WO2000018087A2 - Dispositif de telecommunications - Google Patents

Dispositif de telecommunications Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2000018087A2
WO2000018087A2 PCT/GB1999/003121 GB9903121W WO0018087A2 WO 2000018087 A2 WO2000018087 A2 WO 2000018087A2 GB 9903121 W GB9903121 W GB 9903121W WO 0018087 A2 WO0018087 A2 WO 0018087A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
controller
call
calling party
operable
incoming call
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB1999/003121
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2000018087A3 (fr
Inventor
David Clucas Robson
Brian Dennis King
Nigel Alexander Slater
Original Assignee
Rivacom Limited
David Clucas Robson
Brian Dennis King
Nigel Alexander Slater
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from GB9820527A external-priority patent/GB2342003A/en
Application filed by Rivacom Limited, David Clucas Robson, Brian Dennis King, Nigel Alexander Slater filed Critical Rivacom Limited
Priority to AU61022/99A priority Critical patent/AU6102299A/en
Publication of WO2000018087A2 publication Critical patent/WO2000018087A2/fr
Publication of WO2000018087A3 publication Critical patent/WO2000018087A3/fr

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
    • H04M1/57—Arrangements for indicating or recording the number of the calling subscriber at the called subscriber's set
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
    • H04M1/64—Automatic arrangements for answering calls; Automatic arrangements for recording messages for absent subscribers; Arrangements for recording conversations
    • H04M1/65—Recording arrangements for recording a message from the calling party
    • H04M1/6505—Recording arrangements for recording a message from the calling party storing speech in digital form
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M3/00—Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M3/42—Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers
    • H04M3/42025—Calling or Called party identification service
    • H04M3/42034—Calling party identification service
    • H04M3/42059—Making use of the calling party identifier
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M3/00—Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M3/42—Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers
    • H04M3/436—Arrangements for screening incoming calls, i.e. evaluating the characteristics of a call before deciding whether to answer it
    • H04M3/4365—Arrangements for screening incoming calls, i.e. evaluating the characteristics of a call before deciding whether to answer it based on information specified by the calling party, e.g. priority or subject
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
    • H04M1/02—Constructional features of telephone sets
    • H04M1/0291—Door telephones
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M2203/00—Aspects of automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M2203/60—Aspects of automatic or semi-automatic exchanges related to security aspects in telephonic communication systems
    • H04M2203/6081—Service authorization mechanisms
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M3/00—Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M3/42—Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers
    • H04M3/42314—Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers in private branch exchanges

