US6122484A — Method and apparatus for processing telephone cal…

Claim 1

Independent Claim 225 words

A method of processing incoming calls directed to a user, said method comprising the steps of: (a) storing in a memory electronic signals including signals representative of network addresses; (b) processing an incoming call from a caller, including communicating information to said caller indicating that said incoming call can be routed to any one of at least two network addresses, sensing the transmission by the caller of a command corresponding to the desired network address and, responsive thereto, routing said incoming call to a network address represented in said memory corresponding to the command transmitted by said caller, (c) generating predetermined signals which to the caller indicate normal call processing operation but to the user indicate that the user can transmit a signal to gain access to system provided functions; (d) detecting receipt of the signal from the user, and, upon receipt of the signal, terminating, if initiated, routing of the call to the network address and instead transferring the user to a command mode; (e) in said command mode, detecting a request by said user for information regarding a current commanded mode by which the system processes incoming calls for said user; (f) recalling from said memory the current commanded mode by which incoming calls are presently processed for said user; and (g) transmitting information which advises said user of said current commanded mode.

Claim 2

Independent Claim 225 words

A method of processing incoming calls directed to a user, said method comprising the steps of: (a) storing in a memory electronic signals including signals representative of network addresses; (b) processing an incoming call from a caller, including communicating information to said caller indicating that said incoming call can be routed to any one of at least two network addresses, sensing the transmission by the caller of a command corresponding to the desired network address and, responsive thereto, routing said incoming call to a network address represented in said memory corresponding to the command transmitted by said caller, (c) generating predetermined signals which to the caller indicate normal call processing operation but to the user indicate that the user can transmit a signal to gain access to system provided functions; (d) detecting receipt of the signal from the user, and, upon receipt of the signal, terminating, if initiated, routing of the call to the network address and instead transferring the user to a command mode; (e) in said command mode, detecting a request by said user for information regarding a current commanded mode by which the system processes incoming calls for said user; (f) recalling from said memory the current commanded mode by which incoming calls are presently processed for said user; and (g) transmitting information which advises said user of said current commanded mode.

Claim 3

Dependent Claim 36 words

The method of claim 1, further including the step of responding to said user transmitting a specific mode command by appropriately changing the current commanded mode by which subsequent incoming calls are directed to said user.

Claim 4

Dependent Claim 22 words

The method of claim 1 wherein said network addresses are telephone network addresses and wherein said incoming calls are incoming telephone calls.

Claim 5

Dependent Claim 16 words

The method of claim 1 wherein said signal is an identification code entered by the user.

Claim 6

Independent Claim 273 words

An apparatus for processing incoming telephone calls directed to a user, said apparatus comprising: (a) a memory for storing signals representative of telephone network addresses; (b) a call processor for processing an incoming telephone call from a caller in accordance with a current commanded mode of handling incoming telephone calls, including communicating information to said caller indicating that said incoming call can be routed to any one of at least two telephone network addresses, sensing the transmission by the caller of a command corresponding to the desired telephone network address and, responsive thereto, routing said incoming call to a telephone network address represented in said memory corresponding to the command transmitted by said caller; (c) a signal generator coupled to said call processor for generating signals which to the caller indicate normal call processing operation but to the user indicate that the user can transmit a signal to gain access to system provided functions; (d) a signal detector coupled to said call processor for detecting receipt of the signal from the user, and, upon receipt of the signal, said call processor terminates, if initiated, routing of the call to the telephone network address and instead transfers the user to a system command mode, said signal detector also detecting a request by said user for information regarding the current commanded mode by which the system processes incoming calls directed to said user; and (e) said call processor, in response to detection of said request, recalling from said memory the current commanded mode by which incoming calls directed to said user are processed and transmits information which advises said user of said current commanded mode.

Claim 7

Independent Claim 273 words

An apparatus for processing incoming telephone calls directed to a user, said apparatus comprising: (a) a memory for storing signals representative of telephone network addresses; (b) a call processor for processing an incoming telephone call from a caller in accordance with a current commanded mode of handling incoming telephone calls, including communicating information to said caller indicating that said incoming call can be routed to any one of at least two telephone network addresses, sensing the transmission by the caller of a command corresponding to the desired telephone network address and, responsive thereto, routing said incoming call to a telephone network address represented in said memory corresponding to the command transmitted by said caller; (c) a signal generator coupled to said call processor for generating signals which to the caller indicate normal call processing operation but to the user indicate that the user can transmit a signal to gain access to system provided functions; (d) a signal detector coupled to said call processor for detecting receipt of the signal from the user, and, upon receipt of the signal, said call processor terminates, if initiated, routing of the call to the telephone network address and instead transfers the user to a system command mode, said signal detector also detecting a request by said user for information regarding the current commanded mode by which the system processes incoming calls directed to said user; and (e) said call processor, in response to detection of said request, recalling from said memory the current commanded mode by which incoming calls directed to said user are processed and transmits information which advises said user of said current commanded mode.

Claim 8

Dependent Claim 52 words

The apparatus of claim 5, wherein: (g) said signal detector also detects a specific mode command signal input by the user, and (h) said call processor responds to the detected specific mode command signal by changing the current commanded mode by which the apparatus processes subsequent incoming calls directed to said user.

Claim 9

Dependent Claim 13 words

The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said signal generator generates ring back tones.

Claim 10

Dependent Claim 16 words

The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said signal is an identification code entered by the user.

