U.S. patent application number 12/702923 was filed with the patent office on 2010-06-03 for multi-networking communication system and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to IPSOBOX, S.A. DE C.V.. Invention is credited to Ariel Gomez-Ortigoza.
Application Number | 20100135285 12/702923 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37394041 |
Filed Date | 2010-06-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100135285 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gomez-Ortigoza; Ariel |
June 3, 2010 |
Multi-Networking Communication System and Method
Abstract
The architecture of the present invention includes a multi-media
multi-network communication server connected to a variety of access
and delivery platforms via a variety of communication networks. The
access platforms are used by senders, recipients or agents to
access their digital mailboxes on a multi-network communication
server and to send and receive calls and messages. The messages can
be in electronic format such as text, audio, graphic images, video,
and audio-video. The multi-network communication may send a
notification message to the recipient, indicating that a message
has been received. Messages can be accessed remotely or wirelessly
and can be viewed, heard, or both, depending on the capability of
the delivery platform being used by the recipient user.
Inventors: |
Gomez-Ortigoza; Ariel;
(Irapuato, MX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PROCOPIO, CORY, HARGREAVES & SAVITCH LLP
530 B STREET, SUITE 2100
SAN DIEGO
CA
92101
US
|
Assignee: |
IPSOBOX, S.A. DE C.V.
Irapuato
MX
|
Family ID: |
37394041 |
Appl. No.: |
12/702923 |
Filed: |
February 9, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11329477 |
Mar 13, 2006 |
7660403 |
|
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12702923 |
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60678510 |
May 6, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
370/352 ;
379/88.14; 455/466 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04M 2215/2046 20130101;
H04M 15/57 20130101; H04M 15/56 20130101; H04M 17/00 20130101; H04L
51/36 20130101; H04M 2215/7036 20130101; H04M 2215/0172 20130101;
H04M 2215/22 20130101; H04M 2215/208 20130101; H04L 51/00 20130101;
H04M 15/72 20130101; H04M 15/55 20130101; H04M 2215/202 20130101;
H04M 15/53 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
370/352 ;
379/88.14; 455/466 |
International
Class: |
H04L 12/66 20060101
H04L012/66; H04M 11/00 20060101 H04M011/00; H04W 4/12 20090101
H04W004/12 |
Claims
1. A multi-network communication server system comprising at least
one processor communicatively coupled with at least one computer
readable storage medium, wherein the processor is programmed to
establish communication between a first party and a second party
by: receiving a connection request from a first party, the
connection request identifying a direct inward dialing (DID)
number; establishing a connection with the first party using the
DID number; placing a call to a second party to establish
communication between said first party and said second party.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor is further
programmed to receiving a network address for said second party and
place the call to the second party at said network address.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the call is a voice over internet
protocol (VOIP) call.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the connection request is a local
call.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein the call to the second party is a
local call on a remote network.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the call to the second party is a
video call.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the call to the second party is a
fax.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the connection request is
received via a web portal session.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the call to the second party is
an IP address call.
10. A multi-network communication server system comprising: a
computer readable storage medium for storing computer executable
programmed modules; a processor communicatively coupled with the
computer readable storage medium for executing programmed modules
stored therein; and a plurality of user account profiles stored in
the computer readable storage medium, where each user account
profile includes a first phone number that is not connected to an
actual phone line, a second phone number that is connected to an
actual phone line and a third phone number that is connected to an
actual phone line.
11. The system of claim 10 wherein a user account profile further
includes a plurality of delivery addresses, wherein each of said
plurality of delivery addresses is associated with a delivery
network.
12. The system of claim 11, wherein each of said plurality of
delivery addresses is associated with a different delivery
network.
13. The system of claim 10, wherein a user account profile is
designated for delivery and management of SMS messages.
14. The system of claim 10, wherein the processor is configured to
receive from a first party a connection request identifying a
second party by the first phone number and locate the second party
at one of the second and third phone numbers.
15. The system of claim 10, wherein the first phone number is
assigned to the user account profile by the multi-network
communication server from a pool of numbers.
16. A computer implemented method for facilitating communication
between a first party and a second party, where one or more
processors are programmed to perform steps comprising: receiving a
connection request identifying a user account profile for a first
party; establishing a connection in response to said request;
receiving a message content and an identification of a second
party; converting said message content from a first format to a
second format; and delivering said converted message content in
said second format to the second party via a delivery network.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the first format is text and
the second format is voice.
18. The method of claim 17, further comprising using speech
synthesis to convert the text format message content to the voice
format message content.
19. The method of claim 16, wherein the first format is voice and
the second format is text.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising using speech
recognition to convert the voice format message content to the text
format message content.
21. The system of claim 16, further comprising providing said
converted message content in said second format to a third party.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/329,477 filed 13 Mar. 2006, which claims
the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application 60/678,510 filed
on 6 May 2005, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in
its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to the field of
communications and more particularly relates to the receipt and
delivery of multi-media calls and messages over multiple
incompatible networks.
[0004] 2. Related Art
[0005] There are many message conversion utilities and systems in
the market today that are capable of passing messages to and from
users who are accessible via different networks. For example, some
conventional systems allow faxes to be delivered as emails and
allow voicemails to be delivered as emails. The problem with the
conventional systems is that they only work with messages that are
in a conventional digital format that allows the message to be sent
or received over networks that are compatible with the digital
message format. There are also many ways to convert a circuit
switched phone call into a packet switched phone call. For example,
allow phone calls to be answered by a computer device. The problem
with all the conventional systems is that they require the user to
have a data device or interface as well as broadband access to be
able to use them.
[0006] In conventional communication systems, person to person
communication, calls, correspondence and messages have been
delivered through fragmented information channels both digital and
analog. Separate subscriptions and service providers are required
for sending letters, telegrams, email, faxes and voicemail.
