U.S. patent application number 17/357123 was filed with the patent office on 2021-10-21 for communication station and intercom network.
The applicant listed for this patent is Riedel Communication International GmbH. Invention is credited to Jiou-Pahn LEE, Thomas Riedel.
Application Number | 20210328821 17/357123 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005682081 |
Filed Date | 2021-10-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210328821 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LEE; Jiou-Pahn ; et
al. |
October 21, 2021 |
COMMUNICATION STATION AND INTERCOM NETWORK
Abstract
A first communication station of an intercom network is used in
combination with a second communication station of the intercom
network. The first and second communication stations are configured
for carrying out real-time audio communication with other
communication stations of the intercom network. The first
communication station and the second communication station each
comprise operating elements actuatable to provide direct audio
communication with at least one of the other communication stations
of the network, an audio input and a connection port or a
communication module for connecting the communication station with
another communication station of the intercom network The first and
second communication stations each have a functionality including
at least one of display brightness, speaker volume, programming of
the operating elements, and microphone sensitivity that can be set
as respective parameters.
Inventors: |
LEE; Jiou-Pahn; (Wuppertal,
DE) ; Riedel; Thomas; (Wuppertal, DE) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Riedel Communication International GmbH |
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|
Family ID: |
1000005682081 |
Appl. No.: |
17/357123 |
Filed: |
June 24, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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15815752 |
Nov 17, 2017 |
11050576 |
|
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17357123 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04M 2250/04 20130101;
H04M 1/72412 20210101; H04M 3/56 20130101; H04L 12/1818 20130101;
H04M 1/6066 20130101; H04L 12/1813 20130101; H04W 4/80 20180201;
H04M 1/6058 20130101; H04M 2203/5009 20130101; H04M 3/44 20130101;
H04M 1/72513 20130101; H04M 9/00 20130101; H04M 11/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04L 12/18 20060101
H04L012/18; H04M 1/72513 20060101 H04M001/72513; H04M 3/56 20060101
H04M003/56; H04M 9/00 20060101 H04M009/00; H04M 11/00 20060101
H04M011/00; H04M 3/44 20060101 H04M003/44; H04W 4/80 20060101
H04W004/80 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 9, 2016 |
DE |
102016123968.2 |
Apr 3, 2017 |
DE |
102017107150.4 |
Claims
1. A first communication station of an intercom network in
combination with a second communication station of the intercom
network, the first and second communication stations being
configured for carrying out real-time audio communication with
other communication stations of the intercom network, the first
communication station and the second communication station each
comprising: operating elements actuatable to provide direct audio
communication with at least one of the other communication stations
of the network; an audio input; a connection port or a
communication module for connecting the communication station with
another communication station of the intercom network, the first
and second communication stations each having a functionality
including at least one of display brightness, speaker volume,
programming of the operating elements, and microphone sensitivity
that can be set as respective parameters; a memory connected to the
first and second communication stations and holding a plurality of
sets each including at least one parameter of a respective
functionality, the sets each being personalized for a respective
operator of the communication station; and a respective NFC element
or RFID element on each of the first and second communication
stations for communicating with a counterpart NFC element or a
counterpart RFID element allocated to an operator and for, on the
counterpart NFC or RFID element approaching the first or the second
communication station, setting in the approached communication
station the respective parameter for the operator.
2. A first communication station of an intercom network in
combination with a second communication station of the intercom
network, the first and second communications stations being
configured for carrying out real-time audio communication with
other communication stations of this intercom network, the first
and second communication stations each comprising: operating
elements actuatable to provide direct audio communication with at
least one of the other communication stations of the network, at
least one of the operating elements being programmable to provide
direct audio communication to a selected one of the other
communication stations or to a selected group of the other
communication stations; an audio input; a connection port or a
communication module for connecting the station with the other
communication stations of the intercom network; a memory connected
to the first and second communication stations and holding a
plurality of sets each including information about a selected one
of the other communication stations or about a selected group of
the other communication stations, the sets each being personalized
for a respective operator of the communication station; and a
respective NFC element or RFID element on the first and second
communication stations for communicating with a counterpart NFC
element or a counterpart RFID element allocated to an operator and
for, on the counterpart NFC or RFID element approaching the
communication station, triggering in the approached first or second
communication station the respective parameter for the
operator.
