Patent Application
20090098865
1. Field of the Invention
This invention generally relates to voice communications systems, and more particularly to a system and method which consolidates personal communications services by routing telephone calls from a wireless unit to another electronic device, such as a hard-wired telephone. The invention is also a memory card and method for using the memory card to store information for configuring a communications device to perform wireless communications over, for example, a specific telephone number. The invention is also a communications device which may be programmed to operate over a specific telephone number.
2. Description of the Related Art
The last several decades have produced significant advances in personal communications technology. Mobile phones, fax machines, pagers, and e-mail are commonplace in the lives of most people.
While consumers have enjoyed the conveniences of these services, they have not come without a price. Perhaps most significantly, customers are required to have separate phone numbers in order to meet their personal communications needs. It is typically the case, for example, that one number is used for land-line voice communications, another number is used for fax communications, and another number for cellular communications. Still other numbers may be required for paging, long-distance, and internet services. Using separate numbers for these services has proven to be very expensive. During any given month, consumers may expect to receive multiple bills each having separate taxes and services fees applied.
The frustrations associated with the state of the telecommunications industry, in terms of cost and service, was recently recognized by the Wall Street Journal. In an article entitled, Reform Act Hasn't Delivered Promises to Customers,” published on May 3, 2001, the Journal made the following observations:
The Journal article discussed above captures the discontent most Americans are feeling with respect to their telecommunications service. The inconvenience of not only paying for but also having to remember two, three, or even four telephone numbers to satisfy consumers' personal communications needs is inefficient for businesses and individuals.
Attempts have been made to reduce the hardware burden on consumers with respect to accessing telecommunications services. Motorola, Inc., for example, has produced a cordless telephone which converts to cellular service when a user carries the phone outside the range of a base unit. Such a phone is disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,260,988, 5,127,042, and 4,989,230. The approach taken in these patents does not solve the problems which face users in the telecommunications industry today. For example, the Motorola phones are manufactured to handle calls from both a local exchange carrier and a wireless service provider. Consequently, a consumer who uses these phones is still required to pay for a cellular phone number and a separate land-line phone number.
In view of the foregoing considerations, it is apparent that there is a need for a system and method which not only reduces the hardware burden on consumers with respect to their personal communications needs, but which also reduces the price and inconveniences associated with obtaining services of this type.
It is one objective of the present invention to provide a system and method which streamlines the costs and efficiencies associated with obtaining personal communications services.
It is another objective of the present invention to achieve the aforementioned objective by integrating mobile wireless telecommunications services with existing land-line-based hardware in a way that only requires the use of a single telephone number to access each.
It is another objective of the present invention to make the aforementioned system available at multiple locations (e.g., home, work, hotels, airplanes, etc.) so that consumers may be reached at any time of day or night through the single telephone number.
These and other non-limiting objectives of the present invention are achieved by providing a personal communications system which includes an interface unit which transmits calls received on a mobile wireless phone to one or more hard-wired telephones. In accordance with a first embodiment, the interface unit includes a connector which mates a voice communications port of a wireless device, which may be a cell phone, personal computer, web-enabled phone, personal digital assistant adapted for wireless communications, or a so-called pocket PC. The connector of the interface unit is preferably located at the base of a slot adapted to fit the dimensions of the wireless device. When a call is received by the wireless device, a processor automatically sends the call to a hard-wired telephone through the connector. The processor may be located in the wireless device or in the interface unit. Alternatively, the interface unit and wireless device may have separate processors which cooperate with one another for sending the call to the wired telephones.
An interface unit of the foregoing type may be mounted at a user's home and office. Because all calls to the user are made using, for example, his cellular telephone number, the user may be reached regardless of his location or time of day. For ubiquitous appeal, interface units may be located on airplanes, hotel rooms, restaurants, as well as other public places. For enhanced functionality, the interface unit may have a port for linking to a personal computer so that the user may access his e-mail. For security purposes, the interface unit may be equipped with a lock and/or a smart card reader for reading authorization codes, which, for example, may be a user's telephone account number.
In order to minimize a user's bills, all calls into a household may be made through the interface unit of the invention. This will alleviate the need to connect the user's hard-wired telephones to the public-switched telephone network. As a result, the user may expect to receive a single bill from his wireless service provider reflecting all of his communications charges. If desired, however, the hard-wired telephones may also be connected to the public-switched telephone network, and a control circuit may be then included for coordinating calls received along land-lines and the wireless provider. A selector may be provided on the interface unit to allow a user to manually set the connection status with respect to the land-lines.
