Patents Assigned to Siemens Information and Communication Networks
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Patent number: 6058435Abstract: A routing method for an information distribution system, such as an automatic communications distribution system, allows substantial content freedom in the formulation of a message to the system. The messages are converted to a computer-searchable format and are subjected to content analysis to identify skills advantageous to responding to the messages. In one application, the incoming message is a facsimile transmission that is converted to computer-generated text information using an optical character recognition module. The freeform incoming message may also be a voice mail message converted using speech recognition techniques, or may be a video transmission, electronic mail or a Webpage referral. In an application of the method and system that includes a response from an agent of the system, resume data indicative of proficiencies of the agents with respect to skills advantageous to processing the communications are correlated with the identified desired skills for a particular incoming communication.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 1997Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Assignee: Siemens Information and Communications Networks, Inc.Inventors: Michael Sassin, Neal J. King, Naser Sheikhzadegan
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Patent number: 6050690Abstract: An apparatus and method controlling a projected image (24) is provided. The apparatus (10) includes a detector (16) that tracks a visual pointer (22) appearing on a projection screen (20). The visual pointer (22) is positioned on the image (24) by a viewer. The visual pointer (22) can be generated by a computer cursor, or a light pen or laser pointer (12). The detector (16) generates a position signal indicating the location of the pointer (22). An auto-focus device (18) focuses the portion of the image (24) referenced by the visual pointer (22) as a function of the position signal. To focus the image portion, the auto-focus device (18) positions a projector lens (26) based on the measured image contrast within the selected image portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 1998Date of Patent: April 18, 2000Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventors: Shmuel Shaffer, William Joseph Beyda
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Patent number: 6049326Abstract: A system and method for determining the relative distances from a plurality of hyperlinks 206 to a cursor 202 when a select button is depressed. The relative distances are compared and the hyperlink corresponding to the shortest distance has its function activated. If the distances are determined to be identical or if the distances are determined to be within a predetermined range of one another, the hyperlinks 206 are not activated. Instead, the user positions the cursor 202 such that it is relatively closer to one of the two or more relatively equidistant hyperlinks 206 and clicks again.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1997Date of Patent: April 11, 2000Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventors: William J. Beyda, Shmuel Shaffer
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Patent number: 6047006Abstract: A method and apparatus for utilizing a multi-channel digital communications line provides dynamic bandwidth allocation of user data channels for supporting a data device and an audio device, such as a digital telephone. In the preferred embodiment, the communications line is an ISDN line in which both B-channels are dedicated to data transfers for the data device when the audio device is idle. However, the signaling channel is continuously monitored to detect events in which incoming and outgoing voice calls are indicated. One of the B-channels is surrendered in order to allow connectivity of the voice call. Reallocation of the surrendered B-channel to the support of a data transfer occurs upon detection of a D-channel signal that indicates that the audio device has released the channel.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1997Date of Patent: April 4, 2000Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventors: William A. Brakefield, Elie Antoun Jreij, Vedat M. Bilgutay, Bruce E. Burnett, James S. Umstetter
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Patent number: 6035024Abstract: The present invention concerns a method and apparatus for displaying numbers of users involved in a connection on a display associated with a station. The network users have a specific device number, whereby each number may consist of a plurality of partial numbers. The number of the user involved in a connection will be compared to the specific device number and as a result, the shortest possible number will be displayed.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1997Date of Patent: March 7, 2000Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventor: Peggy Stumer
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Patent number: 6031906Abstract: A digital loop carrier system in a communications network that provides automatic restoration of network access for user lines in the event of a failure. The system includes a plurality of user lines and groups of transmission lines interfaced with the user lines. Each group of transmission lines includes dedicated transmission lines which are connected to the user lines, idle transmission lines and reserved transmission lines. The system also includes a reprovisioning monitor that makes a number of transmission lines among the groups of transmission lines available for user lines which have a dedicated transmission line in a group of transmission lines that fails and that couples each of such user lines to a respective available transmission line. The monitor may delay the coupling of such user lines if a sufficient number of transmission lines are not available.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1997Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventor: Nagaraja Rao
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Patent number: 6021120Abstract: A system and method for creating full duplex symmetrical circuits using asymmetrical links. Two asymmetrical channels 101a, 101b having high speeds in reverse directions are linked together in one full duplex symmetrical circuit 100 using a dedicated controller 122a to monitor the high speed channel bandwidth and to transmit control signals on the low speed channels in the opposite directions.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1997Date of Patent: February 1, 2000Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventors: William J. Beyda, Shmuel Shaffer