Definitions

  • This invention relates to telecommunications apparatus.
  • a number of modern telecommunications networks have, for the last few years, employed Caller Line Identifier (CLI) information to advise a recipient of a telephone call (a receiving party) of the source of that call.
  • CLI Caller Line Identifier
  • the structure and format of CLI information is well known and will not be further described herein.
  • European Patent Specification No. 0 494 525 discloses a telephone that includes a memory which is programmable with a plurality of telephone numbers and associated alphanumeric characters. The user of the phone is then able to program the phone to issue a particular response to selected callers who have their number stored in the phone. In the system described in the specification, the user is able to block incoming calls from selected callers who have had their numbers programmed in the phone by controlling the phone to automatically respond to the selected calling party with a message indicating that the telephone that they are calling is currently in use.
  • One commonly used way to disable the transmission of CLI information is enabled by the calling party dialling "141" before the number of the call that they wish to make.
  • the network operator can also remotely switch off the transmission of CLI information for a given line should the user of that line request it.
  • a variety of other networks, such as ISDN or digital subscriber networks, also support the provision, transmission and reception of CLI information.
  • the receiving party of a CLI-disabled call should dial "1471" to attempt to access CLI information relating to the last received call, then they will be presented with a message advising them either that the number of the caller has been withheld (if the caller has prefixed the number dialled with "141"), or that the number of the caller is not available.
  • Similar systems operate in other countries and are implemented with different sets of prefixed numbers or other codes, accordingly it should be noted that the above described example (using "141” or "1471”) relates particularly to the UK phone system.
  • the present invention may be implemented in any country once it has been adjusted to take account of local variations in the type and format of CLI and associated data and information.
  • Another way requires the individual to purchase an add-on unit that stores and displays CLI information relating to incoming calls. The user may then inspect the display of the unit upon receipt of an incoming call to determine whether or not they wish to speak to the calling party.
  • both of these approaches are unsatisfactory for a number of reasons.
  • the use of an answerphone for call screening can cause problems as it is not uncommon for callers to hang up if they should encounter an answerphone, particularly as a surprisingly large proportion of phone users dislike talking to a machine.
  • the receiving party would then not be able to identify the calling party without manually dialling "1471", for example, to see if any CLI information about the last call was available.
  • the other alternative is particularly inconvenient as the owner of the phone must look for CLI information on the unit's display before answering a call.
  • the user should be upstairs at home, for example, and the add-on unit is located downstairs in the lounge then the user must go downstairs to inspect the add-on unit every time that a call is received.
  • a further problem associated with these previously proposed call screening procedures is that in all cases it is not possible to stop the phone from ringing. Thus, the receiving party is always disturbed by the phone even if they do not want to speak to the calling party.
  • telecommunications apparatus comprising a controller that is operable to modify the operation of said apparatus upon the receipt of an incoming call from a calling party that includes an embedded signal indicating that information identifying said calling party is not available.
  • said controller controls the apparatus to respond to said incoming call.
  • the controller may control the apparatus to respond to said incoming call by terminating said incoming call.
  • Termination of the incoming call may comprise controlling the apparatus to accept the call (or "pick up” the call), and then controlling the apparatus to terminate the call (or "hang up” the call) without routing it to an extension (or storage device).
  • termination of the incoming call may comprise controlling the apparatus to accept the call (or "pick up” the call), and then route the call to one of the storage devices to record a message.
  • the controller may also control the apparatus to replay a message to the calling party before terminating the call (i.e. before hanging up).
  • termination of the call may simply comprise controlling the apparatus not to accept the incoming call.
  • termination of the incoming call comprises controlling the apparatus to respond to the incoming call with a response generated by the apparatus, and that preferably does not require the receiving party to be disturbed.
  • the controller may control the apparatus to respond to the calling party with a request for the calling party to input said identifying information.
  • the request for identifying information may be recorded on a recording medium and may be replayable to the calling party.
  • said controller terminates said call if said identifying information is not inputted within a predetermined period of time.
  • said controller controls the apparatus to record a message from the calling party if said identifying information is not inputted within a predetermined period of time.
  • the controller may control the apparatus to respond to said incoming call by diverting said incoming call.
  • the controller may control said apparatus to divert said incoming call to a recording means.
  • the recording means is provided within said apparatus.
  • said recording means may be external to said apparatus and connectable thereto.
  • the controller is operable to control said apparatus to divert said incoming call to telecommunications equipment connected to said apparatus.
  • said controller is operable to control said apparatus to divert said incoming call to telecommunications equipment connected or connectable to said apparatus using least-cost-routing.
  • said controller is operable to control said apparatus to route outgoing calls (including calls to mobile telephones) using least-cost routing.
  • a further aspect of the invention provides telecommunications apparatus comprising a controller and one or more, preferably cellular, tranceivers (i.e. wireless signal transmitters/receivers), said controller being operable to route outgoing calls via said one or more tranceivers using least-cost-routing.
