DE19943742B4 - A method for providing additional services to a subscriber line - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for providing additional services to a subscriber line, in particular concerning the integration of communication via circuit switching networks and communication via packet switching networks, wherein at least one terminal is connected to the subscriber line and the subscriber line directly or indirectly with a switch one of a User selected communication network is connected. According to the invention, starting from an already existing connection between the switch (32, 31) and the terminal (51, 52, 61, 62) to an incoming or outgoing further connection request or service request, signaling between the switch (32, 31) and the subscriber line takes place (5, 6) over the already existing connection and at least one additional service regarding the new connection request or service request is made available at the subscriber connection.

Description

The The invention relates to methods for providing additional Services at a subscriber line and a communication system.

background the invention

With The deregulation of the telecommunications market is the user of telecommunications services a variety of telecommunications providers with associated Communication networks available. To the switching of telecommunication connections from a communication network a first provider to a second communication network of a to enable the second provider the communication networks are interconnected by so-called interconnect connections (also known as intercarrier connections). you also speaks of POIs (Point of Interconnect).

Especially has the former monopolist, in Germany Deutsche Telekom AG, with a variety of alternative providers of telecommunications services an interconnection of the respective communication networks agreed. As the former monopolist over most of the subscriber lines from the respective ones Local exchanges to the individual end participants has (so-called "Last Mile"), are the alternative offerers from telecommunications services to interconnection their networks with the former monopolist instructed. With removal of the Monopoly for the final access to the customer, for example due to deregulation regulations or new techniques, such as realization of the final access by a Radio link, probably the communication networks of the alternative Providers are more and more interconnected.

The resulting structure of several interconnected communication networks Various providers of telecommunications services leaves the choices of a user, but also its quality requirements of the provided Services are rising. In particular, there is a need for a subscriber additional services to disposal to provide an integration of telephone network services and Internet services at the local loop, be it at the calling subscriber or at the called subscriber. The provision of new services enables a competition the telecommunications service provider, which is not limited to price wars, but in relation to the services offered.

Further There is currently an imbalance in that already existing Services are available to a calling subscriber only. For example, it is so far only a calling party possible through Preselection or on call-by-call basis a specific communication network for one desired Select connection. This Imbalance should be corrected.

In the EP 0 926 867 A2 describes a call-waiting feature of a phone connected to the Internet. In this case, the presence of a telephone call is signaled to a user connected to an Internet via a local exchange. The called party has several options for reacting to this situation. First, the call can be scheduled over the existing Internet connection. Second, the called party may signal that the pending connection is being routed to another telephone number. Third, it can signal that the Internet connection is being interrupted or canceled. Fourth, it can be stated that the present call is ignored. A method is described in which, starting from an already existing connection between a switch and a terminal to an incoming connection request, signaling takes place via the already existing connection.

The pamphlets DE 0 837 611 A2 . DE 44 32 458 A1 . DE 33 15 884 A1 and US 5,805,587 A also describe providing services to a called subscriber line.

Task of invention

Of the present invention is based on the object, as well as to provide a communication system operating in a telecommunications environment, in the several communication networks of different providers with different Services are interconnected, an end user additional Provide telecommunications services.

Summary the invention

These The object is achieved by a Method with the features of claim 1, by a method with the features of claim 9 and by a communication system solved with the features of claim 32. Preferred and advantageous Embodiments of the invention are specified in the subclaims.

Thereafter, the invention is characterized in a first variant of the invention in that, starting from an already existing connection between tween the switch of a selected communication network and a first terminal of the subscriber line, an outgoing connection request of a second terminal the switch over the already existing connection signals and the new connection is then made by multiplexing both connections on the subscriber line or abort the previous connection.

In A first embodiment of this variant of the invention is the first terminal a computer over the switch into a packet-switched network, especially the Internet, logged on is. The new connection request concerns a telephone connection or a fax transmission. The TK device signals the switch and / or the computer, the Disconnect or disconnect the switch from the computer and the subscriber line for the to release new connection, after which the new connection is built. This basic service can be used by the switch Local exchange of the network, to which the subscriber line directly connected, as a rule, the network of the former monopolist.

In A second embodiment of this variant of the invention is in addition to the existing connection of the computer is a connection of the second terminal built and switched by the switch, the TK device the data of the previous connection with the signaling and user data the new connection is multiplexed, and the switch is a demultiplexing and splitting the data into the respective connections.

In A third embodiment of this variant of the invention are both terminals Phones and will be additional to the existing connection of the first device a connection of the second terminal built and switched by the switch, the TK device the data of the previous connection with the data of the new connection on the subscriber line multiplexes. In the case of an analog subscriber line the two telephone connections will be set up on one Modem connection between the TK device and the switch is multiplexed.

