JPH03117956A - Cordless telephone set with charge processor - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To prevent robbery by monitoring the states of a host device and respective slave devices from the detected result of a change in electric field strength between the host device and the respective slave devices by providing means in the host device and slave devices, which are equipped with charge collecting functions to collect call charges, so as to detect the change of the electric field strength mutually between the devices. CONSTITUTION:An electric field strength detecting means 15 detects a changed state in the electric field strength among respective slave devices 3 by a level detection part 15a periodically each set time set by a set part 15b, and generates a warning output when the detected level exceeds a reference level within the set time. A host device 2 or the slave device 3 is moved and during the move, the electric field strength is changed. When the detection signal of a level detection part 25a exceeds the reference level within the set time, a warning tone is outputted from a warning output part 25d and simultaneously, the number of the slave device, which electric field strength is changed, is displayed to a display part 25e. Thus, the robbery is prevented.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention [Industrial Application Field] The present invention provides a wireless one-to-one communication connection between one base unit connected to an exchange by wire and at least one slave unit. The present invention relates to a cordless telephone equipped with a charge processing device and having a charge storage function for storing call charges.

[Prior Art] In recent years, cordless telephones have become popular in general homes in place of corded telephones, which have been used in the past, because the handset can be carried freely, which expands the range of activities, and allows calls to be made while being away from the telephone itself. It is becoming popular in Japan.

By the way, there is a cordless telephone of this type applied to a telephone set (referred to as a pink telephone) installed in, for example, a coffee shop or a restaurant.

To be more specific, this pink telephone is connected to a telephone exchange at a central telephone office via a telephone line, and has a base unit equipped with a charge collection function that collects call charges in accordance with billing signals sent from the telephone exchange. It consists of a base unit and multiple cordless handsets that are wirelessly connected to each other.The base unit is placed near the cash register, where the staff can see it, and the multiple handsets are located at each table in the store. It is located in

When you want to make a call to the desired party, pick up the handset on the table, go to the base machine, insert currency into the base machine, and specify the line by operating the dial on the handset. , communication was carried out with the other party's telephone via an exchange.

[Problems to be Solved by the Invention] By the way, in pink telephones that use this type of cordless telephone, the base unit with charge collection function is placed in a place where the clerk can see. Monitoring of the handsets was left to store staff, and no particular measures were taken to prevent theft.

Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to detect changes in the electric field strength between the 1L61 and each handset, and issue an alarm based on the detection result. To provide a cordless telephone with a charge processing device that can prevent theft.

[Means for Solving the Problems] In order to achieve the above object, a cordless telephone with a charge processing device according to the present invention has one base unit and at least one or more wireless telephones that are communicatively connected to the base unit. The main unit and the slave unit have a fee collection function for storing call charges, and are characterized in that they are equipped with means for detecting changes in electric field strength between them.

[Operation 1] The base unit and each slave unit, which have a charge collection function for storing call charges, detect changes in electric field strength between each other. Then, seven reports are issued based on the detection results.

[Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a cordless telephone with a charge processing device according to the present invention.

The cordless telephone with a charge processing device (hereinafter referred to as a cordless telephone) according to this embodiment is always connected in a one-to-one communication manner wirelessly to one base unit 2 connected to the exchange 1 by several shares. It is composed of a plurality of handsets 3, and has a fee storage function for storing call charges in the base unit 2 and handset 3, and a predetermined handset 3 can also specify a line through the base unit 2 or directly from the base unit 2. A call is being made between the external telephone set and the external telephone set.

Base unit 2 constitutes a telephone that can communicate with an external telephone by itself, and also relays communication of voice signals and data (mainly billing signals and response signals) between the external telephone and handset 3. It includes a billing control section 4, a loop control circuit 5, a loop control billing signal extraction section 6, a branch circuit 7, a handset 8, a filter 9, a telephone call circuit 10,
It is comprised of a fee collection device 11, a modem 12, a wireless section 13, an off-footer signal detection section 14, and an electric field strength detection means 15.

