WO2008096983A1

WO2008096983A1 - Voice telecommunication call bell system

Info

Publication number: WO2008096983A1
Application number: PCT/KR2008/000609
Authority: WO
Inventors: Seung Yeob Lee
Original assignee: Seung Yeob Lee
Priority date: 2007-02-09
Filing date: 2008-02-01
Publication date: 2008-08-14
Also published as: KR20080074466A; KR100869854B1

Abstract

Disclosed is a call bell system for performing voice telecommunication which enables voice telecommunication when an employee is called in a shop, the call bell system including: multiple callers for making a call request so as to perform voice telecommunication; multiple transceivers for making a communication request to each caller that makes a call request among the multiple callers, so as to perform voice telecommunication with the caller which makes a call request; and a repeater for displaying information of each caller which makes a call request among the multiple callers and then performing a voice telecommunication relay function between each callercaller makes a call request and each transceiver which makes a communication request among the multiple transceivers. Therefore, it is possible to solve the problems of the inconvenience and the cost increase resulting from the battery change of a call bell, and it is possible to improve efficiency of service procedures between a customer and an employee.

Description

Description VOICE TELECOMMUNICATION CALL BELL SYSTEM

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates to a call bell system for performing voice telecommunication, and more particularly to a call bell system for performing voice telecommunication which enables voice telecommunication when an employee is called in a shop.

[2]

Background Art

[3] In general, a call bell system is installed and used in a shop (e.g., a liquor store, a restaurant, etc.) that mainly serves customers in order to provide convenience for both customers and employees.

[4] For example, a call bell is installed in each table in a shop in order to solve the inconvenience of calling an employee by calling or gesture when a customer places an order from the menu or requests other services. The call bell can be used whenever a customer wants to call an employee.

[5] However, since an existing call bell system simply informs only the table number, an employee has to go to the customer and take an order, which is not an effective procedure.

[6] Further, power is required to drive a call bell system. Therefore, the call bell system should be provided with a separate power supplying means. For example, a call bell may be classified into a type using an external power source and a type equipped with a built-in battery, depending on the type of the power supplying means.

[7] However, in the case of the call bell using an external power, there is a limit in installing a call bell, due to its wiring and plug. In the case of a call bell equipped with a built-in battery, the battery should be changed whenever the power of battery is exhausted. Therefore, the existing call bell system is associated with cost increase and inconvenience resulting from the battery change.

[8] Therefore, there has been a request for development of a call bell system for performing voice telecommunication which enables effective interactive communication between customers and employees and is able to generate electricity on its own.

[9]

Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem

[10] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and the present invention provides a call bell system for performing voice telecommunication which enables voice telecommunication when an employee is called in a shop.

[11] Further, the present invention provides a call bell system for performing voice telecommunication, which enables voice telecommunication when an employee is called by using a call bell driven through power generated on its own, thereby solving the problems of the inconvenience and the cost increase resulting from the battery change of the call bell and improving efficiency of service procedures between a customer and an employee.

[12]

Technical Solution

[13] In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a call bell system for performing voice telecommunication, the call bell system including: multiple callers for making a call request so as to perform voice telecommunication; multiple transceivers for making a communication request to each caller that makes a call request among the multiple callers, so as to perform voice telecommunication with the caller which makes a call request; and a repeater for displaying information of each caller which makes a call request among the multiple callers and then performing a voice telecommunication relay function between each caller which makes a call request and each transceiver which makes a communication request among the multiple transceivers.

[14] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a call bell system for performing voice telecommunication, the call bell system including: multiple callers for making a call request so as to perform voice telecommunication; and a transceiver for displaying information of each caller which makes a call request among the multiple callers, and making a communication request to each caller which makes a call request so as to perform voice telecommunication with each of the multiple callers that make a call request.

[15]

Advantageous Effects

[16] The present invention makes it is possible to perform voice telecommunication with an employee when the employee is called by using a call bell driven through power generated on its own, thereby solving the problems of the inconvenience and the cost increase resulting from the battery change of the call bell and improving efficiency of service procedures between a customer and an employee.

[17]

Brief Description of the Drawings [18] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which: [19] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the construction of a call bell system for performing voice telecommunication according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [20] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the construction of a caller in a call bell system for performing voice telecommunication according to first and second embodiments of the present invention;

[21] FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of the construction of the repeater shown in FIG. 1;

[22] FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of the construction of the transceiver shown in FIG.

1; [23] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram showing an operation process of the call bell system for performing voice telecommunication according to the first embodiment of the present invention; [24] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the construction of a call bell system for performing voice telecommunication according to a second embodiment of the present invention; and [25] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram showing an operation process of the call bell system for performing voice telecommunication according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [26]

Mode for the Invention [27] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [28] The construction of a call bell system for performing voice telecommunication according to a first embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of callers

10, a repeater 20, and a plurality of transceivers 30, as shown in FIG. 1. [29] Each of the callers includes an input unit 11, a power generation unit 12, a power unit 13, a sound input/output unit 14, a communication module 15, and a controller 16, as shown in FIG. 2. [30] The input unit 11 makes a call request and a communication end request to the controller 16 according to the input of a user. For example, the input unit 11 may include a pushbutton input device or a rotary input device, etc. [31] The power generation unit 12 generates power on its own and supplies the generated power to the controller 16 and the power unit 13. For example, the power generation unit 12 may include a photovoltaic generator or a spiral spring-based generator, etc.

