or whether or not to connect to the exchange for each first channel. May be specified.
[0017]
In the invention according to claim 3, when control data on a call setting of the first channel having a special telephone number as a destination is received on the second channel in the subscriber side transmission path, The state distinguishing information on the first channel is rewritten, and the first channel is used for connection between the terminal device and a network other than the communication network.
[0018]
According to such a configuration of the present invention, it is possible to dynamically change the state discrimination information in the exchange by executing a procedure for making a call using a special telephone number from the terminal device side.
[0019]
In the invention according to claim 4, when control data relating to release of a call of the first channel is received on the second channel in the subscriber-side transmission path, the state discrimination with respect to the first channel is performed. The information is rewritten, and the first channel is used for connection between the terminal device and the communication network.
[0020]
According to such a configuration of the present invention, it is possible to dynamically change the state discrimination information in the exchange by executing the procedure for releasing the call set from the terminal device side.
[0021]
In the invention according to claim 5, when processing for setting up and releasing a call of the first channel is performed on the second channel, the terminal is set based on the state discrimination information relating to the first channel. For a call for connection between the device and a network other than the communication network, toll data including information indicating that the first channel has been distributed to the network other than the communication network is generated. .
[0022]
According to such a configuration of the present invention, it is possible to separately indicate whether each call on the toll data is made via the communication network or not. Therefore, when totaling the charges using such charge data, it is possible to make the call made without passing through the communication network non-charged or use a different charging system than usual. .
[0023]
In the invention according to claim 6, when the signal processing unit receives a call request signal from the relay-side transmission path, the signal processing unit refers to the state identification information held in the storage unit, and In the case where the first channel to which is connected is used for connection between the terminal and a network other than the communication network, a termination control process for rejecting the incoming call is performed.
[0024]
With such a configuration of the present invention, it is possible to reject an incoming call because the first channel is connected to another network.
[0025]
Further, in the invention according to claim 7, for each of the plurality of first channels included in the subscriber line interface, a call setting request with the special telephone number from the terminal device arbitrarily from the terminal device side and It is characterized in that selection of a network to which the first channel is to be connected is permitted by a call release request corresponding to the call setup request, and the state identification information is rewritten in response to these requests.
[0026]
Regarding the first channel included in the subscriber line interface, any number of first channels are connected to the exchange side arbitrarily from the terminal device without any maintenance work on the exchange side. It is possible to dynamically change whether or not to connect to another network.
[0027]
In the invention described in claim 8, the first channel is a B channel of an I interface, and the second channel is a D channel of an I interface.
[0028]
Further, according to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in a charge system for receiving charge data for each call from an exchange and summing up billing charges to users based on the charge data, the charge data is transmitted without passing through the exchange in the charge data. A gist of the billing system is characterized in that a call indicated to be made is not charged.
[0029]
Further, the invention according to claim 10 is a switching method in a communication network using an exchange for an I interface, wherein a B channel in the I interface is used for connection between a terminal device and the communication network, Storing a distinction as to whether the terminal device is used for connection between the terminal device and a network other than the communication network; and a terminal device side for a B channel used for connection between the terminal device and the network other than the communication network. Receiving the call setup request signal from the D channel on the D channel, and if the B channel is used for connection between a terminal device and a network other than the communication network, the call setup request signal is sent to the exchange. Terminating and returning a connection signal to the terminal device side.
[0030]
The invention according to claim 11 is a switching method in a communication network using an I-interface exchange, wherein a terminal device side sends a call setting request signal for a certain B channel to a special telephone number as a destination. Receiving on a channel, and storing, in response to the call setup request signal, the B channel as being used for connection between a terminal device and a network other than the communication network; Terminating the request signal at the exchange, returning a connection signal to the terminal device side, receiving a call release signal from the terminal device side on the D channel with respect to the B channel, Storing the B channel as used for connection between the terminal device and the communication network. The gist.
[0031]
According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an exchange method in a communication network using an exchange for an I interface, comprising the steps of: receiving a call request signal from a network side; A step of checking the state, and a signal for rejecting the incoming call when it is determined that the B channel is used for connection between the terminal device and a network other than the communication network as a result of the check. And sending back to the network side.
[0032]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a communication system using the exchange according to the embodiment as an element. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 100 denotes a public telephone network, 200 denotes a dedicated line network, and 3 denotes a terminal device. It is assumed that communication by the I interface is performed on the subscriber line. Reference numeral 2 denotes a Bch (B channel) distribution device that distributes a channel from the terminal device to the public telephone network 100 and the leased line network 200.
[0033]
Reference numeral 1 denotes an exchange for accommodating a subscriber line to which the terminal device 3 is connected in the public telephone network 100. The exchange 1 includes a control unit 11, a subscriber interface 13, a communication path switch 14, a relay interface 15, a signal processing unit. It comprises a unit 16 and a storage unit 12 provided in the control unit 11. Reference numeral 5 denotes a maintenance terminal device (state distinction information maintenance means) connected to the exchange 1, and reference numeral 6 denotes a toll system connected to the exchange 1 via a toll data transfer transmission path 160.
[0034]
Further, 120 is a relay transmission line (relay side transmission line) in the public telephone network 100, 110 is a transmission line (subscriber side transmission line) between the exchange 1 and the Bch distribution device 2, and 300 is a Bch distribution device 2 and a terminal. Reference numeral 210 denotes a transmission line between the Bch distribution device 2 and the leased line network 200. The transmission path 110 logically has one D channel 110D (second channel) and a plurality of B channels 110B (first channel). The transmission path 300 also has one D channel 300D and a plurality of B channels 300B. Further, the transmission path 200 logically has a plurality of B channels 210B. The plurality of B channels 300B are distributed to the plurality of B channels 110B and the plurality of B channels 210B on a channel basis under the control of the Bch distribution device 2.
[0035]
In the exchange 1, the subscriber interface 13 transmits and receives signals on the transmission line 110. The speech path switch 14 performs data exchange processing for each channel of the subscriber line. The relay interface 15 transmits and receives signals on the relay transmission line 120. The signal processing unit 16 processes signals input and output by the subscriber interface 13 and the relay interface 15 according to a predetermined procedure. The control unit 11 controls the operation of the entire exchange 1, and the storage unit 12 provided in the control unit 11 stores various setting information.
[0036]
The Bch distribution device 2 only needs to be disposed between the terminal device 3 and the exchange 1 accommodating the subscriber line. It doesn't matter. Further, the Bch distribution device 2 may be a single device itself, or may be configured as a part of another device or integrated with another device. Therefore, the Bch distribution device 2 is incorporated as a function in, for example, a subscriber line connection device owned and operated by a regional communication carrier or a user home line termination device owned and operated by a user. May be used. Here, a specific example of the subscriber line connection device is an LXM (subscriber system semi-fixed path connection device). A DSU is a specific example of the user home line terminating device.
[0037]
Here, with respect to the technologies related to the exchange, the Bch distribution device, the terminal device, the maintenance terminal device, the public telephone network, and the leased line network, which are the premise of the communication system having such a configuration, referring to FIGS. explain.
[0038]
FIG. 12 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a communication network configured using the device according to the present invention. In FIG. 21B, reference numeral 1031 denotes a computer (IP terminal), and 1032 denotes a telephone terminal. In this embodiment, the computer 1031 and the telephone terminal 1032 are housed in the same ISDN contract line (subscriber line, digital communication line, subscriber digital line, ISDN subscriber line), and the For this purpose, a constant connection terminating device 1011 (line terminating device) is provided. This ISDN line provides two B-channels (Bch, logical communication path) and one D-channel (Dch, logical communication path) through the basic interface.
