Restrictive Dialing Circuit Patents (Class 379/200)
  • Patent number: 7406162
    Abstract: A communication support system includes a command signal recognition unit which discretely detects a command signal sent by a telephone unit and a command signal sent from a telephone network, and determines whether the command signal is from the telephone unit, the command signal from the telephone unit indicating one of a plurality of telephone services of a data processing device. A signal transmission inhibition unit inhibits transmission of a signal from the telephone unit to the telephone network. A telephone service processing unit performs a telephone service processing of the data processing device for the telephone service indicated by the command signal from the telephone unit, the telephone service processing unit starting execution of the telephone service processing when the command signal recognition unit determines that the command signal is from the telephone unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Kimikazu Furukawa, Tomoyoshi Takebayashi, Toshihiro Azami, Katsutoshi Yano, Jun Kakuta, Yasuo Sato
  • Patent number: 7373137
    Abstract: A method and system for monitoring calls being made from a cellular phone and preventing calls being made to unauthorized numbers, as defined by the owner of the cellular phone. A security challenge is issued to a cell phone user when a suspicious, previously unknown telephone number is attempted to be called. Approved/safe numbers and/or area codes are stored within the phone and/or in a subscriber's account accessible and updated via the Internet. If the user is unable to provide the correct security code in response to the challenge, the user is prevented from making the call to the particular number.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Christina Karen Lauridsen, Hypatia Rojas, Elena Schneider, Robert Kevin Sloan
  • Patent number: 7356135
    Abstract: A device and method for controlling the use of a communication device make a determination as to whether a communication may proceed. The determination may be based upon a time reference, such as a total amount of time that the communication may proceed or an interval of time when communication is not permitted. The determination may alternatively be based upon whether the user is authorized by entry of a personal identification number prior to placing the communication. Various other considerations may be accounted for including whether the communication is to a communication address and/or whether the communication is of a particular type. If the communication may not proceed, then the circuit between a communication device and the communication network is obstructed to terminate the communication following an audio or visual warning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: AT&T BLS Intellectual Property, Inc.
    Inventor: James Edward Dickens
  • Patent number: 7319746
    Abstract: Each communication terminal of the calling user (Uj-k) is logically connected to a first communication equipment (Sk) and each communication terminal of the called user (Uj?-k?) is logically connected to a second communication equipment (Sk?). The combination of these terminals enables a plurality of modes of communication between these two users. If the called user accepts the setting up of a call: the second communication equipment (Sk?) determines each terminal of the called user that would enable setting up of the requested call; the second communication equipment (Sk?) then sends the first communication equipment (Sk) a terminal identifier for each terminal thus determined; and the first communication equipment (Sk) then selects, from the identifiers of the called user that it receives, at least one terminal identifier, and then initiates the setting up of a call.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Alcatel
    Inventors: Michel Le Creff, Raymond Gass
  • Publication number: 20080002817
    Abstract: An application development system includes a referencing component configured to reference an external component in an external development environment and to read type information for the referenced external component. An authoring component is configured to aid a user in authoring an application using the type information read from the referenced external component and using a language extension that allows external objects corresponding to the external component to be created by the external runtime environment and which allows methods to be invoked on the external objects and object declarations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2006
    Publication date: January 3, 2008
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Alexey Ovsyannikov, Arthur R. Greef, Christopher D. Williams, Per Vikkelsoe
  • Patent number: 7298835
    Abstract: A “parental control” (“PC”) telephone subscriber feature on a telephone system is disclosed. An authorized subscriber, such as a parent, may enter a feature code which initiates the PC feature. To deactivate the feature, the subscriber enters the code and is prompted for an authorization code, such as a personal identification number (“PIN”). If the authorization code entered matches the authorization code on file for the subscriber, the PC feature is deactivated. If no match is found in the subscriber database for the PIN, the feature is not deactivated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: AT&T BLS Intellectual Property, Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan E. Perry
  • Patent number: 7200415
    Abstract: A communications system having a pre-defined calling group with a plurality of members is disclosed. A plurality of personal communication devices (PCDs) each have a system ID and a group ID, and each member of the group is assigned one of the PCDs. The system ID and the group ID both have a predetermined characteristic, where each system ID has a first variation thereof and each group ID has a second variation. A first group member having a first PCD contacts a second member having a second PCD by entering into the first PCD the second PCD group ID. The first PCD transmits the first PCD system ID and the second PCD group ID to a communications switch. Based on the first PCD system ID, the communications switch locates a record for the first PCD in a switch database and determines therefrom that the first PCD can contact the second PCD by way of the second PCD group ID. A group database in switchable communication with the communications switch has the system ID and group ID for each group member PCD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: SBC Technology Resources, Inc.
