Abstract: Techniques for searching multi-dimensional data are provided. The techniques include providing a parallelization framework for a search algorithm, wherein the search algorithm exposes one or more architecture-sensitive tunable optimization parameters, and using the one or more architecture-sensitive tunable optimization parameters to tune the search algorithm to search multi-dimensional data in any underlying architecture.

Abstract: Toll-free calls are initiated using an alphanumeric call initiator (NAME) that is communicated to the network using a short message service (SMS), electronic mail message, a Worldwide Web interface or a voice connection to a voice recognition database. The NAME is translated to retrieve a directory number used to connect a calling party with the toll-free service subscriber. The directory number may be a toll-free number used to invoke incumbent translation services in the PSTN.

Abstract: A system for enabling setup and control of conference calls using short message service (SMS) messages (SMs). The SMS messages may be used to set up, or control a scheduled or real-time conference call. The SMS messages can also be used to exercise real-time control over a conference call. Invitations can be sent in real time to add participants to a call in progress, or to transfer the call from any participant's telephone to another telephone connected to the PSTN.

Abstract: A system and method for establishing a long distance call connection between call stations over the PSTN initiates a call connection request from a desktop application adapted to operate locally on a user workstation. The desktop application communicates call connection information to a long distance service provider server without requiring a web browser when a request is initiated by a user. Call connection information is processed by the long distance service provider server and an information packet is sent to a call controller, to effect a call connection over the PSTN via a TDM toll switch. A communication connection with the long distance service provider server is automatically established by the desktop application when a request is initiated, and subsequently released when the call connection request is received and processed by the long distance service provider.

Abstract: A system and method to enable establishment of long distance call connections, from a personal communication assistant (PCA), such as a personal wireless digital assistant, via a packet network, such as the Internet is provided. The system includes a call completion application adapted for communication with a long distance service provider server for establishing a cost effective long distance call connection. The system is further adapted to provide call scheduling and point of presence (POP) optimization within the PSTN.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for completing long distance telephone calls over the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) using an automated Internet Operator are disclosed. The apparatus includes a long distance service provider node connected to the Internet and a call connection control computer connected to the Internet and interfaced to a toll switch connected to the PSTN. The method permits a calling party to request the automated Internet Operator to complete long distance call connections by connecting to the long distance service provider node and identifying himself. The caller completes a call request form which is uploaded to the long distance service provider node and passed to the call connection control computer for processing. The call connection control computer instructs the toll switch to dial the calling party, dial the called party and conference the two lines.

Abstract: An incoming call routing system permits a subscriber to change a termination number associated with a dialable number at any time using a text message service. The dialable number may be a direct-inward-dial number.

Abstract: A method and system adapted to receive electronic text messages and generate connection request messages used to establish toll call connections. The system includes a call control database, customer profile database, billing database, call control node, and point of presence switch that interfaces with the PSTN. The electronic text messages are received through the Internet and may be electronic mail, short message service, or instant text messages.

Abstract: A system for enabling competitive bidding for provision of telecommunications services provides an interface for initiating communications sessions, a communications request queue, a management application for managing the communications request queue, and a communications service provider interface for providing the communications service providers with selective access to communications request messages received through the session initiation interface. The communications service providers are permitted to post rates for respective communications services in a rates database. The rates are used to select a least cost communications service provider for each communications request message received. Scheduled communications request messages are displayed for any communications request message that they are qualified to serve.

Abstract: A method and system adapted to receive electronic text messages and generate connection request messages used to establish toll call connections. The system includes a call control database, customer profile database, billing database, call control node, and point of presence switch that interfaces with the PSTN. The electronic text messages are received through the Internet and may be electronic mail, short message service, or instant text messages.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for completing long distance telephone calls over the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) using an automated Internet Operator are disclosed. The apparatus includes a long distance service provider node connected to the Internet and a call connection control computer connected to the Internet and interfaced to a toll switch connected to the PSTN. The method permits a calling party to request the automated Internet Operator to complete long distance call connections by connecting to the long distance service provider node and identifying himself. The caller completes a call request form which is uploaded to the long distance service provider node and passed to the call connection control computer for processing. The call connection control computer instructs the toll switch to dial the calling party, dial the called party and conference the two lines.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method and to an apparatus for use in laying a submarine pipeline from a pipe-laying vessel. According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reel pipe-laying method for continuously laying a pipeline of up to 24-inch diameter without a stinger by (1) aligning a pipe portion as it is being paid out from the reel, (2) straightening the aligned pipe portion, (3) tensioning the pipe, (4) discharging the straightened pipe under tension into the body of water, and (5) changing for different water depths and pipe conditions the lift off angle of the pipe relative to the horizontal by pivoting a diverter about a horizontal pivot, the diverter supporting at least the straightener and the tensioner and extending from the horizontal pivot mounted near the aft end of the vessel, upwardly toward the reel.