Claim 11

Independent Claim 174 words

A method of processing incoming telephone calls directed to a user, said method comprising the steps of: (a) answering an incoming telephone call from a caller and processing the incoming call in accordance with a commanded call-handling mode, wherein the caller is either a typical caller who is trying to contact the user or wherein the caller is the user, and wherein the processing step includes generating signals which to the caller, indicate normal call processing operations but to the user indicate that the user can transmit a signal to gain access to system provided functions; (b) detecting receipt of the signal from the user during the incoming telephone call, and, upon receipt of the signal, terminating current call processing operations and instead transferring the user to a system command mode; (c) detecting a request by said user for information regarding the present commanded mode by which the system processes incoming calls; (d) recalling from said memory the present commanded mode; and (e) transmitting information which advises said user of said present commanded mode.

Claim 12

Independent Claim 174 words

A method of processing incoming telephone calls directed to a user, said method comprising the steps of: (a) answering an incoming telephone call from a caller and processing the incoming call in accordance with a commanded call-handling mode, wherein the caller is either a typical caller who is trying to contact the user or wherein the caller is the user, and wherein the processing step includes generating signals which to the caller, indicate normal call processing operations but to the user indicate that the user can transmit a signal to gain access to system provided functions; (b) detecting receipt of the signal from the user during the incoming telephone call, and, upon receipt of the signal, terminating current call processing operations and instead transferring the user to a system command mode; (c) detecting a request by said user for information regarding the present commanded mode by which the system processes incoming calls; (d) recalling from said memory the present commanded mode; and (e) transmitting information which advises said user of said present commanded mode.

Claim 13

Dependent Claim 38 words

The method of claim 9, further including the step of responding to said user transmitting a specific mode command by appropriately changing the present commanded mode by which the system processes subsequent incoming calls directed to said user.

Claim 14

Dependent Claim 24 words

The method of claim 9 wherein the call processing step communicates the information indicating normal call processing by at least transmitting ring back tones.

Claim 15

Independent Claim 212 words

An apparatus for processing incoming telephone calls directed to a user, said apparatus comprising: (a) a call processor for processing an incoming telephone call from a caller in accordance with a current commanded call-handling mode and for routing said incoming call to a telephone network address represented in a memory, (b) a signal generator coupled to said call processor for generating signals during said incoming telephone call which to the caller indicate normal call processing operation but to the user indicate that the user can transmit an identification code to gain access to system provided functions; and (c) a signal detector coupled to said call processor for detecting receipt of a valid identification code from the user during said incoming telephone call, and, upon receipt of the valid identification code, said call processor terminates, if initiated, routing of the call to the telephone network address and instead transfers the user to a system command mode, said signal detector also detecting a request by said user for information regarding the current commanded call-handling mode by which the call processor processes incoming calls directed to said user, and (d) said call processor recalling from said memory the current commanded call-handling mode, and transmits information which advises said user of said current commanded call-handling mode.

Claim 16

Independent Claim 212 words

An apparatus for processing incoming telephone calls directed to a user, said apparatus comprising: (a) a call processor for processing an incoming telephone call from a caller in accordance with a current commanded call-handling mode and for routing said incoming call to a telephone network address represented in a memory, (b) a signal generator coupled to said call processor for generating signals during said incoming telephone call which to the caller indicate normal call processing operation but to the user indicate that the user can transmit an identification code to gain access to system provided functions; and (c) a signal detector coupled to said call processor for detecting receipt of a valid identification code from the user during said incoming telephone call, and, upon receipt of the valid identification code, said call processor terminates, if initiated, routing of the call to the telephone network address and instead transfers the user to a system command mode, said signal detector also detecting a request by said user for information regarding the current commanded call-handling mode by which the call processor processes incoming calls directed to said user, and (d) said call processor recalling from said memory the current commanded call-handling mode, and transmits information which advises said user of said current commanded call-handling mode.

Claim 17

Dependent Claim 54 words

The apparatus of claim 12, wherein: (e) said signal detector also detects a specific mode command signal input by the user, and (f) said call processor responds to the detected specific mode command signal by changing the current commanded call handling mode by which the system processes subsequent incoming calls directed to said user.

Claim 18

Dependent Claim 12 words

The apparatus of claim 12, wherein said signal generator generates ringing sounds.

Claim 19

Independent Claim 94 words

A method of processing incoming telephone calls directed to a user, said method comprising the steps of: (a) answering said incoming calls and detecting a valid identification code received during an incoming telephone call, and, upon receipt of the valid identification code, transferring the user to a command mode, and, (b) in said command mode: (i) identifying a request for information regarding a present mode by which incoming calls are processed, (ii) recalling from a memory the present mode by which incoming calls are processed, and (iii) transmitting the recalled information to said user.

Claim 20

Independent Claim 94 words

A method of processing incoming telephone calls directed to a user, said method comprising the steps of: (a) answering said incoming calls and detecting a valid identification code received during an incoming telephone call, and, upon receipt of the valid identification code, transferring the user to a command mode, and, (b) in said command mode: (i) identifying a request for information regarding a present mode by which incoming calls are processed, (ii) recalling from a memory the present mode by which incoming calls are processed, and (iii) transmitting the recalled information to said user.

Claim 21

Dependent Claim 41 words

The method of claim 15, further including the step of generating signals which to the caller indicate normal call processing operations but to the user indicate that the user can transmit their identification code to gain access to system provided functions.

Claim 22

Dependent Claim 23 words

The method of claim 16 wherein the call processing step communicates the information indicating normal call processing by at least transmitting ringing sounds.

Claim 23

Dependent Claim 38 words

The method of claim 15, further including the step of responding to said user transmitting a specific mode command by appropriately changing a present commanded mode by which the system processes subsequent incoming calls directed to said user.