    Inventors: Karen Tirabassi, Andrew Goldberg, Greg Butz, Patrick Melampy, Mary Stanhope, Andrew Coppola
  • Patent number: 7197128
    Abstract: The present invention provides a novel telecommunication architecture. The architecture includes a subscriber agent for each subscriber within a telecommunication network. The subscriber agent includes the subscriber's telephone number and calling features. The network also includes terminal agents which are directly associated with one or more terminals such as telephones. The subscriber agent can be associated with one or more terminal agents within the network, so that the subscriber's telephone number and set of calling features can be carried to any terminal within the network. A wide variety of calling features and terminals are supported by the architecture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Soma Networks, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Stumm, William M. Snelgrove, Bruno R. Preisa, Mark J. Frazer, Mauricio De Simone
  • Patent number: 7194075
    Abstract: A method of implementing call compliance at a central facility, the method involving: receiving a call from a caller on an incoming connection; enabling the caller on the incoming connection to initiate an outgoing call on an outgoing connection; receiving over the incoming connection an identifier of a destination to which a call is to be initiated over the outgoing connection; checking a do-not-call database for an indication of whether the destination is a do-not-call destination; if it is determined that the destination is a do-not-call destination, blocking the outgoing call from taking place over the outgoing connection; and if it is determined that the destination is not a do-not-call destination, allowing the outgoing call to take place over the outgoing connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Gryphon Networks, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith Alan Fotta
  • Patent number: 7155001
    Abstract: A telecommunications service controls and monitors telephone calls by storing at a service control point (SCP) restricted telephone numbers and priority telephone numbers. Upon receiving call data relating to a call between a subscriber telephone number and an outside telephone number, the SCP determines whether the outside telephone number matches the restricted or priority telephone numbers. When the outside telephone number matches a restricted telephone number, the call is terminated and the SCP stores the call data. When the outside telephone number does not match a restricted telephone number, or matches a priority telephone number, the call is connected. The SCP transmits stored call data to a service management system, which is accessible by the subscriber via the Internet or an interactive voice response, for generating reports. The service further includes time schedules for implementing call restrictions and personal identification number for bypassing call restrictions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: SBC Properties, L.P.