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Patent number: 6021114Abstract: A method and system for utilizing a plurality of communications lines includes establishing a connection between a messaging system, a communications switch, and a plurality of communications lines. The messaging system has the ability to store files of data for transmission via the communications switch and the communications lines. The communications switch controls the flow of data files to the communications lines. Data traffic through the communications lines is monitored and the data traffic level is compared to an established data traffic threshold. Data files are transmitted from the messaging system to the communications lines if the measured data traffic level is below the data traffic threshold. The method and system may be used to efficiently utilize a leased telecommunications trunk line.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 1997Date of Patent: February 1, 2000Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventors: Shmuel Shaffer, William Joseph Beyda
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Patent number: 6021178Abstract: A system and a method are provided for detecting a type of a received signal. The system includes a processor (32) and two receivers (24, 26). Both receivers (24, 26) are coupled to the processor (32). The first receiver (26) is capable of receiving a first signal type, and the second receiver (24) is capable of receiving a second signal type. An algorithm (30), coupled to the second receiver (24), is used for distinguishing between the first signal type and the second signal type. The algorithm (30) is used after the first receiver (26) begins storing the signal as a first signal type, and after the second receiver (24) begins storing the signal as a second signal type. At least one of the two signal types is retained.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 1997Date of Patent: February 1, 2000Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventors: Michael E. Locke, Daniel T. Lai
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Patent number: 6012130Abstract: A computer executable program method for automating the upgrade of a storage medium, such as a disk drive, in a computer system is disclosed. The computer based method is preferably implemented with a series of computer-executable instructions stored on a computer-readable medium, such as a magnetic disk or CD-ROM. When executed on a computer, the program method automatically performs the series of operations needed to configure, partition and format the upgrade disk drive. The method also provides the option of adjusting system parameters so as to account for any changes to logical device designations resulting from the installation of the upgrade disk drive. Once installed, the program method optionally provides the user with the option of utilizing the upgrade disk drive as the new system boot device, or as a secondary/slave device.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 1997Date of Patent: January 4, 2000Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventors: William J. Beyda, Shmuel Shaffer
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Patent number: 6009160Abstract: A method for enabling a plurality of Local Service Providers within a common Numbering Plan Area (NPA) to serve Subscribers of the plurality of Local Service Providers. The method includes the step of assigning to each Subscriber of a Local Service Provider within the common NPA a unique three digit code, hereinafter referred to as a SPA code. The service provider area (SPA) code is used by the telephone system in the same manner presently used for routing calls made when a calling Subscriber dials the NPA code of the called party. Here, however, the SPA code is not dialed by the calling Subscriber. The dialed directory number, NXX-XXXX, of a called Subscriber subscribed to a different Local Service Provider, is sent to a database. The database maintains a record of the relationships between the directory numbers of Subscribers and the SPA codes of the Subscribers. The database retrieves the SPA code associated with the dialed directory number presently serving the called Subscriber.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1997Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventor: Edward Sonnenberg
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Patent number: 6005847Abstract: Methods and apparatus are described for facilitating multiple data communications with a first platform (100, 102, and 104) using a single communication conduit (108) having first and second channels. First data are transmitted between the first platform and a second platform (114) via the first and second channels (202). It is determined whether an incoming call comprises second data of a particular type (206). Where the incoming call comprises the second data of the particular type (208), transmission of the first data via the second channel is inhibited (226) thereby enabling reception of the second data by the first platform via the second channel while the first data continue to be transmitted via the first channel. The second data are then received at the first platform via the second channel (230). Transmission of the first data via the first and second channels is resumed in response to termination of transmission of the second data (266).Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 1997Date of Patent: December 21, 1999Assignee: Siemens Information and Communications Network, Inc.Inventors: Leroy E. Gilbert, William J. Beyda, Selena Dilley, Shmuel Shaffer
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Patent number: 6005573Abstract: A method and system for limiting scrolling and the movement of a cursor in a computer application. The computer application is operated on a computer system that has a display device with a display area. The computer application has a work area that is larger than the display area of the display device and a cursor that indicates an active area. Upper and lower and/or left and right boundaries are established by a user. Movement of the cursor is limited to the area of the computer application that is defined by the user-established boundaries. Viewing of the work area of the computer application may also be limited to the area of the computer application that is defined by the user-established boundaries. In a preferred embodiment, the method and system is applied to a computer spreadsheet application.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1997Date of Patent: December 21, 1999Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventors: William Joseph Beyda, Gregory Noel
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Patent number: 6002763Abstract: A telephone with a mute ringer function having an automatic disabling feature includes multiple call indicators including a ringer. A power output reducing device is connected to the ringer to reduce the ringer volume prior to a connection between the telephone and a remotely located telephone. A volume switch control unit is connected to the power output reducing device to reset the ringer volume to a level established prior to a volume reduction upon detecting either connectivity to the remotely located telephone or the termination of the connection. A selecting device selects an incoming call indicator prior to the connection to the remote telephone. A reverting device automatically reverts power to a previously selected incoming call indicator upon either establishing connectivity for the call or the termination of the call. In a preferred embodiment, the ringer power output reducing device and the ringer power output resetting device include a volume switch connected to the ringer.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 1998Date of Patent: December 14, 1999Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventors: Leland Lester, David Iglehart, Elie Antoun Jreij, James Umstetter