Furthermore, conventional communication systems require individuals
to possess or have access to many information appliances and a
communication infrastructure to send and receive correspondence and
messages, including for example a fax machine, a computer, a
voicemail system, a telephone line, etc. Moreover, a single person
must have unique and separate contact addresses for each
conventional communication system: a phone number at home, a
cellular number, a phone number at work, a fax number, an email
address at home and at work, a physical address at home or at work,
etc. This creates a very complicated communication scheme where
users must have multiple hardware and software devices and try many
different communication options before successfully contacting a
person, at a high cost and at long delivery times. Even further,
all of these conventional systems require prior data and computer
training and knowledge of the commands and keystrokes that are
necessary to operate them. Therefore, what is needed is a system
and method that overcomes these significant problems found in the
conventional systems and allow an inexperienced user to access them
without prior knowledge.
SUMMARY
[0007] A multi-network communications server is connected to a
variety of user access platforms through a variety of communication
networks. The access platforms, which are the means for sending and
delivering calls and messages, are used by sender users and
recipient users and also by user agents acting on behalf of sender
or recipient users. The access platforms may include: (1) data
access devices such as PCs, PDAs, fax machines, ATMs and web
enabled devices; (2) audio access devices such as telephones,
wireless communication devices, audio players such as MP3 players;
(3) video access platforms such as video phones, video recording
devices, video cameras and PCs with video capable software
utilities; and (4) user agent devices such as all of the above and
including scanners and printers that an operator can use to convert
otherwise incompatible hard copy communications to electronic
communications for sender users and vice versa for recipient
users.
[0008] A user can access the platform from a user computer account
created for the user on a computer server. The user can access that
account from a computer, a data platform, etc. Alternatively, a
user can access the platform using a prepaid phone calling card. By
purchasing such a phone card, the user purchases a phone access to
the platform and the platform services.
[0009] There are several advantages of providing phone access to
the platform in addition to providing computer access. For example,
a phone user does not have to have any computer or internet
experience to access and request platform services. A phone user
can take advantage of the same services offered by the platform as
the services offered to a user who accesses the platform via a
computer. For example, a phone user, even without any previous
computer/internet experience, can send/receive e-mails,
send/receive mails, send/receive telegrams, use postal services,
etc.
[0010] The functionality built into the platforms allows providing
the same services to phone users as well as to computer users. For
example, to facilitate the delivery of messages, mails, e-mails to
a phone user, the platform utilizes a speech synthesis system. To
facilitate the sending of voice messages and commands from a phone
user, the platform utilizes a speech recognition system.
[0011] Another advantage of allowing a phone access to the platform
is expanding platform services to users who use Voice over IP
("VoIP") technology. By accessing the platform over the phone, the
VoIP users can use their "skype," "vonage" and "private" phone
numbers ("DID"). As other users, the VoIP users can place calls,
send/receive messages, send/receive faxes, etc.
[0012] A sender user can, through one of the access platforms or a
user agent, send a communication piece (e.g. a call, or a message)
to a recipient user of the system (or a designated recipient that
has access to any other network communicatively coupled with the
communications server). The communication is addressed to the
recipient user and stored in the recipient's digital inbox at the
communications server. The server can then send a notice to the
recipient user of the waiting message. The notice can be delivered
to the recipient user through a preferred delivery platform, e.g.
email, SMS, text page, phone call, or other.
[0013] Upon notice (or at any time) the recipient user can access
the communications server to retrieve waiting messages from the
digital inbox. The messages can be viewed (text and graphics),
heard (audio), or both (video), depending on the recipient user's
access platform capability. The recipient user may also (re)direct
the communication to an email account, a fax number, a voice mail
number, a bank account number, or a street address. The user can
instruct the server to deliver the communication to the user either
by interactive session such as a web session with the server or
through a voice command session with the server. Additionally,
communications can be saved in the user's digital inbox and also
delivered via a physical delivery network such as the local postal
office or local telegram office for exclusive or redundant delivery
to the recipient user.
[0014] The multinetwork communication server can have a plurality
of digital inboxes for storage of messages for a particular user.
Each digital inbox can be hierarchically organized into directories
and files, for example having separate directories for email,
voicemail, fax, letters, telegrams, wire transfers, financial
transactions, songs, videos, photographs, etc. The communications
server can be communicatively coupled with the Internet, the local
telephone network (PSTN), the local telegram network, the ATM
network, the ACH network and other financial or communication
networks allowing for the delivery of communications such as
information, content and financial transactions. The communications
server includes additional functionality such as tracking and
tracing of communications as well as encryption, security, and
confirmation/digital proof of delivery.
[0015] One aspect of the invention provides for a prepaid phone
card that includes a phone number and digital inbox that is
associated with the phone number, where the digital inbox is hosted
by the communication server. The prepaid phone card may also
include airtime, an email address, fax number, instant message
address, and the like--all of which can be advantageously hosted by
the communication server. The prepaid phone card may be distributed
with a predetermined value to pay for the digital inbox services.
The value of the prepaid phone card may also be increased
periodically by payment transactions in a brick and mortar store
location, a kiosk, over the telephone, or online. When a user
conducts a transaction to increase the value of the phone card, the
user can pay by cash, check, wire transfer, electronic debit,
credit, or the like.
[0016] Another aspect of the invention is that it allows the user
to send and retrieve all messages through voice by reading data
messages using text to speech engines and instructing the user or
portraying the message via voice recognition algorithms so that any
user, without any prior knowledge of the system or training in data
and computer devices can operate and navigate through his messages
and calls. Other features and advantages of the present invention
will become more readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the
art after reviewing the following detailed description and
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The details of the present invention, both as to its
structure and operation, may be gleaned in part by study of the
accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to
like parts, and in which:
[0018] FIG. 1 is a high level network diagram illustrating a
multi-network communication system according to an embodiment of
the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
communication network that may be used in connection with the
various embodiments described herein;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating exemplary multimedia
messages that may be used in connection with the various
embodiments described herein;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary user
account according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary user
profile containing delivery addresses according to an embodiment of
the invention;
[0023] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary prepaid
phone card containing user profile information according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0024] FIG. 7A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
multi-media message according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0025] FIG. 7B is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
multi-media message according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0026] FIG. 8A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
platform according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 8B is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
communication server according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0028] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating an example process for
sending messages according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0029] FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating an example process for
administering user account using prepaid phone card data according
to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating an example process for
administering user account using sender information according to an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating an example process for
receiving messages according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0032] FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
communication device that may be used in connection with the
various embodiments described herein; and
[0033] FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
computer system as may be used in connection with various
embodiments described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0034] Certain embodiments as disclosed herein provide for a
multi-media multi-network communication server that is accessible
via a plurality of access platforms over a variety of communication
networks. The multi-network communication server is configured to
send and receive messages for a plurality of users. The messages
include a variety of types of messages, including emails, SMS,
voicemail, faxes, letters, telegrams, wire transfers, automated
clearing house transfers, and the like. For example, one method as
disclosed herein allows for a first user to send an email to a
second user that is delivered as a letter in hard copy (physical)
by a postal employee.