[32] The power unit 13 receives the power supplied from the power generation unit 12, charges its own power by using the received power, and then supplies the charged power to the controller 16. For example, the power unit 13 may include a rechargeable battery, and so on.

[33] The sound input/output unit 14 converts the voice input of a user into an electric voice signal and applies the converted voice signal to the controller 16. Further, the sound input/output unit 14 receives a voice signal or an alarm sound signal from the controller 16, converts the received voice signal or alarm sound signal into audible voice or audible alarm sound, and then outputs the converted voice or alarm sound to the outside. For example, the sound input/output unit 14 may include a microphone, a speaker, and so on.

[34] The communication module 15 performs wired and/or wireless data communication with the repeater 20 and each of the transceivers 30.

[35] Further, the communication module 15 receives a call signal and a communication end signal from the controller 16 and then transmits the received call signal and communication end signal to the repeater 20. Furthermore, the communication module 15 receives a voice signal from the controller 16 and then transmits the received voice signal to each of the transceivers 30 through a communication channel set by the repeater 20, and the communication module 15 receives a voice signal from each of the transceivers 30 through a communication channel set by the repeater 20 and then applies the received voice signal to the controller 16.

[36] The controller 16 continuously senses the level of power supplied from the power generation unit 12. As a result of the sensing, when the level of sensed power is higher than or equal to the level of preset reference power, the controller 16 keeps the power, supplied from the power unit 13, turned off while receiving power from the power generation unit 12 so as to supply the received power to the input unit 11, the sound input/output unit 14, and the communication module 15.

[37] Further, as a result of the sensing, when the level of power supplied from the power generation unit 12 is less than the level of preset reference power, the controller 16 checks the level of power supplied from the power unit 13. When the level of the checked power is higher than or equal to the level of preset reference power, the contro Her 16 turns off power supplied from the power generation unit 12 and receives power supplied from the power unit 13 so as to supply the received power to the input unit 11, the sound input/output unit 14, and the communication module 15.

[38] Furthermore, when the level of power supplied from the power generation unit 12 is less than the level of the preset reference power, the controller 16 checks the level of power supplied from the power unit 13. At this time, when the level of the checked power is less than the level of the preset reference power, the controller 16 applies pre- stored alarm sound to the sound input/output unit 14 with a predetermined time interval.

[39] Also, the controller 16 generates a call signal according to a call request from the input unit 11 and then transmits the generated call signal to the repeater 20 through the communication module 15.

[40] Also, the controller 16 generates a communication end signal according to a communication end request from the input unit 11 and then transmits the generated communication end signal to the repeater 20 through the communication module 15.

[41] Also, the controller 16 receives a voice signal applied from the sound input/output unit 14 and applies the received voice signal to the communication module 15, and the controller 16 receives a voice signal applied from the communication module 15 and applies the received voice signal to the sound input/output unit 14.

[42] The repeater 20 includes a power unit 21, a communication module 22, a sound output unit 23, a display unit 24, and a controller 25, as shown in FIG. 3.

[43] The power unit 21 supplies power to the controller 25. For example, the power unit

21 may comprise a power plug or a battery for reception of power supplied from the outside.

[44] The communication module 22 performs wired and/or wireless data communication with each of the callers 10 and each of the transceivers 30.

[45] Also, the communication module 22 receives a call signal and a communication end signal from each of the callers 10 and applies the received call signal and communication end signal to the controller 25, and the communication module 22 receives a communication acceptance signal and a communication end signal from each of the transceivers 30 and applies the received communication acceptance signal and communication end signal to the controller 25.

[46] The display unit 24 receives information of the caller 10 from the controller 25 and outputs the received information of the caller 10. For example, the display unit 24 may comprise an LCD, a PDP, or an LED, and so on.

[47] The sound output unit 23 receives a bell sound signal applied from the controller 25 and converts the received bell sound signal into audible bell sound and then outputs the converted bell sound.

[48] The controller 25 receives power from the power unit 21 and supplies the received power to the communication module 22, the sound output unit 23, and the display unit 24.

[49] Also, the controller 25 receives a call signal from the communication module 22 and checks information of the caller 10 that transmits the received call signal, and applies information of the checked caller to the display unit 24 simultaneously while applying a pre- stored bell sound signal to the sound output unit 23.

[50] Also, the controller 25 receives a call signal and a communication acceptance signal applied from the communication module 22 and establishes a communication channel between a caller 10 that transmits the received call signal and a transceiver 30 that transmits a communication acceptance signal, through the communication module 22. The repeater 20 also amplifies the intensity of the voice signal that is transmitted and received between the caller 10 transmitting the call signal and the transceiver 30 transmitting the communication acceptance signal.