In A second variant of the invention is based on an already existing connection between the switch and the terminal to a incoming or outgoing further connection request or service request a signaling between the switch and the subscriber line over the already existing connection and is then an additional Service concerning the new connection request or service request on Subscriber connection to disposal posed. In this case, according to the invention to the called subscriber line Directed and / or outgoing connections via a preselektiertes Network and in the preselektierten network always on a specific, the local loop assigned switch.

Especially it is the already existing connection and the new one Connection on the one hand to a connection with circuit switching (especially telephony) and on the other hand to connect with Packet switching (especially internet connection), for their integration at the subscriber terminal according to the invention new services to disposal be put.

One additional Service request concerns, for example, the make available a translation service for the already existing connection.

Prefers the signaling takes place with the switch subscriber connection side by a TK device assigned to the subscriber line, which is connected to the terminals present at the subscriber station is and is an intelligent service unit for communicating with represents the switch of the selected communication network.

The Invention allows by communication or signaling on an already existing one Connection between the subscriber line and a switch of the selected one Communication network, the provision additional telecommunications services at the subscriber connection. The blocking occupancy state present in the prior art Providing a connection on the subscriber line prevented by services, is repealed by the invention, in particular in terms of the integration of telephone network and Internet services. By selection (preselection or call-by-call basis) of the communication network, via the Incoming or outgoing connections can be routed Users thereby select a service provider, the desired Services at the subscriber connection to disposal provides.

This embodiment of the invention is initially distinguished by a communication structure in which a user preselects via which communication network connection requests directed to him are completed. The selected communication network is possibly interconnected with other communication networks of other providers of telecommunications services. It thus run all, directed to a particular subscriber line telecommunications connections over the same communication network and in particular via a particular switch the ses network, which then completes the connections to the called subscriber line. This can be done for example via the network of the former monopolist, but alternatively, for example, via a radio link as the final access to the subscriber line.

outgoing The terminating switch acts on this communication structure the preselektierten communication network and arranged at the subscriber terminal TK device, which is also referred to below as iSA (intelligent service Agent), to provide additional services at the called subscriber terminal. This is a incoming further connection request of the TK device of the subscriber line on the already existing connection or the associated switched through traffic channel signals, the PBX divides the connection request one Users with and become dependent from control commands of the user or preprogrammed control commands a new connection to the second PBX in conjunction with the switch produced or rejected.

By bring together all concerning a subscriber line Connections to a specific switch of a preselected communication network and by Zurverfügungsstellen a intelligent TK device at the subscriber line, which with it works together with the completing switch, too provide additional services to a called telecommunication user put. The completing switch knows and has access on all Connections of a considered subscriber line.

In a preferred development are at the subscriber connection at least two terminals provided, wherein the first terminal is a computer, via the Switch in a packet-switched network, in particular the Internet is dialed. The initial situation is thus in short the one that a user of the computer on the Internet "surfs". The new connection request concerns a telephone call or a fax transmission.

The TK device shares an incoming further connection request the user with. For this purpose, the TK device generates an advantage acoustic, visual or audiovisual signal, such as a pop-up Message on the screen of the computer, by the user the computer is informed that a connection request to the second TK device is present.

Of the User can now enter a control command in which he tells that the new connection request rejected should be canceled, alternatively the computer connection and the Connection to the called second telecommunication device is to be established, Alternatively, he uses part of his bandwidth to make a Connection to the second TK device parallel to the internet session, or alternatively the telephone call via voice-over-IP technology or similar techniques to the computer should be given. It can also be provided that a certain Reaction is not queried by the user, but already preprogrammed in the telecommunications device is.

In dependence from the control commands of the user or corresponding preprogrammed control commands causes the TK device then one of the following operations.

In a first alternative is signaled to the switch and / or the computer disconnect or disconnect the switch between the computer and the computer and to the new connection request via the subscriber line or the channel switched through a connection between make and switch through the switch and the second terminal. Since both the previous connection and the new connection over the Switch the preselektierten communication network be completed, the completing switch can trigger the corresponding processes or To run.

In its second alternative, the TK device signals the switch and / or the computer, the data transfer rate the connection between the switch and the computer to lessen the data the previous connection with the data of the new connection to multiplex the channel used and in addition to the existing connection There is a connection between the switch and the computer Switch and the second terminal produce and connect through. The already existing traffic channel between the computer and the switch is thus by multiplexing for both Used connections. In the case of analog voice signals these are to convert it into a digital speech signal before multiplexing, that is preferred is additionally compressed to reduce the bandwidth.