[0035] After reading this description it will become apparent to
one skilled in the art how to implement the invention in various
alternative embodiments and alternative applications. However,
although various embodiments of the present invention will be
described herein, it is understood that these embodiments are
presented by way of example only, and not limitation. As such, this
detailed description of various alternative embodiments should not
be construed to limit the scope or breadth of the present invention
as set forth in the appended claims.
[0036] FIG. 1 is a high level network diagram illustrating a
multi-network communication system according to an embodiment of
the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, a multi-media
multi-network server 170 is connected to a plurality of access and
delivery platforms such as access platform 150 and delivery
platform 155. The multi-media network server is also configured
with one or more data storage areas containing a plurality of user
accounts 172.
[0037] The multi-network communication server 170 is configured to
maintain single mailbox for each user/subscriber aggregating all
communication pieces to the user. Whenever a user enters the
network from any access platform 150 at any location, the user can
access all his/her correspondence and communication pieces. The
user can then direct the delivery of these pieces to
himself/herself or a third party through a variety of networks and
delivery platforms 155.
[0038] The multi-network server 170 can be connected to a plurality
of electronic and physical communication networks 180 including
telephone networks, wireless communication networks, the Internet,
postal and telegram networks, etc. (described in detail in FIG. 2).
The communication networks 180 pass information between the server
170 and the access and delivery platforms 150 and 155 as described
below.
[0039] In one embodiment, a sender user 120, a recipient user 130
or an agent 140 (acting on behalf of a sender or a recipient) can
access the platform using the computer account 172 created on the
multi network communication server 170. These users can access the
platform from a computer, a data platform, etc. Alternatively, the
platform can be accessed over a phone. Phone access to the platform
is provided to prepaid phone card users 100.
[0040] A prepaid phone card user 100 can use a prepaid phone card
to access the platform, send and receive messages and use the
platform services as users who communicate with the platform from a
computer. Using a prepaid phone card, the prepaid phone card user
100 can access the platform using a provided address, such as a
Direct Inward Dial ("DID") number or an e-mail address. For
example, the user 100 can dial a platform phone number and request
the services over the phone. Alternatively, the user 100 can
communicate with the platforms using e-mails.
[0041] There are several advantages of accessing the platforms from
a phone instead of accessing the platforms from a computer. For
example, a phone user does not have to have any computer or
internet experience to use the platform services. For example, a
phone user, even without any previous computer/internet experience,
can send/receive e-mails, send/receive mails, send/receive
telegrams, use postal services, etc. This is possible because of
the functionality built into the platforms. For example, to
facilitate the delivery of messages, mails, e-mails to a phone
user, the platform utilizes a speech synthesis system. To
facilitate the sending of voice messages and commands from a phone
user, the platform utilizes a speech recognition system.
[0042] Another advantage of allowing a phone access to the platform
is expansion of platform services to users who use Voice over IP
("VoIP") technology. By accessing the platform over the phone, the
VoIP users can use their "skype," "vonage" and "private" phone
numbers ("DID"). As other users, the VoIP users can place calls,
send/receive messages, send/receive faxes, etc.
[0043] A user request to send a message over the communication
network 180 is processed by an access platform 150, which is
capable of sending information to the multi-network communication
server 170. An example of the access platform 150 is a scanner that
scans information into a digital format and passes it into the
network. A user request to receive a message from the server is
handled by a delivery platform 155 which reads information from the
communication server 170 and delivers it to the user. Examples of
delivery platforms 155 are printers, plotters, etc.
[0044] If a user wants to send and receive information from one
platform, the user may select a platform that is capable of both,
sending and receiving information. Such a platform should able to
perform both functions: the passing of the information to the
communication server 170 and the retrieving of the information from
the communication server 170. Examples of such platforms are
computers (e.g. PC), telephone, fax machines, etc.
[0045] The access platforms 150 and 155 can communicate with their
local data storage areas 157 to store information, messages and
notices related to the communication.
[0046] The multi-network server 170 provides remote access to a
local network as if a user were in the local place. That access is
provided by local data storage area 157 coupled with access
platforms 150 and delivery platforms 155. Such an access saves a
user both the time and transportation costs, and eliminates the
distance barrier for communication. When the access is provided,
the user can effectively become a user of the local network in
spite of being in another geographic location.
[0047] The multi-network server 170 can also locate a user via a
single identity (e.g. a user account described in FIG. 5). The
server 170 can "learn" the connection routes to alternative
destination networks, devices or physical addresses of the
user.
[0048] The communication server 170 and local data storage area 157
may also provide an interface between the incompatible networks,
such as the postal network or telegram network. The servers can
convert messages from one format to another. For example, they can
translate messages from electronic form to a physical, and thus
reduce the cost and delivery window of the communication piece.
[0049] To communicate with the network, the user may initiate an
interactive session such as a voice command session, or a web
portal session. Given this capability, a user may send different
types of otherwise incompatible messages through different networks
for different purposes or applications. Examples of messages are
described in FIG. 3.
[0050] Also, the communication server 170 can provide a feedback
loop to let the sender know that the recipient has received the
communication. This provides a sender with the certainty of knowing
that the message has been delivered.
[0051] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
communication network 180 that may be used in connection with the
various embodiments described herein. As shown, messages for a user
can be delivered through a variety of delivery networks. For
example, a message can be delivered by a telephone network 200, ATM
network 210, financial network 220, telegram network 230, postal
network 240, Internet 250, wireless communication 260, voice
network 270, data network 280 (e.g. a computer network), commercial
power supply network 290, etc.