The billing control unit 4 receives a billing signal from the loop control billing signal extraction unit 6, and when the base unit 2 also collects a charge based on this billing signal, outputs a charge collection signal to the charge storage device 11, and outputs a charge collection signal to the slave unit 2. 3, this charging signal is output to modem L2. In addition, when the fee is collected and a confirmation signal is received as a response signal wirelessly from the fee collection device 11 of the own device 2 or the slave device 3, this charging control section 4 sends a confirmation signal to the loop control circuit 5 that is currently being used. A signal indicating that the current line loop will continue is output.

Furthermore, if a confirmation signal or response signal is not supplied even after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, a signal is output to the loop control circuit 5 indicating that the current loop is to be cut.

The loop control circuit 5 includes a hook switch 16,
A switching signal for controlling the on/off of the voice and handset 8, the charge collection device 11, etc. based on the on/off of the hook switch 16, and turning on/off the line loop based on the signal from the billing control section 4. is output to the loop control charging signal extraction section 6.

The loop control billing signal extraction unit 6 controls the on/off of the loop between the exchange 1 and the telephone call circuit 10 based on the signal from the loop control circuit 5, and also controls the on/off of the loop between the exchange 1 and the telephone call circuit 10, and when the line is connected to an external telephone via the exchange 1. A charging signal indicating a request for toll collection outputted from the exchange 1 is extracted and outputted to the charging control section 4.

The branch circuit 7 switches to the handset 8 side when the base unit 2 makes a direct call (with an external telephone), and switches to the filter 9 side when talking between each child unit 3 and an external telephone. is being carried out.

The filter 9 divides the voice signal from the handset 8 or the exchange 1 side and the billing signal outputted from the exchange 1 via the billing control section 4 into different wavelength bands and outputs them to the radio section 13 at the same time.

Also, in this filter 9, each child? ! 4) The audio signal from handset 3 is output separately to the branch circuit 7 side, and the confirmation signal based on the billing signal is output to the modem 12 side, and the audio signal from handset 3 is output to the branch circuit 7 and the call circuit 10. The signal is then output to the exchange 1 side via the loop control billing signal extraction section 6.

When the handset 8 goes off-hook, a coin is inserted, and a dial operation is performed, the telephone call circuit 10 outputs a dial signal for calling the other party's telephone to the exchange 1 via the loop control billing signal extractor 6. . Further, calls are exchanged between the handset 8 and an external telephone connected through the call circuit 10 .

The fee storage device 11 includes a storage control section 11a and a fee processing section 11.
b, a safe 11c, and the storage control unit 11a controls a toll processing unit 11b to store coins accumulated on the orbit based on a toll collection signal output from the charging control unit 4;
The charge processing unit 11b stores the corresponding number of coins in the safe 11c based on the command, and when the coins corresponding to the charge are normally collected, the storage control unit 1
A confirmation signal is output from 1a to the billing control unit 4.

The wireless unit 13 uses a filter 9 when the base unit 2 becomes a repeater and connects any of the slave units 3 to the exchange 1 via the base unit 2.
The audio signal and billing signal output from the system are divided into separate bands and output simultaneously. The wireless unit 13 also receives the voice signal output from the handset 3 and response signals such as a billing signal and a confirmation signal as data, and outputs them to the filter 9.

The off-hook signal detection unit 14 detects an off-hook signal among the response signals as data from the handset 3 that the wireless unit 13 receives. In addition, this off-hook signal detection section 1
4 detects not only the off-hook signal from the slave device 3 (but also the off-hook signal from its own device (master device) 2).

The electric field strength detection means 15 includes a level detection section 15a and a setting section 1.
5b, change state comparison and discrimination section 15c, alarm output section 15d,
It is configured to include a display section 15e.