[51] Also, when the controller 25 receives a communication end signal from either of the caller 10 and the transceiver 30 between which the communication channel is established, through the communication module 22, the controller 25 releases the communication channel established between the caller 10 and the transceiver 30.

[52] Each of the transceivers 30 includes an input unit 31, a power unit 32, a sound input/output unit 33, a communication module 34, and a controller 35, as shown in FIG. 4. For example, each of the transceivers 30 may include a wireless ear microphone or a wireless headset, and so on.

[53] The input unit 31 makes a communication request or a communication end request to the controller 35 according to the input of a user. For example, the input unit 31 may include a pushbutton input device or a rotary input device, etc.

[54] The power unit 32 supplies power to the controller 35. For example, the power unit

32 may include a power plug or a battery for the reception of power from the outside.

[55] The sound input/output unit 33 converts the user s voice input into a voice signal and applies the converted voice signal to the controller 35, and the sound input/output unit 33 receives a voice signal applied from the controller 35 and converts the received voice signal to audible voice and then outputs the converted voice to the outside. For example, the sound input/output unit 33 may include a microphone, a speaker, and so on.

[56] The communication module 34 performs wired and/or wireless data communication with each of the callers 10 and the repeater 20.

[57] Also, the communication module 34 receives a communication acceptance signal and a communication end signal applied from the controller 35 and transmits the received communication acceptance signal and communication end signal to the repeater 20, and the communication module 34 receives a voice signal applied from the controller 35 and transmits the received voice signal to each of the callers 10 through a communication channel established by the repeater 20, and the communication module 34 receives a voice signal from each of the callers 10 through the communication channel established by the repeater 20 and applies the received voice signal to the controller 35. [58] The controller 35 receives power from the power unit 32 and then supplies the received power to the input unit 31, the sound input/output unit 33, and the communication module 34.

[59] Also, the controller 35 generates a communication acceptance signal according to a communication request from the input unit 31 and then transmits the generated communication acceptance signal to the repeater 20 through the communication module 34.

[60] Also, the controller 35 generates a communication end signal according to a communication end request from the input unit 31 and then transmits the generated communication end signal to the repeater 20 through the communication module 34.

[61] Also, the controller 35 receives a voice signal applied from the sound input/output unit 33 and then applies the received voice signal to the communication module 34, and the controller 35 receives a voice signal applied from the communication module 34 and then applies the received voice signal to the sound input/output unit 33.

[62]

[63] Then, for the construction as described above, the operation process of the call bell system for performing voice telecommunication according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described hereinafter with reference to FIG. 5.

[64] First, when an employee is called through a first caller which is one of a plurality of callers 10, for example, when a customer presses a call button of the input unit 11 included in the first caller, the first caller generates a call signal and then transmits the generated call signal to the repeater 20 (step S501).

[65] Herein, it can be understood that the first caller is driven by power supplied from the power generation unit 12 and the power unit 13. In particular, it can be understood that, when the level of the power of the power generation unit 12 is less than the level of preset reference power, the first caller is driven by the power supplied from the power unit 13.

[66] For example, the first caller includes a photovoltaic generator as the power generation unit 12, and a pushbutton input device as the input unit 11. When a customer presses a call button, the first caller generates a call signal and then transmits the generated call signal to the repeater 20.

[67] Thereafter, when the repeater 20 receives the call signal from the first caller (step

S502), the repeater 20 analyzes information of the first caller by using the received call signal and displays the analyzed information on a screen simultaneously while outputting bell sound (step 503). Herein, it can be understood that the call signal includes the information of the first caller. For example, the information of the first caller may include the number of the table where the first caller is installed.

[68] At this time, when an employee checks the information of the first caller output at the repeater 20, and accepts communication with the first caller through a first transceiver from among a plurality of the transceivers 30, that is, when the employee presses a communication acceptance button of the input unit 31 included in the corresponding first transceiver, the first transceiver generates a communication acceptance signal and then transmits the generated communication acceptance signal to the repeater 20 (step 504).

[69] Thereafter, when the repeater 20 receives the communication acceptance signal from the first transceiver (step S505), the repeater 20 establishes a communication channel between the first transceiver and the first caller so as to perform voice telecommunication between them (step S506).

[70] Herein, it can be understood that, when the repeater 20 performs communication with multiple callers 10 and multiple transceivers 30, the repeater 20 establishes a communication channel between each of the callers 10 and each of the transceivers 30 by using a frequency hopping scheme, respectively, so as to prevent channel interference which may occur at the time of performing communication between the multiple callers 10 and the multiple transceivers 30.

[71] Then, the first caller and the first transceiver begin to perform intercommunication through the communication channel established by the repeater 20 (step S507). At this time, it is preferred that the repeater 20 amplifies intensity of the voice signal which is transmitted and received between the first caller and the first transceiver, so as to increase signal transmission distance.

[72] Thereafter, when the communication between the first caller and the first transceiver is terminated, for example, when a customer presses a call button of the first caller or an employee presses a communication acceptance button of the first transceiver under a state where the communication channel between the first caller and the first transceiver has been established, the first caller or the first transceiver where a corresponding button is pressed generates a communication end signal and then transmits the generated communication end signal to the repeater 20 (step S508).