This variant has the beneficial effect of reducing the cost of terminating the connection since two connections are now completed over only one data channel. Thus, it is possible for the operator of the preselektierten telecommunications network to offer the termination of a telecommunications connection at discounted conditions. Completes the completion of a switch TK connection, for example, over the access network of the former monopolist, in Germany, the German Telekom AG, he must pay to this for a certain fee, in Germany at the time of 1.97 Pfennig. If he now has a second TC link Nevertheless, he must pay the incurred termination costs (of 1,97 Pf / min) only once to the former monopolist. The cost savings is obvious.

In In a third alternative, the PBX signals the switch, ignore the new connection request and the calling terminal the busy state tell.

In A fourth alternative is the telephone call via voice-over-IP technology given to the computer and the new telephone connection to the computer completed. In the case of an incoming fax this is from the Switch converted to an e-mail, transferred to the computer and displayed on the screen represented by the computer and / or in a storage medium of the computer stored. The previous Internet connection is preferred under Multiplex the respective data maintained in parallel or alternatively aborted and after completion of the telephone conversation or fax transmission automatically restored.

In another embodiment of the invention are at the subscriber terminal at least two phones available. For an incoming further connection request the TK device signals the Switch, the data of the previous connection with the data of the new To multiplex connection on the local loop and additionally to the existing connection to the first phone the new connection to complete the second phone. In the preferred case of analog subscriber line, the two telephone calls to this on a modem connection to be established between the switch and the TK device multiplexed.

In According to one embodiment of the invention, the telecommunications device means to recognize a particular code and signals the TK device for the Case, that the Signaling information transmitted by the switch contain this code, the switch and / or the first terminal, the connection between switch and the first terminal to disconnect immediately or to interrupt and then complete the new connection, i.e. to manufacture and to the terminal turn on.

It This is a service that is effectively a Emergency call function realized. Certain calls that are separated by a distinguish predetermined code, in principle dominate over one other connection, in particular a computer or Internet connection, so that the latter is interrupted or completely terminated and the incoming call to the called TK device is put through. For example, the code is specific phone numbers a calling subscriber line. This variant of the invention ensures that certain People like family, close friends, important professional partners etc. even with a "surfing" of the user at the subscriber line in the Internet, or at a permanent conversation immediately get a free line so that the call will be put through can. A similar procedure can also be used for outgoing calls be used.

One inventive communication system has a subscriber line, to the at least one terminal is connected, a subscriber line permanently assigned switch a communication network that is a user of the local loop selected from a plurality of communication networks, wherein directed the called subscriber line and / or from the local loop outgoing connections always over be routed to the switch dedicated to the local loop, and one associated with the subscriber line TK device on that with the switch to provide additional Services at the subscriber line a switched channel of the subscriber line signaling information exchanges.

description several embodiments

The Invention will be described below with reference to the figures of Drawing using several embodiments explained in more detail. It demonstrate:

1 A communication structure according to the invention with two interconnected telecommunication networks;

2 A communication structure according to the invention with a plurality of interconnected telecommunication networks;

3 The temporal execution of a procedure for the provision of new services at a called subscriber line,

4 The temporal execution of a procedure for the provision of new services at a calling subscriber line, and

5 - The time course of a procedure for the provision of new services to a calling or called subscriber line.

1 shows a communication structure with two communication networks 3 . 4 , which are interconnected via interconnect points POI (Points of Interconnect) are switched. An interconnection between the communication networks is usually provided by per se known interconnect connections (not shown), which interconnect 2 Mbit / s lines (El groups) of the networks and realize a gateway.

To a subscriber line 5 are several TK terminals, in the present case a personal computer (PC) 51 and a telephone 52 connected. The subscriber line 5 is also a telecommunications device 53 assigned between a network termination NT of the subscriber line and the terminals 51 . 52 is set. The TK device is an intelligent service agent (iSA). The telecommunications equipment 53 has a microprocessor with the usual peripheral devices such as RAM and ROM block. The functions to be performed are called software 13 realized on the microprocessor.

The devices of the subscriber line 5 are via the network termination NT and a local loop to the local local exchange 41 of the communication network 4 connected, that the final access to the subscriber line 5 provides (Last Mile). In Germany, this is the local network of Deutsche Telekom AG. An analogue user channel for signal transmission is available on the subscriber line in the case of analogue connections. In a digital connection, depending on the type of connection, several user channels are also available, for example two B channels in the case of an ISDN basic connection.