3. An intercom network for carrying out real-time audio
communication, comprising a plurality of communication stations, at
least some of the plurality of communication stations to be
operated during the event by one of a plurality of operators, each
of the communication stations providing a plurality of programmable
operating elements to the respective operator of the communication
station, each of the operating elements being actuatable by the
respective operator to provide direct audio communication to other
communication stations of the network, each communication station
comprising an audio input and a connection port or a communication
module for connecting this communication station with the other
communication stations of the intercom network, each of the
plurality of communication stations having a functionality
including at least one of display brightness, speaker volume,
microphone sensitivity, and programming of the operating elements,
that can be set as respective parameters; a memory in the network
and holding a plurality of sets for a plurality of operators, each
set including at least one parameter of a respective functionality,
the sets each being personalized for the operators, each of the
communication stations having an NFC element or an RFID element
capable of communicating with one of a plurality of counterpart NFC
elements or counterpart RFID elements, each of the counterpart NFC
elements or counterpart RFID element allocated to a particular
operator, and for on one of the counterpart NFC or RFID elements
approaching any of the plurality of communication stations,
associating the personalized set to this operator and setting the
respective parameter for this operator in this approached
communication station.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of copending application
15/815,752 filed 17 Nov. 2017 with a claim to the priority of
German patent applications 10 2016 123 968.2 filed 9 Dec. 2017 and
102017107150.4 filed 3 Apr. 2017.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] First, the invention concerns a user of an intercom network
for carrying out real-time audio communication with other users of
this intercom network.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Such a network typically has an audio input, in particular a
microphone or a microphone port and a connection port or a
communication module for connecting with a switching center of the
intercom network and has at least one functionality that can be
set, in particular manually set, as a parameter, such as key
assignment, direct-dial key, brightness, volume or the like.
[0004] The applicant has been developing and manufacturing such
networks for decades. The applicant belongs to the leading
businesses in the world in the field of intercom networks.
[0005] Intercom networks and generic users of these intercom
networks are described in the applicant's patents DE 10 2014 011
963 [US 2016/0050505] and DE 10 2014 104 811.6
[0006] A user of an intercom network of the known type can carry
out audio communications with other users in real time. For this
purpose the user comprises an audio input. This can involve, for
example, a microphone into which an operator can speak audio
information directly. For the purposes of this patent application
audio input may however alternatively also be understood as a
microphone port or headset port, i.e. for example a socket for
receiving a plug for a cable connection to connect a microphone to
the user.
[0007] Furthermore the user has a connection port by which the user
can be connected directly or indirectly to a switching center of
the intercom network. The connection port facilitates the
connection of a cable. Alternatively the user has a communication
module by which the user can establish a radio connection with the
switching center or with another user of the intercom network. Such
a radio link is subject in particular to the DECT radio standard.
Very broadly however, a wireless transmission between the user and
the switching center or between the user and another user also
comes in to consideration within the framework of the invention,
that transmission being in the VHF, UHF, DECT frequency bands, for
example within the frequency ranges from 2.4 gigahertz, 5.2
gigahertz and 5.8 gigahertz.
[0008] A user of the generic type and in terms of the invention is
formed in particular as a speech station. This involves an intercom
device that is typically connected with the switching center by a
cable, and that has a microphone and a loudspeaker, as well as a
plurality of keys. With the keys, in particular speed-dial keys, a
direct, in particular fail-safe, audio connection to another user
of the intercom network can be established as a result of an
operator pressing the key on the speech station.
[0009] Moreover, such a speech station can also comprise further
functionalities that can be set, such as for example actuating
elements for setting the brightness of a display screen or for
setting the volume of the loud speaker or for setting the
sensitivity of the microphone or similar. The functionalities can
be set as parameters, i.e. values or information, be they absolute
values or relative values, can be set, in particularly manually, by
operating potentiometers or switches or keys or programmable
elements.
[0010] According to the invention a user may alternatively be
provided as a so-called belt pack. This involves a device that is
provided with an independent power supply, for example by a battery
or accumulator, which can be attached to an operator, for example
to an item of the operator's clothing, or carried by the operator,
and that is formed as a mobile terminal of an intercom network. The
belt pack has a microphone port by which either a microphone and/or
headphones or alternatively a headset, can be connected to a belt
pack via a cable or via a radio link, for example Bluetooth.
Moreover, the belt pack has a communication module that can
exchange audio signals, in particular wirelessly via a DECT radio
link, with the switching center of the intercom network or with
another user of the intercom network.
[0011] State-of-the-art intercom networks are deployed in
particular at events or live events such as concerts, Formula 1
races or similar. Here a multiplicity of operators may perform
numerous different tasks. In order to be able to perform the
complex tasks of an intercom network during a live event with the
required reliability, the intercom network and all of its users are
configured in advance of the event. In that process, standard
values are generally set for a user's functionalities.