[0052] The communication network 180 containing the variety of
networks provides a user with a number of benefits. For example,
the user does not need to purchase the communication
infrastructure, such as, voice lines, phones, faxes, computers,
etc. to use it. Instead, the user receives a personal multi-network
directory and the various associated addresses on the communication
network 180. For example, a user without a home telephone number or
cellular telephone number will receive a phone number associated
with the user account 172 (described in FIG. 5). This way, the user
can receive a specific telephone number without the burden of
having to maintain costly telephone service through a wired or
wireless telephone service provider.
[0053] Having a telephone number in the personal multi-network
directory accessible from different networks provides the user with
many advantages. For example, when the user moves or travels,
he/she can still retrieve voice mails from the communication
network 170 in any country without having to pay each local service
provider for the use of its network since the communication network
170 provides the access to all the network interfaces. Also, it may
be very useful if a user is contracting a phone service (without a
physical terminal) that will allow the user to send and receive
electronic and physical communication pieces from any physical
location.
[0054] The server provides remote access to a local network as if a
user were in the local place. The connections between the server
and the various physical and electronic networks can be direct or
indirect. For example, the connection to the telegram network can
be both direct and indirect through the Internet. The connection to
the wireless communication network may also be direct through,
e.g., the phone network or the Internet.
[0055] Having an access to an integrated communication network 180
provides a user with many additional advantages. For example, it
eliminates incompatibility among digital and physical communication
networks, and among multi-media communication pieces. Also, it
provides reduction of the complexity, delivery window and cost of
sending and receiving a specific message through many different
networks. Furthermore, it provides the user with a convenient and
easy way to use digital inbox to manage all messaging and
communication needs in a centralized way. Also, it allows to send
the pieces in a cost effective way, e.g. to send one brochure to
one destination at a very low cost. Finally, it provides an ability
to pay for a very different variety of services from the same
prepaid card described in FIG. 6, or using fund transfer services
over an ATM network 210 or financial network 220.
[0056] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating exemplary multimedia
messages that may be used in connection with the various
embodiments described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, a user
may send a variety of communication pieces through different
networks for different purposes or applications. For example, the
postal service or other physical delivery service can be used for
letters and telegrams. Voice message and faxes can be sent via a
telecommunication network, emails and SMS.
[0057] The user can send a variety of messages. For example, a user
may send through the multi-media communication server the
following: telegrams 302, songs 304, emails 306, text documents
(e.g. contracts, invoices, etc.) 308, wire transfers (e.g. monetary
funds) 310, faxes 312, checks 314, SMS cellular messages 316, video
clips 318, brochures 320, photographs 322, letters 324, voice mails
(phone messages) 326, and other types of messages 328 (faxes, Video
Movies, Movie trailers, Pod Casts) or a combination of any of
these. In particular, some of the above messages (such as songs,
music, audio casts, video casts, audio video casts) can be
components of a digital marketplace, where pieces are sold and
delivered via the multi-media communication server and then by the
delivery platforms (FIG. 1).
[0058] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary user
account containing a user profile, user funds and user messages
stored on the data storage coupled with the communication server
170. In an illustrated embodiment, a user can have a single
identity (an account 172) through the plurality of networks and can
receive different communication pieces and messages regardless of
the medium used to send the piece. Accordingly, whenever the user
enters the network from any access device or location, the user can
access all correspondence and communication pieces. After accessing
the messages, the user can direct those pieces to be received by
the user (or by others) through a variety of networks. The user can
retrieve the communication pieces through any convenient delivery
network such as postal network, fax, telegram, email, etc.,
described in FIG. 2.
[0059] The user account 172 contains a variety of information about
the user and it is linked to an assigned phone address and
multi-network directory (and thereby related to all other physical
and electronic addresses for the user.) For example, it contains a
user profile 177, amount and type of user funds 178 and user
messages 179. The account 172 allows the user to select the type of
communication pieces to be sent to third parties.
[0060] The user account 172 can be loaded with funds by the user
via a fund transfer or a credit or debit card transaction. Once the
account 172 is loaded with the funds, the different services can be
paid out of this account. Thus, the account 172 can act as a
"virtual electronic purse." The communication server 170 can
convert the account in a virtual prepaid card that can be used for
services regardless of the access device, network or application
being used. All services can be used and paid for from the same
account and all messages will be stored and controlled from the
same user account 172. A physical prepaid card can also be printed
and delivered via a physical distribution network such as the
postal or telegraph network. The physical prepaid card will be
described in FIG. 6.
[0061] The account 172 also allows the user to store communication
pieces (messages) in the user messages storage area 179. The user
can designate a specific delivery platform where the communication
pieces should be sent. For example, the user may designate that a
particular message should be sent by postal network, fax, telegram,
email, voicemail, audio-video, etc.
[0062] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary user
profile 177, containing a variety of delivery addresses available
to a user. In an illustrated embodiment, the user profile 177 can
contain a number of addresses stored at the multi-media
multi-network communication server 170. One of the addresses may be
a physical address designated by the user for messages in a form of
letters. Another address may be designated for telegrams. Yet
another address may contain a phone number for SMS messages,
another for phone messages, yet another for cellular messages, etc.
The user account 172 may also contain a TIVO address, a bank
account number, a prepaid card account, a MP3 address, etc. The
delivery addresses reflect the type of delivery network employed.
For example, the postal service or other physical delivery service
can be used for letters and telegrams. Voice messages and faxes can
be sent via a telecommunication network. Emails and SMS messages
can be sent via a data communication network. Songs, video or
television shows can be delivered to a particular IP address of a
TIVO or other record and play device.
[0063] In another embodiment, a user profile 177 may contain a
phone number that is not connected to an actual phone line, but
rather is assigned to the user from a pool of phone numbers that
are provided by the multi-network communication server 170. In such
an embodiment, a user can select the delivery network for
communication pieces by selecting from a list of options using an
IVR (interactive voice response) module at the multi-network
communication server 170 (FIG. 1).