The level detection section 15a detects the level of the electric field strength between each handset 3 and outputs it to the change state comparison and determination section 15c. The setting unit 15b sets a standard level of electric field strength (threshold level for V reporting) according to the arrangement of the base unit 2 and each slave unit 3,
The detection time of the level detection section 15a is set.

The change state comparison/determination section 15c compares the detection signal from the level detection section 15a with the reference level set by the setting section 15b. Then, when the base unit 2 or the slave unit 3 moves and the electric field strength between them changes and the detection signal of the level detection unit 15a exceeds the reference level within the set time, an alarm sound is output from the alarm output unit 15d. At the same time, the display section 15
The number of the handset whose electric field strength has changed is displayed for e.

That is, in this electric field strength detection means 15, the setting section 15
The level detection unit L5a periodically detects the state of change in the level of the electric field strength between each handset 3 at each set time set by b, and when the detection level exceeds the reference level within the set time. Alarm output is being generated.

On the other hand, multiple slave units 3 wirelessly communicate with one base unit 2.
are respectively a wireless section 18, a state control section 19, a filter 20,
The device includes a handset (transceiver) 21, a modem 22, a billing control section 23, a fee storage device 24, and field strength detection means 25.

The wireless unit 18 receives radio waves including audio signals and data transmitted from the wireless unit 13 of the base unit 2 and outputs them to the filter 20 . In addition, this radio section 18 adds a response signal to the received radio wave outputted from the filter 20 as data to the audio signal and transmits it as a radio wave to the base unit 2, and also transmits a signal to that effect as a radio wave when off-footer or on-hook. are doing.

When the state control unit 19 receives a lock signal in the radio waves transmitted from the base unit 2, the state control unit 19 should make the own machine 3 unusable (prohibits transmission from the radio unit 18. When the unit 19 receives the lock release signal, it returns the own aircraft 3 to a usable state.

The filter 20 separates the audio signal and data supplied from the wireless section 18, and outputs the audio signal to the handset 21 and the data to the billing control section 23 via the modem 22, respectively. Further, a response signal as data from the modem 22 is added to the audio signal from the handset 21, and is divided into different frequency bands and simultaneously outputted to the radio section 18.

When the billing control unit 23 receives a billing signal as data supplied from the modem 22, it sends a billing signal to the billing device 2.
It is output to 4. Furthermore, when the fee is normally collected and a confirmation signal is output from the fee collection device 24, this charging control section 23 outputs this signal to the modem 22 as a response signal.

Similar to the base unit 2, the fee storage device 24 includes a storage control section 24a,
The storage control section 24a instructs the charge processing section 24b to store the coins accumulated on the orbit based on the charge collection signal output from the charge control section 23. The charge processing unit 23b stores the corresponding number of coins in the safe 24c based on the command, and when the coins corresponding to the charge are normally collected, the storage control unit 24a confirms with the charging control unit 23. It is outputting a signal.

Note that while the charge collection device 24 of the slave unit 3 is operating, the operation of the charge collection device 11 of the base unit 2 is stopped.

The electric field strength detection means 25 is the electric field strength detection means 15 of the base unit 2.
Similarly, the level detection section 25a includes a level detection section 25a, a setting section 25b, a change state comparison/discrimination section 25c, an alarm output section 25d, and a display section 25e.
The level of the electric field strength between the two and the two is detected and outputted to the change state comparison/determination section 25c. Further, the setting section 25b sets a reference level of electric field strength (threshold level for issuing an alarm) according to the arrangement of the base unit 2 and each slave unit 3, and sets the detection time of the level detection unit 25a. Further, the change state comparison/determination section 25c compares the detection signal from the level detection section 25a with the reference level set by the setting section 25b. Then, when the base unit 2 or the slave unit 3 moves and the electric field strength between them changes, and the detection signal of the level detection unit 25a exceeds the reference level within the set time, an alarm sound is output from the alarm output unit 25d. At the same time, the number of the handset whose electric field strength has changed is displayed on the display section 25e.