  • the apparatus comprises a memory that is capable of storing a plurality of telephone numbers.
  • said memory is also capable of storing alphanumeric characters associated with said telephone numbers.
  • said embedded signal includes the calling parties' telephone number.
  • said controller is operable to compare the calling parties' telephone number with said telephone numbers stored in said memory.
  • said controller is operable to cause the apparatus to respond to the calling party with a predetermined message if the calling parties' telephone number should match one of the telephone numbers stored in the memory.
  • the message may be recorded by a user onto recording means of said apparatus.
  • the controller may be operable to replay a second predetermined message associated with the calling parties' telephone number to telecommunications equipment connected to said apparatus.
  • the controller may be programmable to divert said incoming call if the calling parties' telephone number should match one of said stored telephone numbers.
  • the information identifying said calling party comprises CLI.
  • the embedded signal may indicate either that said CLI information is not available, or that said CLI information has been withheld.
  • the apparatus comprises an interface for connection to one or more telephone lines of a telecommunications network; an interface for connection to one or more local telephone lines, and a switching matrix for connecting one or more of said telecommunications network lines to one or more of said local telephone lines, said controller being operable to control interconnection of said telecommunications network lines and said local lines.
  • a telephone exchange comprising: an interface for connection to a telecommunications network; an interface for connection to one or more local lines; a switching matrix operable to connect said local lines to said telecommunications network, and a controller for controlling said switching matrix, and for modifying the operation of the exchange upon the receipt of an incoming call from a calling party that includes an embedded signal indicating that information identifying said calling party is not available.
  • a further aspect of the invention provides a method of controlling telecommunications apparatus, the method comprising the steps of: receiving an incoming call from a calling party; determining whether said incoming call includes an embedded signal indicating that information identifying the calling party is not available; and modifying the operation of said apparatus if it is determined that said incoming call includes said embedded signal.
  • a further aspect of the invention provides telecommunications apparatus comprising: a controller that is operable to detect an embedded signal in an incoming call, said controller being operable to control the apparatus to perform one or more of a first set of predetermined tasks upon detection of said embedded signal or to perform one or more of a second set of predetermined tasks if said embedded signal is not detected, wherein said embedded signal indicates that information relating to the identity of a party making said incoming call is not available.
  • a further aspect of the invention provides telecommunications apparatus for use in a system in which CLI information (generally identifying the calling party) preceding or proceeding the ringing tone is provided but may be withheld by the calling party, the apparatus including a controller which detects the CLI data and if the CLI data is present initiates a first action, and if the CLI data is absent (i.e. withheld or unavailable) initiates a second action, wherein the second action includes terminating the call without allowing ringing to occur in response to the ringing tone.
  • CLI information generally identifying the calling party
  • the apparatus including a controller which detects the CLI data and if the CLI data is present initiates a first action, and if the CLI data is absent (i.e. withheld or unavailable) initiates a second action, wherein the second action includes terminating the call without allowing ringing to occur in response to the ringing tone.
  • Embodiments of the invention may be particularly useful for so-called SOHO
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an aspect of the invention as embodied in a Private Branch Exchange (PBX);
  • PBX Private Branch Exchange
  • Figures 2, 3 and 4 are flow diagrams representing operating mechanisms for the PBX of Figure 1 ;
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of a further aspect of the invention also embodied in a PBX.
  • the invention can be embodied in a variety of different ways.
  • the invention could be embodied entirely in software (i.e. a memory resident computer program), in one or more Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC's) or in a combination of ASIC's and software.
  • ASIC's Application Specific Integrated Circuits
  • the invention could, in an alternative example, be embodied in a combination of software and standard off-the-shelf components. The invention should thus not be limited to the particular components described hereinafter or to a PBX.
  • the invention is not limited to telecommunications apparatus for connection to an analogue PSTN, as the apparatus may be connected to any type of telecommunications line such as a digital subscriber line (for example a digital ISDN line, or an asymmetric digital subscriber line or a symmetric digital subscriber line), a cable network, a satellite network or a wireless network.
  • a digital subscriber line for example a digital ISDN line, or an asymmetric digital subscriber line or a symmetric digital subscriber line
  • a cable network for example a digital ISDN line, or an asymmetric digital subscriber line or a symmetric digital subscriber line
  • satellite network for example a satellite network
  • wireless network for example a digital ISDN line, or an asymmetric digital subscriber line or a symmetric digital subscriber line
  • references herein to “land lines” should therefore be construed to include one or more analogue lines, digital subscriber lines, cable lines or lines to a PSTN.
  • wireless lines “wireless links” or “wireless connections
  • FIG. 1 shows an illustrative representation of a PBX 1.
  • the PBX 1 of this embodiment is connected to an array of land lines 3 and an array of local extensions 5 via a switching matrix 7.
  • the local extensions 5, in this embodiment, each comprise a telecommunications apparatus 9 (typically a telephone) wired to the PBX 1.
  • one or more wireless connections could be provided between the switching matrix 7 and any one or more local extensions 5, or between the switching matrix 7 and a mobile phone (for example a cellular mobile phone) that may local to or remote from the apparatus.