To the net 4 Further subscriber connections are connected. It also shows the local local agency 42 connected connection 6 with a PC 61, a telephone 62 and a telecommunications device 63 , The structure is identical to the structure of the subscriber line 5 ,

A connection from the terminal 6 as a calling connection to the connection 5 as a called connection is first on the subscriber line to the local exchange or the switch 42 of the network 4 directed. It is assumed that the user of the connection 4 a particular communication network by preselection or on a call-by-call basis has been selected to transmit the connection, in this case the network 3 an alternative provider of telecommunications services. Accordingly, at an interconnect point POI, a transition to the network occurs 3 instead of.

The connection is now over in the alternative network 3 arranged switches, of which switches 31 . 32 are shown, as far as possible in the direction of the called connection 5 routed. At the switch 32 To complete the connection, a transition back to the network takes place 1 Having access to the subscriber line of the terminal 5 has. The switch 32 is the switch that completes the connection for the caller, where the switch 32 for the completion of the network 4 and the switch 41 served. Similarly, a completion to the connection 5 via a radio link or a separate data line or subscriber line.

2 shows a communication structure with multiple communication networks 1 . 2 . 3 . 4 , which are interconnected via interconnect points POI (Points of Interconnect). Opposite the 1 are the nets 1 and 2 to fore. Also to the other networks 1 . 2 are terminal equipment 6 as computer, telephone or fax connected, represented schematically by telephones, which in turn either over the local network of the monopolist (in the represented example the net 4 ) or directly with exchanges or switches 11 . 21 . 31 the respective networks are connected. The switches 11 . 21 . 31 forward the incoming or outgoing connections and switch them on.

The illustrated communication structure is characterized in that the user of the subscriber line 5 a specific network, in the illustrated example the network 3 , has preselected to complete all incoming connections to him. The incoming connections are made by the subscriber line 5 associated completing switch 32 completed. By interconnecting the different networks 1 . 2 . 3 . 4 It is possible that regardless of which communication network 1 . 2 . 3 . 4 a connection request has initially gone out, the corresponding connection to the called subscriber line 5 always over the net 3 and the subscriber line 5 assigned switch 32 is routed.

This preselection of the completing switch on the called subscriber line is effected, for example, in that for each subscriber line an assignment to a preselected communication network is entered in a database, which is the individual switches 11 . 21 . 31 . 41 the interconnected communication networks is available, for example, within the framework of an intelligent network. To complete a connection, the switches in the database look for the network over which connections to a certain connection are to be completed and initiate routing to the corresponding communication network. In the pre-selected communication network, in turn, each subscriber connection is assigned a specific switch via which the connections to the subscriber connection are completed, and routing connections to this switch are routed.

The termination of a connection through the switch 32 of the network 3 can, as already mentioned, be done in various ways. In general, the termination will take place via the local local exchange network of the former monopolist, ie via the local exchange 41 of the communication network 4 , In Germany, the operator of the network 3 to the operator of the network 4 to pay a certain completion fee, which is currently 1.97 pf. However, it is alternatively possible that the completing switch 32 a completion of a call or a connection to the subscriber line 5 via a private access network or via a radio link, such as a DECT connection to the subscriber line 5 manufactures. Any end-access techniques can be used.

The telecommunications equipment 53 or their functionality may alternatively not run as a standalone device, but in one of the terminals 51 . 52 be integrated. The then required communication between the terminals 51 . 52 , respectively. 61 . 62 when connecting 6 of the 1 , takes place locally at the subscriber line, approximately according to the in the DE 195 31 948 C1 described method.

It is noted at this point that it is the subscriber line 5 or the subscriber line 6 can be both an analog and a digital, in particular ISDN connection. Accordingly, the network termination NT is an analog or a digital network termination. The inventive communication structure and the inventive method are in no way limited to digital subscriber lines. Rather, the special advantage of the method according to the invention, which will be described below with reference to FIGS 3 to 5 is explained by way of example.

3 starts from the initial situation that the PC 51 over the switch 32 of the network 3 , which in the present example is also preselected for outgoing calls, and has also dialed in an entry point POP (Point of Presence) of an Internet service provider into the Internet, in which he "surfs". Between switch 32 and computer 51 For this purpose, a connection is switched through, on which data in IP format is transmitted in both directions. A packet switching takes place only in the packet switching network (Internet) itself, but not on the access route to the subscriber line 5 ,

Thus, the subscriber line to the subscriber line 5 occupied with a traffic channel. If it is the connection 5 is an analog connection, the data is transmitted over a modem connection. Another connection to the subscriber line can not be established according to the prior art. The connection is busy. In the case of a digital subscriber line 5 the data are transmitted via a digital data channel, in particular an ISDN B channel. Another connection can be made according to the prior art only if another B-channel of the ISDN line is free.