Next, the operation of the cordless telephone configured as described above will be explained, taking as an example the case where a call is made from a predetermined handset.

First, when a predetermined handset 3 goes into an off-hook state, a signal is output to the base unit 2 to inform the base unit 2 of this state. When base unit 2 receives this signal, it returns the confirmation signal, and all other slave units 3 receive this signal and stop transmitting to base unit 2. As a result, the other handsets 3 become unusable, and at the same time, the number of the handset 3 currently in use and the fact that it is in use are displayed (note that the display section is not shown). The user can visually check the current usage status. kc, the off-hook handset 3 waits for coin insertion, and when a coin is inserted, this confirmation signal is output to the base unit 2, forming a loop, and a voice dial tone is sent to the handset 3. will be released. When a dial operation is performed from the handset 3 in this state, a dial signal resulting from this is output from the base unit 2, and the exchanger 1
As a result, when a response signal is returned from the exchange 1 to the base unit 2 in response to a response from the other party's telephone, the phone calls out for a predetermined period of time (for example, 50m5 for chuck absorption).
ec) After the lapse of time, a charging signal instructing the collection of fees is placed on a frequency band of, for example, 300 Hz or less, which is outside the audio band (300 to 3 KH2), and is output to the handset 3. On the handset 3 side, an operation is performed to collect the inserted coins and collect the fee based on the charging signal. Then, if the normal storage operation is performed, a confirmation signal is output to the base unit 2, and the current loop is continued.

Here, after outputting the billing signal to the slave unit 3, the base unit 2 performs a time-out check and waits for a predetermined period of time, for example, 50 seconds.
If the confirmation signal is not supplied from the handset 3 within 0n+sec, the loop is cut. In addition, if a confirmation signal is supplied as data from the handset 3 within 500 m5ec, the base unit 2 will check whether the fee has been collected based on this confirmation signal, and if the confirmation signal indicates that the fee is not collected correctly, If so, the loop will be forcibly cut. Furthermore, if the confirmation signal indicates that there is no remaining amount, a request to extend the busy tone is output and only the reverse loop is cut. Further, if the fee is normally collected and a request for a reminder sound is made from the handset 3, the base unit 2 determines that there is a small amount remaining and outputs a voice signal mixed with a reminder sound requesting the insertion of coins. and,
When the mutual call ends and the handset 3 goes on-hook, the other handset 3, which was previously unusable, is unlocked and becomes usable, and communication with the base unit 2 becomes possible.

At this time, the base unit 2 also forcibly disconnects the line, but when the handset 3 that was communicating with the user goes on-hook, the call is completely terminated and the next call can be made. Become.

By the way, when making a call from base unit 2, the same operation as when handling a normal telephone is performed, and when making a call, a lock signal is sent to all handsets 3 to prohibit transmission to base unit 2. is supplied.

Also, if there is an incoming call from an external phone, the base unit 2
Alternatively, any handset (-) 3 connects the line and makes a call.

Therefore, when any of the handsets 3 goes off-hook, it is known that other handsets 3 are unable to communicate with the base unit 2, so it is known whether the handsets 3 are currently available for use.

In addition, the charge collection function (charge collection device) is provided not only on the base unit 2 (also on each slave unit 3), so there is no need to go to the base unit every time you make a call, and you can easily perform one action. You can make calls from the closest handset away from the base phone without being tied down, and you can be sure that the coins you put in can be used for your own purposes.Also, you can use such a phone at a coffee shop or restaurant, etc. If you apply the application and place a handset at each table in the store, you can talk freely to a certain extent from a nearby handset.Furthermore, even if multiple people are talking, only one person can make a call. The machine has a receiver for inserting coins, and by handing the handset in turn, it can be easily handled within the table without having to move, and the advantages of being cordless can be effectively utilized.