In accordance with a second embodiment, the interface unit contains multiple connectors for receiving multiple wireless devices. Each connector preferably operates in the manner as described above with respect to the first embodiment. A processor, however, may be included in the interface unit for coordinating calls received by the wireless devices. For example, when the hard-wired telephone is handling a call from one wireless device, the processor may alter the activation status of the connectors connected to the other wireless devices. The processor may also control the time of activation of the connectors, or may configure the unit so that each slot operates with a specific hard-wired telephone only. The interface unit may also be equipped with a selector for allowing a user to manually set activation status of the connectors. In the foregoing embodiments of the invention, the interface unit is preferably equipped with a battery re-charger.
Another embodiment of the invention covers a personal communications system which includes a wireless communications unit, a reader connected to the wireless communications unit, and a removable recording medium which stores information (e.g., a user's telephone number) for activating the wireless communications device to receive or place calls through a wireless service provider and which is adapted for insertion into the reader.
The wireless communications unit and reader may be located, for example, in a car, an appliance, a television, a hard-wired telephone, or a wireless device. If in a car, television, or appliance, the wireless communications unit may be equipped with its own speaker and microphone. If in a hard-wired telephone or wireless device, the speaker and microphones of these devices may be interfaced to the wireless communications unit. The removable recording medium may be in the form of a memory stick, memory card, or strip. This embodiment of the invention is especially advantages because it allows users to receive and place calls over a wireless service provider without the use of, for example, a cell phone. Instead, users need only insert the removable recording medium into a reader of an existing device and the device is automatically configured to receive and/or place calls based on that user's number.
Another embodiment of the invention covers a personal communications device (e.g., a cell phone) which automatically adapts to operate in accordance with a cell phone number entered by a user. The device includes an input unit for receiving activation information, a memory unit for storing the activation information, and a processor for automatically establishing communications with a wireless service provider based on the activation information, and for automatically de-activating another telephone number to which the processor had been previously activated. The device may also include a display for automatically prompting a user to input the activation information, a security code, or time-of-activation information which controls a period within which the phone is activated to a given telephone number. The device may be integrated into a hard-wired telephone so that, for example, guests in a hotel room may configure their hard-wired phones to receive calls on the users' cell phone numbers.
a)-(d) are diagrams showing exemplary configurations for the removable recording medium of the present invention.
a) is a diagram of the personal communications system shown in
The present invention is a personal communications system and method which transmits calls received by a wireless phone to one or more hard-wired telephones in, for example, a home, office, or public setting. For purposes of the present invention, the following terms are defined as follows.
“Hard-wired telephone” corresponds to at least one of. (a) a telephone which receives calls through a land-line connected to a public-switched telephone network, more commonly referred to as a telephone company (TELCO) phone system, (b) a cordless telephone which receives calls from a cordless base station connected to a public-switched telephone network, (c) a telephone connected to a private branch exchange (PBX), (d) a phone used on an airplane such as the GTE AirFone, and (e) any other telephone which is connected by a land-line to a switching network including so-called “house phones” used, for example, a hotel, restaurant, hospital, etc.
“Land-line” refers to communicating information over traditional copper wires as well as optical fibers.
“Wireless phone” corresponds to a telephone which receives and transmits voice and/or data through a wireless service provider network which operates within specific frequency bands. Telephones of this type include a mobile cellular phone (analog or digital) which operates in a frequency band of 824-893 MHz, a mobile phone which operates in the GSM band of 890-960 MHz, a mobile phone which operates in the Personal Communications Service (PCS) band of I.8-I.9 GHz, and mobile phones which operate via satellite. (Those skilled in the art can appreciate that the specific frequency bands listed above are subject to change by the Federal Communications Commission and therefore these bands are provided here merely for illustrative purposes).
Referring to
In order to connect a wireless call, the interface box includes a voice communications port 4, an internal wire 5, an external jack 6, and a cable 7. The voice communications port is adapted to mate with a complementary connector 10 on a wireless phone as shown, for example, in
The interface box of the present invention performs at least the following functions for connecting a call. For incoming calls, the box forwards a ring signal through the voice communications port to the hard-wired telephone connected to the box. Preferably, the hard-wired telephone is located proximate the wireless phone user. Once the ring signal is answered (e.g., as a result of the user picking up the receiver of the hard-wired telephone, or pushing a button on a cordless phone), voice communication is established between the hard-wired telephone and the caller via antenna 25 of the wireless phone.
For outgoing calls, the wireless phone detects a hook-state signal generated, for example, when the receiver of the hard-wired telephone is lifted. The wireless phone will, in response, automatically configure itself to receive a telephone number dialed on the hard-wired phone. When dialing is completed, the wireless phone will automatically place the call through the wireless service provider network and voice communications will commence through the antenna.