A new connection request to the subscriber line 5 becomes due to the explained communication structure via the switch 32 routed. The switch 32 detects that already has a connection to the subscriber line 5 exists and signals the TK device 53 the newly received connection request.

For this purpose, two alternative methods are provided. In the first case, the signaling information relating to the presence of a new connection request is transmitted by multiplexing with the data of the already switched-through user channel, in particular in the context of in-band signaling, for example by means of DTMF signals. If it is the connection 5 is an ISDN connection, instead of an in-band signaling also an out-band signaling via the D-channel can take place.

Alternatively, the transmission of signaling information from the switch 32 to the computer 51 via the subscriber line or the switched-through useful channel for a certain period of time from the switch 32 interrupted, and it is in this period, the additional information about the traffic channel to the telecommunications facility 53 which then evaluates the information.

After the telecommunications facility 53 has received the information concerning the further connection request, it shares this information with the user of the PC 51 With. This can be done by an audible, visual or audiovisual signal, such as a pop-up message on the screen of the computer, which is communicated to the user of the computer that a connection request to another terminal, in the example shown the phone 52 is present. Preferably, the user is also the phone number of the calling call as well as this in the PC possibly present additional information such as name, etc. communicated. This additional information can be added to the signaling or stored in a memory of the PC or the telecommunications device.

The user of the PC 51 Now gives his PC a specific control command by pressing corresponding keys of the keyboard with which he the TK device 53 tells you how to handle the incoming connection request. Depending on the control commands of the user of the PC 51 generates the TK device 53 Control commands to the switch 32 which then triggers one of the following operations.

It should be noted that a certain reaction to the new connection request in the telecommunications facility 53 can also be preprogrammed. For example, can be preprogrammed that connections to the phone 52 Connections of the PC 51 always proceed so that then dismantled the connection to the PC and the new connection to the phone 52 would be built.

This feature can be refined in that the TK device 53 Having means for detecting a particular code and in the event that the signaling information transmitted by the switch containing this code, immediately triggers a specific reaction, such as the interruption of the connection between the switch and computer 51 and building a new connection between the switch and the phone 52 , For example, the code is specific phone numbers that are in the telecommunications facility 5 are stored. This can ensure that certain callers even with an occupancy of the subscriber line 5 due to the PC usage to the phone 52 be switched through.

Now for the further procedure. In a first variant a) the user of the PC has 51 a control signal to the TK device 53 to the effect that the new connection request should be ignored. The switch 32 then only informs the calling terminal that the subscriber line 5 is busy. The connection of the computer 51 with the switch 32 or the Internet is retained.

In a second variant b), the user of the PC's TK device has given a control command to this effect or was such a control command in the telecommunications device already preprogrammed or such a control command was triggered due to a specific code of the signaling information of the switch that the old connection disconnected and the new connection should be established and switched through. In the presence of appropriate signaling information from the telecommunications device 53 disconnects or interrupts the switch 32 Accordingly, the connection of the computer to the Internet and signals the new connection request the phone 52 and turns on this connection when recording the handset of the phone 52 to this through. With only a break in the connection between the switch 32 and PC 51 the connection is reestablished when the telephone conversation is over.

This new service of extended call waiting or call switching is only through the described interaction between Switch 32 and telecommunications facility 53 possible. Previously, an occupancy of the subscriber line due to a connection of the computer to a computer network only led to a busy signal in the caller.

In a third alternative c), the user of the PC is due to the request a control command to that effect, or is such a control command preprogrammed in the TK device or such a control command is triggered due to a specific code of the signaling information of the switch that the bandwidth of Data transfer between switch 32 and computer 51 reduced and an additional connection parallel to the existing connection via the already switched through the user channel to the phone 52 to be set up and switched through.

Accordingly, the switch multiplexes 32 the data of the previous connection with the data of the new connection to the phone 52 on the through-connected traffic channel. For this purpose, a data compression is usually also carried out in order to keep the bandwidth of the two interconnected connections as large as possible. The TK device demultiplexes the multiplexed data of the two links and forwards them to the computer according to their destination 51 and the phone 52 further. At the same time, if necessary, a demodulation takes place. In the other direction of connection, the TK device multiplexes and compresses 53 the data of the PC and the phone and there is a demultiplexing and decompression by the switch 32 ,

In a fourth alternative (d), the user of the PC issues a control command based on the request, or such a control command is preprogrammed in the TC device that the telephone call is via voice-over-IP technology (VoIP) or comparable techniques such as voice over ATM (VoATM) to the computer ( 51 ) and the new telephone connection to the computer ( 51 ) is completed. The user is then communicated with the call on the computer screen. Also, a digital / analog conversion of the voice signal can be made, wherein the call is communicated via a computer speaker. The same applies to the other direction of transmission. Voice-over-IP transmission of the data preferably takes place in accordance with ITU-T Recommendation H.323.