Furthermore, when the base unit 2 receives a confirmation signal from the slave unit 3 that the fee has been collected, it continues the loop with the corresponding slave unit 3, so if the fee is not collected normally, the master unit 2 is forced to The loop is cut, and it is possible to prevent malfunctions, especially continuation of calls due to fraud.

Next, the operation of the electric field strength detection means in the base unit and each slave unit will be explained based on the flowchart shown in FIG.

First, the detection time and reference level of the electric field strength level, which are periodically performed in each setting section 15b, 25b, are set in advance (STI).

and the level detection section 15a of the electric field strength detection means 15.25 in the base unit 2 and each slave unit 3;

25a detects the level of electric field strength between each other based on the detection time (Sr2). This detection operation is performed periodically at each detection time set by each setting unit 15b, 25b. This is also inevitably carried out while exchanging calls with an external telephone through the terminal 2 or the slave 113. The detection signal is compared with the reference level in the change state comparison and determination units 15c and 25c (Sr3), and if the level of the detection signal exceeds the reference level within a predetermined time that does not elapse the detection time (Sr4-No) (Sr5-Yes). , it is determined that the electric field strength has become stronger and the electric field strength between the base unit 2 and the slave unit 3 has exceeded the allowable range, and an alarm sound is output from the alarm output units 16d and 25d, and the alarm is displayed to the target party. The telephone number is displayed on the display sections 16e, 25e and an alarm is output (Sr1).

On the other hand, if the detection time has passed (5T4-Yes) and there is a change in the settings (Sr1-Yes), it returns to STI operation, and if there is no change (Sr1-No).
, returns to the operation of Sr1.

Therefore, the electric field strength detection means 1 of this base unit 2 and slave unit 3
5.25, the status of the base unit 2 and each slave unit 3 can be monitored by detecting changes in the electric field strength between the other parties, and the theft of the base unit 2 and each slave unit 3 equipped with a charge storage device 11.24 is possible. can be prevented.

By the way, in the embodiment described above, the electric field strength detection means 15, 25 in the base unit 2 and each slave unit 3 detects that when the detection signal exceeds the reference level within a predetermined time, the electric field strength becomes stronger than the normal state. The explanation was given using a configuration that outputs an alarm as an example, but it is also possible to change the setting of the reference level and output an alarm when the electric field strength between the base unit 2 and each slave unit 3 becomes weaker than the normal state. You can also do this.

Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, one base unit 2 is connected to the exchange 1 by wire, and at least one slave unit 3 is connected to the exchange 1 by wire.
The explanation has been given using an example of a cordless telephone that has a one-to-one wireless connection between the base unit 2 and the base unit 2. 3 may be used as a handset without a cord, and the same effect can be obtained as long as the base unit 2 and each slave unit 3 are configured to be connected wirelessly.

Further, although the above-mentioned telephone has been described using a coin-insertion type telephone as an example, it can also be applied to a card-type telephone.

[Effects of the Invention] As explained above, the cordless telephone with a charge processing device according to the present invention includes means for detecting changes in electric field strength between the base unit and the slave unit, which have a charge collection function for storing call charges. With this configuration, the status of the base unit and each slave unit can be monitored based on the detection results of changes in the electric field strength between the base unit and each slave unit, and 7 alerts are issued based on the detection signal to prevent theft. be able to.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the cordless telephone with a charge processing device according to the present invention, FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the operation of the cordless telephone with the charge processing device, and FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the cordless telephone with the charge processing device according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of a field strength detection means in the cordless telephone. 1... AC F'Ata, 2-H machine, 3-child machine, 11゜2
3...Charge storage device, 13.17-...Radio section, 16
．． 25--Electric field strength detection means.

Claims (1)

[Claims] It is equipped with one base unit and at least one or more slave units that are wirelessly connected to the base unit. 1. A cordless telephone with a charge processing device, comprising means for detecting a change in electric field strength.