    Inventors: Dianna Inara Tiliks, Susanne Marie Crockett, Nancy Ann Book, Carol Shifrin Gruchala, John Wesley Moss
  • Patent number: 7133511
    Abstract: A system and method of telephony resource management and security for monitoring and/or controlling incoming and outgoing calls between an enterprise's end-user stations and a public circuit-switched network and/or a public packet-switched network. A security policy is made up of one or more rules designating at least one action to be performed based on at least one attribute of the incoming or outgoing call. Calls are detected and sensed on the line, trunk and/or cabling, and analyzed to determine attributes associated with each call. Actions are performed based upon the determined attributes, in accordance with the security policy rules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Securelogix Corporation
    Inventors: David L. Buntin, Keith S. Pickens
  • Patent number: 7095837
    Abstract: In a telephone network, a service control point is called by a switching center, if a flag has previously been set by some event (e.g. call charges crossing a threshold or the leaving of a voice mail message) when a call is being established or terminated. The switching center then operates in accordance with commands returned by the service control point. If no flags have been set, the service control point is not called and the call is treated by the switching center in a default manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: British Telecommunications public limited company
    Inventors: James Douglas Pettifor, Alan James Clapton
  • Patent number: 7085362
    Abstract: The invention includes a system for processing telecommunications signaling. Signaling for a call is received into a signaling processor. The signaling processor processes the call and generates new signaling incorporating the processing. The new signaling is transferred to network elements as appropriate. The signaling processor is not coupled to a switch matrix and only communicates with the network elements over signaling links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Sprint Communications Company L.P.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Christie, Manu Chand Bahl, Albert Daniel Duree, Michael Joseph Gardner, Daniel Charles Sbisa, William Lyle Wiley
  • Patent number: 7082191
    Abstract: A device and method for controlling the use of a telephone make a determination as to whether a telephone call may proceed. The determination may be based upon a time reference, such as a total amount of time that a call may proceed or an interval of time when a call is not permitted. The determination may alternatively be based upon whether the user is authorized by entry of a personal identification number prior to placing the phone call. Various other considerations may be accounted for including whether the call is to a particular telephone number and/or whether the call is long distance. If the call may not proceed, then the circuit between a telephone and the telephone network is obstructed to terminate the telephone call.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: BellSouth Intellectual Property Corporation
    Inventor: James Edward Dickens
  • Patent number: 7079636
    Abstract: Discloses are systems and methods for detecting undesired call activity. Preferred embodiment systems and methods comprise detecting a call signal level, determining if the call signal level is below a predetermined silence level threshold, and measuring a duration the call signal level remains below the predetermined silence level threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Evercom Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: George McNitt, Michael Lord
  • Patent number: 7054645
    Abstract: A system utilizing a transmitter emitting a unique signal and a base station receiver having a database of household members is used to ascertain the identity of household members who are home at any particular time. Such information is used by the local telephone network to provide specialized telephone services to the household based on the identity of the household members who are home. A manual and emergency services override is provided to permit the completion of telephone calls from emergency services personnel and other persons irrespective of the presence or absence of any household member. The information regarding the presence or absence of household members also may be used to intelligently provide other household services such as heating and cooling or home security depending on the identity of persons who are home.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: AT&T Corp.
    Inventor: William J. Infosino
  • Patent number: 7006614
    Abstract: A method for operating an integrated communications system providing voice and data communications to a plurality of users and simulating a key system. An outside line appearance is provided on a telephone coupled to the system; the outside line appearance is associated with a predetermined outside telecommunications trunk and has associated therewith a button and a lighting implement. In response to activation of the button, a lighting condition of the lighting implement is changed and a dial tone to the telephone by the integrated system. Digits are entered by a user depressing keys on the telephone and collected by the system. Restriction rule are applied to determine if a telephone number dialed by the user is restricted, and if restricted an error tone is provided. Caller ID information may be determined for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Converged Data Solutions LLC
    Inventors: David S. Feinberg, Dolores M. Freund
  • Patent number: 6944293
    Abstract: A telephone line shunt for disabling incoming and outgoing calls to or from a telephone line. The device attaches to a single outlet or telephone such that the line is unavailable to devices attached to it from any other location. A shunt short circuits the ring and pitch lines of a conventional telephone line to inhibit a dial tone for outgoing calls while simultaneously creating the appearance of a line busy status for incoming calls. The shunt is inserted into any standard telephone wall jack to inhibit line availability, and removed to restore line availability. The shunt can be implemented by a simple wire shunt embedded in a modified plug for an RJ-11 jack. Alternatively, the shunt can be controlled by activation switches on a wall receptacle, on a telephone hand set, and on a telephone/clock radio. An optional remote control allows switching of the shunt. The shunt control mechanism may also used a password system to control access to the shunt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Inventor: William J. Rutter
  • Patent number: 6914968
    Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a method and apparatus for detecting and preventing telephone call fraud. The call fraud detector apparatus is connected to the telephone line, and includes a telephone line interface with switch hook. A parallel set detector indicates to the microcontroller that another device has gone off hook on the telephone line. The microcontroller causes the telephone line interface switch hook to also go off hook in parallel, thereby preventing pulse dialing by the other device. The device may also include a DTMF tone detector and generator to prevent DTMF dialing on the telephone line. The call fraud detector can provide a visual, audible, and/or tactile indication when unauthorized use of the telephone line occurs, and can be enabled or disabled by an external device. The call fraud detector can log the time and date of each unauthorized call placed on a line, and can also notify the telephone service provider when an unauthorized call is attempted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: VTech Communications, Ltd.