In order to sustain voice communications, the wireless phone is adapted to receive a mode signal through its voice communications port. The mode signal informs the processor that the wireless phone is to be converted from a standard operating mode (e.g., one where the phone operates as a standard cell phone) to an interface mode, during which time the phone operates as a conduit for establishing voice communications between a hard-wired telephone and the wireless service provider network. The mode signal may be generated in a variety of ways. For example, a user may manually push a mode button 35 on the wireless phone to generate this signal, after which an icon or text message may be displayed on an LCD 33 of the phone.
Alternatively, the mode signal may be automatically generated in at least one of two ways. First, the slot of the interface box may be equipped with a stud 40 (
Second, the control circuit of the wireless phone may be configured to have a detector circuit 38 which detects when the connector 10 of the wireless phone mates with the voice communications port 4 of the interface box. When a connection is detected, the mode signal is output to the processor. If desired, the function performed by the detector circuit may be performed by the processor in the wireless phone, in order to reduce the number of internal components. in all cases discussed above, when the mode signal is received by the processor, the microphone and speaker of the wireless phone may be de-activated for privacy purposes (i.e., to prevent eavesdroppers from listening to the call) and to save battery energy.
For incoming calls, as shown in
In a next step, the processor of the wireless phone detects a hook-state signal from the hard-wired phone indicating that someone has picked up the receiver. (Step 54). In response to this signal, the processor automatically connects the call by linking the hard-wired telephone to the wireless service provider network. (Step 56). The call is terminated in one of two ways. If the called party hangs up, the wireless phone detects a hook-state signal indicating that the call has been terminated. The processor of the wireless phone then disconnects the call and the phone is placed back into the wait state. If the caller hangs up, the processor detects that the wireless service provider has terminated the call. The processor of the wireless phone then automatically returns to the wait state. (Step 58).
For outgoing calls, as shown in
In a next step, a determination is made as to whether a valid telephone number has been dialed. (Step 64). This step may be performed based on the number of digits stored in the buffer. For example, if the number of digits in the buffer equals 7, 10, or 11, the processor may conclude that a valid number has been dial˜d1 Conversely, if 6 digits have been dialed or any other number which does not correspond to what is considered to be a valid telephone number, the processor may conclude that an invalid number has been dialed. Under these circumstances, the hard-wired telephone may remain unresponsive, indicating to the user that he should hang up and re-dial. Alternatively, the processor of the wireless phone may be programmed to output an error tone signal to the hard-wired telephone receiver, informing the user that he should hand up and redial. Detection of a hook-state signal indicating that the receiver has been placed on the hook returns the wireless phone to the wait state.
Once a determination has been made that a valid telephone number has been dialed, the processor of the wireless phone establishes a connection with the wireless service provider network through the antenna. The number stored in the buffer is then automatically dialed and the user is connected to the called party through the wireless provider network. (Step 66). The call may be terminated in a way similar to that discussed above. If the caller hangs up, the hard-wired telephone detects a hook-state signal indicating that the call has been terminated, the processor disconnects the call, and the wireless phone is returned to the wait state for monitoring new calls. If the called party hangs up, the processor detects that the wireless service provider has terminated the call, and the wireless phone automatically returns to the wait state. (Step 68).
The system and method of the present invention represents a significant improvement in the art for at least several reasons. Perhaps most significantly, through the present invention, a user may satisfy all his communications needs using a single telephone number. This may be achieved by connecting the interface box to at least one hard-wired telephone in the user's house. Under these circumstances, all calls to the user would be received through his wireless number, thereby alleviating the need to connect the hard-wired telephones in his home to a local exchange carrier or other public-switched telephone network. Instead of paying two telephone bills at the end of the month (e.g., one to a Baby Bell and one to a cellular carrier), the user will therefore be able to consolidate his bill by paying only one wireless charge. As the cost of wireless services becomes cheaper, it is readily apparent that the invention will provide an efficient and cost-effective approach for satisfying users' personal communications needs.
These advantages may be carried over to other areas of the user's life. For example, the user may connect an interface box at his place of business, hotels and hospitals may keep interface boxes in their rooms, restaurants may provide interface boxes at customer tables, and airplanes may install boxes at every seat. The interface box of the invention, thus, provides a way of ensuring that wherever the user goes he may always be reached by family members, his employer or friends through a single telephone number. This will prove to be a great convenience to callers who often must remember multiple phone numbers (e.g., fax, business phone, home phone, etc.) for the persons they wish to call.