In the case of an incoming fax can be provided to convert the fax from the switch into an e-mail to transfer to the computer and display on the screen of the computer and / or store in a storage medium of the computer.

4 relates to the provision of new services to the calling end user and starts from the initial situation that the PC 61 of the connection 6 (see. 1 ) over the switch 31 of the preselected network 3 and a Einwählpunkt POP has dialed into the Internet, in which he "surfs". Between PC 61 and switch 31 For this purpose, a connection is switched through, on which data in IP format is transmitted in both directions.

Another connection request goes from the phone 62 out. Due to the existing Internet connection is according to the prior art, a further telephone connection at an analog connection 6 not possible or with an ISDN basic connection 6 only possible if not both B-channels are occupied. This situation is unsatisfactory, since due to the Internet connection no telephone call can be made.

The outgoing connection request is the TK device 63 notified by a corresponding control command of a user or a standard, automatically emitted by the phone about when picking up the receiver signaling protocol element. The latter is, for example, an ISDN SETUP protocol data element. The telecommunications equipment 63 recognizes the connection request and signals the connection request to the switch 31 , As a result, several scenarios are possible:
In a first alternative a) the TK device signals the switch and the computer to disconnect or disconnect the switch between the computer and the computer and to release the subscriber line for the new connection, whereupon the new connection concerning the telephone is established over the same channel is switched through. After completion of the telephone connection, the Internet connection of the PC 61 prefers automatically restored.

In a second alternative b) is in addition to the existing connection of the PC 61 the new telephone connection is established and from the switch 31 switched through, the TK device 63 the data of the previous connection is multiplexed with the signaling and payload data of the new connection, and the switch 31 demultiplexing and splitting the data onto the respective links. The voice data of the phone 62 are thereby digitized in an analog connection and compressed to reduce the bandwidth. The connection between telecommunications equipment 63 and switch 31 is a modem connection via the analog subscriber line in the case of an analogue connection. It should be noted, however, that the multiplexed modem connection is from the local exchange 42 digitally and the switch 31 is passed on.

It should also be noted that the user of course also the network 4 Preselektieren, so that the connection alone in the network 4 is conducted without an interconnection with the network of an alternative provider of telecommunications connections.

5 concerns new services that can be made equally available to the calling and called end user. The starting point this time is the situation that the subscriber line 5 . 6 a first connection regarding a first telephone 1 is present. It is now from a second phone 2 same subscriber line 6 Another connection request before (variant a)) or it is another connection request at the subscriber line 5 a (variant b). In the first variant, the telecommunications facility shares 63 the signaling request to the switch 31 With. In the second variant, the connection request is the phone 2 from the telecommunications facility 53 communicated. The corresponding signaling information is the TK device from the switch 32 on the existing connection regarding the phone 1 communicated, such as by multiplexing the signaling information with the payload of the switched connection.

Unless the phone 2 accepts the incoming call and the handset is removed, or after signaling the call acceptance readiness of the called party in the outgoing call, the data of the two connections are multiplexed on the subscriber line. In the case of an analog subscriber line 5 . 6 build the switch 32 . 31 and the TK facility 53 . 63 a modem connection and the respective voice signals are digitized, compressed and transmitted via the modem connection.

In this case, the telecommunications facility demultiplexes incoming data of the two connections and forwards them to the two telephones according to their destination 1 . 2 it further or multiplexes outgoing data and forwards it to the switch.

The TK device and the switch have means for multiplexing or demultiplexing the signals of the connections or associated signaling information on or a channel of the subscriber line. The signals to be transmitted of the two connections on the switch and the subscriber line thereby receive a format that allows to multiplex the data of both connections via a user channel of the subscriber line. In the process, signals are digitized that are still available present analog signals, and transmitted as digital data, in particular as IP packets on the subscriber line.

The described method allow the providing new services to an analog or digital subscriber line, in particular Services for integrating telephony and Internet services become.