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Patent number: 6002944Abstract: A vehicular passenger telephone 37 according to the present invention includes an improved passenger call notification mechanism 154, 534 and user interface. A passenger telephone 37 is provided which includes a handset 506, a credit card reader 508 and a housing 507 for the handset 506 and credit card reader 508. In addition, either the handset 506 or the housing 507 includes a ringer or other call notification circuit 509. The passenger telephone 37 is operative in a first mode such that call notification is provided by the handset or housing ringer 509. The passenger telephone 37 is operative in a second mode such that the vehicle=s entertainment system 150 is employed to provide private call notification. In a first embodiment, call notification is provided via an audio headset 152. In a second embodiment, call notification is provided via a video display terminal 252.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1996Date of Patent: December 14, 1999Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventor: William J. Beyda
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Patent number: 6002751Abstract: A method and a system are provided for improved mail networking. A call transfer condition is first detected. A call transfer condition occurs immediately before a call is transferred to a first mail messaging system (56). Communication then occurs between local call processor (20) and remote call processor (60). The system determines if a call transfer is supported by a common protocol of both the second mail messaging system (16 ) and the first mail messaging system (56). If a common protocol is supported, the call is transferred to local voice mail system (16). The user (12) then provides a message which is received by the second mail messaging system (16). This message is automatically forwarded to the first mail messaging system (56) at a later time.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 1996Date of Patent: December 14, 1999Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventor: Shmuel Shaffer
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Patent number: 6003089Abstract: In a network, the efficiency of data transfer is improved. The network includes packets of data (100, 120). The invention begins by preserving an original packet (100). A larger packet (140) is then constructed by combining two packets (100, 120). Either the original packet (100) or the larger packet (140) is transmitted over the network. The original packet (100) is transmitted if the media/port (52) becomes available for transmission before the larger packet (140) is constructed, and the larger packet (140) is transmitted if the constructing of the larger packet (140) is completed before the media (52) becomes available. In a network with cells, a packet is constructed by combining cells. This packet is built until the media becomes available for transmission. The size and composition of this packet is independent of an original packet's size and composition.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1997Date of Patent: December 14, 1999Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventors: Shmuel Shaffer, David Weiss, Jay Casuba
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Patent number: 5999595Abstract: A method and system for processing user-level messages, such as voicemail messages, among messaging systems within a network includes enabling inter-system transmissions of identifications of the physical locations in memory space for the mailboxes in which the contents of the user-level messages are directed. Each mailbox in a particular system is uniquely associated with a user and with a physical location in memory space at the system. The physical locations of the mailboxes are identified to remote systems within the network, so that the user-level messages may be accompanied by system-level messages that identify the appropriate physical locations. Thus, a receiving system may determine the physical location of an intended mailbox without performing a database search. In the preferred embodiment, each system-level message also includes the mailbox number, so that the receiving station may verify the physical location by matching the identified mailbox number with the actual mailbox number.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 1997Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventors: Shmuel Shaffer, William J. Beyda
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Patent number: 5999599Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention provides an audio message, such as the identification of a caller, without requiring pre-recording by the call receiver, and providing the audio message in the caller's own voice, if they so desire. According to an embodiment of the present invention, a caller may record her identification prior to making a telephone call. The recorded identification would be sent along with each call the caller makes. The caller's recorded identification would be received by the receiver and announced to the receiver. The caller may also record an image to be sent along with her calls such that the receiver of her call may see her recorded image displayed when her call is being announced. Accordingly, an embodiment of the present invention allows identification of first-time callers and infrequent callers without the need for the call receiver to pre-record the caller's identity.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 1998Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventors: Shmuel Shaffer, William J. Beyda
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Patent number: 5995596Abstract: A system and method for coordinating multi-media messages across multiple systems. A networked messaging system 10 having a plurality of mailboxes 50 according to the present invention comprises a first mailbox configured to receive a first plurality of messages and a second mailbox operably coupled to the first mailbox and configured to receive a second plurality of messages. A control system 37 is coupled to control the first mailbox and the second mailbox. The control system 37 is configured to generate first tokens corresponding to the first plurality of messages. The control system 37 is further configured to transfer the tokens from the first mailbox to the second mailbox and is configured to use the first tokens to access the first plurality of messages from the first mailbox responsive to the second mailbox itself being accessed.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 1997Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.Inventors: Shmuel Shaffer, William J. Beyda