The system and method of the present invention also offers significant advantages to telephone companies. As the last decade has shown, more and more users require fax, voice, and data services to meet their personal and business needs. These services typically require separate telephone numbers. History has shown that the supply of new telephone numbers quickly becomes exhausted in highly populated areas because of customers' diverse communications needs, especially in urban areas. This increased demand has necessitated changes in phone service which have cost telephone companies literally millions of dollars. One such change involves requiring customers who live in cities that border two or more states to dial area codes for local calls. This approach has most recently been taken in the Washington, D.C. area which is the home of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
The present invention provides an effective solution to this problem. Instead of using multiple telephone numbers, customers will only need one telephone number supplied by a wireless provider. By linking their wireless phones to land-line phones, customers will be available to receive a telephone call regardless of location, and this is true even in areas where wireless reception is poor or impossible. On a per-customer basis, therefore, the number of telephone numbers may be significantly reduced, saving telephone companies significant financial resources.
The interface box of the present invention may be equipped with a number of optional features. As shown in
The second mode (e.g., mode “2”) may allow the hard-wired phones to be connected to both the wireless service provider (vis-a-vis the wireless phone mounted in the interface box) and the PSTN. Under these circumstances, the interface box may operate as a logical OR function, passing the first telephone call received from the PSTN or wireless service provider to the hard-wired telephones. During the call, the interface box may include a control circuit that blocks the hard-wired telephone from receiving calls from the other network. If desired, there may be a selectable third mode of operation in which the hard-wired phone is only connected to the public-switched telephone network.
One possible configuration of a control circuit for blocking calls when the hard-wired telephone is in use is shown in
An alternative embodiment of the control circuit is shown in
Many wireless phones store information indicating that the phone owner has missed a call. If such a phone is inserted into the interface box of the invention and a call is missed, the wireless phone processor may be programmed to output a missed-call signal to the processor 75, which in response may generate a ring signal to the hard-wired phones alerting the owner that he has missed a call. The ring produced by this signal may be a special ring in terms of its tone and/or its rhythm. For example, a regular ring may ring three times but a missed-call ring may only ring twice. When the user picks up the receiver of the hard-wired telephone, processor 75 may output an instruction to the processor of the wireless phone to automatically connect to the user's voice mail. The interface box may even include a voice synthesis circuit which outputs an artificial audible message to the hard-wired telephone receivers informing the user that he has missed a call on the wireless network. As an alternative, an audible tone may be heard when the receiver is picked up or otherwise activated. In either case, the processor of the wireless phone may be programmed to automatically connect the hard-wired telephone to a voice messaging system. (The functions of the wireless phone processor described above may instead be performed by a processor of the interface box, which processor is discussed in greater detail below.)
If the call was first received from the wireless service provider network, the processor merely switches off the PSTN connection in a manner functionally similar to switch 71. This connection would be resumed once the processor 75 detected that the wireless call was terminated. If desired, the interface box may be provided with an answering machine which could take a message from the caller on the P5Th when the hard-wired telephones were connected to the wireless caller. An audible message and automatic connection to the answering machine may then be performed when the receiver of the hard-wired telephone is activated after the call is terminated, as previously described.
The embodiments shown in
These embodiments of the invention may also prove beneficial to family members. For example, consider the case where the father is the owner of the cell phone. Under these circumstances, if the hard-wired telephones in the house were disconnected from the local exchange carrier, the mother and children would not be able to receive calls while the father was at work, because presumably the father would have his cell phone with him. Switching the selector of the interface box to mode 2 would allow the mother and children to receive calls from the local exchange carrier during this time.
Referring to FIG. I0, a personal communications system in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention includes an interface box I00 having slots I02 for receiving multiple wireless phones. Preferably, each slot has the functional and structural features of the slot shown in FIG. I, including a connector 104, a stud 105, and a battery charging terminal 106. Through the multiple slots of this embodiment, one or more hard-wired telephones may receive calls from multiple wireless telephone numbers vis-a-vis the interface box. This is especially advantageous because, for example, guests of the house owner may plug in their respective cell phones into the slots and receive calls on the hard-wired telephones during their visit. The connection, call connect, call termination, and other features for each slot not specifically addressed below may be performed as described with respect to the first preferred embodiment.
In order to coordinate telephone calls from the wireless phones, the interface box includes a control circuit as shown in
An optional configuration of the control circuit is shown in
As shown in
Another optional feature may control the time of activation of the wireless phone slots. This will prove highly desirable if the invention is, for example, used in a home with multiple teenage children. In accordance with these features, the processor of the interface box may be programmed so that the daughter's cell phone slot is activated between 7 and 9 p.m., and the son's cell phone slot is activated between 9 and 11 p.m. At all other times, all the slots may be activated for receiving calls.