Claim 24

Independent Claim 97 words

An apparatus for processing incoming telephone calls directed to a user, said apparatus comprising: (a) a detector for detecting receipt of a signal during an incoming telephone call placed by the user, (b) means for transferring the user to a command mode upon receipt of the signal, and (c) means operable in said command mode for identifying a request from the user for information regarding a current mode by which incoming calls are processed, recalling from a memory the current mode by which incoming calls are processed, and transmitting information regarding the current mode to said user.

Claim 25

Independent Claim 97 words

An apparatus for processing incoming telephone calls directed to a user, said apparatus comprising: (a) a detector for detecting receipt of a signal during an incoming telephone call placed by the user, (b) means for transferring the user to a command mode upon receipt of the signal, and (c) means operable in said command mode for identifying a request from the user for information regarding a current mode by which incoming calls are processed, recalling from a memory the current mode by which incoming calls are processed, and transmitting information regarding the current mode to said user.

Claim 26

Dependent Claim 103 words

The apparatus of claim 19, further including: (d) a call processor for processing incoming calls in accordance with a commanded mode, (e) a signal generator coupled to said call processor for generating signals which to a caller indicate normal call processing operation but to the user indicate that the user can transmit an identification code to gain access to system provided functions; and (f) wherein said detector is coupled to said call processor and upon detecting receipt of the signal from the user, said call processor terminates current call processing of an incoming call and instead transfers the user to said command mode.

Claim 27

Dependent Claim 57 words

The apparatus of claim 20, wherein said signal is an identification signal and wherein: (g) said detector also detects a specific mode command signal input by the user, and (h) said call processor responds to the specific mode command signal by changing the current commanded mode by which subsequent incoming calls directed to said user are processed.

Claim 28

Dependent Claim 13 words

The apparatus of claim 20, wherein said signal generator generates ring back tones.

Claim 29

Dependent Claim 16 words

The apparatus of claim 19, wherein said signal is an identification code input by the user.

Claim 30

Independent Claim 106 words

A method of processing incoming calls directed to a user, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing incoming calls directed to the user in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, at least one of said two different modes causing an incoming call for the user to be forwarded to a stored network address, and (b) identifying a message center control signal from a caller including while an incoming call is being forwarded to any stored network address, and, in response to identifying said message center control signal, permitting said caller to store a message for later access by the user.

Claim 31

Independent Claim 106 words

A method of processing incoming calls directed to a user, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing incoming calls directed to the user in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, at least one of said two different modes causing an incoming call for the user to be forwarded to a stored network address, and (b) identifying a message center control signal from a caller including while an incoming call is being forwarded to any stored network address, and, in response to identifying said message center control signal, permitting said caller to store a message for later access by the user.

Claim 32

Independent Claim 116 words

A method of processing incoming calls directed to a user, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing calls directed to the user in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, (b) detecting receipt of a valid identification signal during a call made by the user, and, upon receipt of the valid identification signal, transferring the user to a system command mode, and, (c) in said command mode: (i) identifying a request from the user for information regarding a current mode by which incoming calls are processed, (ii) recalling from a memory the current mode by which incoming calls are processed, and (iii) transmitting information regarding the current mode to said user.

Claim 33

Independent Claim 116 words

A method of processing incoming calls directed to a user, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing calls directed to the user in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, (b) detecting receipt of a valid identification signal during a call made by the user, and, upon receipt of the valid identification signal, transferring the user to a system command mode, and, (c) in said command mode: (i) identifying a request from the user for information regarding a current mode by which incoming calls are processed, (ii) recalling from a memory the current mode by which incoming calls are processed, and (iii) transmitting information regarding the current mode to said user.

Claim 34

Dependent Claim 41 words

The method of claim 25, further including the step of generating signals which to the caller indicate normal call processing operations but to the user indicate that the user can transmit the identification signal to gain access to system provided functions.

Claim 35

Dependent Claim 21 words

The method of claim 26, wherein the step of generating signals comprises generating at least ring back tones to the caller.

Claim 36

Dependent Claim 119 words

A control system for connection to a network for receiving and processing calls from a caller to a user, the control system comprising: call processing means for processing calls to the control system directed to a specific user in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, at least one of said two different modes causing a call for the user to be forwarded to a stored network address, and means for identifying a message center control signal from said caller including while a call is being forwarded to any stored network address, and, in response to identifying said message center control signal, permitting said caller to store a message for later access by the user.

Claim 37

Dependent Claim 119 words

A control system for connection to a network for receiving and processing calls from a caller to a user, the control system comprising: call processing means for processing calls to the control system directed to a specific user in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, at least one of said two different modes causing a call for the user to be forwarded to a stored network address, and means for identifying a message center control signal from said caller including while a call is being forwarded to any stored network address, and, in response to identifying said message center control signal, permitting said caller to store a message for later access by the user.

Claim 38

Dependent Claim 128 words

A control system for connection to a network for receiving and processing calls from a caller to a user, the control system comprising: call processing means for processing calls to the control system directed to a specific user in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, and means for detecting receipt of a valid identification signal during a call made by the user, and, upon receipt of the valid identification signal, transferring the user to a command mode, and, in said command mode identifying a request from the user for information regarding a present mode by which incoming calls are processed, recalling from a memory the present mode by which incoming calls are processed, and transmitting information regarding the present mode to said user.

Claim 39

Dependent Claim 128 words

A control system for connection to a network for receiving and processing calls from a caller to a user, the control system comprising: call processing means for processing calls to the control system directed to a specific user in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, and means for detecting receipt of a valid identification signal during a call made by the user, and, upon receipt of the valid identification signal, transferring the user to a command mode, and, in said command mode identifying a request from the user for information regarding a present mode by which incoming calls are processed, recalling from a memory the present mode by which incoming calls are processed, and transmitting information regarding the present mode to said user.