[0039]
Among the above channels, one channel of the B channel is assigned to the computer 1031. The computer 1031 uses this B channel to perform data communication by PPP or the like. The remaining one B channel line is allocated to the telephone terminal 1032, and the telephone terminal 1032 performs voice communication by circuit switching using the B channel.
[0040]
Reference numeral 1012 denotes a Bch always-on connection apparatus (subscriber line connection apparatus) installed in a local station of a communication carrier. This Bch always-on connection apparatus 1012 connects an ISDN line in the office in units of one subscriber. It is positioned as an LXM (subscriber system semi-fixed path connection device) that is distributed and connected to a plurality of exchanges. In this example, the Bch constant connection supporting connection device 1012 has a function of distributing a telephone service path (Bch + Dch) to the telephone network 1051 and distributing a path (Bch) for Internet connection by IP to the leased line network 1052. Have.
[0041]
In this way, by distributing paths in the Bch constant connection supporting connection device 1012, a plurality of services such as a telephone network and a dedicated line network can be simultaneously used from one ISDN line. The computer 1031 communicates with the partner computer 1033 through the leased line network 1052 and through protocol conversion by the Bch / IP converter 1013. The telephone terminal 1032 establishes and communicates with a telephone terminal 1034 of the other party by using the exchange function of the telephone network 1051.
[0042]
In FIG. 12A, reference numeral 1101 denotes a facility construction range for each subject when communication is performed between the telephone terminals 1032 and 1034. The telephone terminal 1032 and the always-on terminal device 1011 are installed in the user's house, and the communication carrier operates the Bch always-on connection device 1012 and the telephone network 1051. The communication partner installs a telephone terminal 1034. The telephone network connection device 1014 is usually a facility installed by a telecommunications carrier. However, if the telephone terminal 1034 of the communication partner is a dial-up access server operated by an ISP, the A network connection device 1014 may be installed. Similarly, reference numeral 1102 denotes a range of each communication line item. 1103 indicates a range for each used communication protocol (communication protocol).
[0043]
In FIG. 12C, reference numeral 1111 denotes a facility construction range for each subject when communicating between the computers 1031 and 1033. The Bch / IP conversion device 1013 can be installed both by a telecommunications carrier and by an ISP. Reference numeral 1112 denotes a range of each communication line item. Reference numeral 1113 indicates a range for each communication protocol used.
[0044]
FIG. 13 is a configuration diagram illustrating a network configuration when simultaneously using both services of the telephone network and the leased line network using the constant connection terminating device 1011. The terminating device according to the prior art is a dedicated terminating device for ISDN connection or dedicated line connection, and a plurality of channels in one line cannot be simultaneously connected to different services. 1011 can use an arbitrary channel for a dedicated line connection and allocate another arbitrary channel to a telephone service.
[0045]
Next, a detailed configuration of a main device and control of communication data in the above-described network will be described. FIG. 14 is a configuration diagram showing a network configuration and details of data contents transmitted on the network. In this figure, a multiplexing device 1015 connects a plurality of subscribers and time-division multiplexes communication data of these subscribers. The telephone network connection device 1014 (exchange) accommodates lines used by a plurality of subscribers and performs exchange processing on these communication data. Further, the Bch always-on connection apparatus 1012 is installed between a plurality of multiplexing apparatuses 1015 and a plurality of telephone network connection apparatuses 1014 (switches) or Bch / IP conversion apparatuses 1013, and is transferred from the plurality of multiplexing apparatuses 1015, respectively. The incoming communication data is transmitted to a telephone network connection device 1014 (exchange) or Bch / IP conversion device 1013 accommodating the line used by the corresponding subscriber, and a plurality of telephone network connection devices 1014 (exchange) or Bch. The communication data transmitted from the / IP converter 1013 is transmitted to the multiplexer 1015 to which the corresponding subscriber is connected.
Note that a specific example of the multiplexing device is RSBM. A specific example of the telephone network connection device is ISM.
[0046]
Further, a multiplexer opposing transmission path 1061 between the Bch always-on connection apparatus 1012 and the multiplexer 1015, and a Bch / IP conversion apparatus opposing transmission line 1062 between the Bch always-on connection apparatus 1012 and the Bch / IP conversion apparatus 1013. , On the transmission line 1063 opposite to the telephone network connection device between the Bch constant connection connection device 1012 and the telephone network connection device 1014, time-division multiplexing control is performed for each subscriber and each channel, and the time slot is Assigned to each subscriber and each channel. Further, the constant connection terminating device 1011 is a line terminating device installed in the subscriber's home, and enables simultaneous connection of a plurality of channels (time slots) in one line to different services. Channels can be used for leased line connections and any other channel can be used for telephone services. The Bch / IP conversion device 1013 is a device for mutually converting between multiplexed data of a plurality of subscribers in the Bch / IP conversion device opposite transmission line 1062 and an IP message on the IP network 1053.
[0047]
Next, the features of the configuration of each device that implements the above-described communication control will be described. The Bch constant connection connection device 1012 includes a subscriber information storage unit that stores information about a subscriber, and a Bch / IP conversion device that stores information about allocation of a time slot in a Bch / IP conversion device opposite transmission path. And a transmission line time slot storage unit. Here, the subscriber includes a subscriber who simultaneously uses the Internet connection service via the leased line network and the telephone service via the telephone network, and other subscribers. Here, one Bch always-on connection device 1012 may accommodate a plurality of Bch / IP conversion device-facing transmission paths for connecting to a plurality of Bch / IP conversion devices.
[0048]
In addition, the Bch constant connection supporting connection device 1012 includes a subscriber information change receiving unit (a correspondence information change command receiving unit) that receives a change in the content of the information (correspondence information) stored in the subscriber information storage unit. Subscriber information change means (correspondence information change means) for changing the information content stored in the subscriber information storage means according to the content received by the subscriber information change reception means. In addition, there is provided a time slot automatic allocating means for automatically allocating a time slot and setting information stored in the Bch / IP converter opposite transmission line time slot storing means.
[0049]
Further, the Bch always-on connection device 1012 performs time slotting of the received data based on the information content stored in the subscriber information storage means and the information content stored in the Bch / IP converter opposite transmission path time slot storage means. It has data exchange means (switching means, switching processing unit) for performing switching in units and transmitting the data at an appropriate time slot timing on a transmission path to an appropriate destination.
[0050]
The telephone network connection device 1014 stores subscriber information for allocating a time slot (channel) for each subscriber on the telephone network connection device-facing transmission path 1063 between itself and the Bch constant connection connection device 1012. It has storage means. Here, in this subscriber information storage means, at least the time when data is empty and cannot be used by the telephone network connection device 1014 according to the definition of the path set in the Bch constant connection connection device 1012. Contains information for specifying a slot (channel).
[0051]
The telephone network connection device 1014 includes a subscriber information change receiving unit that receives a change in the information content stored in the subscriber information storage unit, and a subscriber information storage unit that stores the subscriber information according to the content received by the subscriber information change receiving unit. Means for changing subscriber information stored in the means. In addition, the telephone network connection device 1014 uses the unavailable channel for rejecting the call setting (outgoing or incoming call) for the unusable time slot (channel) based on the information content stored in the subscriber information storage means. It has call setting rejection means.