[0064] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary prepaid
phone card containing user profile information. In an illustrated
embodiment, the prepaid phone card 100 can be printed and delivered
to the user via a physical distribution network such as the postal
or telegraph network. The card 100 can contain a variety of types
of information that can be used by the communication sever 170
(FIG. 1) to either create or update user account 172 described in
FIG. 4.
[0065] The prepaid phone card 100 can comprise a prepaid phone card
number 612, a prepaid phone card authorization number 613, a
prepaid phone card server number 614 and a prepaid phone card
credit amount (funds) 615. A user account can be created using the
prepaid phone card number 612, and identified using the prepaid
phone card server number 614. Then, the user account can be loaded
with funds via a new prepaid card, funds transfer or a credit/debit
card transaction. Once the account is loaded, the different
services can be paid out of this account. The newly created account
can be used to pay for services regardless of what access device,
network or application is being used.
[0066] In another embodiment of the present invention, the prepaid
phone card 100 can also contain optional information 616, including
a street address for delivery of mail, email address, a fax phone
number, a bank account number, a TIVO address, a SMS address, a
voice mail phone number, etc. All that information can be used by
the communication server 170 to create an account on the server
172, or to update information of the account 172 that already
exists on the communication server 170.
[0067] FIGS. 7A-7B are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary
generic multi-media message. In an illustrated embodiment, the
destination address of a communication is modified with a prefix
(header) 710 or a suffix 730 that indicate the type of
communication network that will be used to deliver a data payload
720 by physical or electronic means. For example, to send the
payload (message) to one of the multi-network destination the
communication server 170 will instruct the networks via a prefix
710 or suffix 730 as to which of networks will be used.
[0068] In one embodiment, an additional content can be sent
attached to the data payload 720. The additional content will
provide special instructions that are necessary for specific
networks devices or applications in order to facilitate the
communication delivery process. This may be particularly useful for
direct mail, sending brochures or contracts, invoices, recorded
messages, notifications, proof of deliveries, songs, videos,
photographs, clips, monetary funds, etc. For example, the
destination address for a cellular "SMS" message may be: SMS:
555-444-333.
[0069] The additional information may be useful for delivery of a
message to the particular network. For example, an attachment may
be advantageously added to the data payload 720 or sent via another
network to the same destination for use by the multi-network
communication server 170 or a local server (e.g. as a "way" file
for voicemail or a "doc" Word document for a fax).
[0070] In another embodiment, the additional content can be sent
attached to the communication piece to provide special instructions
that are necessary for specific network, devices or applications in
order to facilitate the communication delivery process. This may be
particularly useful for direct mail, sending brochures or
contracts, invoices, recorded messages, notifications, proof of
deliveries, songs, videos, photographs, clips, monetary funds,
etc.
[0071] FIG. 8A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
platform that can be used to facilitate communication between a
user and the multi-network communication server. In the illustrated
embodiment, if the user wants to send a message to the system, then
the user can contact the access platform 150 (FIG. 1.) By accessing
the access platform 150, the user can select a type of the
communication network for the delivery of a communication piece by
physical or electronic means.
[0072] If the user wants to receive a message to the system, the
user can contact the delivery platform 155 (FIG. 1), which in some
applications, could be combined with the access platform 150. For
example, a computer (PC) is a system where the access platform 150
is combined with the delivery platform 155 because the computer can
send information to and receive information from the network.
[0073] In one embodiment, the platform comprises an interface
module 810 that can be used to select the communication network for
delivery of a specific message. For example, when a user connects
to the multi-network communication server 170 (FIG. 1) and wants to
send a fax, the interface module 810 may display a message header
in a familiar email type format to solicit input of the "TO:"
address. Because the user is sending a fax, the "TO:" field can be
populated with a prefix that specifies the delivery network
(described in FIGS. 7A-7B). For example, the "TO:" field may
include: "FAX: 555-444-3333."
[0074] In another embodiment, the platform comprises an operation
module 820. The operational module 820 can send messages from the
access platform 150 to the communication network 180, and send
messages from the communication network 180 to the delivery
platform 155.
[0075] If the delivery network is not an electronic one, a message
module 840 can add additional information needed to deliver the
message. For example, the message module 840 can add information as
an attachment to the message. Additional information may include
information about the addressee's name, addressee's address, or
instructions for a local sever to print the message on an envelope
by the postal network.
[0076] In another embodiment, the platform comprises a voice module
850 that allows a user to send and retrieve messages using audio.
The voice module 850 contains "text to speech" engines that play
audio prompts, receive audio answers and translate audio answers to
a digital form. The voice module 850 provides a user with audio
instructions so the user without any prior knowledge of the system
or computer training can operate, navigate and use the system.
[0077] FIG. 8B is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
communication server 170 that can be used to facilitate
communication between a variety of communication networks. In the
illustrated embodiment, the communication server 170 contains a
voice module 850 that allows the communication server 170 to send
and retrieve voice messages. Similarly to the voice module 850 on
the platforms 150 and 155, the voice module 850 on the
communication server 170 provides audio instructions and handles
audio answers.
[0078] In another embodiment, the communication server 170 contains
a message module 840 that can add additional information necessary
to deliver a message, such as, for example, a postal message. The
message module 840 can add information as an attachment to the
message. Additional information may include information about the
addressee's name, addressee's address, instructions for a local
sever to print the message on an envelope by the postal network,
etc.
[0079] In another embodiment, the communication server 170
comprises a conversion module 857. Since the third party service
providers can use the platforms for a multitude of applications,
sending and receiving information may require conversion of
messages from a digital format to a physical format, or vice versa.
For example, there may be a need to convert a circuit switched
phone call into a packet switched phone call to allow answering
phone calls by a computer.
[0080] The conversion module 857 allows sending and retrieving
messages between different networks, such as, for example, between
a telephone network and a data network. Exchanging the messages
between heterogeneous networks requires that, for example, voice
messages are translated to text messages and vice versa. The
conversion module 857 contains speech engines, such as, speech
recognition systems that convert a voice message into a text
message speech, and speech synthesis systems that convert a text
message into a voice message.
[0081] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating an example process for
sending messages by a user from an access platform to the
multi-network communication server 170 (FIG. 1). In an illustrated
embodiment, in a step 902, the user accesses the access platform
and inputs a request to send a message over the communication
network 180 to the multi-network communication server 170 (FIG. 1).
