Search Patents
  • Method and apparatus for routing calls to an alternative endpoint during network disruptions
    Patent number: 8638656
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling calls destined for a terminating point on a packet network, e.g., a VoIP network, that is experiencing a service disruption to be forwarded by the network to another endpoint is disclosed. The method enables subscribers to register an alternative number, such as a cell phone number, a relative's phone number, or a work number, that the network can use to forward calls in the event of a service disruption. In one embodiment, the provider can even use an alternative transport network, such as the PSTN, to forward these calls until the VoIP network service is restored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for providing access of network based radio frequency identification information
    Patent number: 8775639
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling consumers to scan RFID tags using home based endpoint devices that can transmit the scanned information to network based services are disclosed. Using the RFID scanned information, consumers can then access, retrieve and view additional information regarding products, in which RFIDs are embedded, on video display devices, such as televisions or video display monitors. This product related information can include interactive technical support, companion product information, or instructional guidelines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for analyzing proposed service features in a communication network
    Patent number: 8682711
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for analyzing a proposed service feature in a communication network is described. In one example, a call flow for supporting the service feature in the communication network is created, where at least one network component supports the call flow. First cost data for internally developing the at least one network component is determined. Second cost data for procuring the at least one network component from third party entity is determined. The first cost data and the second cost data are processed to generate a recommendation for either internally developing or externally procuring the at least one network element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for sending updates to a call control element from an application server
    Patent number: 7627106
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling Application Servers to automatically update the databases used by Call Control Elements as changes occur between customer data, such as customer specific logic, and the Application Servers, such as the IP addresses of the Application Servers are disclosed. Whenever there is a change in the location of customer specific data needed by the CCEs, e.g., switching from one AS to a new AS, the new AS will automatically update the relevant database in the CCEs to indicate such an update has occurred. After the automatic update is performed, the CCEs will be able to communicate with the correct AS to retrieve and process the customer specific service logic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: AT&T Corporation
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EVALUATING NETWORK OPERATION COSTS
    Publication number: 20100100498
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for calculating a cost index in a communication network are described. In one embodiment, a plurality of cost factors associated with a first network operation mode is obtained. A plurality of second cost factors associated with a second network operation mode is subsequently obtained. A first cost index is then determined based on the plurality of cost factors associated with the first network operation mode. Likewise, a second cost index is determined based on the plurality of cost factors associated with the second network operation mode. Afterwards, the first cost index is compared to the second cost index to determine whether a recommendation for an implementation of the second operation mode is warranted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventors: MARIAN CROAK, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for utilizing a tiered flat rate pricing structure in a packet network
    Patent number: 7738641
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for utilizing a tiered flat rate pricing structure for at least one call in a packet network is described. In one embodiment, at least one call is serviced by a call control element. The at least one call is then accounted by associating the call(s) to a billing structure that includes at least three categories, wherein a first category comprises an on-net call-type category, a second category comprises an off-net domestic call-type category, and a third category comprises an off-net international call-type category.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for providing access of network based radio frequency identification information
    Patent number: 8307091
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling consumers to scan RFID tags using home based endpoint devices that can transmit the scanned information to network based services are disclosed. Using the RFID scanned information, consumers can then access, retrieve and view additional information regarding products, in which RFIDs are embedded, on video display devices, such as televisions or video display monitors. This product related information can include interactive technical support, companion product information, or instructional guidelines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for providing end-to-end call completion status
    Patent number: 7583794
    Abstract: The present invention enables a method for following the state of a call and generating defects as function of call completion success as opposed to discrete events that happen at individual network elements during the call. In one embodiment, the invention uses Call Detail Records (CDR) to analyze the end-to-end completion status to measure per call basis defects instead of using defect codes generated by network elements on a per equipment basis. CDR is data associated with a telephone call, including the calling and the called numbers, the date and timestamp, the duration, the call setup delay, and the final handling code of the telephone call.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: AT&T Corp.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for providing a single bill for transactions involving multiple applications
    Patent number: 8184548
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for integrating billing of usage of multiple applications onto a single bill are disclosed. For example, in a single day, a user may download musical selections, watch on demand video sessions, and make numerous phone calls. All the sessions can be activated over a single video endpoint device and through a single network service. Records of these sessions can be generated and aggregated to produce a single billing statement that can be accessed on a near real time basis by the user and paid automatically or at a scheduled time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for enabling global telephony capabilities in communication networks
    Patent number: 9137361
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling a network service provider, e.g., a VoIP network provider, to create configuration files containing network based parameters that support global telephony capabilities (e.g., in country services) such as in country ring tones, dialing patterns, network announcements, and signaling tones that can be offered to users who want in country telephony capabilities independent of their location is disclosed. These global telephony capability configurations can be downloaded to intelligent IP phones or based in the VoIP network for access by subscribers' telephony devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for routing calls to an alternative endpoint during network disruptions