  • the local extensions may comprise cordless phones such as those employing the DECT cordless phone standard, for example.
  • one of the local extensions comprises an entry phone associated with a door of a building, and the PBX 1 is connected to an electronic door lock (not shown).
  • the PBX 1 is connected to an array of one or more incoming land lines 3, one or more local wired extensions 5, and is wirelessly connectable (via one or more cellular links 72) to one or more mobile phones 74.
  • the term "local extensions" as used herein should therefore be construed to include all of the above devices and/or any other item of telecommunications equipment connectable to the PBX, unless specifically indicated otherwise.
  • the switching matrix 7 is connected to a controller 11 that controls the matrix 7 to route calls from any one or more of the land lines 3 to any one or more of the local extensions 5, and from any one or more of the local extensions 5 to any one or more of the land lines 3.
  • the matrix 7 and controller 11 may be manually operated by an operator to route calls, or may be pre-programmed (as will be later described) to automatically route calls.
  • the matrix 7 may be expanded for connection to any number of trunk lines (i.e. land lines) 3, and to any number of local extensions 5. Accordingly, the invention is not to be limited to a pair of trunk (i.e. land) lines and a pair of extensions.
  • the controller 1 1 is connected, in this particular embodiment, to a pair of message storage devices 13 and 15 which are preferably both capable of having greetings messages recorded thereon by a user, and which are preferably both able to record messages from calling parties.
  • a pair of message storage devices 13 and 15 which are preferably both capable of having greetings messages recorded thereon by a user, and which are preferably both able to record messages from calling parties.
  • the message storage devices 13, 15 each comprise recording/reproducing apparatus that is operable to record and/or reproduce signals on and from an associated storage medium.
  • the storage devices and associated recording and/ or reproducing apparatus may be analogue or digital devices.
  • One or both of the storage devices could be operable only to replay a greetings message stored by the receiving party.
  • at least one storage device 13, 15 is operable to store messages from calling parties. If all storage devices are only capable of replaying messages stored by the receiving party, then one or more further storage devices (such as an answerphone) would have to be connected to the matrix 7 in order to record calling party messages.
  • the controller is connected to a microphone 17 (which preferably forms part of a handset) by means of which a user can record a message on either storage device.
  • a user could record messages using telecommunications equipment connected to one of the extensions.
  • the controller is also connected to an audio speaker 18 so that the user can listen to messages left by calling parties or to recorded greetings messages.
  • the controller is also connected to a memory 19 in which a plurality of telephone numbers and optionally, associated alphanumeric characters, may be stored.
  • User input means (not shown), such as a numberpad or keyboard, is provided to allow the user to input information into the memory 19.
  • the memory 19 is also preferably able to store information relating to each received call thereby allowing the user to see which calls have been received.
  • the PBX is also provided with a display (not shown) by means of which information may be displayed to the user.
  • the controller 11 may also be connected to an interface 21 by means of which the PBX may be connected to a personal computer.
  • the interface could be an RS232 interface, a USB (Universal
  • Serial Bus interface or any other suitable interface.
  • the PBX 1 has been programmed by the user to divert calls from Individual A to a first extension, to divert other calls with embedded CLI information to a second extension, and to terminate calls without CLI information.
  • termination of the incoming call may comprise controlling the apparatus to accept the call (or "pick up” the call), and then controlling the apparatus to terminate the call (or “hang up” the call) without routing it to an extension (or storage device).
  • termination of the incoming call may comprise controlling the apparatus to accept the call (or "pick up” the call), and then route the call to one of the storage devices to record a message.
  • termination of the call may simply comprise controlling the apparatus not to accept the incoming call.
  • termination of the incoming call comprises controlling the apparatus to respond to the incoming call with a non- response, for example by controlling the apparatus to respond to the incoming call with a response generated by the apparatus, and that preferably does not require the receiving party to be disturbed.
  • the apparatus is controlled to replay a message to the calling party before the incoming call is terminated.
  • the controller 11 first determines, in step 30, whether or not the incoming call includes CLI information identifying the calling party. If the call does include CLI information, then the controller 1 1 compares the received calling parties' phone number with the numbers stored in the memory 19 to determine, in step 32. whether the source of the incoming call is individual A. If the embedded CLI information indicates that the source of the call is A (i.e. if the number embodied in the received CLI information matches the number for A stored in the memory 19), then the call is diverted to the first extension as pre-programmed by the user.
  • the call is routed to the second extension.
  • the first extension could comprise a mobile phone wirelessly connectable to the matrix 7 and the second extension could be an answerphone connected to the PBX (as an alternative, the user could have chosen to record calls from calling parties other than A on one or both of the storage devices). In this way, the owner of the PBX would be able to receive calls from A, whilst other callers would be invited to leave a message. If the controller 1 1 detects, in step 30, that the incoming call does not include
  • the controller 11 controls, in step 34, either of the storage devices 13. 15 to replay a message to the calling party notifying them their phone number has not been received, and asking them to redial either without withholding their number (i.e. without prefixing the number called with "141") or by prefixing the number with "1470".