    Inventors: Gordon Bradley Ryley, Sheldon Dean McCullough
  • Patent number: 6879671
    Abstract: A system and method to provide secure communication across the untrusted public switched telephone network includes a set of rules in a security policy which are implemented by a virtual private switched telecommunications network (VPSTN). The VPSTN provides for intercepting voice calls and modifying their set-up to include a request for bearer capability to support a data call.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Securelogix Corporation
    Inventors: Greg Schmid, Kirk E. Smith, Keith S. Pickens, Craig Heilmann
  • Patent number: 6788773
    Abstract: A system and process for automatic storage, enforcement and override of consumer do-not-call (DNC) requests includes a control device for selectively blocking communication between a communication device and a destination over a communication medium. The control device is connected to the communication medium and to a database for storing identifiers of destinations for which communication is to be blocked. The communication device has an input mechanism responsive to a user to generate an identifier of the destination. The input mechanism is also responsive to an update signal indicating that the identifier should be added to the database or an override signal indicating that the blocked call should in fact, be permitted, thereby overriding the blocking mechanism. The communication device is automatically updated with information stored in the database which may be used by the communication device to process further communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Grayphon Networks, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith Alan Fotta
  • Publication number: 20040161087
    Abstract: A tracking hitch assembly couples to the drawbar of the tractor in a conventional manner. To prevent the hitch from pivoting with respect to the drawbar, the hitch includes an adjustable hitch stabilizer which engages the lift arms of the tractor. When a pivoting force is exerted against the hitch, one lift arm is placed in tension, and the other lift arm is placed in compression. Thus the hitch is prevented from pivoting with respect to the drawbar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Harold Taylor
  • Patent number: 6760420
    Abstract: A system and method of telephony resource management and security for monitoring and/or controlling and logging access between an enterprise's end-user stations and their respective circuits into the public switched telephone network (PSTN). A set of security rules is defined for each of the extensions which specify actions to be taken based upon at least one attribute of the call on the extension. Calls are detected and sensed on the extensions to determine attributes associated with each call. Actions are then performed on selected calls based upon their attributes in accordance with the security rules defined for those extensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: SecureLogix Corporation
    Inventors: Craig Heilmann, Mark D. Collier, Doug Conyers, Keith S. Pickens, David Buntin, Greg Schmid, Stephen Faustino, Todd Beebe, Michael Brysch, Robert R. Applonie
  • Patent number: 6760421
    Abstract: A system and method of telephony security for controlling and logging access between an enterprise's end-user stations and their respective circuits into the public switched telephone network (PSTN). A security policy, i.e., a set of security rules, are defined for each of the extensions, the rules specifying actions to be taken based upon at least one attribute of the call on the extension. Calls are detected and sensed on the extensions to determine attributes associated with each call. Actions are then performed on selected calls based upon their attributes in accordance with the security rules defined for those extensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: SecureLogix Corporation
    Inventors: Craig Heilmann, Todd Beebe
  • Patent number: 6735291
    Abstract: A system and method to provide secure access across the untrusted PSTN is described. The system and method utilizes telephony resources that can be initiated by a security policy defining actions to be taken based upon at least one attribute of the call, providing multi-tiered policy-based enforcement capabilities and visibility into security events.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: SecureLogix Corporation
    Inventors: Greg Schmid, Keith S. Pickens, Craig Heilmann
  • Patent number: 6718024
    Abstract: A system and method for discriminating call content types for individual telephone lines at a plurality of user sites outside of a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is described. The system includes: a database containing security rules for each of a plurality of extensions, the rules specifying actions to be taken based upon a call content type of the call on the extension, wherein the call content type is determined at the user sites outside the PSTN; and a line sensor within the user sites outside the PSTN for determining the call content type of the call. The line sensor continuously checks the call content type to determine if the call content type changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: SecureLogix Corporation
    Inventors: Craig Heilmann, Todd Beebe, David Buntin, Greg Schmid, Robert A. Applonie, Keith S. Pickens