Claim 40

Dependent Claim 41 words

The control system of claim 29, further including means for generating signals which to the caller indicate normal call processing operations but to the user indicate that the user can transmit the identification signal to gain access to system provided functions.

Claim 41

Dependent Claim 19 words

The control system of claim 30, wherein the generating means generates at least ring back tones to the caller.

Claim 42

Independent Claim 153 words

A method of processing incoming calls directed to a user, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing incoming calls directed to the user in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, (b) detecting a signal from the user during an incoming call placed by the user, and, upon receipt of the signal, terminating, if initiated, processing of the call in the selected call processing mode and instead transferring the user to a command mode; (c) detecting a request by said user for information regarding the present call processing mode by which incoming calls directed to said user are processed; (d) recalling from said memory the present mode by which incoming calls directed to said user are processed; (e) transmitting information which advises said user of the present call processing mode; and (f) implementing user call processing mode changes in the command mode in response to predefined command sequences.

Claim 43

Independent Claim 153 words

A method of processing incoming calls directed to a user, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing incoming calls directed to the user in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, (b) detecting a signal from the user during an incoming call placed by the user, and, upon receipt of the signal, terminating, if initiated, processing of the call in the selected call processing mode and instead transferring the user to a command mode; (c) detecting a request by said user for information regarding the present call processing mode by which incoming calls directed to said user are processed; (d) recalling from said memory the present mode by which incoming calls directed to said user are processed; (e) transmitting information which advises said user of the present call processing mode; and (f) implementing user call processing mode changes in the command mode in response to predefined command sequences.

Claim 44

Dependent Claim 20 words

The method of claim 32, further comprising: (g) automatically transmitting a selected predetermined command sequence at a user controlled device.

Claim 45

Independent Claim 90 words

A method of processing incoming calls directed to a user via a network providing identification information regarding a calling line, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing incoming calls directed to the user in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, and (b) answering an incoming call placed by the user, and (c) matching identification information transmitted in connection with said incoming call with stored identification information for the user and, if a match occurs, then processing a change to the present call processing mode.

Claim 46

Independent Claim 90 words

A method of processing incoming calls directed to a user via a network providing identification information regarding a calling line, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing incoming calls directed to the user in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, and (b) answering an incoming call placed by the user, and (c) matching identification information transmitted in connection with said incoming call with stored identification information for the user and, if a match occurs, then processing a change to the present call processing mode.

Claim 47

Dependent Claim 21 words

The method of claim 34 where in said identification information is automatic number identification (ANI) information provided by said telephone network.

Claim 48

Dependent Claim 56 words

The method of claim 34 wherein the user has a speed calling service wherein multi-digit numbers can be recalled and dialed by the user entering a code, and wherein a sequence of speed calling numbers are programmed as mode control signals, whereby a user can change the present call processing mode by entering an appropriate code.

Claim 49

Dependent Claim 111 words

A control system for processing incoming telephonic calls directed to a user at a first network address via a communications network providing identification information regarding the calling line, said system comprising: (a) a call processor for processing calls directed to the user at said first network address in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, and (b) an apparatus for answering an incoming call from a caller and for identifying the caller by matching the identification information regarding the calling line with stored identification information for said user and, if a match occurs, then processing a command from said user to change the present call processing mode.

Claim 50

Dependent Claim 111 words

A control system for processing incoming telephonic calls directed to a user at a first network address via a communications network providing identification information regarding the calling line, said system comprising: (a) a call processor for processing calls directed to the user at said first network address in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, and (b) an apparatus for answering an incoming call from a caller and for identifying the caller by matching the identification information regarding the calling line with stored identification information for said user and, if a match occurs, then processing a command from said user to change the present call processing mode.

Claim 51

Dependent Claim 25 words

The control system of claim 37 wherein the identification information regarding the calling line provided by the communications network is automatic number identification (ANI) information.

Claim 52

Dependent Claim 59 words

The control system of claim 37 wherein said user has a speed calling service wherein multi-digit numbers can be recalled and dialed by the user entering a code, and wherein a sequence of said speed calling numbers are programmed as mode command control signals, whereby a user can change the user's call processing mode by entering the appropriate code.

Claim 53

Independent Claim 116 words

A method of processing incoming calls from a communications network providing identification information regarding a calling line, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing calls directed to a user at a first network address in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, (b) answering a call initiated by the user and identifying the user by matching identification information associated with the call with stored identification information for the user, and (c) if a match occurs, then processing a mode control signal from the user while the user is at a network address remote from the first network address to change the call processing mode by which subsequent incoming calls are processed.

Claim 54

Independent Claim 116 words

A method of processing incoming calls from a communications network providing identification information regarding a calling line, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing calls directed to a user at a first network address in a selected one of at least two different call processing modes, (b) answering a call initiated by the user and identifying the user by matching identification information associated with the call with stored identification information for the user, and (c) if a match occurs, then processing a mode control signal from the user while the user is at a network address remote from the first network address to change the call processing mode by which subsequent incoming calls are processed.

Claim 55

Dependent Claim 20 words

The method of claim 40 wherein said identification information is automatic number identification (ANI) information provided by said communications network.

Claim 56

Dependent Claim 37 words

The method of claim 40 wherein calls are made by a user inputting a sequence which includes digits to identify one of said call processing modes and wherein said sequence is stored for access by the user.