    Patent number: 8064452
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling calls destined for a terminating point on a packet network, e.g., a VoIP network, that is experiencing a service disruption to be forwarded by the network to another endpoint is disclosed. The method enables subscribers to register an alternative number, such as a cell phone number, a relative's phone number, or a work number, that the network can use to forward calls in the event of a service disruption. In one embodiment, the provider can even use an alternative transport network, such as the PSTN, to forward these calls until the VoIP network service is restored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for analyzing proposed service features in a communication network
    Patent number: 7626941
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for analyzing a proposed service feature in a communication network is described. In one example, a call flow for supporting the service feature in the communication network is created, where at least one network component supports the call flow. First cost data for internally developing the at least one network component is determined. Second cost data for procuring the at least one network component from third party entity is determined. The first cost data and the second cost data are processed to generate a recommendation for either internally developing or externally procuring the at least one network element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: AT&T Corp.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for enabling global telephony capabilities in communication networks
    Patent number: 8576832
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling a network service provider, e.g., a VoIP network provider, to create configuration files containing network based parameters that support global telephony capabilities (e.g., in country services) such as in country ring tones, dialing patterns, network announcements, and signaling tones that can be offered to users who want in country telephony capabilities independent of their location is disclosed. These global telephony capability configurations can be downloaded to intelligent IP phones or based in the VoIP network for access by subscribers' telephony devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for analyzing proposed service features in a communication network
    Patent number: 8213584
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for analyzing a proposed service feature in a communication network is described. In one example, a call flow for supporting the service feature in the communication network is created, where at least one network component supports the call flow. First cost data for internally developing the at least one network component is determined. Second cost data for procuring the at least one network component from third party entity is determined. The first cost data and the second cost data are processed to generate a recommendation for either internally developing or externally procuring the at least one network element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for enabling auto-ticketing for endpoint devices
    Patent number: 8094568
    Abstract: A method and system for transmitting data corresponding to at least one endpoint device problem in a packet communications network is described. Specifically, an endpoint device detects at least one problem that pertains to the endpoint device. The endpoint device then generates data pertaining to the endpoint device problem. Lastly, the endpoint device then transmits the data detailing that endpoint device problem to the packet communications network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for placing interactive retail orders
    Patent number: 8660903
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing local retailers, e.g., local restaurants, a network based interactive ordering service are disclosed. The network based interactive ordering service enables local retailers to display their menu online so that electronic orders can be placed by a subscriber of the network. If a selected item is not available, the network informs the subscriber in real time and alternative selections are displayed to the subscribers. The payment for the retail order is charged against the subscriber's network account, credit card account, or prepaid account. The approximate pick up or delivery time is also given to the subscriber at the end of the ordering process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for providing network based virtual tours
    Patent number: 8612512
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing subscribers of network services to enjoy in a virtual environment the experience of visitors who physically visit cultural landmarks, e.g., museums around the world are disclosed. These visitors often rent audio equipment to walk through popular exhibits as they listen to recorded information about each display. Thus, the present method enables a network to provide subscribers with the ability to select audio and video sessions that allow them to virtually stroll through popular destinations or landmarks of interest throughout the world and listen to audio information about each site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING END-TO-END CALL COMPLETION STATUS
    Publication number: 20130343203
    Abstract: The present invention enables a method for following the state of a call and generating defects as function of call completion success as opposed to discrete events that happen at individual network elements during the call. In one embodiment, the invention uses Call Detail Records (CDR) to analyze the end-to-end completion status to measure per call basis defects instead of using defect codes generated by network elements on a per equipment basis. CDR is data associated with a telephone call, including the calling and the called numbers, the date and timestamp, the duration, the call setup delay, and the final handling code of the telephone call.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: MARIAN CROAK, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for activating an incoming call voice session on a video display device
    Patent number: 8867524
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling service providers to support video services by creating a display frame, such as a picture-in-picture display frame, on an active video display device, such as a television (TV), when an incoming call is received are disclosed. The calling party identification and the service logic to manipulate the call are displayed within the display frame. The network can provide service logic functions such as, but are not limited to, answering the call, sending to call to voice mailbox, providing a busy tone to the calling party, and forwarding the call to another SoIP endpoint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
  • Method and apparatus for mapping media access control addresses to service addresses
    Patent number: 8600009
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling broadband access providers to use the subscriber service address associated with the Media Access Control (MAC) address and the Internet Protocol (IP) address of the subscriber's Digital Subscriber Loop (DSL) modem or cable modem as the service address that is sent to the appropriate Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) are disclosed. The present method enables a mapping between a subscriber's VoIP telephone number, broadband access modem MAC and IP addresses, and the subscriber's registered broadband service address to determine the correct PSAP to route an E911 call to.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Marian Croak, Hossein Eslambolchi
Narrow Results

Filter by US Classification