In order to coordinate slot activation and other functions, the interface box may include a graphical user interface which includes a display I30 and one or more function buttons 135. The information presented on the display may be controlled by the internal box processor. For illustrative purposes, the following information is shown on the display: slot activation status, a menu of selectable system functions including “change slot activation,” “answering machine activation,” “connect/disconnect to PSTN,” and “Caller I.D.” The menu items may be selected with the up and down function buttons and the select button. In lieu of the function buttons, a touch screen display may be used.
The change slot activation option may allow a user to change the configuration of active slots. Any pattern of the slots may be activated.
The answering machine option may allow a user to activate an answering machine for a particular slot, even if the owner of the cell phone corresponding to that slot is home. if desired, a separate answering greeting and mail box may be kept for each slot. Play back, record, and other standard features of an answering machine may be controlled through sub-menu selections.
The connect/disconnect to PSTN option allows a user to disconnect the interface-box to the local exchange carrier. If the user desires to only have wireless phone service, the house may be entirely disconnected from this carrier.
The caller I.D. function may be automatically performed when a call is received. For example, the display may display the number of an incoming telephone call, or this information may be sent to the hard-wired phone if, for example, the hard-wired phone itself has a display. Many cordless phone handsets on the market today have such a display. If the caller is not home, the processor of the interface box may record all missed calls in addition to sending the calls to the appropriate answering machine mail box. When a user comes home, he or she may then scroll through the caller I.D. numbers on the display.
Those skilled in the art can appreciate that the foregoing graphical user interface functions are provided merely by way of illustration, and that if desired other functions may also be included. For example, the display may have a selectable “menu” and “settings” icons which allows a user to access an expanded set of system features. The date and time may also be displayed. Further, if desired the graphical user interface may be programmed to operate as a so-called Internet Appliance, e.g., a device which is connected to the internet to allow users to access e-mail, web sites, and perform browser functions. Under these circumstances, the interface box would be connected to an internet server wirelessly, via cable modem, or conventional land-line modem.
Referring to FIG. I4, a personal communications system in accordance with a third preferred embodiment of the present invention includes an interface box 200 having a slot 202 adapted to receive an electronic device 204 in the form of a personal digital assistant, a pocket PC, a web phone, or any other form of hand-held device which performs processing functions and which has been adapted to perform wireless phone operations. The PDA and pocket PCs may include a wireless modem card for this purpose. Examples include the AirCard 300 and AirCard 510 sold by Sierra Wireless and the Merlin card sold by Novatel Wireless.
Functionally, interface box 200 operates in a manner similar to the previous embodiments. For example, in order to communicate in-coming and out-going calls between a hard-wired telephone and a wireless service provider network the box includes a connector 206 adapted to mate with a port on the electronic device. This port may be any type of port conventionally used including a USB port found in many wireless devices today. Although one slot is shown, the interface box of this embodiment may have multiple slots for receiving PDAs which may be selectively activated, as described above. A battery re-charging terminal 208 may also be included.
The foregoing embodiments of the present invention may include one or more of the following optional features.
PC Connectivity. The interface box may be linked to a personal computer for allowing a user to remotely program the functions (e.g., slot activation status) of the box. The link may be established through a cable or wirelessly in accordance with, for example, the so-called Bluetooth protocol or another digital wireless standard. Infrared may also be used for this purpose if the box is within a line-of-sight of the personal computer. Through this PC connection, the functions/settings of the box may even be remotely programmed through the internet.
Improved Reception. The interface box may be connected to a booster antenna to improve the reliability of the receiving calls within the system. The antenna may be local to the box or remote such as, for example, on the roof of a house.
Security. The interface box may be equipped with a lock which either deactivates the box or makes its settings unchangeable. The lock may be in the form of a key-lock or a program stored in a memory of the interface box which limits access to only those persons with a combination code. (The box may include a set of buttons used for entering the combination.)
Regional Control. For the multiple-slot embodiments, the interface box may be programmed, via its internal processor, so that certain slots only ring certain hardwired telephones. For example, the wireless phone in slot 1 would only ring the hard-wired telephone in the kitchen, the phone in slot 2 would only ring the telephones in the basement and kitchen, and the phone in slot 3 would only ring the bedroom telephones. As an alternative to programming, selective ringing may be performed by directly wiring the telephones to the slots in the box.
Smart Card Activation. When the interface box is used in a non-domestic setting (e.g., hotel rooms, hospitals, airplanes, etc.), the box may be equipped with a card reader for reading information on a smart card. This information may include a user code which may be compared to authorized codes stored in a memory of the box or in a remote server connected to the box. In operation, a user inserts his smart card into the reader, and after a code comparison is performed a display or light indicator informs the user whether he is authorized to use the box. The smart card may store the user code on a magnetic stripe, in a storage chip, or within any other type of storage medium conventional known.