Claim 57

Dependent Claim 162 words

A control system for connection to a network, said control system comprising: (a) a communications port for connection to communication facilities of said network for receiving incoming calls via said facilities directed to a network address, said network providing identification information regarding a calling party to said control system; (b) a call processor for processing an incoming call received via said communications port and directed to said network address, said call processor having a plurality of call processing modes, wherein incoming calls to said control system are made by a user inputting a sequence which includes digits identifying one of said plurality of call processing modes, and wherein the call processor answers an incoming call to said control system by said user placed from a different network address by matching the identification information associated with the incoming call with stored identification information for said user and, if a match occurs, then processing said digits as a mode control signal from said user.

Claim 58

Dependent Claim 162 words

A control system for connection to a network, said control system comprising: (a) a communications port for connection to communication facilities of said network for receiving incoming calls via said facilities directed to a network address, said network providing identification information regarding a calling party to said control system; (b) a call processor for processing an incoming call received via said communications port and directed to said network address, said call processor having a plurality of call processing modes, wherein incoming calls to said control system are made by a user inputting a sequence which includes digits identifying one of said plurality of call processing modes, and wherein the call processor answers an incoming call to said control system by said user placed from a different network address by matching the identification information associated with the incoming call with stored identification information for said user and, if a match occurs, then processing said digits as a mode control signal from said user.

Claim 59

Dependent Claim 24 words

The control system of claim 43 wherein the identification information regarding the calling party provided by the network is automatic number identification (ANI) information.

Claim 60

Dependent Claim 16 words

The control system of claim 43 wherein said sequence is stored for access by said user.

Claim 61

Independent Claim 182 words

A method of processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a paging system wherein each of a plurality of users carries a paging device which receives signals transmitted by the paging system and wherein each paging device includes a transmitter and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter to selectively transmit from the paging device a plurality of data signals differing from each other as to the particular information they contain, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing calls directed to a user in accordance with an invoked call processing mode for said user, the invoked call processing mode for the user being a selected one of at least two call processing modes differing from each other without regard to any differences between telephone numbers to which incoming calls will be connected, (b) changing the invoked call processing mode for the user as directed by particular information in one of said plurality of data signals which has been transmitted by and received from the user's paging device to invoke a corresponding call processing mode for the user.

Claim 62

Independent Claim 182 words

A method of processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a paging system wherein each of a plurality of users carries a paging device which receives signals transmitted by the paging system and wherein each paging device includes a transmitter and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter to selectively transmit from the paging device a plurality of data signals differing from each other as to the particular information they contain, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing calls directed to a user in accordance with an invoked call processing mode for said user, the invoked call processing mode for the user being a selected one of at least two call processing modes differing from each other without regard to any differences between telephone numbers to which incoming calls will be connected, (b) changing the invoked call processing mode for the user as directed by particular information in one of said plurality of data signals which has been transmitted by and received from the user's paging device to invoke a corresponding call processing mode for the user.

Claim 63

Dependent Claim 232 words

A call control system for processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a paging system wherein each of a plurality of users carriers a paging device to receive signals transmitted by the paging system and wherein each paging device includes a transmitter and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of data signals from the paging device differing from each other as to the particular information they contain, said system comprising: (a) a call processor for processing calls directed to a particular user in accordance with an invoked call processing mode for said particular user, the invoked call processing mode for said user being a selected one of at least two call processing modes differing from each other without regard to any differences between telephone numbers to which incoming calls will be connected, (b) a receiver for receiving data signals originating from users' paging devices, and (c) a detector coupled to said receiver and to said call processor, said detector (i) being responsive to different data signals sent by and received from said user's paging device to direct the invoked call processing mode for said user and (ii), in response to particular information in a data signal received, causing the invoked call processing mode for said user to correspond to the particular information in the data signal received from said user's paging device.

Claim 64

Dependent Claim 232 words

A call control system for processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a paging system wherein each of a plurality of users carriers a paging device to receive signals transmitted by the paging system and wherein each paging device includes a transmitter and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of data signals from the paging device differing from each other as to the particular information they contain, said system comprising: (a) a call processor for processing calls directed to a particular user in accordance with an invoked call processing mode for said particular user, the invoked call processing mode for said user being a selected one of at least two call processing modes differing from each other without regard to any differences between telephone numbers to which incoming calls will be connected, (b) a receiver for receiving data signals originating from users' paging devices, and (c) a detector coupled to said receiver and to said call processor, said detector (i) being responsive to different data signals sent by and received from said user's paging device to direct the invoked call processing mode for said user and (ii), in response to particular information in a data signal received, causing the invoked call processing mode for said user to correspond to the particular information in the data signal received from said user's paging device.

Claim 65

Dependent Claim 37 words

The call control system of claim 47 wherein said transmitter control system includes a keypad and electronics for permitting the user to manually control said transmitter control system to cause said transmitter to transmit said data signal.

Claim 66

Dependent Claim 27 words

The call control system of claim wherein said transmitter control system comprises a keypad and electronics allowing the user to manually revise the selected call processing mode.

Claim 67

Dependent Claim 21 words

The call control system of claim 47 wherein each paging device includes a keypad for entry of commands by the user.

Claim 68

Dependent Claim 68 words

The combination of claim 47 further combination with a locator system wherein said locator system comprises a plurality of predeterminedly located locator transmitters, with each locator transmitter transmitting to a proximate paging device an identification signal, and wherein said transmitter control system controls said transmitter to transmit a signal related to said identification signal to said call control system to change the call processor's selected call processing mode.

Claim 69

Dependent Claim 60 words

The combination of claim 47 in further combination with a locater system wherein said locator system comprises a plurality of predeterminedly located locator transmitters, with each locator transmitter transmitting to a proximate paging device a location signal, and wherein said transmitter control system controls said transmitter to transmit a signal related to said location signal to said call control system.