[0012] During the performance of the live event the operators can
go to the respective users where they can, if necessary, carry out
adjustments of the functionalities and in particular alter the
pre-set parameters--the so-called settings. Starting with a user of
the generic type as this has become known through public prior use
by the applicant (not verifiable in print), the aim of the
invention consists in further developing the user in such a way
that an improved operation of the user is made possible.
[0013] The invention achieves this aim through the characteristics
of claim 1, in particular though those of the identifier component,
and is thus characterized in that an NFC element is provided on the
user, by which a communication can be carried out with a
counterpart NFC element assigned to an operator. The principle of
the invention consists essentially in arranging an NFC element on
the user, i.e. an intercom speech station or an intercom belt pack.
Such an NFC element is subject to defined radio communication
industry standards and can communication with a counterpart NFC
element in accordance with these standards. This requires that the
counterpart NFC element, at least briefly, approaches the NFC
element.
[0014] The NFC element is assigned to an operator. The counterpart
NFC element is formed, for example, as an object that can be
clipped to an item of the operator's clothing or hung around the
operator's neck, as is normal for example for security passes or
identification objects.
[0015] The counterpart NFC element can, for example, be formed as a
simple tag that has a user identification or that is described by a
user identification. Every user can have a unique identifier, or at
least an identifier that is unique for the intercom system.
[0016] The NFC element can receive information about the user from
the counterpart NFC element following a relative approach by the
counterpart NFC element. In this process it is particularly
significant that the counterpart NFC element requires no power
supply of its own, but rather can receive an electromagnetic
impulse as an oscillating circuit from the NFC element. The NFC
element is supplied with operating power by the user. The
arrangement according to the invention of an NFC element on the
user with which a communication can be carried out with a
counterpart NFC element assigned to an operator, thus allows the
carrying out of a login or registration by a specified operator on
the user.
[0017] Further, a device for managing operators can be provided on
the user, in which a specified operator or several specified
operators are previously saved or noted as authorised operators in
the course of a configuration of the intercom network or in the
course of the configuration of the user. Alternatively or
additionally a specified operator, or the respective specified
parameter value for the adjustable functionality of several
operators, can be assigned to the device for managing operators.
For example, an operator who always wants to enjoy a very high
loudspeaker volume during the holding of the event, for example
because of the usual working conditions, can automatically have a
correspondingly high parameter value allocated to him, as an
operator-defined pre-setting or as an operator-dependent setting,
as soon as he logs into the user. In order to carry out the login
process, all that is needed is a--very simple--approach by the
counterpart NFC element, or the object carrying it, towards the NFC
element on the user.
[0018] Moreover, the invention offers the possibility of falling
back on conventional, commercially available components for the NFC
element, for example an NFC reading device, and for the counterpart
NFC element, for example, a tag.
[0019] In this case the tag can, for example, be laminated into a
pass or fixed to, e.g. stuck onto, the pass. Thus, a very simple
construction and form can be achieved for such a user and for an
object carrying the counterpart NFC element.
[0020] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention,
the counterpart NFC-element is a component of a portable object
that can be carried by the operator, in particular in the same way
as a pass, in particular an object that can be hung around his neck
or clipped onto clothing. Thus the object can be formed as
card-like, in particular like a check card, or like a pass, such as
an identity pass and, in the same way as is usual for a security
pass, can be hung around an operator's neck or clipped onto him
with the aid of clipping means. It is also conceivable that the
object is formed like a pass or check card and can be kept in an
operator's wallet. In this respect the counterpart NFC element can
be permanently assigned to the operator. Thus--regardless of the
location of the event, in particular if the operator is regularly
deployed at different events--the operator can always log into the
corresponding user with his uniquely identifiable pass, namely the
counterpart NFC element.
[0021] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the
invention, information about the operator can be transmitted to the
NFC element by the counterpart NFC element assigned to the
operator. The information about the operator, can in particular
comprise an identifier or an identification code of the operator,
or other information from which the user can draw a conclusion
about the operator, for example a mobile phone identification, or a
Bluetooth MAC address.
[0022] Every operator thus has a unique identifier assignable to
that operator. Information about the operator can be saved directly
to the counterpart NFC element on the object, or in a memory of the
object, which is assigned to the counterpart NFC element. As is
usual with NFC tags, the tag can also be directly labeled or
configured--in particular uniquely in the factory--so that a user
identification is entered into the tag. This user identification
can be transmitted--encoded or un-encoded--to the NFC element when
the counterpart NFC element approaches the user, and can be
processed by the user, in particular by a device for managing
operators provided on or allocated to this user.