Interface Box Location. The interface box of the invention may be integrated into any one of a variety of existing units, including a television, a hard-wired telephone, an appliance, and an airplane seat to name a few.
Referring to
The reader is connected to the wireless communications unit and is adapted to receive a removable recording medium 520, which stores information for activating unit 510 so that wireless communications may be performed. This activation information may include a telephone number of a user as well as other information required to activate and/or initialize a phone for facilitating wireless communications. This other information may include serial numbers, location information, and/or data which a wireless provider or even a local exchange carrier may need in order to activate operation of a wireless phone. Activation information of this type is well known. See, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,486,624 and 5,386,455. The display may perform the normal functions of a cellular phone, including notification of a called telephone number, missed call information, date, time, etc.
The removable recording medium may take virtually any form. For example, as shown in FIG. I7(a), the medium may be located within a card-shaped housing equipped with a window having a slidable cover 525, like in a floppy diskette. In this situation, when inserted into the reader the cover would retract to allow a reader head to read a user's telephone number from the medium inside. Alternatively, as shown in
In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the wireless communications unit is in a fixed location. The unit may be incorporated, for example, within a kitchen appliance such as a refrigerator door, a television, a hard-wired telephone, a seat or other structure of an airplane, or even an interface box in accordance with any of the foregoing embodiments of the invention. Under these circumstances, all activation information but the user's telephone number may be stored beforehand in the memory of the wireless communications unit. The only function performed by the reader would then be to input the telephone number stored on the recording medium into the wireless communication unit. The processor of the unit would then establish communications with a central office or base station of the wireless service provider (e.g., perform initialization and registration operations) to notify the provider that the telephone number is now available for receiving and/or placing calls through the antenna.
The removable recording medium described above is an especially advantageous feature of the invention because it enables users to receive wireless calls without having to carry a phone. Instead, users need only carry the medium itself, which, for example, may be small enough to fit into a shirt pocket, on a key chain, or in a wallet or purse.
a) shows an exemplary application of the invention. In this figure, the communications unit is integrated into the dash 550, radio 560, and/or steering wheel 570 of a car, and the reader includes an input slot 580 situated in a similar location. In operation, users receive and place calls hands-free using speakers and a microphone mounted in the car. Calls may be answered or placed using a keypad 590. Also, if desired, the car radio display 595 may be used to display information typically shown on cell phones, and the car stereo may be used as the speakers. The antenna may be mounted on the rear window or at a non-visible location in the car. Equipped with these features of the invention, the car will advantageously be configured to receive and/or place calls using the telephone phone number of any user provided that user's telephone number is stored on the memory card inserted into the input slot of the reader.
b) shows another exemplary application wherein the communications unit of the present invention is integrated into the door of a refrigerator. This embodiment is equipped with similar features, including a reader input slot 600, a keypad 602, a display 604, a microphone 606, and a speaker 608. The antenna may be integrated into the door with the communications unit.
Preferably, the control circuits of the hard-wired telephone are interfaced to the wireless communications unit of the present invention to enable handset 660 to be the receiver and transmitter for the wireless unit. As shown in
The embodiment shown in
Referring to
Unlike conventional cellular phones, where a salesman enters activation information into the phone for the user, the personal communications system of the present invention may automatically be configured, and then re-configured, to allow any user to use the system with his own phone number, without the assistance of a salesman or technician. Preferably, this is accomplished through control software stored in the system memory which, when in program mode, receives activation information from the user which includes a telephone number on a wireless service provider network. The activation information maybe entered via the key pad of the system. The phone may automatically be placed in program mode at start up or may be initiated through a mode button on the system keypad.
The phone number may be changed to allow a different user to use the system by pressing a mode button on the keypad or at start-up. (Block 740). After the new user enters his telephone number in the manner indicated above, the processor of the wireless communications unit overwrites the old number with the new number or a plurality of new numbers in memory. As a result of this overwriting process, the system is automatically de-activated with respect to the old number. (Block 750). The processor then automatically transmits a message to the wireless service provider indicating that the telephone number is no longer available for receiving calls. (Block 760). The provider then adjusts its system accordingly and any future calls to the old number would, for example, be forwarded to a voice messaging system or the original personal communications device (e.g., a user's cell phone).
Those skilled in the art can appreciate that the wireless service provider may maintain a computer at, for example, a base station or central office which is configured to interact with the control software in the system of the present invention. This interaction may involve the central office computer transmitting all the conventional information required to activate the system so that it is ready to receive calls from or place calls to the provider.
The system of the present invention may include a number of optional features which enhance both its functionality and convenience of use. To provide a level of security, the activation information may include a personal identification number (PIN) or other identification code. The system processor may then compare the code to a set of authorized codes in memory in order to prevent an unauthorized user from gaining access to the system. Alternatively, the PIN number may be transmitted to the wireless service provider where the comparison may be made. In either case, if there is no match the user will be denied use of the system.