Claim 70

Dependent Claim 27 words

The combination of claim 52 wherein said location signal is an ultrasonic signal and wherein each paging device includes an ultrasonic receiver for receiving said ultrasonic signal.

Claim 71

Dependent Claim 45 words

The call control system of claim 52 further including electronic processing means, which, in response to receipt of said signal related to said location signal, revises a control system memory, whereby the control system will automatically forward incoming calls to a telephone near said user.

Claim 72

Dependent Claim 41 words

The control system of claim 52 further including electronic processing means, which in response to receipt of said signal related to said location signal, revises the call processing mode by which calls to the system are handled for a specific user.

Claim 73

Independent Claim 170 words

A method of processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a paging system wherein each user carriers a paging device to receive signals broadcast from the paging system and wherein each paging device includes a transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of different data signals and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing calls directed to a user in accordance with data stored in a memory, in a mode selected for that user from a plurality of call processing modes differing from each other without regard to differences between telephone numbers to which incoming calls will be connected, (b) transmitting a selected data signal from the user's paging device, and (c) receiving the selected data signal and, in response thereto, causing the data stored in the memory to correspond to the data signal transmitted from the user's paging device to thereby process incoming calls to the user in a corresponding one of said plurality of call processing modes.

Claim 74

Independent Claim 170 words

A method of processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a paging system wherein each user carriers a paging device to receive signals broadcast from the paging system and wherein each paging device includes a transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of different data signals and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing calls directed to a user in accordance with data stored in a memory, in a mode selected for that user from a plurality of call processing modes differing from each other without regard to differences between telephone numbers to which incoming calls will be connected, (b) transmitting a selected data signal from the user's paging device, and (c) receiving the selected data signal and, in response thereto, causing the data stored in the memory to correspond to the data signal transmitted from the user's paging device to thereby process incoming calls to the user in a corresponding one of said plurality of call processing modes.

Claim 75

Dependent Claim 203 words

A call control system for processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a paging system wherein each user carriers a paging device to receive signals broadcast from the paging system with a unique identification code assigned to each paging device and wherein each paging device includes a transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of different data signals and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter, said system comprising: (a) a call processor for processing calls directed to each particular user in accordance with data stored in a memory, said data indicating a mode selected for the particular user from a plurality of modes differing from each other without regard to differences between telephone numbers to which incoming calls will be connected, (b) a receiver for receiving a plurality of different data signals originating from a user's paging device, and (c) a detector operatively coupled to said receiver and to said memory, said detector being responsive to each one of said different data signals for updating the data stored in said memory to correspond to the data signal received from the user's paging device and thereby to cause the selected call processing mode to correspond to the received data signal.

Claim 76

Dependent Claim 203 words

A call control system for processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a paging system wherein each user carriers a paging device to receive signals broadcast from the paging system with a unique identification code assigned to each paging device and wherein each paging device includes a transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of different data signals and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter, said system comprising: (a) a call processor for processing calls directed to each particular user in accordance with data stored in a memory, said data indicating a mode selected for the particular user from a plurality of modes differing from each other without regard to differences between telephone numbers to which incoming calls will be connected, (b) a receiver for receiving a plurality of different data signals originating from a user's paging device, and (c) a detector operatively coupled to said receiver and to said memory, said detector being responsive to each one of said different data signals for updating the data stored in said memory to correspond to the data signal received from the user's paging device and thereby to cause the selected call processing mode to correspond to the received data signal.

Claim 77

Dependent Claim 37 words

The call control system of claim 57 wherein said transmitter control system includes a keypad and electronics for permitting the user to manually control said transmitter control system to cause said transmitter to transmit said data signal.

Claim 78

Dependent Claim 29 words

The call control system of claim 57 wherein said transmitter control system comprises a keypad and electronics allowing the user to manually revise the data stored in said memory.

Claim 79

Dependent Claim 21 words

The call control system of claim 57 wherein each paging device includes a keypad for entry of commands by the user.

Claim 80

Dependent Claim 65 words

The call control system of claim 57 in combination with a locator system wherein said locator system comprises a plurality of predeterminedly located locator transmitters, with each locator transmitter transmitting to a proximate paging device an identification signal, and wherein said transmitter control system controls said transmitter to transmit a signal related to said identification signal to said call control system to modify said memory.

Claim 81

Dependent Claim 59 words

The call control system of claim 57 in combination with a locator system wherein said locator system comprises a plurality of predeterminedly located locator transmitters, with each locator transmitter transmitting to a proximate paging device a location signal, and wherein said transmitter control system controls said transmitter to transmit a signal related to said location signal to said apparatus.

Claim 82

Dependent Claim 27 words

The apparatus of claim 62 wherein said location signal is an ultrasonic signal and wherein each paging device includes an ultrasonic receiver for receiving said ultrasonic signal.

Claim 83

Dependent Claim 46 words

The call control system of claim 62 further including electronic processing means, which, in response to receipt of said signal related to said location signal, revises said control system memory, whereby the call control system will automatically forward incoming calls to a telephone near said user.

Claim 84

Dependent Claim 39 words

The control system of claim 62 further including electronic processing means, which, in response to receipt of said signal related to said location signal, revises the manner in which calls to the system are handled for a specific user.