  • Patent number: 6700964
    Abstract: A system and method to provide secure access across the untrusted public switched telephone network is described. The system and method can be initiated by a security policy defining actions to be taken based upon at least one attribute of the call.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: SecureLogix Corporation
    Inventors: Greg Schmid, Keith S. Pickens, Craig Heilmann, Kirk Smith
  • Patent number: 6697472
    Abstract: To prevent fraud perpetrators from using a public pay telephone to illicitly collect account numbers, authorization codes or personal identification numbers from an unsuspecting user of the telephone, the instant invention disables the keypad of the telephone if an incoming call is being received at the time that the handset is lifted from the phone by the user. In one method, the ringing signal and the off-hook condition are detected and a control output is provided which disengages the dialing tone generating circuits of the telephone until the handset is placed back on-hook. According to an alternative method, after the handset is lifted, a dial tone is sensed and evaluated by a dial tone discriminator to determine whether the dial tone is likely to be a valid dial tone from a legitimate service provider. If the dial tone is determined to be invalid, then the keypad of the telephone is disabled until the handset is placed back on-hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: WorldCom, Inc.
    Inventors: David Jordan, Frank A. McKiel, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6687353
    Abstract: A telephony security system and method for controlling and logging access between an enterprise'send-user stations at a plurality of customer sites and their respective circuits into the public switched telephone network (PSTN). The system and method includes a discrete line sensor within the customer sites for determining a call type of the call, and taking actions on the call based on predetermined security rules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: SecureLogix Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Brysch, Craig Heilmann, Keith S. Pickens, Robert R. Applonie
  • Patent number: 6654598
    Abstract: A WLL system having personal stations, either mobile stations or telephone sets with an NIU, a base station and a switching center. For faster connectivity, a method in accordance with the present invention includes the steps of (1) if the personal station is in an off hook state, the personal station transmits an origination message to the base station and assigns a traffic channel between the personal station and the base station, (2) the personal station transmits a destination telephone number to the base station, and (3) the switching center connected to the base station connecting a call to a destination personal station according to the destination telephone number, thereby reducing a delay time in setting up a call, and thereby providing a fast communication service.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Bum Soo Son
  • Patent number: 6590968
    Abstract: A lockout apparatus for controlling communications on a single line telephone system. The lockout apparatus includes a principal telephone connected to a remote telephone network. A switch is connected in parallel with the principal telephone to the remote telephone network. At least one secondary telephone is connected to the switch such that, when the switch is closed, telephonic communications signals may pass between the principal and secondary telephones and the remote telephone network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Daryl Lynn Theiss
  • Publication number: 20030112943
    Abstract: A programmable telephone call restriction device and a related method for remotely programming the call restriction device from an interactive voice response system or other computer. The call restriction device is connected in parallel at any point along a telephone connecting the telephone to be restricted and the local telephone exchange. If the user of the telephone dials a number that appears in a list of restricted numbers, the call restriction device will generate DTMF signals that prevent the telephone line from being used even if a connection is made to the dialed number. To program the call restriction device, the telephone user must first establish a telephone connection to the IVR system by dialing an access number. In response to a voice prompt from the IVR system, the telephone user must then input a valid authorization code, i.e., a valid personal identification number (PIN).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventor: Zvi Kamil
  • Publication number: 20030068028
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a communication system including an entire object including multiple objects connected with the networks and storing the object's own data, a database including a polling table storing information for an object being performed data polling among the multiple objects, and a mapping controller for controlling data flows of the entire object, and of the object of the polling table in the database, where the mapping controller includes a configuration module for performing data polling to, and for managing the entire object, a performance module for managing performance data of the entire object and for each of the objects, a performance-polling module for calculating performance data by an alarm information for an object having troubles among the entire objects, for receiving the performance data accumulated in the entire object periodically, and for informing the received performance data to the performance module, and a mutual exclusion module for determining priority among each