[0052]
In addition, the constant connection terminating device 1011 includes a connection destination service receiving unit that individually receives a designation of a connection destination service for each channel in one line. Further, the constant connection terminating device 1011 has connection means for simultaneously connecting each channel (time slot) to an individual service based on the specification received by the connection destination service reception means. Here, the individual service is, for example, a telephone service or an Internet connection service via a dedicated line network.
[0053]
In the configuration shown in FIG. 14, the subscriber lines of the subscribers A and B are multiplexed in the multiplexer 1015 and connected to the Bch always-on connection device 1012 through the multiplexer-facing transmission line 1061. Here, a computer 1031 and a telephone terminal 1032 are connected to the subscriber line of the subscriber A through the constant connection terminating device 1011. Further, two telephone terminals TEL1 and TEL2 are connected to the subscriber line of the subscriber B.
[0054]
The Bch constant connection supporting connection device 1012 distributes data to the Bch / IP conversion device opposite transmission line 1062 and the telephone network connection device opposite transmission line 1063 according to the set communication path. It comprises a control device 1122 for controlling 1121 and a storage device 1123 for storing subscriber data (correspondence information) and the like. The maintenance terminal 1124 is provided for the purpose of operating the communication path device 1121 through the control device 1122 and rewriting data stored in the storage device 1123. Also, the Bch / IP conversion device 1013 relays information and performs protocol conversion between the Bch / IP conversion device opposite transmission line 1062 and the IP network 1053. Further, the telephone network connection device 1014 relays between the telephone network connection device opposite transmission path 1063 and the telephone network 1051. The telephone network connection device 1014 may have a circuit switching function.
[0055]
The telephone network connection device 1014 includes a communication channel device 1141 for switching a line, a control device 1142 for controlling the communication channel device 1141, and a storage device 1143 for storing data necessary for controlling the device. Further, the maintenance terminal 1144 is provided for the purpose of operating the communication path device 1141 using the control device 1142 or the like, or rewriting data stored in the storage device 1143.
Further, the Bch always-on connection device 1012 and the telephone network connection device 1014 are connected to a remote maintenance terminal via a maintenance network.
[0056]
In the transmission line 1061 opposite to the multiplexer, data of each subscriber line and data of each channel in each subscriber line are multiplexed and transmitted by a time division multiple access method. In the data example shown in FIG. 14, time slots TS01 to TS04 are allocated to subscriber A, and time slots TS05 to TS08 are allocated to subscriber B.
[0057]
For the subscriber A, the encoded voice data “TEL” (B channel) from the telephone terminal 1032 is transmitted in the time slot TS01, and the data “PC” (B channel) from the computer 1031 is transmitted in the time slot TS02. In TS03, data “D” (D channel) from the telephone terminal 1032 is transmitted, and in the time slot TS04, control data “SG” is transmitted. As for the subscriber B, the audio data “TEL2” (B channel) from the telephone terminal TEL2 in the time slot TS05, and the audio data “TEL1” (B channel) from the telephone terminal TEL1 in the time slot TS06. In TS07, D-channel data is transmitted, and in time slot TS08, control data "SG" is transmitted.
[0058]
The above data is distributed to the telephone network connection device opposed transmission line 1063 and the Bch / IP conversion device opposed transmission line 1062 by the communication path device 1121 of the Bch constant connection supporting connection device 1012. Only the data “PC” from the computer 1031 received in the time slot TS02 is transmitted from the communication path device 1121 to the Bch / IP converter opposite transmission line 1062. Data is also multiplexed on the Bch / IP conversion device facing transmission path 1062 by the time division multiple access method, and data “PC” from the computer 1031 is stored in the time slot TS21 and transmitted. In this example, the data of the remaining time slots TS20, TS22, and TS23 is empty. The communication path device 1121 sends out all the remaining data received from the multiplexing device 1015 to the telephone network connection device 1014 through the telephone network connection device opposite transmission line 1063. Here, time slots TS01 to TS08 correspond to time slots TS10 to TS17, respectively. In this example, since only the data “PC” from the computer 1031 is not sent to the telephone network connection device 1014, the data of the time slot TS11 corresponding to the time slot TS02 is empty.
[0059]
Regarding the data in the reverse direction, the communication path device 1121 stores the data sent through the transmission line 1063 opposite to the telephone network connection device and the transmission line 1062 opposite to the Bch / IP converter in an appropriate time slot, and The data is transmitted to the multiplexing device 1015 through the opposite transmission path 1061.
[0060]
Next, a description will be given of the subscriber data and the setting of the path based on the subscriber data in the Bch always-on connection apparatus 1012. FIG. 15 is a table showing the table configuration and data example of the subscriber data table stored in the storage device 1123 of the Bch always-on connection supporting device 1012. FIG. 16 is a configuration diagram showing a path configuration set by the data shown in FIG. The line of the subscriber A shown in FIG. 16 includes two B channel lines (B1 and B2), one D channel line (D), and a control signal channel (Sg).
[0061]
In the table configuration shown in FIG. 15, data of the subscriber identification information and the number of outgoing route connections exists for each subscriber. Also, the exchange type, exchange number. , Path data (subscriber side) and path setting data (network side) exist for each outgoing route, and are repeated in the table for the number indicated by the above “number of outgoing route connections”. It is. In the data example shown in the figure, the subscriber identification information is “subscriber A” and the number of outgoing route connections is “2”. Therefore, the path setting data exists for two outgoing routes. In the first outgoing route, the exchange type is “telephone network connection device”, and the exchange number is “No. Is "No1", the path data (subscriber side) is "D1", and the path data (network side) is "E1". In the second outgoing route, the exchange type is “Bch / IP conversion device” and the exchange number is “Bch / IP converter”. Is "No1", the path data (subscriber side) is "D2", and the path data (network side) is "E3".
[0062]
The D channel path data (subscriber side) is “D3”, and the path data (network side) is “E2”. The path data (subscriber side) of the control channel (Sg) is “D4”, and the path data (network side) is “E4”. In the Bch constant connection apparatus 1012 according to the present embodiment, the D channel and the control signal channel (Sg) are always allocated to the telephone network connection apparatus 1014 side. Not stored on the table.
However, for the D channel and the control signal channel, the exchange type, exchange no. , Path data (subscriber side) and path data (network side) information may be stored in the subscriber data table.
[0063]
Next, details of processing in each device will be described.
The control device 1122 of the Bch constant connection supporting connection device 1012 includes a subscriber information change receiving means (correspondence information change command receiving means) for registering or changing the contents of the subscriber data table. The subscriber information change receiving means receives a command for registering or canceling the subscriber data table. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a format of such a subscriber data table setting command. As shown in FIG. 17, in the registration command, the subscriber identification information and the number of outgoing route connections are specified as parameters, and further, for each outgoing route for the specified number, the exchange type, exchange No. , Path data (subscriber side), and path data (network side). The subscriber information change accepting unit interprets the input command and passes the contents of the command to the subscriber information changing unit (correspondence information changing unit). The subscriber information changing means updates the subscriber data table based on the received content. When the release command shown in FIG. 17 is input, the contents of the command are similarly passed from the subscriber information change accepting unit to the subscriber information changing unit, and the subscriber information changing unit transmits the specified subscriber identification information. Entry is rewritten to a setting not to connect the telephone and the Internet at the same time.