The request reaches the multi-network communication server 170 and
the server 170 (FIG. 1) parses it. In a step 904, the server 170
identifies whether the request is from the prepaid phone card 100
(FIG. 1) or from a sender 120 (FIG. 1).
[0082] If the request is from the prepaid phone card 100 (FIG. 1),
then, in a step 905, the communication server 170 attempts to
administer a user account using the prepaid phone card data 905,
which will be described in details in FIG. 10. Basically, the
administration of the user account using the prepaid phone card
data (in the step 905), involves either creating a brand new
account on the communication server 170, or updating the
information on the already existing account on the server 170.
[0083] If the request is from the sender 120 (FIG. 1), then, in a
step 906, the communication server 170 attempts to administer a
user account using the sender information that is either provided
by the platform, or available on the communication server 170. The
administration of the account using the sender information will be
described in FIG. 11. Basically, the administration amounts to the
accessing of the user account on the server 170 using e.g. a user
identification provided by the access platform, and reducing the
amount of user funds from the account by the value of services
requested by the sender.
[0084] Once the administration process (steps 905 or 906) is
complete, the communication server 170 (FIG. 1) acquires the
communication piece (e.g. a message), and, in a step 908, it stores
the message on one of its sub-servers, or on the user account 172
attached to the communication server 170. Then, the server 170
identifies the delivery platform or user preferences as to on what
media the message should be delivered. To identify the delivery
platform or network, the server 170 uses the information about the
destination addresses used by the user in the past and stored in
the user account 172.
[0085] Then, the message might be encrypted for the security
reasons, translated to another format (e.g. from a "doc" format to
a "pdf" format), or processed to the format required by the
delivery platform. Subsequently, the message may be stored in the
new format on the server, and/or sent to the delivery platform 155
in a step 910.
[0086] Furthermore, in the step 910, the communication server 170
can send the notification about the awaiting message to the
recipient. For example, if the sender sends a fax to the
communication server 170, the server may send first a notification
to the recipient of the fax, and then, send the fax to the fax
machine acting as a delivery platform 155. Also, the communication
server 170 can send a confirmation to the sender if the messages
were successfully delivered.
[0087] FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating an example process for
administering user account using prepaid phone card data according
to an embodiment of the present invention. As it was described
above, even if a user does not yet have a user account on the
server, such an account can be created for him on the server using
a prepaid phone card data. The prepaid phone card data can be
provided by a third party and it can comprise functionalities of a
typical credit/debit card.
[0088] In an illustrated embodiment, if the request came from a
phone card, the communication server 170 can create an account and
use the funds indicated on the card to upload the account. In a
step 1002, the communication server 170 reads the prepaid phone
card number and a local server number (alternatively, a credit card
number). That information is used later to identify e.g.
appropriate access platform or delivery platform (FIG. 1).
[0089] In a step 1004, the communication server 170 attempts to
authorize the prepaid phone card number by using e.g. an encryption
code, or other security mechanisms. For example, the authorization
can amount to the verification whether the particular card is
legitimate and whether it was legitimately purchased for value. The
authorization information may be included in the prepaid phone card
itself.
[0090] If the card is authorized and approved, then, in a step
1006, the communication server 170 can create a new account on the
server 170. The creating of the new account amounts to allocating
some space for the account on the server 170, linking the account
with the identification from the phone/credit card, storing
information about a user profile, user funds, and allocating some
space for the user messages.
[0091] The prepaid phone card may contain information necessary for
the creating of the user profile. The example of the user profile
is provided in FIG. 5. In addition to the prepaid phone card
number, prepaid phone card server number, prepaid phone card credit
amount, the card can contain some optional information, such as,
for example, a street address, email address, fax phone number,
cellular phone number, bank account number, etc. In a step 1010,
all that information can be stored under the user profile on the
user account on the communication server 170.
[0092] Alternatively, if the corresponding account already exists,
instead of the creating of the user account, the communication
server 170 can update some of the information previously stored on
the user account. For example, the prepaid phone card may request
adding funds to the user account, changing some of the addresses,
phone numbers, or preferences as to the type/location of the access
or delivery platform.
[0093] FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating an example process for
administering user account using sender information according to an
embodiment of the present invention. As it was described above,
once a user is provided with an account on the communication server
170 (FIG. 1), the user can select the type of communication pieces
that will be sent to him/her, or to third parties. The user account
172 (FIG. 4) comprises user profile, funds and messages. The
administering of the user account amounts to, in a step 1302, the
accessing of the user account on the server 170 using the account
identification (e.g. a code, id, number, etc.). Some of the
accounts may require authorization, or entering a security
code.
[0094] In a next step 1304, the communication server 170 updates
the user funds by subtracting the value of requested services from
the amount of funds available to the user and stored on the user
account 172 (FIG. 1). In the case where the user account does not
contain sufficient funds to provide the services requested by the
user, the communication server 170 can e.g. send the "insufficient
funds" notification to the sender or the access platform.
[0095] FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating an example process for
receiving messages by a user from the multi-network communication
server 170 (FIG. 1) on the delivery platform 155 (FIG. 1). In an
illustrated embodiment, in a step 1402, the user accesses the
access platform and inputs a request to receive a message
(messages) from the multi-network communication server 170 (FIG. 1)
over the communication network 180.
[0096] In a step 1404, the request reaches the multi-network
communication server 170 and the server 170 (FIG. 1) parses the
request. If the request is from the prepaid phone card 100 (FIG.
1), then, in a step 1404, the communication server 170 attempts to
administer a user account using the prepaid phone card data. In the
step 1404, the communication server 170 can update some (or all)
information on the already existing account on the server 170
including the uploading (or debiting) of the user funds.
[0097] If the request is from the recipient 120 (FIG. 1), then, in
a step 1405, the communication server 170 attempts to administer a
user account using the recipient information that is either
provided by the platform, or available on the server 170. The
administration of the account using the recipient information
amounts to the accessing of the user account on the server by the
communication server 170, using e.g. a user identification provided
by the access platform, and decreasing the amount of user funds on
the account by the value of services requested by the sender.