[73] That is, when a call button is pressed, the first caller generates a communication end signal and then transmits the generated communication end signal to the repeater 20 under the state where the communication channel has been established between the first caller and the first transceiver. Furthermore, when the communication acceptance button is pressed, the first transceiver generates a communication end signal and then transmits the generated communication end signal to the repeater 20.

[74] At this time, when the repeater 20 receives a communication end signal from either of the first caller and the first transceiver (step S509), the repeater 20 releases the communication channel established between the first caller and the first transceiver (step S510). [75] That is, when either of the first caller and the first transceiver terminates communication, the repeater 20 terminates the communication between the first caller and the first transceiver.

[76]

[77] Alternatively, in case the power generation unit 12 included in each of the callers 10 includes a spiral spring-based generator, for example, when a customer rotates the first caller in a direction of winding a spiral spring by a predetermined angle, the corresponding caller 10 generates a call signal, and then transmits the generated call signal simultaneously while the caller slowly rotates in the opposite direction of the winding.

[78] Herein, it can be understood that each of the callers 10 generates electricity by using the force generated by the rotation operation of a customer and the torque of the spiral spring, thereby generating power on its own.

[79] When the rotation in the opposite direction of the winding is terminated, the corresponding caller 10 generates a communication end signal and then transmits the generated communication end signal to the transceiver 30.

[80] For example, when each of the callers 10 is rotated by a customer, by a predetermined angle, the spiral spring of the power generation unit 12 provided inside of the caller is wound by the corresponding rotation angle, a call signal is generated and the generated call signal is transmitted to the transceiver 30. At this time, the corresponding caller 10 slowly rotates in the opposite direction of the wining, for a time duration of about 40 to 60 seconds.

[81] Herein, when a communication channel is established with any one of the multiple transceivers 30 from the repeater 20 within the time of rotation in the opposite direction of the winding, the corresponding caller 10 begins to perform communication with the transceiver with which a corresponding communication channel is established, through the repeater 20.

[82]

[83] Meanwhile, the construction of the call bell system for performing voice telecommunication according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 6. As shown in FIG. 6, the call bell system for performing voice telecommunication includes a plurality of callers 10 and a plurality of transceivers 40.

[84] Each of the callers includes an input unit 11, a power generation unit 12, a power unit 13, a sound input/output unit 14, a communication module 15, and a controller 16, as shown in FIG. 2.

[85] The input unit 11 makes a call request and a communication end request to the controller 16 according to the input of a user. For example, the input unit 11 may include a pushbutton input device or a rotary input device, etc. [86] The power generation unit 12 generates power on its own and supplies the generated power to the controller 16 and the power unit 13. For example, the power generation unit 12 may include a photovoltaic generator or a spiral spring-based generator, etc.

[87]

[88] The power unit 13 receives power from the power generation unit 12, charges its own power by using the received power, and then supplies the charged power to the controller 16. For example, the power unit 13 may include a rechargeable battery, and so on.

[89] The sound input/output unit 14 converts the voice input of a user into an electric voice signal, and then applies the converted voice signal to the controller 16. Further, the sound input/output unit 14 receives a voice signal, an alarm sound signal, or a communication waiting melody signal applied from the controller 16, converts the corresponding voice signal, alarm sound signal, or communication waiting melody signal into audible voice, alarm sound, or communication waiting melody and then outputs the converted voice, alarm sound, or communication waiting melody. For example, the sound input/output unit 14 may include a microphone, a speaker, and so on.

[90] The communication module 15 performs wired and/or wireless data communication with each of the transceivers 40.

[91] The communication module 15 receives a call signal and a communication end signal applied from the controller 16 and then transmits the received call signal and communication end signal to each of the transceivers 40. Furthermore, the communication module 15 receives a voice signal applied from the controller 16 and then transmits the received voice signal to each of the transceivers 40 through a communication channel, and the communication module 15 receives a voice signal from each of the transceivers 40 through a communication channel and then applies the received voice signal to the controller 16.

[92] The controller 16 continuously senses the level of power supplied from the power generation unit 12. As a result of the sensing, when the level of the sensed power is higher than or equal to the level of preset reference power, the controller 16 keeps the power, supplied from the power unit 13, turned off while receiving power from the power generation unit 12 so as to supply the received power to the input unit 11, the sound input/output unit 14, and the communication module 15.

[93] Further, as a result of the sensing, when the level of power supplied from the power generation unit 12 is lower than the level of preset reference power, the controller 16 checks the level of power supplied from the power unit 13. When the level of the checked power is higher than or equal to the level of preset reference power, the controller 16 turns off power supplied from the power generation unit 12 and receives power supplied from the power unit 13 so as to supply the received power to the input unit 11, the sound input/output unit 14, and the communication module 15.

[94] Furthermore, when the level of power supplied from the power generation unit 12 is less than the level of the preset reference power, the controller 16 checks the level of the power supplied from the power unit 13. At this time, when the level of the checked power is less than the level of preset reference power, the controller 16 applies a pre- stored alarm sound signal to the sound input/output unit 14 with a predetermined time interval.