[0064]
The configuration of the above command is merely an example. In addition, for example, a command for changing only a part of the information about the subscriber may be received. The partial change is, for example, addition or deletion of each departure route, or partial change of path data designation.
[0065]
FIG. 18 is a table showing a specific example of data in the subscriber data table registered by the above-described method. In the data example of FIG. 18, the subscriber identification information is “subscriber A” and the number of outbound route connections is “2”. With respect to the subscriber A, for the outgoing route 1, the exchange type is "telephone network connection device" and the exchange number is "1." Is "No1", the subscriber-side path data represents "time slot TS01", and the network-side path data represents "time slot TS10". As for the outgoing route 2, the exchange type is "Bch / IP conversion device" and the exchange number is "0". Is "No1", the subscriber-side path data represents "time slot TS02", and the network-side path data represents "time slot TS21".
[0066]
The Bch constant connection supporting connection device 1012 sorts data while referring to the above subscriber data table. That is, the time slot TS01 set in the path data (subscriber side) received from the multiplexing device 1015 is replaced with the time slot TS10 set in the path data (network side) and transmitted to the telephone network connection device 1014, Similarly, the time slot TS02 set in the path data (subscriber side) is replaced with the time slot TS21 set in the path data (network side) and transmitted to the Bch / IP converter 1013. Conversely, the time slot TS10 set in the path data (network side) received from the telephone network connection device 1014 is replaced with the time slot TS01 set in the path data (subscriber side). The time slot TS21 set in the received path data (network side) is replaced with the time slot TS02 set in the path data (subscriber side), and these are transmitted to the multiplexer 1015.
[0067]
When the release command shown in FIG. 17 is input, the Bch always-on connection-compatible device 1012 returns the setting of data exchange between time slots as described above to the initial state.
[0068]
The storage device 1143 of the telephone network connection device 1014 also holds information on path setting for each subscriber. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a format of a command received by the control device 1142 of the telephone network connection device 1014. The registration command shown in FIG. 19 uses, as parameters, subscriber identification information, a flag “YES” indicating that simultaneous Internet connection is to be performed, and path data (subscriber side) for providing a telephone service. Similarly, the release command uses the subscriber identification information and a flag “No” indicating that simultaneous Internet connection is not performed as parameters.
[0069]
FIG. 20 is a table showing a table structure and data example of a subscriber data table of the telephone network connection device 1014. This subscriber data table is rewritten by the above-mentioned registration command or release command. In the data example shown in FIG. 20, the item of the path data (subscriber side 1) of the subscriber A indicates that the time slot TS10 is used for the telephone service, and the path data (subscriber side 2) is “empty”. However, the fact that the Internet simultaneous connection flag is "YES" indicates that the channel corresponding to this path data (subscriber side 2) is occupied by the Internet connection service. . For the subscriber B, the Internet simultaneous connection flag is “NO”, and the time slot TS14 set in the path data (subscriber side 1) and the path data (subscriber side 2) are set. The time slot TS15 is available for telephone service.
[0070]
When the Bch always-on connection device 1012 sorts data based on the data contents of the subscriber data table of the Bch always-on connection device 1012 shown in FIG. 18, the Bch always-on connection device 1012 and the telephone network connection The time slot TS11 for data exchanged with the apparatus 1014 is empty, but the corresponding B channel is in use, and the time slot TS02 between the Bch always-on connection apparatus 1012 and the multiplexer 1015 is used. Has data for the Bch / IP converter 1013.
[0071]
FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram showing a control procedure when a new incoming request arrives at the telephone network connection device 1014 in such a situation. In FIG. 21, the B2 channel is used in advance for constant connection to the Internet ((1)). Then, it is assumed that there is an incoming call to this subscriber from the network side to the telephone network connection device 1014 in a state where the B1 channel is already used for the telephone service ((2)). The telephone network connection apparatus 1014 determines that the B2 channel is being used for the dedicated line connection because the Internet simultaneous connection flag of this subscriber (subscriber A) shown in FIG. 20 is "YES" ([3]). ) In addition, since the path data (subscriber side 1) is also occupied by the telephone call, the network side is replied to the notice rejecting the incoming call ([4]).
[0072]
Even if the Internet simultaneous connection flag is “YES” and the B2 channel is occupied, if the B1 channel is vacant, the telephone network connection device 1014 allows the incoming call and sets up a call using the B1 channel. I do. When the Internet simultaneous connection flag is “YES” and the B2 channel is in use and a call from the subscriber A via the B2 channel is detected, the telephone network connection device 1014 transmits the call because the B2 is in use. A notification to the effect that the request cannot be made is returned to the subscriber.
[0073]
The Internet simultaneous connection flag described above may be set by a command directly input to the telephone network connection device 1014, or may be set by a command input from the remote maintenance terminal via the above-described maintenance network. It may be done. Also, a subscriber information notifying means is provided in the Bch always-on connection apparatus 1012 so that the subscriber information notifying means transmits the subscriber information of the Bch always-on connection apparatus to the telephone network connection apparatus 1014 so that the information is transmitted. , The Internet simultaneous connection flag may be set.
[0074]
When the Bch / IP conversion device 1013 receives data from the Bch constant connection connection device 1012 through the Bch / IP conversion device opposite transmission line 1062, the Bch / IP conversion device 1013 multiplexes the data of a plurality of subscribers multiplexed from each time slot by the time division multiple access method. Are reconfigured, and further transferred to the IP network 1053 according to the IP rules. Conversely, when the user data is received from the IP network 1053, the subscriber and channel of the destination of the data are specified, the data is placed in the time slot corresponding to the channel, and the Bch / IP conversion device The data is transmitted to the Bch constant-connection connection device 1012 through the transmission path 1062. Further, the Bch / IP conversion device 1013 exchanges necessary control messages with the IP network side in accordance with the rules of the IP.
[0075]
In the prior art, a path can be set only in ISDN subscriber units, and a path cannot be set and managed in channel units. However, in the present invention, the subscriber data has the above structure, Since the Bch always-on connection apparatus 1012 performs distribution control on a channel-by-channel basis on the basis of the data, it becomes possible to connect a plurality of paths of one ISDN line to another service.
[0076]
Although the above embodiment has been described on the premise that the ISDN subscriber line is a basic interface (Basic Rate Interface) composed of two B-channels and one D-channel (2B + D), a user interface with another channel configuration may be used. It is also possible to apply the present invention to a line having the same. A specific example of "other channel configuration" is a primary rate interface (Primary Rate Interface) using 23 B channels and 1 D channel (23B + D) or 24 B channels (24B). It is not limited to these specific examples.
[0077]
Further, in the channel configuration of two B-channels and one D-channel, the B2 channel is allocated for the Internet connection in the above embodiment, but a plurality of channels can be allocated to the telephone service and the Internet connection service in any manner. . Further, a plurality of channels may be assigned to the Internet connection service.
[0078]
Further, in the above-described embodiment, the case has been described where a dedicated line network connecting between remote locations is used for communication between the Bch constant connection supporting connection device 1012 and the Bch / IP conversion device 1013, but a line used for this connection is used. May be arbitrarily selected. In addition, both the Bch constant-connection connection device 1012 and the Bch / IP conversion device 1013 may not be placed at remote locations, but may be placed, for example, in the same premises and directly connected. For example, even if the business entity that operates the local network and the Bch constant-connection connection device 1012 also installs and operates the Bch / IP conversion device 1013, and the interface between the local network operator and the ISP is based on IP. good. In this case, the Bch always-on connection device 1012 has a function equivalent to the protocol conversion function of the Bch / IP conversion device 1013.