[0098] Once the administration process (1404 and 1405) is complete,
in a step 1406, the communication server 170 (FIG. 1) acquires the
communication piece (e.g. a message) from the server, and, in a
step 1408, the communication server 170 sends the message to the
delivery platform 155 (FIG. 1). To identify the delivery platform
or network, the server 170 uses the destination addresses invoked
by the user in the past and/or stored in the user account 172.
[0099] In one embodiment of the present invention, the message can
be encrypted for the security reasons, translated to another format
(e.g. from a "doc" format to a "pdf" format), or processed to the
format required by the delivery platform.
[0100] FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
communication device 450 that may be used in connection with the
various embodiments described herein. For example, the
communication device 450 may be used in conjunction with an access
platform. Other communication devices and/or architectures may also
be used, as will be clear to those skilled in the art.
[0101] In the illustrated embodiment, the communication device 450
comprises an antenna 452, a multiplexor 454, a low noise amplifier
("LNA") 456, a power amplifier ("PA") 458, a modulation circuit
460, a baseband processor 462, a speaker 464, a microphone 466, a
central processing unit ("CPU") 468, a data storage area 470, and a
hardware interface 472. In the communication device 450, radio
frequency ("RF") signals are transmitted and received by antenna
452. Multiplexor 454 acts as a switch, coupling antenna 452 between
the transmit and receive signal paths. In the receive path,
received RF signals are coupled from a multiplexor 454 to LNA 456.
LNA 456 amplifies the received RF signal and couples the amplified
signal to a demodulation portion of the modulation circuit 460.
[0102] Typically modulation circuit 460 will combine a demodulator
and modulator in one integrated circuit ("IC"). The demodulator and
modulator can also be separate components. The demodulator strips
away the RF carrier signal leaving a base-band receive audio
signal, which is sent from the demodulator output to the base-band
processor 462.
[0103] If the base-band receive audio signal contains audio
information, then base-band processor 462 decodes the signal and
converts it to an analog signal. Then the signal is amplified and
sent to the speaker 464. The base-band processor 462 also receives
analog audio signals from the microphone 466. These analog audio
signals are converted to digital signals and encoded by the
base-band processor 462. The base-band processor 462 also codes the
digital signals for transmission and generates a base-band transmit
audio signal that is routed to the modulator portion of modulation
circuit 460. The modulator mixes the base-band transmit audio
signal with an RF carrier signal generating an RF transmit signal
that is routed to the power amplifier 458. The power amplifier 458
amplifies the RF transmit signal and routes it to the multiplexor
454 where the signal is switched to the antenna port for
transmission by antenna 452.
[0104] The baseband processor 462 is also communicatively coupled
with the central processing unit 468. The central processing unit
468 has access to a data storage area 470. The central processing
unit 468 is preferably configured to execute instructions (i.e.,
computer programs or software) that can be stored in the data
storage area 470. Computer programs can also be received from the
baseband processor 462 and stored in the data storage area 470 or
executed upon receipt. Such computer programs, when executed,
enable the wireless communication device 450 to perform the various
functions of the present invention as previously described.
[0105] In this description, the term "computer readable medium" is
used to refer to any media used to provide executable instructions
(e.g., software and computer programs) to the communication device
450 for execution by the central processing unit 468. Examples of
these media include the data storage area 470, microphone 466 (via
the baseband processor 462), antenna 452 (also via the baseband
processor 462), and hardware interface 472. These computer readable
mediums are means for providing executable code, programming
instructions, and software to the communication device 450. The
executable code, programming instructions, and software, when
executed by the central processing unit 468, preferably cause the
central processing unit 468 to perform the inventive features and
functions previously described herein.
[0106] The central processing unit is also preferably configured to
receive notifications from the hardware interface 472 when new
devices are detected by the hardware interface. Hardware interface
472 can be a combination electromechanical detector with
controlling software that communicates with the CPU 468 and
interacts with new devices.
[0107] FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
computer system 550 that may be used in connection with the various
embodiments described herein. For example, the computer system 550
may be used in conjunction with an access platform or the
multi-network communication server. Other computer systems and/or
architectures may also be used, as will be clear to those skilled
in the art.
[0108] The computer system 550 preferably includes one or more
processors, such as processor 552. Additional processors may be
provided, such as an auxiliary processor to manage input/output, an
auxiliary processor to perform floating point mathematical
operations, a special-purpose microprocessor having an architecture
suitable for fast execution of signal processing algorithms (e.g.,
digital signal processor), a slave processor subordinate to the
main processing system (e.g., back-end processor), an additional
microprocessor or controller for dual or multiple processor
systems, or a coprocessor. Such auxiliary processors may be
discrete processors or may be integrated with the processor
552.
[0109] The processor 552 is preferably connected to a communication
bus 554. The communication bus 554 may include a data channel for
facilitating information transfer between storage and other
peripheral components of the computer system 550. The communication
bus 554 further may provide a set of signals used for communication
with the processor 552, including a data bus, address bus, and
control bus (not shown). The communication bus 554 may comprise any
standard or non-standard bus architecture such as, for example, bus
architectures compliant with industry standard architecture
("ISA"), extended industry standard architecture ("EISA"), Micro
Channel Architecture ("MCA"), peripheral component interconnect
("PCI") local bus, or standards promulgated by the Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers ("IEEE") including IEEE 488
general-purpose interface bus ("GPIB"), IEEE 696/S-100, and the
like.
[0110] Computer system 550 preferably includes a main memory 556
and may also include a secondary memory 558. The main memory 556
provides storage of instructions and data for programs executing on
the processor 552. The main memory 556 is typically
semiconductor-based memory such as dynamic random access memory
("DRAM") and/or static random access memory ("SRAM"). Other
semiconductor-based memory types include, for example, synchronous
dynamic random access memory ("SDRAM"), Rambus dynamic random
access memory ("RDRAM"), ferroelectric random access memory
("FRAM"), and the like, including read only memory ("ROM").