[95] Also, the controller 16 generates a call signal according to a call request from the input unit 11 and then transmits the generated call signal to the transceiver 40 through the communication module 15.

[96] Also, the controller 16 generates a communication end signal according to a communication end request from the input unit 11 and then transmits the generated communication end signal to the transceiver 40 through the communication module 15.

[97] Also, the controller 16 receives a voice signal applied from the sound input/output unit 14 and applies the received voice signal to the communication module 15, and the controller 16 receives the voice signal applied from the communication module 15 and then applies the received voice signal to the sound input/output unit 14.

[98] Also, when the controller 16 receives a communication waiting signal from the transceiver 40, the controller 16 outputs a pre-stored communication waiting melody through the sound input/output unit 14.

[99] The transceiver 40 includes an input unit 41, a power unit 42, a sound input/output unit 43, a communication module 44, a display unit 45, and a controller 46.

[100] The input unit 41 makes a call request and a communication end request to the controller 46 according to the input of a user. For example, the input unit 41 may include a pushbutton input device, and so on.

[101] The power unit 42 supplies power to the controller 46. For example, the power unit

42 may include a power plug or a battery, and so on, for reception of power supplied from the outside.

[102] The sound input/output unit 43 converts the voice input of a user into a voice signal, and then applies the converted voice signal to the controller 46, and the sound input/ output unit 43 receives the voice signal applied from the controller 46, converts the received voice signal into audible voice, and then outputs the converted voice signal to the outside. The sound input/output unit 43 also receives a bell sound signal applied from the controller 46 and converts the received bell sound signal into audible bell sound, and then outputs the converted audible bell sound to the outside. For example, the sound input/output unit 43 may include a microphone, a speaker, and so on.

[103] The communication module 44 performs wired and/or wireless data communication with each of the callers 10.

[104] Further, the communication module 44 receives a communication waiting signal applied from the controller 46 and then transmits the received communication waiting signal to each of the callers 10. Furthermore, the communication module 44 receives a voice signal applied from the controller 46 and then transmits the received voice signal to each of the callers 10 through a communication channel, and the communication module 44 receives a voice signal from each of the callers 10 through a communication channel and then applies the received voice signal to the controller 46.

[105] The display unit 45 receives information of the caller 10 applied from the controller

46 and then outputs the received information of the caller 10. For example, the display unit 45 may include an LCD, a PDP, or an LED, etc.

[106] The controller 46 receives power supplied from the power unit 42 and supplies the received power to the input unit 41, the sound input/output unit 43, the communication module 44, and the display unit 45.

[107] Also, the controller 46 receives a call signal applied from the communication module 44, checks information of the caller 10 that transmits the received call signal, and applies corresponding information of the checked caller 10 to the display unit 45 simultaneously while outputting a pre-stored bell sound through the sound input/output unit 43.

[108] Also, the controller 46 receives a call signal applied from the communication module 44, checks reception time of the received call signal, grants a communication channel setting priority to each of the callers 10 that transmits the call signal, based on the checked reception time, generates a communication waiting signal and transmits the generated communication waiting signal to each of the callers 10 that transmits the corresponding call signal.

[109] Also, whenever the controller 46 receives a communication request from the input unit 41, the controller 46 checks a communication channel setting priority that is set in the caller 10 in an idle state, and then establishes a communication channel one by one staring from the caller 10 with a highest priority.

[110] Also, the controller 46 either receives a communication end signal from each of the callers 10 through the communication module 44 or releases the communication channel that is set for the caller 10 which is in a busy state, according to the communication end request of the input unit 41.

[I l l] Also, when the controller 46 releases the communication channel established for the caller 10 which is in a busy state, the controller 46 checks if there are callers which are in an idle state. As a result of the checking, when there are callers 10 in an idle state, the controller 46 checks the priority of each of corresponding callers 10 and establishes a communication channel with the caller 10 to which the highest priority is granted. [112] Also, the controller 46 receives a voice signal applied from the sound input/output unit 43 and applies the received voice signal to the communication module 44 and the controller 46 receives a voice signal applied from the communication module 44 and applies the received voice signal to the sound input/output unit 43.

[113]

[114] Then, for the construction as described above, the operation process of the call bell system for performing voice telecommunication according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 7.

[115] First, a case where a first caller and a second caller from among the multiple callers

10 call an employee will be described. For example, suppose that a first customer presses a call button of the input unit 11 included in the first caller, and then a second customer presses a call button of the input unit 11 included in the second caller.

[116] The first caller generates a call signal and then transmits the generated call signal to the transceiver 40 (step S701). Thereafter, the second caller generates a call signal and then transmits the generated call signal to the transceiver 40 (step S702).

[117] Herein, it can be understood that the first and second callers are driven by using power supplied from the power generation unit 12 or the power unit 13. In particular, it can be understood that, when the level of power of the power generation unit 12 is less than the level of preset reference power, the first and second callers are driven by using power of the power unit 13.

[118] For example, each of the first and second callers includes a photovoltaic generator as the power generation unit 12, and a pushbutton input device as the input unit 11. When a customer presses a call button, each of the first and second callers generates a call signal and then transmits the generated call signal to the transceiver 40.