[0079]
Although the above embodiment has been described on the premise that the ISDN subscriber line is used, the present invention is applied to other digital or analog communication services, so that a limited number of destinations can be connected continuously for a long time. By branching the continued call in front of the telephone network connection device (exchange) as viewed from the subscriber terminal side, the load on the resources of the expensive telephone network connection device (exchange) is reduced, and an inexpensive long-term connection communication service is provided. May be provided.
[0080]
Further, the table structure of the subscriber data table and the like described in the above embodiment is an example, and is a structure of another form including path definition information necessary for realizing the above-described Internet continuous connection service and the like. Is also good.
[0081]
Further, in the above-described embodiment, the description has been given assuming that the multiplexing device opposite transmission line 1061, the telephone network connection device opposite transmission line 1063, and the Bch / IP conversion device opposite transmission line 1062 are multiplexed by the time division multiple access method. Multiplexing by another method may be used. Here, the “other methods” include, for example, a space division multiple access method, a frequency division multiple access method, a code division multiple access method, and the like, but are not limited thereto.
[0082]
The configuration and functions of the communication system have been described above with reference to FIGS. 12 to 21. To realize such functions, the exchange 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a user contract management function, a Dch termination function, A fee system interface function is required. Similarly, the charge system 6 requires a user contract management function, a call-free communication charge non-charge function, and a switch interface function. Hereinafter, these functions will be described.
[0083]
When the B channel is distributed by the Bch distribution device 2, a method of specifying and setting the B channel connected to the exchange 1 is as follows. A sequential registration method in which channels are connected to the exchange 1 and a random registration method in which those channels are connected to the exchange 1 by designating a plurality of arbitrary channel numbers as set values are considered. Whichever method is adopted, the technical nature of the application of the present invention does not change.
[0084]
(1) User contract management function (exchange)
Data including items such as a to d below is stored in the storage unit 12 of the exchange 1 as information for user contract management by the exchange.
A. Contractor number: 03-1234-6789
B BRI / PRI distinction: PRI23B
C H system contract: H0 contract
D B channel distribution setting number: 16
[0085]
Here, the “contractor number” of a is the contractor number of this user, and is the same as the telephone number here. The “BRI / PRI distinction” of a represents the type of interface contracted by this user. When the value is “BRI”, it indicates that the contract is for the basic interface having the configuration of 2B + D. When the value is “PRI24B”, it indicates that it is for the primary interface having the configuration of 24B, and the value is “PRI23B”. In the case of, the contract is for a primary group interface with a configuration of 23B + D. The “H system contract” is an item indicating the presence or absence of the H system contract. When the value is “none”, it indicates that there is no H system contract. When the value is “H0 contract”, 384 kbps (6 Bch) is used. It indicates that there is an available H0 contract, and a value of “H1 contract” indicates that there is an H1 contract available for 1.5 Mbps (24 Bch) and 384 kbps (6 Bch). The "B channel distribution set number" in d represents the number of B channels connected to the exchange by the above-described sequential registration method. When the random registration method is used, a data item capable of registering the channel number of each B channel connected to the exchange is provided instead.
[0086]
The setting information stored in the storage unit 12 can be rewritten by data input from the maintenance terminal device 5. For example, when the data “03-1234-6789, PRI23B, H0, 16” is input, the settings as described in A to D above are made for the user whose contractor number is “03-1234-6789”. Further, for example, when data “03-1234-6789, PRI23B, H0, 23” is further input, the number of B channel distributions of this contractor is set to “23”. That is, the setting is such that all 23 B channels of the primary interface are connected to the exchange side, which means that the distribution in the B channel distribution device 2 is released.
[0087]
(2) Dch termination function (switch)
This function terminates the signal on the B channel which is not connected to the exchange because it is branched by the Bch distribution device, that is, the signal on the D channel corresponding to the B channel which is connected to the leased line network 200 in the example of FIG. It is. The signals for each B channel are multiplexed on the D channel by a time division method. FIG. 2 is a timing chart showing the configuration of signals on the D channel. As shown in this figure, signals for each of the B channels “# 1” to “#n” are allocated to corresponding time slots.
[0088]
As a method of realizing the processing at the time of transmission from the B channel distribution contractor, there are (a) termination by a channel number and (b) termination by a telephone number. Also, the method of processing when there is an incoming call from the network side to the B channel distribution contractor includes (c) incoming call restriction by the channel number, (d) incoming call restriction by the set number of distributions, and (e) empty / busy management. There is a method of restricting incoming calls. These methods are described below.
[0089]
(2-a) Dch termination by channel number
In this method, all signals on the D channel transmitted with respect to the channel number connected to other than the exchange are terminated. FIG. 3 is a reference diagram illustrating the concept of Dch termination by channel number. As shown in this figure, the exchange 1 can know which B channel is not connected to the exchange 1 based on the setting information stored in the internal storage unit 12, so that the exchange 1 All signals to be terminated are terminated in the exchange 1. By such termination processing, necessary signals are exchanged with the subscriber line side without sending unnecessary D-channel signals to the interoffice interface side. Further, signals corresponding to the B channels connected to the exchange 1, that is, the B channels # 1 and # 2 in the example of FIG. 3 are transmitted to the interoffice interface side.
[0090]
(2-b) Dch termination by telephone number
In this method, all signals on the D-channel relating to a call to a predetermined special telephone number are terminated regardless of the stored setting information. FIG. 4 is a reference diagram illustrating the concept of Dch termination by telephone number. As shown in this figure, regardless of whether the B channel is connected to the exchange 1, a process for terminating the signal on the corresponding D channel is performed for a call request by a special telephone number.
[0091]
The termination sequence when a call is made from the B channel distribution contractor side will be described. FIG. 23 is a sequence diagram showing a normal communication procedure without terminating by the exchange. On the other hand, FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing a communication procedure when termination is performed by the exchange.
[0092]
In the normal procedure shown in FIG. 23, triggered by the "SETUP" signal from the calling terminal, the exchange sends an "IAM" signal to the interoffice interface side and sends a "CALL PROC" signal to the calling terminal. return. When the exchange receives the "ACM" and "ANM" signals from the interoffice interface, it sends a "CONN" signal to the calling terminal to start communication. Thereafter, upon receiving the “DISC” signal due to the disconnection from the calling terminal, the exchange exchanges “REL”, “RLC”, and “REL COMP” signals, and ends the communication.
[0093]
In contrast to such a procedure, in the procedure including the termination processing by the exchange shown in FIG. 5, the exchange absorbs the "SETUP" signal from the calling terminal and sends the "IAM" signal to the interoffice interface. Without returning a "CALL PROC" signal to the calling terminal. After a lapse of a predetermined time, a pseudo “CONN” signal is generated and transmitted to the calling terminal. At the end of communication, the exchange absorbs the "DISC" signal from the terminal and terminates the communication only by the procedure with the terminal without exchanging the signal with the interoffice interface.