  • Prefixing the dialled number with "1470” can manually disable a CLI block that has been remotely applied by a network operator, for example, and allows CLI information relating to the calling party to be transmitted.
  • the controller terminates, in step 36, the call and the calling party is forced to redial. This arrangement is not always satisfactory, however, as some CLI blocks cannot selectively be removed by prefixing a dialled number with "1470".
  • selected users could be provided with unique access codes (for example PIN - i.e. personal identification number - codes) for use if the telecommunications network from which they are calling does not provide CLI information with calls, or if the CLI information cannot be revealed by prefixing the dialled number with "1470".
  • unique access codes for example PIN - i.e. personal identification number - codes
  • PIN personal identification number
  • the code number when the PBX replays the message stating that the calling parties' phone number has not been received would then allow the call to be completed (by routing it to an extension, for example) - assuming of course that the code is recognised by the controller 11. If the code is not recognised, then the call could be terminated or diverted as required.
  • CLI information relating to a calling party usually precedes an instruction embedded in the incoming call that sets the phone of the receiving party ringing.
  • incoming calls with withheld (or not including) CLI information usually will not cause the phones or other devices connected to the PBX to ring and thus the incoming call can be dealt with without disturbing the receiving party. This is the case in the United Kingdom, for example, where CLI information precedes the ringing instruction.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates another operating mode of the PBX 1.
  • the controller 1 1 first determines, in step 40, whether or not the incoming call includes CLI information identifying the calling party. If the call does include CLI information, then the controller 1 1 compares the received calling parties' phone number with the numbers stored in the memory 19 to determine, in step 42, whether the source of the incoming call is individual A. If the embedded CLI information indicates that the source of the call is A (i.e.
  • the call is diverted to the first extension as pre-programmed by the user. If the embedded CLI information indicates that the source of the call is not A, then the call is routed to the second extension.
  • the first extension could comprise a mobile phone wirelessly connectable to the matrix 7 and the second extension could be an answerphone connected to the PBX (as an alternative, the user could have chosen to record calls from calling parties other than A on one or both of the storage devices rather than on an answerphone connected to the matrix). In this way, the owner of the PBX would be able to receive calls from A, whilst other callers would be invited to leave a message.
  • the controller 1 1 detects, in step 40, that the incoming call does not include CLI information or that the CLI information has been withheld, then the controller 1 1 controls, in step 44, either of the storage devices 13. 15 to replay a message to the calling party notifying them that their phone number has not been received, and asking them to input their phone number (or their PIN number) after the tone.
  • the controller 1 1 compares the received number with the numbers stored in the memory 19 to determine, in step 42, whether the caller is A. If the caller is A, then the call is routed to the first extension as pre-programmed by the user. If the caller is not A, then the call is routed to the second extension.
  • the controller 1 1 controls a storage device 13, 15 to replay, in step 46, a further message inviting the calling party to leave a message.
  • the controller controls a storage device 13, 15, in step 48. to record the message from the calling party and then terminates, in step 50, the call.
  • the CLI information may precede the ringing instruction in the incoming call, it can be possible for the above process to be accomplished without ringing any of the phones attached to the PBX 1 and thus without disturbing the receiving party.
  • the PBX may also be provided with a large number of other functions.
  • the controller could be programmed to play different greetings messages in dependence upon the identity of the calling party (determined, for example, from the calling party's phone number). This would enable the user of the PBX to leave a message for a specific individual (such as "Mum, I'm out at the moment but I'll be back later tonight") without other calling parties being able to listen to that message.
  • the PBX may also be programmed to ring extensions using ring tones that vary in dependence upon the identity of the calling party. In this way, it would be possible for the receiving party to identify the calling party simply by listening to the extension's ring tone.
  • the PBX may also be programmed to acknowledge incoming calls and/or to ring extensions using a digitised voice. To implement this feature, a user of the PBX would first of all store a telephone number in the memory 19 and then record a name on one of the storage devices for association with the number stored. This process could be repeated to build a database of telephone numbers and associated recorded names.
  • the controller 1 1 Upon receipt of a call that includes CLI, the controller 1 1 could search through the memory 19 and if the number embodied in the CLI information matched one of the numbers stored in the memory (and if that number has a recorded name associated with it), then the controller could retrieve the name associated with that number, and replay the name at an appropriate point in a greetings message to the calling party. The controller could also replay the stored name with another suitable message through a speaker of a phone, for example, that comprises one of the extensions 5 connected to the matrix 7 so that the receiving party would know who was calling.
  • the PBX may also be programmed to recognise incoming international calls, and to take appropriate action (for example to mark them as being of high priority), as CLI information also indicates whether the call is a national or international call.
  • the PBX may also be connected to other articles for the control thereof.
  • the PBX is connected to an electronic door lock (for example on an entry door of a user's house or place of business) and is capable of unlocking the door to allow access to the building.
  • the door is provided with an entry phone that is connected to the PBX and effectively functions as one of the extensions. Persons arriving at the door are able to leave messages, for example, on the
  • the PBX by operating the entry phone.