[119] Then, the transceiver 40 receives the call signal from the first and second callers

(step S703), and the transceiver 40 displays information of the first and second callers on a screen according to reception order of the call signal received from the first and second callers, outputs bell sound, grants a communication channel setting priority, generates a communication waiting signal, and then transmits the generated communication waiting signal to the first and second callers (step S704). Herein, it can be understood that the call signal includes information of each of the callers. For example, the information of the first caller may include the number of the table where the first caller is installed and the information of the second caller may include the number of the table where the second caller is installed.

[120] In particular, if the transceiver 40 receives a call signal from the first caller, the transceiver 40 analyzes the information of the first caller by using the received call signal and displays the analyzed information on the screen, and outputs bell sound. At the same time, the transceiver 40 grants a highest communication channel setting priority to the first caller, generates a communication waiting signal and then transmits the generated communication waiting signal to the first caller.

[121] Then, the transceiver 40 receives the call signal from the second caller, and then analyzes the information of the second caller by using the received call signal and displays the analyzed information on a screen, and outputs bell sound. At the same time, the transceiver 40 grants a second highest communication channel setting priority to the second caller, generates a communication waiting signal and transmits the generated communication waiting signal to the second caller.

[122] Thereafter, when the first caller receives the communication waiting signal from the transceiver 40 (step S705), the transceiver 40 waits for the communication while outputting a communication waiting melody until a communication channel is established (step S706).

[123] The second caller performs the same operation as the first caller. That is, when communication waiting signal is received from the transceiver 40 (step S707), the second caller waits for the communication while outputting a communication waiting melody until a communication channel is established (step S708).

[124] At this time, when an employee checks information of each of the callers 10 output at the transceiver 40 and then makes a communication request to the first and second callers through the input unit 41 of the transceiver 40, the transceiver 40 checks the priorities of the first and second callers which are in an idle state, according to the communication request from the input unit 41, and then establishes a communication channel to the first caller having a higher priority (step S709).

[125] For example, when an employee presses a communication acceptance button of the transceiver 40, the transceiver 40 establishes a communication channel with the first caller in order to perform voice telecommunication with the first caller which has a higher communication channel setting priority than the second caller.

[126] Thereafter, when a communication channel is established by the transceiver 40

(step S710), the first caller releases a communication waiting state and terminates a communication waiting melody and begins to perform communication with the transceiver 40 through the established communication channel (step S711).

[127] Thereafter, when a customer makes a communication end request by using the first caller, for example, when the call button of the first caller is pressed, the first caller generates a communication end signal and then transmits the generated communication end signal to the transceiver 40 (step S712).

[128] Thereafter, when the transceiver 40 receives the communication end signal from the first caller (step S713), the transceiver 40 releases the communication channel established with the first caller. Also, when the transceiver 40 receives a communication end request from the input unit 41, for example, when the communication acceptance button of the input unit 41 in the transceiver 40 is pressed, the transceiver 40 releases the communication channel established with the first caller (step S714).

[129] Herein, when the communication acceptance button is pressed during the communication with the first caller, it recognized that the termination of communication with the first caller is requested. Also, it can be understood that, when the call button is pressed during the communication with the transceiver 40, the first caller generates a communication end signal and then transmits the generated communication end signal to the transceiver 40.

[130] Thereafter, the transceiver 40 checks if there are callers which are in an idle state

(step S715).

[131] At this time, when there are callers which are in an idle state, the transceiver 40 performs operation again, beginning from step 709.

[132] That is, the transceiver 40 releases the communication channel established with the first caller, checks priorities of the callers which are in an idle state, and establishes a communication channel with the second caller having the highest priority.

[133] Thereafter, when a communication channel is established with the second caller by the transceiver 40 (step S716), the communication waiting state is released and the communication waiting melody is terminated, and then communication with the transceiver 40 through the corresponding established communication channel begins (step S717).

[134]

[135] Alternatively, in case the power generation unit 12 in each of the callers 10 comprises a spiral spring-based generator, for example, when a customer rotates the first caller in a direction of winding a spiral spring by a predetermined angle, the corresponding caller 10 generates a call signal, and then transmits the generated call signal simultaneously while the caller slowly rotates in the opposite direction of the winding.

[136] Herein, it can be understood that each of the callers 10 generates electricity by using the force generated by rotation operation of a customer and the torque of the spiral spring, thereby generating power on its own.

[137] When the rotation of the opposite direction of winding the spiral spring is terminated, the corresponding caller 10 generates a communication end signal and then transmits the generated communication end signal to the transceiver 40.

[138] For example, when each of the callers 10 is rotated by a customer, by a predetermined angle, the spiral spring of the power generation unit 12 provided inside of the caller is wound by the corresponding rotation angle, a call signal is generated and the generated call signal is transmitted to the transceiver 40. At this time, the corresponding caller 10 slowly rotates in the opposite direction of the wining for a time duration of about 40 to 60 seconds. [139] Herein, when a communication channel is established by the transceiver 40 within the time of rotation in the opposite direction of the winding, the corresponding caller begins to perform communication with the transceiver 40.