[0094]
(2-c) Termination control by channel number
This function of the switch makes it possible to regulate incoming call requests on B channels not connected to the switch by distribution in the Bch distribution device. The B channel selected by the channel selection logic of the exchange is connected to the exchange not only when the incoming request call involves the designation of the incoming channel number by the caller, but also when the incoming request call does not specify the incoming channel number. If not, it is also subject to incoming call barring. FIG. 6 is a reference diagram illustrating the concept of incoming call restriction based on channel numbers. In this figure, since the setting information held in the storage unit 12 inside the exchange 1 indicates that the B channels # 1 and # 2 of this subscriber line are connected to the exchange 1, these B channels As long as is empty, it processes incoming calls to these B channels in response to incoming requests from the interoffice interface. On the other hand, of the B channels shown in FIG. 6, those not connected to the exchange 1, for example, an incoming request to the B channel of #n, are rejected by regulation. The signal sequence at the time of incoming call rejection will be described later.
[0095]
(2-d) Incoming call restriction by the set number of distribution
The incoming call restriction based on the set number of distributions is a method used when the set number of distributions of the B channel is set in the exchange by the above-described sequential registration method. When the number of registered distribution settings is m (0 ≦ m ≦ n), the B channels # 1 to #m are treated as being connected to the exchange, and the B channels # (m + 1) to #n Is treated as not connected to the switch. The concept and procedure of the incoming call restriction are the same as in the case of the restriction based on the channel number in (2-c).
[0096]
(2-e) Incoming call restriction by air / fence management
In this method, a "SETUP" signal by a special telephone number transmission from the subscriber line and a "DISC" signal at the time of disconnection are also applied to the B channel not connected to the exchange, based on the procedure shown in the sequence diagram of FIG. , The idle / busy state of each channel is managed in the exchange, and incoming calls are barred based on the idle / busy state. FIG. 7 is a reference diagram illustrating the concept of incoming call regulation by air / bus management. In this figure, the B channel # 1 is in communication and is in the "blocked" state by transmission from the terminal side, and the B channel # 2 is in communication and is in the "blocked" state by reception from the inter-station interface side. Has become. Also, the B channel #n is distributed by the Bch distribution device and connected to another network. When such communication is set up, "SETUP" is generated by transmitting a pseudo special telephone number received from the Bch distribution device. It is in the “blocked” state based on the signal. When a "DISC" signal is received for B channel #n, this channel is set to the "empty" state.
[0097]
FIG. 8 is a table showing a data structure and an example of data of an air / bus management table for holding an air / bus status for each channel. As shown in this figure, the empty / busy management table holds either “empty” or “occupied” as a channel state for each contractor number and for each channel number. The exchange 1 changes the state from “empty” to “closed” when receiving the “SETUP” or “IAM” signal, and changes the state to “closed” when receiving the “DESC” or “REL (ISUP)” signal. "To" empty ". This empty / busy management table is stored in the storage unit 12 of the exchange 1.
[0098]
Here, the exchange of signals in the incoming call restriction processing described in (2-c) to (2-e) will be described. FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram (a) showing a communication procedure relating to incoming call regulation in the exchange and reference diagrams (b and c) showing the concept of incoming call rejection for various reasons. In the sequence diagram of FIG. 9 (a), when an incoming request by the "IAM" signal arrives from the interoffice interface side, the exchange returns the "REL" signal to which the reason type according to each situation is added, thereby returning the incoming call. Reject. As a result, a signal indicating that the incoming call is rejected is transmitted to the terminal on the transmitting side, and further, the exchange receives the "RLC" signal, and the communication is disconnected.
[0099]
In the situation shown in FIG. 9B, an incoming request by the “IAM” signal arrives from the inter-office interface side by designating the channel number #n. In this example, since the designated B channel #n is distributed by the Bch distribution device and is not connected to the exchange, the exchange returns a "REL" signal with a reason type "service unavailable". . If there is no B-channel connected to the exchange side because all channels of the subscriber to whom the incoming call is requested are distributed by the Bch distribution device, regardless of whether a specific channel number is specified or not, the incoming call to that subscriber is received. In response to the request, a reason type of "service unavailable" is returned as in the above case.
[0100]
In the situation shown in FIG. 9C, when all the B channels connected to the exchange are busy, an incoming call request by the "IAM" signal arrives without specifying a specific channel number. In this case, a “REL” signal to which a reason type “user busy” is added is returned to the inter-station interface.
[0101]
(3) Charge system interface function (switchboard)
The exchange generates charge data including the following items (A) to (C) for each call, and transfers the charge data to the charge system via the charge data transfer transmission line 160.
A Departure exchange: Tokyo ISM-0A
B. Calling phone number: 03-1234-5678
C subscriber class: General
D Transmission capacity: 64kbps unlimited
E originating time: 2000/01/04, 09: 34: 15.5
F Communication start time: 2000/01/04, 09: 34: 16.2
Communication end time: 2000/01/04, 10: 55: 31.0
H Incoming telephone number: 03-9876-5432
K Bch distribution display: Bch distribution
[0102]
The "calling exchange" in the above item a is an identifier of the exchange accommodating the subscriber line on the calling side. The “calling telephone number” in b is the telephone number of the caller. The "subscriber class" of "c" indicates the attribute of the calling terminal. For example, the value "general" represents a general subscriber terminal, and the value "public" represents a public terminal. D. The "transmission capability" indicates a call mode. For example, a value of "voice" indicates that a call in a voice band has been performed, and a value of "64 kbps unlimited" indicates data using the full transmission capability of 64 kbps. Indicates that communication has taken place. The “originating time” of (e) indicates the date and time when the exchange received the “SETUP” signal in tenths of a second. The "communication start time" indicates the date and time at which the exchange transmitted the "CONN" signal in tenths of a second. The "communication end time" indicates the date and time at which the exchange received the "DISC" signal in tenths of a second. The “received telephone number” is the telephone number of the destination. The "Bch distribution display" indicates whether this call is a Bch distribution connection. For example, a value of "Bch non-distribution" indicates that the call is a public telephone network of a communication company that operates the exchange via the exchange. And the value “Bch distribution” indicates that the B channel is distributed by the Bch distribution device and the service of another network is used.
[0103]
As shown in the sequence diagram of FIG. 5, the “communication start time” of each of the above data items is the time at which the “CONN” signal was generated in a pseudo manner and transmitted. Different from technology. The "Bch distribution display" is a data item that is not necessary in the prior art in the first place, and one of the features of the present invention is that the data of such an item is generated by the exchange.
[0104]
When the Dch termination using the telephone number described in the above (2-b) is performed, regarding the Bch distributed call, since the "SETUP" signal by the special telephone number is received by the exchange, the "incoming telephone" The special telephone number is also recorded as the data of "number". Therefore, in order to identify the Bch distribution call, it is sufficient to have the item of "incoming telephone number", and the item of "Bch distribution display" may not be included.
[0105]
(4) User contract management function (charge system)
Next, a description will be given of a fee charge system for performing a charging process for a user based on the above-described charge data. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the fee system. In FIG. 10, reference numeral 6 denotes a charge system, 1 denotes an exchange, 7 denotes a counter terminal device, and 160 denotes a charge data transfer transmission line for connecting the exchange 1 and the charge system 160 in terms of data. The charge system 6 includes a control function 1, a switch interface 63, a call charge calculation function 64, a bill creation function 65, a user contract management function 66, and a storage unit 62 provided in the control function 1.