Claim 85

Independent Claim 237 words

A method of processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a network-accessible transmitting system, wherein each of a plurality of users carriers a bidirectional device, the bidirectional device receiving signals transmitted by the network-accessible transmitting system and also including a transmitter and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of different data signals from the bidirectional device, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing calls directed to a user in accordance with an invoked call processing mode for said user, the invoked call processing mode for the user being one of at least two different call processing modes selected from a set of different call processing modes wherein call forwarding to different telephone network addresses constitutes different call processing modes; (b) alerting users of pending calls from calling parties by transmitting alerting signals via the network-accessible transmitting system to the user's bidirectional device; (c) changing the invoked call processing mode for the user according to each of a plurality of particular control data signals commanding a change to a particular different call processing mode which has been transmitted by and received from the user's bidirectional device, changes to different call processing modes being implemented at times, including periods while a call is pending after alerting signals have been sent to the user's bidirectional device, when the commanding control data signals are received from the user's bidirectional device.

Claim 86

Independent Claim 237 words

A method of processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a network-accessible transmitting system, wherein each of a plurality of users carriers a bidirectional device, the bidirectional device receiving signals transmitted by the network-accessible transmitting system and also including a transmitter and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of different data signals from the bidirectional device, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing calls directed to a user in accordance with an invoked call processing mode for said user, the invoked call processing mode for the user being one of at least two different call processing modes selected from a set of different call processing modes wherein call forwarding to different telephone network addresses constitutes different call processing modes; (b) alerting users of pending calls from calling parties by transmitting alerting signals via the network-accessible transmitting system to the user's bidirectional device; (c) changing the invoked call processing mode for the user according to each of a plurality of particular control data signals commanding a change to a particular different call processing mode which has been transmitted by and received from the user's bidirectional device, changes to different call processing modes being implemented at times, including periods while a call is pending after alerting signals have been sent to the user's bidirectional device, when the commanding control data signals are received from the user's bidirectional device.

Claim 87

Dependent Claim 35 words

The call processing method of claim 66 wherein the set of different call processing modes includes call processing modes differing from each other irrespective of differences in telephone network addresses to which calls are forwarded.

Claim 88

Dependent Claim 240 words

A call control system for processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a transmitting system wherein each of a plurality of users carriers a bidirectional device to receive signals transmitted by the transmitting system and wherein each bidirectional device includes a transmitter and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of data signals from the bidirectional device, said system comprising: (a) a call processor for processing incoming calls directed to a particular user in accordance with an invoked call processing mode for said particular user, the invoked call processing mode for said particular user being selected from a set including a plurality of different call processing modes wherein call forwarding to different telephone network addresses constitutes different call processing modes; (b) a receiver for receiving data signals originating from users' bidirectional devices, and (c) a detector coupled to said receiver and to said call processor, said detector (i) being responsive, at times including while an incoming call directed to the particular user is pending, to particular control data signals received from said particular user's bidirectional device directing the call processor to change the call processing mode invoked for said particular user to correspond to the particular directing control data signals, and (ii) responding to receipt of such control data signals by causing the invoked call processing mode of said call processor to change to correspond to such particular control data signals.

Claim 89

Dependent Claim 240 words

A call control system for processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a transmitting system wherein each of a plurality of users carriers a bidirectional device to receive signals transmitted by the transmitting system and wherein each bidirectional device includes a transmitter and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of data signals from the bidirectional device, said system comprising: (a) a call processor for processing incoming calls directed to a particular user in accordance with an invoked call processing mode for said particular user, the invoked call processing mode for said particular user being selected from a set including a plurality of different call processing modes wherein call forwarding to different telephone network addresses constitutes different call processing modes; (b) a receiver for receiving data signals originating from users' bidirectional devices, and (c) a detector coupled to said receiver and to said call processor, said detector (i) being responsive, at times including while an incoming call directed to the particular user is pending, to particular control data signals received from said particular user's bidirectional device directing the call processor to change the call processing mode invoked for said particular user to correspond to the particular directing control data signals, and (ii) responding to receipt of such control data signals by causing the invoked call processing mode of said call processor to change to correspond to such particular control data signals.

Claim 90

Dependent Claim 42 words

The call control system of claim 68 wherein said transmitter control system includes a keypad and associated electronics for permitting the user to manually enter commands causing said transmitter control system to control said transmitter to transmit said directing control data signals.

Claim 91

Dependent Claim 35 words

The call control system of claim 69 wherein the set of different call processing modes includes call processing modes differing from each other irrespective of differences in telephone network addresses to which calls are forwarded.

Claim 92

Dependent Claim 69 words

The call control system of claim 68 combination with a locator system wherein said locator system comprises a plurality of predeterminedly located locator transmitters, with each locator transmitter transmitting to a proximate bidirectional device an identification signal, and wherein said transmitter control system controls said transmitter to transmit a signal related to said identification signal to said call control system to change the call processor's selected call processing mode.

Claim 93

Dependent Claim 61 words

The call control system of claim 68 in combination with a locator system wherein said locator system comprises a plurality of predeterminedly located locator transmitters, with each locator transmitter transmitting to a proximate bidirectional device a location signal, and wherein said transmitter control system controls said transmitter to transmit a signal related to said location signal to said call control system.

Claim 94

Dependent Claim 27 words

The combination of claim 72 wherein said location signal is an ultrasonic signal and wherein each bidirectional device includes an ultrasonic receiver for receiving said ultrasonic signal.

Claim 95

Dependent Claim 42 words

The call control system of claim 72 further including electronic processing means, which, in response to receipt of said signal related to said location signal, revises the call processing mode by which calls to the system are handled for a specific user.