[140]

Industrial Applicability

[141] According to a call bell system for performing voice telecommunication of the present invention, it is possible to perform voice telecommunication when an employee is called in a shop.

[142] Although several exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the accompanying claims.

Claims

[1] A call bell system for performing voice telecommunication, the call bell system comprising: multiple callers for making a call request so as to perform voice telecommunication; multiple transceivers for making a communication request to each caller that makes a call request among the multiple callers, so as to perform voice telecommunication with the caller which makes a call request; and a repeater for displaying information of each caller which makes a call request among the multiple callers and then performing a voice telecommunication relay function between each caller which makes a call request and each transceiver which makes a communication request among the multiple transceivers.

[2] The call bell system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the multiple callers comprises: an input unit for making a call request and a communication end request; a power generation unit for generating power on its own and then supplying the generated power; a power unit for receiving power supplied from the power generation unit, charging its own power, and supplying the charged power; a sound input/output unit for converting voice into an electric voice signal, and converting the voice signal or an alarm sound signal into an audible voice or audible alarm sound and then outputting the converted audible voice or the converted audible alarm sound; a communication module for performing wired and/or wireless data communication with the repeater and the multiple transceivers; and a controller for receiving power supplied from either the power generation unit or the power unit depending on the level of each power of the power generation unit and the power unit, and supplying the received power to the input unit, the sound input/output unit, and the communication module, the controller generating a call signal and a communication end signal according to a request of the input unit and transmitting the generated call signal and communication end signal to the repeater through the communication module, the controller transmitting the voice signal converted by the sound input/output unit to each of the multiple transceivers through the repeater and the communication module, and the controller receiving a voice signal from each of the multiple transceivers through the repeater and the communication module and outputting the received voice signal through the sound input/output unit.

[3] The call bell system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the power generation unit comprises either a photovoltaic generator or a spiral spring-based generator.

[4] The call bell system as claimed in claim 2, wherein, when the level of the power supplied from the power generation unit is higher than or equal to the level of preset reference power, the controller keeps the power, supplied from the power unit, turned off while receiving power supplied from the power generation unit, while the controller continuously senses the level of the power supplied from the power generation unit.

[5] The call bell system as claimed in claim 4, wherein, when the level of the power supplied from the power generation unit is less than the level of preset reference power and the level of power supplied from the power unit is higher than or equal to the level of preset reference power, the controller turns off the power supplied from the power generation unit and receives power supplied from the power unit.

[6] The call bell system as claimed in claim 5, wherein, when the level of power supplied from the power unit is less than the level of preset reference power, the controller outputs pre-stored alarm sound to the sound input/output unit with a predetermined time interval.

[7] The call bell system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the multiple transceivers comprises: an input unit for making a communication request and a communication end request; a power unit for supplying power; a sound input/output unit for converting voice into an electric voice signal, and converting the voice signal into audible voice and then transmitting the converted voice to the outside; a communication module for performing wired and/or wireless data communication with the multiple callers and the repeater; and a controller for receiving power supplied from the power unit to supply the received power to the input unit, the sound input/output unit, and the communication module, the controller generating a communication acceptance signal and a communication end signal according to a request of the input unit and transmitting the generated communication acceptance signal and communication end signal to the repeater through the communication module, the controller receiving a voice signal applied from the sound input/output unit and transmitting the received voice signal to each of the multiple callers through the communication module and the repeater, and the controller receiving the voice signal from each of the multiple callers through the repeater and the com- munication module and outputting the received voice signal to the sound input/ output unit.

[8] The call bell system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the repeater comprises: a power unit for supplying power; a communication module for performing wired and/or wireless data communication with the multiple callers and the multiple transceivers; a display unit for outputting information of the multiple callers; a sound output unit for converting an electric bell sound signal into audible bell sound and outputting the converted audible bell sound; and a controller for receiving power supplied from the power unit and supplying the received power to the communication module, the sound output unit, and the display unit, the controller receiving a call signal from each of the multiple callers through the communication module and checking information of callers that transmit the received call signal, the controller outputting information of the checked caller through the display unit simultaneously while outputting pre- stored bell sound to the sound output unit, the controller receiving a communication acceptance signal from each of the multiple transceivers through the communication module and establishing a communication channel between a transceiver that transmits the received communication acceptance signal and a caller that transmits the call signal, and the controller releasing the established communication channel when the controller receives a communication end signal through the communication module from either the caller or the transceiver with which the communication channel is established.

[9] The call bell system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the repeater comprises: a power unit for supplying power; a communication module for performing wired and/or wireless data communication with the multiple callers and the multiple transceivers; a display unit for outputting information of the multiple callers; a sound output unit for converting an electric bell sound signal into audible bell sound and outputting the converted audible bell sound; and a controller for receiving power supplied from the power unit and supplying the received power to the communication module, the sound output unit, and the display unit, the controller receiving a call signal from each of the multiple callers through the communication module and checking information of the caller that transmits the received call signal, the controller outputting information of the checked caller through the display unit simultaneously while outputting pre- stored bell sound through the sound output unit, and the controller amplifying intensity of a signal that is transmitted and received between each of the multiple callers and each of the multiple transceivers.