  • the PBX is programmable to forward calls from the door entry phone to any of the other extensions (local or remote) connected to the PBX. In this way, it is possible for persons within the building to interrogate the caller at the door without having to first open the door, and without having to move to a particular fixed extension.
  • the PBX can also be programmed to replay an interrogating message to persons calling at the door, answers to which can be stored on the PBX so that they can be listened at a later point in time by the occupier of the building.
  • the PBX can be programmed to operate as an answering machine for the door so that the occupier can screen callers, or can retrieve messages from persons who have called when the occupier is not available to open the door.
  • the PBX modifies the ring tone of the extension to identify to the user of the extension that the call originates at the door of the building.
  • the PBX may also be programmed to recognise certain number combinations dialled from the entry phone, and to control the lock accordingly. For example, a resident's cleaner may be given a numerical code which, when entered at the entry phone, identifies the cleaner to the PBX. The PBX then opens the door to allow the cleaner access to the building.
  • the code may also be associated with a time range or a date range to restrict access of the cleaner, in this example, to the building. For example, the cleaner could be restricted to access between the hours of 9.00am and 10.00am on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Any attempt by the cleaner to use the code to access the building outside of these hours or on other days would not cause the door to be opened by the PBX.
  • apparatus for confirming the identity of the caller could also be provided so that the caller may only gain access to the building if they know the code, and if they pass scrutiny by the identity confirming apparatus.
  • the PBX could be programmed to ring a given extension with a ring tone particular to the code allocated to a given person. In this way the user will be able to identify aurally who it is that is controlling the PBX to let themselves into the building.
  • the PBX could also be programmed to relay a particular message to a caller identified by way of an allocated code. Alternatively, the PBX could be programmed to relay a particular message to all callers.
  • the PBX could also be connected to other types of equipment to allow a user calling into the PBX to control that equipment.
  • FIG. 4 shows a schematic representation of an operating mode of the PBX 1 such as that described above.
  • the PBX 1 periodically determines whether or not the entry phone (not shown) has been activated. If the entry phone has been activated, then a prerecorded message is replayed to the user of the entry phone in Step 54.
  • the PBX 1 determines - in Step 53 - whether or not a code has been inputted into the entry phone. If a code has been inputted, the controller compares in Step 55 the inputted code with prerecorded codes stored in the PBX and, if the code is verified, opens the door (step 57).
  • the PBX waits for a response from the user of the entry phone, and if pre-programmed appropriately (step 56), routes the response in step 58 to a selected extension where the resident is notified by a special ring tone that the entry phone has been activated. The resident is then able to listen into the caller's response to determine whether or not they wish to let the caller into the building. If the resident does not wish to speak with the caller, then the caller is invited in step 60 to leave a message for the resident. On the other hand, if the resident does wish to speak to the caller, then they can now do so by using the extension appropriately, and can if desired open the door. If no forwarding instructions have been pre-programmed, then the caller is invited, in step 60, to leave a message.
  • the PBX 1 can provide a useful means of monitoring callers, and for avoiding those callers that the resident does not wish to speak to.
  • the PBX according to the above embodiment could also be used effectively in a business environment, for example to unlock a door during business hours and to lock the door outside of business hours. It is even conceivable that the PBX could be programmed to lock a door when supplied with a remote telephonic instruction, so that a resident who has left without locking the door can call the PBX and instruct it to lock the door without having to return.
  • Figure 5 shows a further arrangement in which the PBX 1 is connected to an array of one or more land lines 3, one or more local wired extensions 5 and is also wirelessly connectable (via one or more wireless, preferably cellular links 72 for example) to one or more mobile phones 74, each of said links 72 being establishable by a wireless communications terminal (not shown) (i.e. a wireless transceiver) preferably provided for that purpose as an extension of the PBX 1 (or alternatively as an internal component of the PBX).
  • a wireless communications terminal not shown
  • a single wireless communications terminal compatible with one or more wireless networks could instead be provided.
  • the PBX is operable (for example, in accordance with pre- programmed instructions to forward incoming calls) to perform least-cost-routing of outgoing or forwarded calls to connected or connectable extensions (such as the land lines 3 or the one or more mobile phones 74).
  • Least-cost-routing allows the PBX to use different telephone networks to route calls in order to reduce the cost associated with a given call. For example, if a user of the PBX attempts to place a call to a cellular phone then the PBX would determine whether it is less expensive to route the call via the wireless links 72 or via the land 3, and choose the least expensive option to route the call.
  • the PBX may even be provided with a plurality of network specific wireless transceivers in the event that it is cheaper to place calls between the same wireless network (i.e. networks operated by the same service provider) as compared to placing calls between different wireless networks (i.e. networks operated by different service providers).
  • the PBX would need to be provided with - or be connectable to - wireless communications terminals for one or more service providers, or be provided with - or be connectable to - a single wireless communications terminal operable in a plurality of modes corresponding to those of a plurality of networks.
  • the wireless communications terminal is capable of routing calls via its own bespoke wireless network (either only via the bespoke network or in addition to other networks) so that a person calling into the PBX from a mobile phone, for example, may also be able to avail themselves of a more advantageous call billing rate.