Claim 96

Independent Claim 190 words

A method of processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a transmitting system wherein each user carriers a bidirectional device to receive signals broadcast from the transmitting system and wherein each bidirectional device includes a transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of different data signals and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing calls directed to a user in a first mode selected for that user from a plurality of different call processing modes in accordance with data stored in a memory, (b) transmitting a selected control data signal from the user's bidirectional device directing a change to a second call processing mode selected from the plurality of different call processing modes, the second call processing mode being different from the first call processing mode, and (c) receiving the selected control data signal and thereupon responding, even while an incoming call is pending, by causing the data stored in the memory to correspond to the control data signal transmitted from the user's bidirectional device to thereby process incoming calls to the user in the second call processing mode.

Claim 97

Independent Claim 190 words

A method of processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a transmitting system wherein each user carriers a bidirectional device to receive signals broadcast from the transmitting system and wherein each bidirectional device includes a transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of different data signals and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter, said method comprising the steps of: (a) processing calls directed to a user in a first mode selected for that user from a plurality of different call processing modes in accordance with data stored in a memory, (b) transmitting a selected control data signal from the user's bidirectional device directing a change to a second call processing mode selected from the plurality of different call processing modes, the second call processing mode being different from the first call processing mode, and (c) receiving the selected control data signal and thereupon responding, even while an incoming call is pending, by causing the data stored in the memory to correspond to the control data signal transmitted from the user's bidirectional device to thereby process incoming calls to the user in the second call processing mode.

Claim 98

Dependent Claim 30 words

The method of claim 75 wherein the step of transmitting a selected control data signal occurs in response to the user commanding a change to the second call processing mode.

Claim 99

Dependent Claim 32 words

The method of claim 75 wherein modes of the plurality of different call processing modes differ from each other irrespective of different telephone network addresses to which an incoming call is forwarded.

Claim 100

Dependent Claim 227 words

A call control system for processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a transmitting system wherein each user carriers a bidirectional device to receive signals broadcast from the transmitting system with a unique identification code assigned to each bidirectional device and wherein each bidirectional device includes a transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of different data signals and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter, said system comprising: (a) a call processor for processing calls directed to each particular user in accordance with data stored in a memory, said data indicating a call processing mode selected for the particular user from a plurality of different call processing modes wherein forwarding a call to a different telephone network address constitutes a different call processing mode, (b) a receiver for receiving a plurality of different data signals originating from a user's bidirectional device, and (c) a detector operatively coupled to said receiver and to said memory, said detector being responsive at times including while an incoming call to the user is pending to control data signals transmitted from said bidirectional device directing the call processor to update the data stored in said memory to correspond to the control data signal received from the user's bidirectional device and thereby cause the selected call processing mode to correspond to that directed by the transmitted control data signal.

Claim 101

Dependent Claim 227 words

A call control system for processing incoming calls from a communications network in cooperation with a transmitting system wherein each user carriers a bidirectional device to receive signals broadcast from the transmitting system with a unique identification code assigned to each bidirectional device and wherein each bidirectional device includes a transmitter to selectively transmit a plurality of different data signals and a transmitter control system for controlling said transmitter, said system comprising: (a) a call processor for processing calls directed to each particular user in accordance with data stored in a memory, said data indicating a call processing mode selected for the particular user from a plurality of different call processing modes wherein forwarding a call to a different telephone network address constitutes a different call processing mode, (b) a receiver for receiving a plurality of different data signals originating from a user's bidirectional device, and (c) a detector operatively coupled to said receiver and to said memory, said detector being responsive at times including while an incoming call to the user is pending to control data signals transmitted from said bidirectional device directing the call processor to update the data stored in said memory to correspond to the control data signal received from the user's bidirectional device and thereby cause the selected call processing mode to correspond to that directed by the transmitted control data signal.

Claim 102

Dependent Claim 31 words

The call control system of claim 78 wherein user actions command the bidirectional device to transmit a plurality of different control data signals directing a plurality of different call processing modes.

Claim 103

Dependent Claim 41 words

The call control system of claim 79 wherein the plurality of different call processing modes directed by command of the user includes call processing modes differing from each other irrespective of differences between telephone network addresses to which calls are forwarded.

Claim 104

Dependent Claim 65 words

The call control system of claim 78 in combination with a locator system wherein said locator system comprises a plurality of predeterminedly located locator transmitters, with each locator transmitter transmitting to a proximate bidirectional device an identification signal, and wherein said transmitter control system controls said transmitter to transmit a signal related to said identification signal to said call control system to modify said memory.

Claim 105

Dependent Claim 59 words

The call control system of claim 78 in combination with a locator system wherein said locator system comprises a plurality of predeterminedly located locator transmitters, with each locator transmitter transmitting to a proximate bidirectional device a location signal, and wherein said transmitter control system controls said transmitter to transmit a signal related to said location signal to said apparatus.

Claim 106

Dependent Claim 27 words

The apparatus of claim 82 wherein said location signal is an ultrasonic signal and wherein each bidirectional device includes an ultrasonic receiver for receiving said ultrasonic signal.

Claim 107

Dependent Claim 46 words

The call control system of claim 82 further including electronic processing means, which, in response to receipt of said signal related to said location signal, revises said control system memory, whereby the call control system will automatically forward incoming calls to a telephone near said user.

Claim 108

Dependent Claim 39 words

The control system of claim 82 further including electronic processing means, which, in response to receipt of said signal related to said location signal, revise the manner in which calls to the system are handled for a specific user.

Annuity Stage	Window Opens	Payment Deadline	Surcharge Period Until	Estimated Fee	Status
3.5 Years (Year 4)	2003-09-19	2004-03-20	2004-09-19	$2000.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
7.5 Years (Year 8)	2007-09-19	2008-03-20	2008-09-19	$3760.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
11.5 Years (Year 12)	2011-09-19	2012-03-20	2012-09-19	$7700.00	Window Closed / Lapsed

Method and apparatus for processing telephone calls

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