[10] A call bell system for performing voice telecommunication, comprising: multiple callers for making a call request so as to perform voice telecommunication; and a transceiver for displaying information of each caller which makes a call request among the multiple callers, and making a communication request to each caller which makes a call request so as to perform voice telecommunication with each of the multiple callers that make a call request.

[11] The call bell system as claimed in claim 10, wherein each of the multiple callers comprises: an input unit for making a call request and a communication end request; a power generation unit for generating power on its own and then supplying the generated power; a power unit for receiving the power supplied from the power generation unit, charging its own power, and supplying the charged power; a sound input/output unit for converting voice into an electric voice signal, and converting the voice signal or an alarm sound signal into audible signal or audible alarm sound and then outputting the converted audible signal or the converted audible alarm sound; a communication module for performing wired and/or wireless data communication with the transceiver; and a controller for receiving power supplied from either the power generation unit or the power unit depending on the level of each power of the power generation unit and the power unit and supplying the received power to the input unit, the sound input/output unit, and the communication module, the controller generating a call signal and a communication end signal according to a request of the input unit and transmitting the generated call signal and communication end signal to the transceiver through the communication module, the controller transmitting the voice signal converted by the sound input/output unit to the transceiver through the communication module and a communication channel, the controller receiving a voice signal from each of the transceiver through the communication module and the communication channel and outputting the received voice signal into voice through the sound input/output unit, and the controller outputting a pre- stored communication waiting melody through the sound input/output unit according to reception of a communication waiting signal from the transceiver.

[12] The call bell system as claimed in claim 11, wherein the power generation unit comprises one of a photovoltaic generator or a spiral spring-based generator.

[13] The call bell system as claimed in claim 11, wherein, when the level of the power supplied from the power generation unit is higher than or equal to the level of preset reference power, the controller keeps the power, supplied from the power unit, turned off while receiving power supplied from the power generation unit, while the controller continuously senses the level of the power supplied from the power generation unit.

[14] The call bell system as claimed in claim 13, wherein, when the level of the power supplied from the power generation unit is less than the level of preset reference power and the level of power supplied from the power unit is higher than or equal to the level of preset reference power, the controller turns off the power supplied from the power generation unit and receives power supplied from the power unit.

[15] The call bell system as claimed in claim 14, wherein, when the level of power supplied from the power unit is less than the level of preset reference power, the controller outputs pre- stored alarm sound through the sound input/output unit according to a period with regular time.

[16] The call bell system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the transceiver comprises: an input unit for making a communication request and a communication end request; a power unit for supplying power; a sound input/output unit for converting voice into an electric voice signal, and then respectively converting the voice signal and bell sound signal into audible voice and audible bell sound and transmitting the converted voice and bell sound to the outside; a communication module for performing wired and/or wireless data communication with the multiple callers; a display unit for outputting information of the multiple callers; and a controller for receiving power supplied from the power unit to the input unit, the sound input/output unit, the communication module, and the display unit, the controller receiving a call signal from the each of the multiple callers through the communication module and then checking the information of the caller that transmits the received call signal, the controller outputting information of the checked caller through the display unit simultaneously while outputting pre- stored bell sound through the sound output unit, the controller establishing a communication channel with the caller that transmits the call signal according to the communication request of the input unit, the controller either receiving a communication end signal from the caller with which a corresponding communication channel is established through the communication module or releasing the communication channel established with the caller which is in a busy state according to the communication end request of the input unit, the controller receiving a voice signal applied from the sound input/output unit and transmitting the received voice signal to the caller with which the communication channel is established, through the communication module and the communication channel, and the controller receiving the voice signal from the caller with which the communication channel is established through the communication channel and the communication module and then outputting the received voice signal to the sound input/output unit.

[17] The call bell system as claimed in claim 16, wherein, when a communication channel is established with a caller which transmits the call signal, the controller grants a communication channel setting priority to each of the multiple callers transmitting the corresponding call signal, based on reception time of the call signal received from the each of the multiple callers through the communication module, generates a communication waiting signal and transmits the generated communication waiting signal to each caller that transmits the corresponding call signal, and checks priorities of the callers which are in an idle state according to a communication request of the input unit and establishes a communication channel with the caller having the highest priority.

[18] The call bell system as claimed in claim 10, further comprising a repeater for displaying information of each caller that makes a call request among the multiple callers.

[19] The call bell system as claimed in claim 18, wherein the repeater comprises: a power unit for supplying power; a communication module for performing wired and/or wireless data communication with the multiple callers and the multiple transceivers; a display unit for outputting information of the multiple callers; a sound output unit for converting an electric bell sound signal into audible bell sound and outputting the converted audible bell sound; and a controller for receiving power supplied from the power unit and supplying the received power to the communication module, the sound output unit, and the display unit, the controller receiving a call signal from each of the multiple callers through the communication module and checking information of callers that transmit the received call signal, and the controller outputting information of the checked caller through the display unit simultaneously while outputting pre- stored bell sound to the sound output unit.