  • the PBX is also operable to determine whether a call to be placed is a "long- distance" call or a local call and to route the call via the most appropriate (i.e. the least expensive) land line operator.
  • the PBX will determine whether it is cheaper to route the call via the wireless links or via the PSTN, and choose the least expensive option.
  • the user could pre-program the PBX to forward incoming calls to him using least-cost-routing via either the land lines 3 (i.e. via a land-line to a location where the user knows he will be) or the wireless links 72 to the one or more mobile phones 74.
  • the PBX 1 selects the most appropriate (i.e.
  • the PBX determines (for example from a memory) from information programmed by the user, the identity of the network to be used for the forwarded call. Once the network identity has been determined, the PBX opts to use that network for forwarding the call. Should the PBX be unable to connect the call using the selected network, then it may retry making a connection using the next most advantageous network.
  • This embodiment allows the PBX to take advantage of the fact that calls between like, telecommunications networks are typically cheaper than calls between different telecommunications networks. For example, it is typically cheaper to call one mobile phone from another than it is to call the same mobile phone from a land- line (i.e. a land-based telecommunications network). Similarly, calls between mobile phones connected to the same telecommunications network are typically cheaper than those between mobile phones connected to different networks.
  • This embodiment may, of course, be combined with the features of previously described embodiments so that only certain calls are forwarded to the PBX user, with other calls being forwarded to local extensions 5 or to the storage devices 13, 15.
  • the wireless communications terminal need only be capable of placing outgoing calls, it is preferable that it is also capable of receiving incoming calls to allow persons calling into the PBX potentially to avail themselves of less expensive call billing rates.
  • the PBX may store in the PBX an address book of individuals (typically identified by inputted ASCII characters and/or by a recorded name announcement) and associated telephone numbers.
  • individuals typically identified by inputted ASCII characters and/or by a recorded name announcement
  • associated telephone numbers For example, for the abovementioned individual, Bill Smith, the PBX may have stored his name, his home telephone number, his mobile phone number and the identity of the network to which his mobile phone is connectable.
  • the PBX checks to see if the number is a mobile number or a land line number and if a network has been stored for the mobile number. The PBX then selects the least expensive means of routing the call. For example, if the user wishes to call Bill's home number, then the PBX may opt to use a land line as it may be less expensive than using a wireless link.
  • the PBX may select a wireless link in preference to using a land line, and - if the identity of the network to which Bill's mobile phone is connectable is stored - may select the same network as the network to which Bill's mobile phone is connectable to route the call.
  • telecommunications apparatus any item of telecommunications apparatus.
  • References herein to "telecommunications apparatus" being intended to encompass any and/or all items of communications apparatus such as telephones (wired or wireless), mobile phones, answerphones, pagers, facsimile machines (or fax modems), and telephone exchanges (either public or private).
  • a PBX (not necessarily one that acts on CLI data) that includes means for unlocking a door in response to a code received by the PBX.
  • the code may be inputted manually or automatically into the PBX from a door entry phone, a local extension connected to the PBX, remote telecommunications apparatus connectable to the PBX or from any other means.
  • the wireless transceiver may comprise a cradle connected to the PBX and a mobile phone receivable in the cradle or base station.
  • the cradle includes means for passing a battery recharging signal to the mobile phone, and means for passing audio and other data between the mobile phone and the PBX when the phone is seated in the cradle.
  • the cradle may be connected as an extension of the PBX or as a trunk or land line (i.e. as an input to the PBX).
  • the cradle is connected as an extension of the PBX, then persons calling the mobile phone will be presented, when the call is answered, with a dial tone and will have to be able to navigate and operate the PBX without assistance. If the cradle is connected as a land-line or trunk then persons calling into the mobile phone when it is seated on the cradle will be provided with all of the features of the PBX including, for example, the opportunity to leave a message, or to have their call diverted elsewhere. It should furthermore be noted that whilst the present invention is intended to assist in the avoidance of CLI-withheld calls, the system may still be used by those persons who call from networks without CLI data or from numbers where the CLI data has been permanently withheld. To use the system, those persons simply have to enter their PIN number, or phone number, as appropriate when prompted.
  • the apparatus described herein may also be provided with a large number of alternative or additional functions.
  • the PBX could be capable of indicating (perhaps by audio or visual means) whether or not any messages have been recorded. Such indication could also be provided at any one of the extensions connected to the PBX.
  • the apparatus may also be programmed to allow recorded messages to be replayed to any of the extensions upon correct input of a code granting access to the recording/reproducing means.
  • the apparatus may be operable to provide someone answering a ringing extension with an option as to whether or not they wish to speak to the caller.
  • the PBX could announce the identity (if known) and/or the telephone number of the calling party and then request the person answering the call to indicate whether they wish to ignore the call, answer the call or divert the call to a recording device where a message may be recorded. If the person answering the call should choose to divert the call for message recordal, then by not replacing the receiver they are provided with the opportunity to listen to the message as it is being recorded (without the calling party being able to hear them) and to interrupt the message recordal should they wish to.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Devices For Supply Of Signal Current (AREA)
  • Mobile Radio Communication Systems (AREA)
  • Telephonic Communication Services (AREA)