[0106]
The exchange interface 63 has a function of receiving the charge data generated by the exchange 1. The call charge calculation function 64 is based on the charge data received by the exchange interface 63, and starts communication from the distance between stations between the calling side and the called side, the day and time of the call, and the communication end time. This function calculates call charges based on the logic that takes into account the communication time obtained by subtracting the time and the subscriber-specific charge scheme.
[0107]
The user contract management function 66 manages various contract types for each user. For example, the D-channel termination function in the exchange is a function necessary for the B-channel distribution contractor, and the data of the monthly usage fee of the D-channel termination function is stored in the information managed by the user contract management function 66 and stored in the storage unit 62. Generated based on
[0108]
In the storage unit 62 of the fee system 6, data including the following items A to D are stored by the storage unit 12 of the exchange 1 as information for user contract management.
A. Contractor number: 03-1234-6789
B BRI / PRI distinction: PRI23B
C H system contract: H0 contract
D B channel distribution setting number: 16
These user contract management data are the same as those stored in the storage unit 12 of the exchange 1. Since the meaning of the data has already been described, a detailed description is omitted here.
[0109]
The counter terminal device 7 can change the settings of the user contract management data of A to D. This change is the same as the change of the setting information of the storage unit 12 by the maintenance terminal device 5 described above. The system may be configured such that a single terminal device also serves as the maintenance terminal device 5 of the exchange and the window terminal device 7 of the fee system. Further, a single storage device may serve as the storage unit 12 of the exchange and the storage unit 62 of the fee system.
[0110]
The bill creation function 65 is a function of collecting, for each billing party, charge data of the subscriber line of the billing party belonging to a billing period corresponding to the billing party, and creating a bill. At this time, the billing function 65 includes a metered call fee generated for each call and a fixed fee generated for a fixed period (for example, monthly) according to the user's contract type (for example, a monthly fee for the D-channel termination function). And usage fees).
[0111]
(5) Call-free communication fee non-charging function (charge system)
When "Bch distribution" is displayed on the charge data received from the exchange by the charge system, the charge system does not charge the communication charge of the call. Similarly, when a special telephone number indicating a Bch-distributed call is displayed in the "incoming telephone number" on the charge data, a method may be adopted in which the call charge for the call is not charged. When a Bch distribution call is identified using a special telephone number, a fixed number may be used as a special telephone number for the Bch distribution call, or the number may be set as a variable number in an exchange and a charge system. May be.
[0112]
For example, as shown in the data example below, the association between the special telephone number type and the telephone number is stored in the storage unit 12 of the exchange and the storage unit 62 of the fee system. Further, by inputting data from the maintenance terminal in a format such as "03-1234-0000, Bch distributed call", a special telephone number for the Bch distributed call can be set.
(Data example (special telephone number registration))
Special phone number type: Police, Phone number: 110
Special phone number type: Failure acceptance, Phone number: 113
Special telephone number type: Bch distribution call, telephone number: 03-1234-0000
[0113]
<Application embodiment: Bch setting number variable service>
Next, an embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described. In this applied embodiment, the number of B channel distributions in the Bch distribution device can be dynamically changed from the user side. FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing the channel configuration at the time of normal (a) and at the time of distribution channel enhancement (b) according to this application embodiment. In the normal time shown in FIG. 11 (a), the B channel distribution number is set to “12”, and B channels # 1 to # 11 and D channel remain in switch 1 and remaining B channels # 12 to # 23. Are connected to a private line network. In the situation shown in FIG. 11B, eight of # 11 to # 11 out of the eleven B channels connected to the exchange 1 are further distributed to the leased line network side.
[0114]
In order to switch from the state shown in FIG. 11A to the state shown in FIG. 11B, the data of the B channels # 4 to # 11 is transmitted not to the exchange 1 but to the private line network by the switching function of the Bch distribution device 2. In addition to the transmission and reception, a "SETUP" signal indicating the transmission of a special telephone number is transmitted from the Bch distribution device 2 to the exchange 1 when such communication is set. To return from the state of FIG. 11B to the state of FIG. 11A, a “DISC” signal is transmitted from the Bch distribution device 2 to the exchange 1 to execute a disconnection procedure. In the above example, continuous B channels of # 4 to # 11 are distributed to the leased line network when the distribution channel is enhanced in FIG. 11B, but it is not always necessary to distribute consecutive numbers. There is no.
[0115]
By making the number of B channels to be distributed variable in this way, for example, in an office or the like, 11 B channels are connected to the public telephone network in the daytime and the remaining 12 B channels are dedicated for data communication. At night when the demand for telephone use is reduced by connecting to the line network, the number of B channels connected to the public telephone network is reduced to three, and the reduced eight B channels are distributed to the connection to the dedicated line network in batches. It is possible to use such a method as to speed up the transfer of a large amount of data, and to effectively use the subscriber line and the facilities of the user.
[0116]
In implementing the present invention, all or a part of the functions of the exchange 1, the Bch distribution device 2, the maintenance terminal device 5, and the fee system 6 and the contact terminal device 7 in FIG. 10 are realized. The program may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on the recording medium may be read and executed by a computer system to perform processing. Here, the “computer system” includes an operating system, peripheral devices, and the like.
[0117]
The “computer-readable recording medium” refers to a portable medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, and a CD-ROM, and a storage device such as a hard disk in a computer system. Further, a “computer-readable recording medium” holds a program for at least a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory (semiconductor read / write memory) in a computer system when the program is transmitted via an electric communication line. Shall be included.
[0118]
Further, the program may be transmitted from a computer system storing the program in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium of a telecommunication line. Here, the transmission medium of a telecommunication line refers to a metal wire, an optical fiber, an electromagnetic field, or the like having a physical property of transmitting a signal by electric or electromagnetic waves. Further, the program may realize a part of the functions described above. Furthermore, a program that can realize the above-described functions in combination with a program already recorded on the computer system, that is, a so-called difference program may be used.
[0119]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, in the present invention, since the exchange performs the signal termination processing of the D channel for the terminal side, the B channel can be distributed between the exchange and the terminal and connected to another network. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the resource consumption of the exchange for those B channels. Therefore, long-term continuous communication can be simultaneously performed many without being restricted by the resources of the exchange. This also makes it possible to provide inexpensive regional communication services.
[0120]
Further, in the present invention, since the exchange performs the signal termination processing of the D channel to the terminal side, the terminal side interface can be used as it is without changing the conventional I interface. This can be realized without adding new equipment on the user side.
[0121]
In addition, when a digital leased line is used, a transmission rate must be selected in advance from a limited type to construct a facility. On the other hand, in the present invention, an exchange for each B channel is required. Since distribution between terminals is possible, it is possible to set a detailed transmission rate in units of 64 kbps, and since the transmission rate can be changed relatively easily, it is possible to construct a flexible network. Become.
[0122]
Also, in the present invention, a mechanism for charging a fixed monthly fee for using the function of the exchange for the B-channel distribution service, and a mechanism for making the call fee non-billing for a B-channel distribution call that does not pass through the exchange. , It is easy to incorporate it into an existing telephone network service and put it on a commercial basis.