In addition to a telephone number and/or a PIN number, the system may be configured to receive time-of-activation information. According to this feature, the user would enter a period of time (e.g., 10 minutes, 2 hours, 1 day, three weeks, etc.) using the keypad which would then be used to program the system processor. In call monitoring mode, the processor would count down the period of time entered and then automatically de-activate the telephone number when that period expires. The internal system clock may be used to perform the comparison.
Preferably, the system includes a graphical user interface which displays. an interactive screen when-in program mode. This screen may include a prompt instructing the user into enter a new phone number for configuring the system, a prompt for instructing the user to enter a PIN number, and still another prompt to allow a user to enter time-of-activation information as discussed above. Also, remaining time of activation information may be displayed.
The system of the present invention may advantageously be incorporated as a wireless communications unit in a hard-wired telephone. Under these circumstances, the unit may be connected to an antenna located within or remotely from the hard-wired telephone. Further, the processor of the unit may be configured to receive activation information from the keypad of the hard-wired telephone. To guide the user, a display may be included to prompt the user in the manner previously mentioned. Thus, for example, in operation a user may pick up the receiver of the hard-wired telephone and the display may prompt the user to enter a cell phone number. When the numbered is entered using the keypad, the wireless unit communicates with the wireless service provider to provide notification that the calls may be received from or transmitted to that number. As a result, the user will be able to receive phone calls on that telephone, which, for example, may be located in a hotel, hospital, or a guest's house.
Alternatively, the wireless communications unit may be connected to the hard-wired telephone by a network. In this embodiment, a user may push a function button on the hard-wired phone to activate the wireless communications unit which, for example, may be kept at the hotel manager's desk. When prompted, the user may then use the keypad of the hard-wired telephone to enter activation information into the memory of the wireless unit, thereby enabling the user to receive calls on his cell phone number using the hard-wired telephone in his hotel room. Another exemplary application of this embodiment include connecting the wireless communications unit to telephones (e.g. GTE AirFone) in an airplane.
As shown in
The gateway 1030 serves as a transitional node between two networks, and from a functional perspective performs the protocol conversions required to transform signals from the service provider network into signals compatible with the destination network. These functions are performed, for example, by a processing device that may act as a proxy server and/or firewall. Additionally, or alternatively, the gateway may include a router which uses header information and forwarding tables to determine where voice and data packets are to be sent. A non-limiting example of a gateway that may be used in one or more embodiments of the invention is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,218,952.
The destination network 1040 may be a hard-wired network that includes a signal path that leads to the receiver unit. This network may be a PSTN, an IP connection, or a combination thereof. The destination network may be directly connected to the gateway, or one or more networks (e.g., other mobile or IP communication networks) may be connected between the gateway and destination network. In this latter case, reference numeral 1040 may include a plurality of destination networks. The labeling in
The receiver unit may take a variety of forms. For example, the receiver unit may be a hard-wired telephone coupled to a PSTN that corresponds to the last-segment of the destination network(s). The hard-wired telephone may be understood to correspond to any type of land-line based phone including standard telephones coupled to a wall jack as well as cordless phones. Additionally, or alternatively, the receiver unit may be a computer terminal equipped to receive IP telephony. In this case, the last segment of the designation network(s) may be an internet cable, satellite link, or any other IP connection.
An initial step of the method includes providing an instruction to the service provider network to redirect calls, placed to the telephone number of the mobile terminal, to the telephone number of the receiver unit. (Block 1100). The instruction may be generated in any one of a variety of ways. For example, a user of the mobile terminal may contact the network service provider (e.g., Verizon wireless) to provide the instruction. This may be accomplished by the user dialing a customer service or other dedicated number of the network service provider on his mobile terminal or from another phone or terminal, e.g., a hard-wired or IP terminal. Alternatively, the user may input the instruction by logging onto and making selections on a website of the network service provider, or instructions may be entered through a wireless network application available on the mobile terminal.
Alternatively, the instruction may be entered from the receiver unit itself. This may be advantageous, for example, when the user visits a certain location and wants to have calls to his mobile phone redirected to a phone or terminal at that location. This will prove especially beneficial when the user is held over in a meeting, is visiting a friend and staying longer than expected, or otherwise unexpectedly finds himself at that location for an extended length of time. Use of the receiver unit to activate the call-redirecting function may also beneficial when the user has lost or forgotten to bring his mobile terminal with him. Connection to the network service provider according to any of these techniques will now be described in greater detail.