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventor: Jeong-Ho Cha
  • Patent number: 6542592
    Abstract: A system and method of telephony security for controlling and logging access between an enterprise's end-user stations and their respective circuits into the public switched telephone network (PSTN). A security policy, i.e., a set of security rules, are defined for each of the extensions, the rules specifying actions to be taken based upon at least one attribute of the call on the extension. Calls are detected and sensed on the extensions to determine attributes associated with each call. Actions are then performed on selected calls based upon their attributes in accordance with the security rules defined for those extensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: SecureLogix Corporation
    Inventors: Craig Heilmann, Todd Beebe
  • Publication number: 20020191764
    Abstract: A memory card (110) stores access restriction information (AC1) to a license information hold unit (1440) arranged in a TRM area. Access restriction information (AC1) has information for example of a frequency of reproduction allowed and a number of licenses owned. A controller (1420) in reproducing and transferring content initially confirms access restriction information (AC1) and thereafter effects reproduction and transfer and after the reproduction and transfer are effected updates access restriction information (AC1), as required, for storage in a license information hold unit (1440).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Hori, Toshiaki Hioki, Miwa Kanamori, Masataka Takahashi, Takayuki Hasebe, Makoto-shi Yoshioka, Takahisa Hatakeyama, Tadaaki Tonegawa, Takeaki Anazawa
  • Publication number: 20020131572
    Abstract: A method and system are presented where a server system is able to handle a majority of the processing work in determining and booking available schedule appointments between a patient's schedule and the schedules of the required resources (e.g., personnel, examination rooms, equipment, services, etc.). The server system includes local memory that stores a portion of patient and resource schedules from a database and handles task requests from a client system. Because the majority of the processing work is done at the server, the bandwidth of the connection between the client and server may be low (e.g., a 28.8 K modem), and the client does not necessarily need extensive memory and processing capabilities (e.g., a standard personal computer or PDA).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventor: Peter R. Paradis
  • Patent number: 6442406
    Abstract: A call time usage system for a portable telephone allows entering call time usage information into the portable telephone. The limits include limits on total airtime and airtime per call for a specified interval. After the specified interval, the limits are reset. A list of exempt numbers is also stored so that the user can call those exempt numbers even after the limit is exceeded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Michael J. Harris, Donald R. Green, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6430267
    Abstract: The invention relates to a procedure and system for executing a personal alarm function by means of a telecommunication terminal in a telecommunication system comprising a telephone network, a telephone exchange connected to the telephone network, an intelligent network element connected to the telephone network and a telecommunication terminal connected to the telephone network. In the procedure of the invention, a hidden mode is defined in conjunction with a call made from the telecommunication terminal, the mode is verified in the intelligent network element in conjunction with the setup of each call and an alarm function is executed when the mode differs from the defined mode. The system of the invention comprises means for defining a hidden mode in conjunction with a call made from the telecommunication terminal, means in the intelligent network element for verifying the mode in conjunction with the setup of each call and means for executing an alarm function when the mode differs from the defined mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Nokia Networks Oy
    Inventor: Juha-Pekka Manner
  • Publication number: 20020009185
    Abstract: The specification discloses a method for security control of network distant input using caller ID, which uses an ID decoder to decode and extract a caller ID from an incoming message and determine whether the caller ID exists in its database before starting a password checking step. The invention also discloses the corresponding device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventor: Chung-Chih Tung
  • Publication number: 20010051534