[0123]
In addition, since the present invention is based on the use of ISDN subscriber lines which are already provided in almost all areas of Japan, the service can be promptly provided without the need for investment in a new infrastructure with a large cost. It is possible to provide.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a communication system using an exchange according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a timing chart showing a configuration of a signal on a D channel processed by the exchange according to the embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a reference diagram showing the concept of a Dch termination function based on channel numbers of the exchange according to the embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a reference diagram showing the concept of a Dch terminating function using a telephone number of the exchange according to the embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing a communication procedure of a termination process of the exchange according to the embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a reference diagram showing the concept of a terminating restriction function based on channel numbers of the exchange according to the embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a reference diagram showing the concept of an incoming call restriction function based on air / bus management of the exchange according to the embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a table showing a data configuration and a data example of an idle / busy management table in the exchange according to the embodiment;
FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram (a) showing a communication procedure of incoming call control in the exchange according to the embodiment, and reference diagrams ((b) and (c)) showing the concept of incoming call rejection for various reasons.
FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a fee system according to the embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing a channel configuration of a subscriber line in a normal state (a) and a distribution channel enhancement (b) according to an application of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a communication network using the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a configuration diagram showing a network configuration when both services of a telephone network and a dedicated line network are used by using a Bch constant connection terminating device.
FIG. 14 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a network and details of data transmitted on the network.
FIG. 15 is a table showing a table configuration and an example of data of a subscriber data table stored in a storage device of the Bch always-on connection apparatus.
FIG. 16 is a configuration diagram showing a path configuration based on data in a subscriber data table shown in FIG. 15 and a method of distributing data of each channel.
FIG. 17 is a view showing a format of a subscriber data table setting command of the Bch always-on connection apparatus.
FIG. 18 is a table diagram showing a data example of a subscriber data table of the Bch always-on connection apparatus.
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a format of a subscriber data table setting command of the telephone network connection device.
FIG. 20 is a table showing an example of data in a subscriber data table of the telephone network connection device.
FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram showing a control procedure in which a path is used for a dedicated line connection in the telephone network connection device, and there is no vacancy and a notification that a call cannot be received is returned to the network.
FIG. 22 is a reference diagram showing a control sequence from connection start to disconnection in “IP connection service” according to the related art.
FIG. 23 is a sequence diagram showing a communication procedure for setting up and canceling a call in a conventional exchange.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 exchange
2 Bch distribution device
3 Terminal device
5 Maintenance terminal equipment
6 fee system
7 Counter terminal device
11 Control part
12 Storage unit
13 Subscriber Interface
14 Call path switch
15 Relay interface
16 signal processing unit
61 Control Function
62 Memory
63 Exchange interface
64 Call Charge Calculation Function
65 Invoice creation function
66 User contract management function
100 public telephone network
110 Transmission line (between exchange and Bch distribution device, subscriber side transmission line)
110B B channel (Bch)
110D D channel (Dch)
120 relay transmission line (relay side transmission line)
160 Transmission line for fee data transfer
200 Private line network
210 Transmission line (between dedicated line network and Bch distribution device)
210B B channel
300 transmission line
300B B channel
300D D channel
1011 Terminating device for always-on connection
1012 Bch connection device for continuous connection
1013 Bch / IP converter
1014 Telephone network connection equipment (switchboard)
1015 Multiplexer
1031, 1033 Computer
1032, 1034 Telephone terminal
1051 Telephone network
1052 Leased line network
1053 IP network (Internet protocol network)
1061 Multiplexer-facing transmission path
1062 Bch / IP converter opposite transmission line
1063 Telecommunication network connection device opposite transmission path
1121 Call path device
1122 Controller
1123 Storage device
1124 Maintenance terminal
1141 Call path device
1142 Controller
1143 Storage device
1144 Maintenance terminal
TEL1, TEL2 telephone terminal

Claims (12)

A subscriber interface for transmitting and receiving signals on a subscriber transmission path connected to the terminal device;
A relay interface for transmitting and receiving signals on the relay transmission line,
An exchange for performing a communication network exchange process using a first channel for transmitting communication data and a second channel for transmitting control data related to setting and release of a call using the first channel,
The first channel on the subscriber-side transmission path is used for connection between the terminal device and the communication network, or is distributed between the terminal device and the exchange, so that the terminal device and the A storage unit for holding state distinguishing information indicating whether or not it is used for connection with a network other than the communication network;
When the first channel is used for connection between the terminal device and a network other than the communication network, based on the state identification information held by the storage unit, the first channel in the subscriber-side transmission path is used. An exchange comprising: a signal processing unit that performs termination processing on a signal corresponding to the first channel on two channels. The first channels are each identified by a unique channel number,
2. The exchange according to claim 1, further comprising a state distinguishing information maintenance unit that rewrites the state distinguishing information held in the storage unit in accordance with the designation using the channel number. When receiving control data on a call setting of the first channel destined to a special telephone number on the second channel on the subscriber side transmission line, rewriting the state discrimination information on the first channel. 3. The exchange according to claim 1, wherein the first channel is used for connection between the terminal device and a network other than the communication network. When receiving control data on release of the call on the first channel on the second channel on the subscriber side transmission line, the state discrimination information on the first channel is rewritten and the first channel is 4. The exchange according to claim 3, wherein the exchange is used for connection between a device and the communication network. When a process of setting up and releasing a call of the first channel is performed on the second channel, a connection between the terminal device and a network other than the communication network is performed based on the state identification information related to the first channel. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, for the call for (1), charge data including information indicating that the first channel has been distributed to a network other than the communication network is generated. switch. When the signal processing unit receives an incoming call request signal from the relay side transmission path, the signal processing unit refers to the state identification information held in the storage unit, and the first channel to which the incoming call is to be connected is the terminal. The exchange according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, when used for connection with a network other than the communication network, the incoming call is rejected. For each of the plurality of first channels included in the subscriber line interface, optionally, from a terminal device side, a call setting request accompanied by the special telephone number from the terminal device and a call release request corresponding to the call setting request The exchange according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein selection of a network to which the first channel is connected is permitted, and the state identification information is rewritten according to these requests. The exchange according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first channel is a B channel of an I interface, and the second channel is a D channel of an I interface. In a fee system for receiving charge data for each call from an exchange and summing up billing charges to users based on the charge data, it was shown that the charge data was made without passing through the exchange in the charge data. A billing system characterized in that a call is not charged. An exchange method in a communication network using an exchange for an I interface,
Storing a distinction whether the B channel in the I interface is used for connection between the terminal device and the communication network or used for connection between the terminal device and a network other than the communication network;
For a B channel used for connection between the terminal device and a network other than the communication network, receiving a call setting request signal from the terminal device side on the D channel;
When the B channel is used for connection between the terminal device and a network other than the communication network, terminating the call setting request signal in the exchange, and returning a connection signal to the terminal device side,
An exchange method, comprising: An exchange method in a communication network using an exchange for an I interface,
Receiving, on a D channel, a call setting request signal from a terminal device to a special telephone number for a certain B channel;
Storing, in response to the call setting request signal, the B channel as being used for connection between a terminal device and a network other than the communication network;
Terminating the call setting request signal in the exchange, and returning a connection signal to the terminal device side;
Receiving a call release signal on the D channel from the terminal device side for the B channel;
Storing, in response to the call release signal, the B channel as being used for connection between the terminal device and the communication network;
An exchange method, comprising: An exchange method in a communication network using an exchange for an I interface,
Receiving an incoming call request signal from the network side;
Checking the state of the B channel to which the incoming call should be connected;
As a result of this check, when it is determined that the B channel is used for connection between the terminal device and a network other than the communication network, a step of returning a signal rejecting the incoming call to the network side When,
An exchange method, comprising:

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