[0111] The secondary memory 558 may optionally include a hard disk
drive 560 and/or a removable storage drive 562, for example a
floppy disk drive, a magnetic tape drive, a compact disc ("CD")
drive, a digital versatile disc ("DVD") drive, etc. The removable
storage drive 562 reads from and/or writes to a removable storage
medium 564 in a well-known manner. Removable storage medium 564 may
be, for example, a floppy disk, magnetic tape, CD, DVD, etc.
[0112] The removable storage medium 564 is preferably a computer
readable medium having stored thereon computer executable code
(i.e., software) and/or data. The computer software or data stored
on the removable storage medium 564 is read into the computer
system 550 as electrical communication signals 578.
[0113] In alternative embodiments, secondary memory 558 may include
other similar means for allowing computer programs or other data or
instructions to be loaded into the computer system 550. Such means
may include, for example, an external storage medium 572 and an
interface 570. Examples of external storage medium 572 may include
an external hard disk drive or an external optical drive, or and
external magneto-optical drive.
[0114] Other examples of secondary memory 558 may include
semiconductor-based memory such as programmable read-only memory
("PROM"), erasable programmable read-only memory ("EPROM"),
electrically erasable read-only memory ("EEPROM"), or flash memory
(block oriented memory similar to EEPROM). Also included are any
other removable storage units 572 and interfaces 570, which allow
software and data to be transferred from the removable storage unit
572 to the computer system 550.
[0115] Computer system 550 may also include a communication
interface 574. The communication interface 574 allows software and
data to be transferred between computer system 550 and external
devices (e.g. printers), networks, or information sources. For
example, computer software or executable code may be transferred to
computer system 550 from a network server via communication
interface 574. Examples of communication interface 574 include a
modem, a network interface card ("NIC"), a communications port, a
PCMCIA slot and card, an infrared interface, and an IEEE 1394
fire-wire, just to name a few.
[0116] Communication interface 574 preferably implements industry
promulgated protocol standards, such as Ethernet IEEE 802
standards, Fiber Channel, digital user line ("DSL"), asynchronous
digital user line ("ADSL"), frame relay, asynchronous transfer mode
("ATM"), integrated digital services network ("ISDN"), personal
communications services ("PCS"), transmission control
protocol/Internet protocol ("TCP/IP"), serial line Internet
protocol/point to point protocol ("SLIP/PPP"), and so on, but may
also implement customized or non-standard interface protocols as
well.
[0117] Software and data transferred via communication interface
574 are generally in the form of electrical communication signals
578. These signals 578 are preferably provided to communication
interface 574 via a communication channel 576. Communication
channel 576 carries signals 578 and can be implemented using a
variety of wired or wireless communication means including wire or
cable, fiber optics, conventional phone line, cellular phone link,
wireless data communication link, radio frequency (RF) link, or
infrared link, just to name a few.
[0118] Computer executable code (i.e., computer programs or
software) is stored in the main memory 556 and/or the secondary
memory 558. Computer programs can also be received via
communication interface 574 and stored in the main memory 556
and/or the secondary memory 558. Such computer programs, when
executed, enable the computer system 550 to perform the various
functions of the present invention as previously described.
[0119] In this description, the term "computer readable medium" is
used to refer to any media used to provide computer executable code
(e.g., software and computer programs) to the computer system 550.
Examples of these media include main memory 556, secondary memory
558 (including hard disk drive 560, removable storage medium 564,
and external storage medium 572), and any peripheral device
communicatively coupled with communication interface 574 (including
a network information server or other network device). These
computer readable mediums are means for providing executable code,
programming instructions, and software to the computer system
550.
[0120] In an embodiment that is implemented using software, the
software may be stored on a computer readable medium and loaded
into computer system 550 by way of removable storage drive 562,
interface 570, or communication interface 574. In such an
embodiment, the software is loaded into the computer system 550 in
the form of electrical communication signals 578. The software,
when executed by the processor 552, preferably causes the processor
552 to perform the inventive features and functions previously
described herein.
[0121] Various embodiments may also be implemented primarily in
hardware using, for example, components such as application
specific integrated circuits ("ASICs"), or field programmable gate
arrays ("FPGAs"). Implementation of a hardware state machine
capable of performing the functions described herein will also be
apparent to those skilled in the relevant art. Various embodiments
may also be implemented using a combination of both hardware and
software.
[0122] Furthermore, those of skill in the art will appreciate that
the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, circuits, and
method steps described in connection with the above described
figures and the embodiments disclosed herein can often be
implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or
combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability
of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks,
modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in
terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is
implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular
application and design constraints imposed on the overall system.
Skilled persons can implement the described functionality in
varying ways for each particular application, but such
implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a
departure from the scope of the invention. In addition, the
grouping of functions within a module, block, circuit or step is
for ease of description. Specific functions or steps can be moved
from one module, block or circuit to another without departing from
the invention.
[0123] Moreover, the various illustrative logical blocks, modules,
and methods described in connection with the embodiments disclosed
herein can be implemented or performed with a general purpose
processor, a digital signal processor ("DSP"), an ASIC, FPGA or
other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic,
discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed
to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose
processor can be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the
processor can be any processor, controller, microcontroller, or
state machine. A processor can also be implemented as a combination
of computing devices, for example, a combination of a DSP and a
microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more
microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such
configuration.
[0124] Additionally, the steps of a method or algorithm described
in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be embodied
directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor,
or in a combination of the two. A software module can reside in RAM
memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory,
registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form
of storage medium including a network storage medium. An exemplary
storage medium can be coupled to the processor such the processor
can read information from, and write information to, the storage
medium. In the alternative, the storage medium can be integral to
the processor. The processor and the storage medium can also reside
in an ASIC.
[0125] The above description of the disclosed embodiments is
provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the
invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be
readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic
principles described herein can be applied to other embodiments
without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus,
it is to be understood that the description and drawings presented
herein represent a presently preferred embodiment of the invention
and are therefore representative of the subject matter which is
broadly contemplated by the present invention. It is further
understood that the scope of the present invention fully
encompasses other embodiments that may become obvious to those
skilled in the art and that the scope of the present invention is
accordingly limited by nothing other than the appended claims.
* * * * *