    Abstract: A cellular telephone maintains a screening list of calling party numbers, and specifies call handling therefor. A mobile switching center is responsive to selected types of the specified call handling. The call handling can depend on whether the call is local or non-local, which is affected by the location of the cellular telephone. The call handling can also depend on the time at which the call is made. A subscriber updates his or her screening list via personal computer, and transmits via a communication network the updated screening list to a message center which sends the updated screening list to the cellular telephone via wireless communication. A calling party number can be specified as a wildcard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 1997
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: UMESH J. AMIN
  • Patent number: 6321098
    Abstract: A wireless communication device provides streamlined access to recording functions that allow a user to readily record information from a called directory information service provider or other predetermined number. Directory service provider numbers and other predetermined numbers are stored in the system and compared with a user selected destination telephone number. If a match is detected, the system display automatically enables a recording function or prompts the user to manually activate the recording function to permit the user to manually record information obtained from the directory information service provider. Alternatively, the information may be automatically transferred directly into the system without user intervention through a communication link using a formatted data exchange. The system includes options for editing the recorded information, permanently storing the recorded information, and completing a call to the telephone number provided by the service.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Qualcomm Incorporated
    Inventors: Scott D. Beith, Jason B. Kenagy
  • Patent number: 6311055
    Abstract: A cellular telephony network includes a supplementary service (SS) database in an intelligence network (IN) node. The SS database stores subscriber record which includes call barring data such as screening lists of specific numbers or countries and call barring options that indicate the treatment of the call barring data. The SS database may be located in an IN node connected to a mobile service center/visitor location register in a cellular telephony network or a signaling database point in a signaling network connected to the cellular telephony network or in the home location register of the cellular telephony network. At call origination, the MSC/VLR transmits the requested called number and MSISDN of the mobile subscriber to the SS database. The IN node compares the requested called number to the subscriber record associated with the MSISDN of the mobile subscriber and transmits a message to the MSC/VLR indicating whether the call is barred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Ericsson Inc
    Inventor: David Boltz
  • Patent number: 6253095
    Abstract: When setting a call, a telephone number, a discrimination code for discriminating a telephone number from an identification number, and an identification number to unlock specified call restriction are continuously inputted by way of key operations in a key entry section for forming call-setting information the identification number is determined from the call-setting information in the control section; and the determined identification number is collated with an identification number previously registered, and if the two identification numbers are identical to each other, the specified call restriction is unlocked with call setting executed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Bunji Ushida
  • Patent number: 6249575
    Abstract: A system and method of telephony security for controlling and logging access between an enterprise's end-user stations and their respective circuits into the public switched telephone network (PSTN). A security policy, i.e., a set of security rules, are defined for each of the extensions, the rules specifying actions to be taken based upon at least one attribute of the call on the extension. Calls are detected and sensed on the extensions to determine attributes associated with each call. Actions are then performed on selected calls based upon their attributes in accordance with the security rules defined for those extensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: SecureLogix Corporation
    Inventors: Craig Heilmann, Todd Beebe
  • Patent number: 6246756
    Abstract: A method and a system to meter and control the usage of a telephone. The metering and control functions are applicable for specific outgoing or incoming destination, the specific user of the telephone, the time of the day when an outgoing call is made or an incoming call is received, and the calling time allowed either collectively or per the specific outgoing or incoming destination. At least one list of a plurality of lists is stored. Each of the stored lists includes at least one entry, and each entry includes at least one of a plurality of fields. The fields within an entry contain information that is used by the metering circuitry to execute the control functions. The outgoing or incoming phone number is received and encoded using a codec unit and compared with all the entries stored within the lists. The result of the comparison is used to determine if a match exists between the encoded phone number and one of the entries stored within the lists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, inc.