Claims (34)

A method for providing additional services to a calling subscriber line, wherein at the subscriber terminal at least two terminals are provided, the subscriber line is directly or indirectly connected to a switch of a user-selected communication network and between the first terminal and the switch already connected through a connection and where a) based on the already existing connection between the switch ( 31 ) and the terminal ( 61 . 62 b) an outgoing connection request of the second terminal ( 61 . 62 ) is signaled to the switch over the already existing connection and c) the new connection is then made by multiplexing both connections on the subscriber line or abort the previous connection. Method according to Claim 1, characterized in that, for signaling an outgoing connection request, a corresponding control command of a user or a standard, automatically transmitted signaling protocol element for establishing a connection is assigned by a TK device ( 63 ) is detected and communicated to the switch. Method according to Claim 2, in which the first TK terminal is a computer which is dialed in via the switch into a packet-switched network, in particular the Internet, and the new connection request relates to a telephone call or a fax transmission, characterized in that the TK device ( 63 ) the switch ( 31 ) and / or the computer ( 61 ) signals to disconnect or disconnect the switch between the computer and the computer and to release the subscriber line for the new connection, upon which the new connection is established. Method according to Claim 3, characterized in that, after termination of the new connection, the previous connection of the computer ( 61 ) is restored to the packet-switched network. Method according to Claim 2, in which the first TK terminal is a computer which is dialed into a packet-switched network, in particular the Internet, via the switch, and the new connection request relates to a telephone call or a fax transmission, characterized in that in addition to the existing connection the computer establishes a connection of the second terminal and the switch ( 31 ) is switched through, the TK device ( 63 ) multiplexes the data of the previous connection with the signaling and payload data of the new connection, and the switch ( 31 ) demultiplexes and splits the data onto the respective connections. Method according to Claim 2, in which the two terminals are telephones, characterized in that, in addition to the existing connection of the first device, a connection of the second terminal is established and transmitted by the switch ( 31 ) is switched through, the TK Einrich device ( 63 ) multiplexes the data of the previous connection with the data of the new connection on the subscriber line. Method according to Claim 6, characterized in that, in the case of an analog subscriber line, the two telephone connections are established on a modem connection to be set up between the TC device ( 63 ) and the switch ( 31 . 42 ) are multiplexed. Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that outgoing Connections via a switched by the calling party predetermined communication network be that if necessary is interconnected with other communication networks, and a switch assigned to this communication network. Method for providing additional services to a subscriber line, wherein at least one terminal is connected to the subscriber line, the subscriber line is directly or indirectly connected to a switch of a communication network and a) starting from an already existing connection between the switch ( 32 . 31 ) and the terminal ( 51 . 52 ; 61 . 62 ) b) for an incoming or outgoing further connection request or service request signaling between the switch ( 32 . 31 ) and the subscriber line ( 5 . 6 ) via the already existing connection and c) at least one additional service concerning the new connection request or service request at the subscriber connection ( 5 . 6 ) is provided, characterized in that to the called subscriber line ( 5 ) and / or from the local loop ( 6 ) outgoing Connections via a preselected network ( 3 ) and in the preselected network ( 3 ) always via a specific, the local loop ( 5 . 6 assigned switch ( 32 . 31 ) are routed. Method according to Claim 9, characterized in that an assignment to a preselected communications network for the subscriber line is entered in a database, which is assigned to the individual switches ( 11 . 21 . 31 . 41 ) of the communication networks involved is available. Method according to Claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the preselected communication network is connected to further communication networks ( 1 . 2 . 4 ) is interconnected. Method according to at least one of Claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the signaling is provided at the subscriber terminal end by a TK device assigned to the subscriber line ( 53 . 63 ), which is connected to the at least one terminal. Method according to at least one of Claims 9 to 12, characterized in that a) an incoming further connection request is sent to the subscriber line ( 5 ) is signaled via the already existing connection and b) the connection request is communicated to a user and the new connection is established or rejected in dependence on control commands of the user or preprogrammed control commands. Method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the telecommunications device ( 53 ) or the terminal generates an audible, visual or audiovisual signal, such as a pop-up message on a computer screen, a voice message or an indication on the display of a telephone, which informs the user of the terminal that there is another connection request , Method according to claim 14, characterized in that that this Acoustic, visual or audiovisual signal additional information about the new connection request, that of the incoming connection enclosed or in a memory of the terminal or the TK device are stored, in particular additional information concerning the caller. Method according to Claim 12 and at least one of Claims 13 to 15, in which at least two terminals are provided at the subscriber terminal and the first terminal is a computer ( 51 ), which is connected via the switch to a packet-switched network, in particular the Internet, and the new connection request relates to a telephone call or a fax transmission, characterized in that the telecommunications device ( 53 ) performs one of the