Abstract

Dispositif de télécommunications (1) comprenant une unité de commande (11) servant à modifier le fonctionnement dudit dispositif (1) à réception d'un appel d'arrivée provenant d'un demandeur et incorporant un signal indiquant que l'information identifiant ledit demandeur n'est pas disponible. Cette unité de commande (11) ne commande, de préférence, le dispositif qu'à réception de ce type d'appel afin de répondre à l'appel d'arrivée.
PCT/GB1999/003121 1998-09-21 1999-09-20 Dispositif de telecommunications WO2000018087A2 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU61022/99A AU6102299A (en) 1998-09-21 1999-09-20 Telecommunications apparatus

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB9820527.1 1998-09-21
GB9820527A GB2342003A (en) 1998-09-21 1998-09-21 Telephone apparatus for handling anonymous calls
GB9827230.5 1998-12-10
GB9827230A GB2342005A (en) 1998-09-21 1998-12-10 Telephone apparatus for unlocking entry phone door

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2000018087A2 true WO2000018087A2 (fr) 2000-03-30
WO2000018087A3 WO2000018087A3 (fr) 2000-06-29

Family

ID=26314396

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/GB1999/003121 WO2000018087A2 (fr) 1998-09-21 1999-09-20 Dispositif de telecommunications

Country Status (2)

Country Link
AU (1) AU6102299A (fr)
WO (1) WO2000018087A2 (fr)

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5181238A (en) * 1989-05-31 1993-01-19 At&T Bell Laboratories Authenticated communications access service
EP0676884A2 (fr) * 1994-03-11 1995-10-11 AT&T Corp. Interception sélective d'appels entrants pour systèmes téléphoniques cellulaires
US5590188A (en) * 1992-11-09 1996-12-31 Iex Corporation Rules-based call routing
EP0844773A2 (fr) * 1996-11-20 1998-05-27 Cybiotronics, Inc. Répondeur téléphonique avec opération de messagerie dépendante de l'identité de l'appelant
WO1998027707A1 (fr) * 1996-12-16 1998-06-25 Ericsson Inc. Procede et systeme pour acheminer un appel anonyme

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5181238A (en) * 1989-05-31 1993-01-19 At&T Bell Laboratories Authenticated communications access service
US5590188A (en) * 1992-11-09 1996-12-31 Iex Corporation Rules-based call routing
EP0676884A2 (fr) * 1994-03-11 1995-10-11 AT&T Corp. Interception sélective d'appels entrants pour systèmes téléphoniques cellulaires
EP0844773A2 (fr) * 1996-11-20 1998-05-27 Cybiotronics, Inc. Répondeur téléphonique avec opération de messagerie dépendante de l'identité de l'appelant
WO1998027707A1 (fr) * 1996-12-16 1998-06-25 Ericsson Inc. Procede et systeme pour acheminer un appel anonyme

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2000018087A3 (fr) 2000-06-29
AU6102299A (en) 2000-04-10

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