Once connected to the service network, the user may verbally provide instructions to a customer service representative or may be presented with a menu. If a menu is presented, the user may navigate through the phone menu. This may initially require account verification through entry of a password or by other security means. The user may then be asked to say or dial a certain number that directs the user to a sub-menu that guides the user in the features of service desired.
The sub-menu may, for example, request the user to say or enter a number that confirms the service, e.g., call rerouting. Then, the user may be asked to enter the telephone number of his mobile terminal, followed by the telephone number where calls to the mobile terminal are to be redirected, e.g., the telephone number of the receiver unit. The telephone number of receiver unit may be entered by the user dialing the number using a keypad or by making a selection from a contacts list or phonebook stored on the mobile terminal, if the mobile terminal is being used to connect to the network.
Next, the user may be asked to designate a time period which the call re-routing service is to be performed. The user may respond by entering time and/or date information as to when the call-redirecting function is to begin and end. Alternatively, the user may merely enter an instruction to have the function activate immediately. The function may then terminate automatically after some predetermined time has elapsed, e.g., 3 hours, or the function may continue until the service provider receives an instruction from the user to terminate the function. The sub-menu may also request the user to confirm a price as well as other information.
Alternatively, the instruction for the call redirecting service may be incorporated within a short message service (SMS) message, e-mail message, or other text message transmitted from the user's mobile terminal or from another terminal such as the user's PDA or IP-connected computer.
Once the call-redirecting instruction is received, the service provider network may automatically perform a number of processing operations. (Block 1110) These operations may include altering one or more settings in a subscriber information storage unit (e.g., a subscriber database) to activate the call-redirecting function based on the telephone number of the receiver unit. Call processing and management circuits may then access or otherwise refer to these settings when calls are received during the time period when the calls are to be redirected.
The settings may include a flag for activating the call-directing function, as well as the storage of a telephone number of the receiver terminal. In accordance with one embodiment, the subscriber information storage unit may be included in or coupled to a home location register of a mobile communication system that corresponds to service provider network 1020.
If the instruction for the call-redirecting function is entered from the user's mobile terminal at a time when the user's mobile terminal is outside a coverage area of the home location register (HLR), the call processing and management circuits of the network service provider may be set to redirect the call to the telephone number of the receiver unit, even though the mobile terminal is registered in the coverage area of a visitor location register (VLR). In this case, processing circuits may not interact with the VLR for purposes of servicing calls to the user's mobile terminal for the period of time in which the call redirecting function has been activated. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,404,754 for a general discussion of mobile communication networks that include HLRs, VLRs, and associated call processing and management circuits.
Once the call-redirecting function has been activated, this function is carried out in accordance with the user's instructions, e.g., for the time period and at the telephone number designated by the user. This may be accomplished as follows.
When a call directed to mobile terminal 1010 is received by service provider network 1020 (e.g., when the called number corresponds to the telephone number of the mobile terminal), the call processing and management circuits of the network service provider checks to determine whether the call redirecting function has been or is still activated. (Block 1120). This may be performed by checking the set flag described above or based on other information stored by the network. Moreover, the call may derive from another terminal of the service provider network 1020, a terminal of the destination network 1040, or another communication network, e.g., network 1080 in
Once it has been confirmed that the call redirecting service is activated, the network service provider re-directs the call to the telephone number stored in the subscriber information storage unit. (Block 1130). This may involve, for example, establishing a virtual path for the call through one or more channels that lead to gateway 1030. The gateway then takes the call and routes it to destination network 1040 based, for example, on routing and/or other information included in a header of control, voice and/or data packets corresponding to the call. The routing network then forwards the call to the receiver unit 1050 to be received by the user of the mobile terminal. (Block 1140).
The call re-directing service continues for a fee until either the time period designated by the user expires, a predetermined time period expires, or until another instruction is received by the user to terminate the call-directing service. (Block 1150). At this time, the call-redirecting service is deactivated and the network service provider reverts back to forwarding calls to the telephone number of the user terminal. (Block 1160). If the user's mobile terminal happens to be turned on when the call is made, the call processing and management circuits of the network service provider blocks the call from reaching the mobile terminal.
The personal communication system of the present invention may be programmed to include several additional or optional features. As shown in
Alternatively, the call may be redirected to another number previously designated by the user (and stored in the subscriber information storage unit) to allow another answering service to record the caller's message. (Block 1240). The network service provider may then transmit a message to the mobile terminal to inform the user that the call has been redirected to the other number. (Block 1250).
Other modifications and variations to the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing disclosure. Thus, while only certain embodiments of the invention have been specifically described herein, it will be apparent that numerous modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/876,049, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 09876049 | Jun 2001 | US |
| Child | 12250806 | US |