following actions in response to appropriate user control commands or pre-programmed control commands: a) the switch ( 32 ) and / or the computer ( 51 ) signals disconnecting or disconnecting the switch from the computer and the switch ( 32 ) signals to the new connection request via the same traffic channel a connection to the second terminal ( 52 ) or b) the switch ( 32 ) signals to multiplex the data of the previous connection with the data of the new connection and in addition to the existing connection between the switch ( 32 ) and the computer ( 51 ) a connection between the switch ( 32 ) and the second terminal ( 52 ) or c) the switch ( 32 ) signals to reject the new connection request and inform the calling terminal the busy state. Method according to claim 16, characterized in that in the case of an interruption of the previous connection of the computer ( 51 ) after completion of the new connection, the previous connection is restored. Method according to at least one of Claims 13 to 15, in which the terminal is a computer ( 51 ), which is dialed in via the switch into a packet-switched network, in particular the Internet, and the new connection request relates to a telephone call, characterized in that the telephone call is made by voice-over-IP technology to the computer ( 51 ) and the new telephone connection to the computer ( 51 ) is completed. Method according to at least one of Claims 13 to 15, in which the terminal is a computer ( 51 ), which is dialed in via the switch into a packet-switched network, in particular the Internet, and the new connection request relates to a fax transmission, characterized in that the fax from the switch ( 32 ) into an e-mail, to the computer ( 51 ) and displayed on the screen of the computer and / or stored in a storage medium of the computer. Method according to claim 18 or 19, characterized that the previous connection to the packet-switched network under multiplexes the data in parallel maintained or canceled and after Termination of the telephone conversation or the fax transmission automatically restored. Method according to Claim 12 and at least one of Claims 13 to 15, in which at least two terminals are provided at the subscriber connection hen are both terminals and phones, characterized in that the TK device ( 53 ) signals the switch to multiplex the data of the previous connection with the data of the new connection on the subscriber line and to complete the new connection to the second telephone in addition to the existing connection to the first telephone. Method according to Claim 21, characterized in that, in the case of an analog subscriber line, the two telephone calls are made on a modem connection to be set up between the switch ( 32 ) and the telecommunications facility ( 53 ) are multiplexed. Method according to at least one of claims 13 to 22, characterized in that in the case a multiplexing of data in addition a data compression performed becomes. Method according to at least one of Claims 13 to 23, characterized in that in the case of multiplexing the TK device ( 53 ) demultiplexes the multiplexed data of the two links and sends the data to the two terminals according to their destination ( 51 . 52 ) or multiplexes the data in the other connection direction and sends it to the switch ( 32 ). Method according to Claim 12 and at least one of Claims 13 to 24, characterized in that the telecommunications device ( 53 ) Means for recognizing a particular code and in the event that the signaling information transmitted by the switch contains this code, the switch ( 32 ) and / or the first terminal signals to disconnect or interrupt the connection between the switch and the first terminal and therefore complete the new connection. Method according to at least one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that a Signaling between switch and subscriber line through Multiplexing the signaling information with that on the traffic channel the existing connection Payload is done. Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 25, characterized in that a signaling between switch and subscriber line done by a transmission the payload about the traffic channel of the existing connection for a certain period of time is interrupted, and in this period transmit the signaling information become. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a signaling between the switch ( 32 . 31 ) and the local loop ( 5 . 6 ) as inband or outband signaling. Method according to at least one of Claims 2 to 28, characterized in that the TK device is plugged into one of the terminals of the TK connection ( 5 . 6 ) is integrated. Method according to at least one of the preceding Claims, where the first connection is a circuit-switched connection and the second connection relates to a connection with packet switching, or vice versa, characterized in that the signals to be transmitted of the two compounds get a format on the switch and the subscriber line that allows the data of both connections via a user channel of the subscriber line to multiplex. Method according to claim 30, characterized in that that the Signals are digitized, as long as they are still analog signals as digital data, especially as IP packets, on the Transfer subscriber line become. Communication system for carrying out the method according to Claim 9, having a) a subscriber line ( 5 . 6 ), to the at least one terminal ( 51 . 52 ; 61 . 62 ), b) one of the subscriber lines ( 5 . 6 ) dedicated switch ( 32 . 31 ) of a communications network ( 3 ), which is a user of the local loop ( 5 . 6 ) selected from a plurality of communication networks, wherein the called subscriber line ( 5 ) and / or from the local loop ( 6 ) outgoing connections always via the local loop ( 5 . 6 ) dedicated switch ( 32 . 31 ) and c) one of the subscriber lines ( 5 . 6 TK device ( 53 . 63 ) connected to the dedicated switch ( 32 . 31 ) to provide additional services at the local loop ( 5 . 6 ) exchanges signaling information on a switched-through channel of the subscriber line. Communication system according to claim 32, wherein the switch ( 32 . 31 ) and the telecommunications facility ( 53 . 63 ) Have means for multiplexing or demultiplexing the signals of two connections or associated signaling information on a channel of the subscriber line. The communication system of claim 33, wherein the both connections connect with packet switching and a Relate to circuit connection.