    Inventors: David J. Borland, Al Hartmann
  • Patent number: 6169790
    Abstract: A telephone and a method of controlling thereof for cost control are disclosed. The telephone includes a processor that controls operation of the telephone, and a memory which stores user defined parameters used to control this operation. The parameters include call allowance categories and numbers, and call restriction categories and numbers. The call restriction categories and numbers have maximum durations independent of each other. The processor allows calls associated with the call allowance categories and numbers, and times calls associated with the call restriction categories and numbers. The processor interrupts a restricted call when one of the maximum durations associated with the restricted call is reached. Further, the processor provides an alarm prior to interruption of the restricted call. An elapsed time of the restricted call is initialized when a security code is entered prior to interruption of the restricted call.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventor: St{acute over (e)}phane Flon
  • Patent number: 6134310
    Abstract: The personal communications controller (PCC) may be programmed with a customized service configuration based on which telecommunications functions in connection with multiple telephone terminals are managed. The PCC system is designed to provide enhanced service value to all of the telephone terminals throughout a residence coupled to a single telephone communication line entering the residence. The PCC may provide service differentiation on an individual basis to the telephone terminals and, furthermore, differentiated treatment may be effected on a per telephone call basis. The customized service configuration may be generated using a personal computer from which it is downloaded to the PCC.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Nortel Networks Corporation
    Inventors: Richard Arthur Swan, John Wallace Marlow, Mendel Lazear Peterson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6130937
    Abstract: A system and process for automatic storage, enforcement and override of consumer do-not-call (DNC) requests includes a control device for selectively blocking communication between a communication device and a destination over a communication medium. The control device is connected to the communication medium and to a database for storing identifiers of destinations for which communication is to be blocked. The communication device has an input mechanism responsive to a user to generate an identifier of the destination. The input mechanism is also responsive to an update signal indicating that the identifier should be added to the database or an override signal indicating that the blocked call should in fact, be permitted, thereby overriding the blocking mechanism. The communication device is automatically updated with information stored in the database which may be used by the communication device to process further communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: TeleMark Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith Alan Fotta
  • Patent number: 6075849
    Abstract: A method of monitoring a data transmission transmitted over a telephone line includes the first step of determining if a data transmission is incoming or outgoing over a telephone line. In the second method step, a modem is configured to monitor a receive portion of the telephone line if the first step determines that the transmission is outgoing. The modem is configured to monitor a transmit portion of the telephone line if the first step determines that the transmission is incoming. In the third method step, a data signal is detected from the data transmission. The method may include the further step of maintaining statistics corresponding to the data signal. The data transmission may be a facsimile transmission. The data signal may be any one of a DCS signal, an MCF signal, and an RTP signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: NKO, Inc.
    Inventors: Warren S. Lee, David W. Copp, Dale T. Platteter, Neil P. Carrier
  • Patent number: 6026153
    Abstract: A locator system has a plurality of locator transmitters, each transmitter transmitting a unique locator signal. Paging devices are carried by each user of the locator system and each paging device includes: (i) a receiver responsive to signals broadcast from the locator transmitters, (ii) a unique identification code stored therein, and (iii) a signal transmitter and controller for controlling the signal transmitter, the controller causing the transmitter to transmit location and identification signals based upon the locator signal received by the receiver and the unique identification code. A receiver is responsive to the signals transmitted by the signal transmitters in the paging devices and a control system handles communications from other parties to the users. The control system is coupled with the receiver and responsive to received location and identification signals to determine where to direct communications from other parties intended for a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: Aspect Telecommunications Corporation
    Inventors: Robert M. Fuller, Frederick A. Epler, Maxwell E. Manowski
  • Patent number: 5204363
    Abstract: Triazole and imidazole compounds having the general formula (I): ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 and R.sup.2, which may be the same or different, are hydrogen, alkyl, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, cycloalkylmethyl, alkenyl, heterocyclyl, aryl or aralkyl optionally substituted with halogen, nitro alkyl, haloalkyl, haloalkoxy, alkoxy, phenyl, phenoxy, benzyl, benzylosy, halophenyl or haloalkoxy; R.sup.3 is hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aralkyl or acyl; R.sup.4 and R.sup.5, which may be the same or different, are hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl or optionally substituted aryl; R.sup.6 and R.sup.7, which may be the same or different, are hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl or optionally substituted aryl; X is oxygen or sulphur or is SO or SO.sub.2 ; and Az is 1,2,4- or 1,3,4-triazole or imidiazole ring; and isomers, acid addition salts and metal complexes thereof. The compounds are useful as plant fungicides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: Imperial Chemical Industries PLC
    Inventors: Balasubramanyan Sugavanam, Paul A. Worthington, John M. Clough