[0023] The invention achieves the aim described above according to
a further aspect by the characteristics of claim 4, in particular
with those of the identifier component, and is accordingly
characterized in that a device for managing operators is allocated
to the user on which a log-in and/or registration process can be
carried out by an operator.
[0024] The principle of the invention essentially consists in the
fact that a device for managing operators is provided on or
allocated to the user. Such a device can comprise a microprocessor
in which suitable conventional electronic components are provided,
which facilitate the administration or management of operators. In
particular it is possible, in the course of configuring the user,
to enter into the device for managing operators, those operators
who are intended, or who may be intended, for this user. In
addition a parameter value--or in the case of several different
functionalities being set, several parameter values--can be
assigned to the intended, authorised operators.
[0025] The device can only be provided on one specified user, for
example, exclusively on the belt pack or on the speech station.
However, the invention also encompasses a situation where only a
part of the device for managing operators is provided on the user
and that part cooperates with other parts of the device for
managing operators, wherein the other parts of this device are
provided on other users of the intercom network, or an exchange of
the intercom network, for example on the switching center. In this
case the user at least has a device for managing operators that is
intended as a component of a device the whole of which is provided
in the intercom network in a centralized or decentralized manner.
The device for managing operators provided on the user in the
latter case comprises at least one NFC element and means for
forwarding the information received from the NFC element--from the
counterpart NFC element--to an exchange or a control unit or to the
switching center.
[0026] A login or registration process can be carried out by an
operator on the device for managing operators. For this it is
sufficient if the operator briefly moves a counterpart NFC element
assigned to him closer towards the NFC element on the user. In this
way information can automatically be transmitted from the
counterpart NFC element to the NFC element. The information to be
transmitted may include information about the operator. In this
way, the operator can login and register.
[0027] It should be noted that according to this invention, the
logging in of the operator to the user can also occur other than by
NFC communication. For example the operator can carry out the login
or registration process by entering a numerical sequence or a code,
or a PIN directly into the user.
[0028] Finally, the invention also encompasses a situation where
the operator logs into to the user by using the Bluetooth MAC
address or another identifier.
[0029] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention,
the operator is assigned a specific parameter value. In this way
specific preferences or experience values of the operator can be
entered or referred to. For example, an assignment of speed-dial
keys can be carried so that a particular operator are always gets
the speed-dial keys provided on a speech station pre-configured in
the same way. The settings can thus be set so that for example the
upper left-hand speed-dial key on a speech station of a particular
operator enables a direct audio link to another specified operator.
In this way the operation of the user during a live event can be
made more reliable, since it is possible to refer to this
operator's pool of experience. Operating errors can thus be
avoided.
[0030] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention,
the operator is assigned a specified parameter value. As a result
of an operator carrying out a login or registration process on the
user, the device for managing operators ensures that as a direct
result of the operator carrying out the login process, the
parameter value assigned to this operator is used to set the
functionality. In this respect, the operator who is logged into the
user must on no account make any more adjustments himself.
[0031] Instead, the device for managing operators can independently
set the functionalities according to the operator. According to a
further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device has a
memory in which the parameter value is saved, in association with
the operator. The device can be provided directly in the user, or
in the switching station, or in another user of the intercom
network. The memory is advantageously located in the user and/or in
the switching center.
[0032] The parameter value is saved in the memory and, in
particular in fact, in association with the operator. In this
respect, the parameter for setting the functionality is saved in
relation to the operators. In this respect a retrieval of this
saved parameter value can occur every time the operator logs into
the user.
[0033] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the
invention, following a successful login by the operator to the
user, the device sets the functionalities of the user of match the
parameter values of this operator. In this way the user-defined
settings can be achieved.
[0034] The aim described in the introduction is achieved by the
invention according to a further aspect through the characteristics
of claim 8, in particular through those of the identifier
component, and is accordingly characterized in that a device for
managing operators is allocated to the user, which as a result of
an operator logging into the user retrieves a pre-set parameter
value for the operator and sets the adjustable functionalities to
match the parameter value.
[0035] The principle of the invention essentially consists in that
a device for managing operators is allocated to the user, which as
a result of an operator logging into the user retrieves a pre-set
parameter value for the operator and sets the adjustable
functionalities to match the parameter value. In this way
user-defined settings can be achieved.
[0036] In order to avoid repetitions in relation to the
characteristics and concepts used and their interpretation,
reference is made to the above explanations.
[0037] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the
invention, it is provided that the user is formed as a speech
station or a belt pack or a headset. In relation to the technical
characteristics of a belt pack or a speech station, reference is
made to state-of-the-art speech stations or belt packs, which are
described in particular in applications DE 10 2014 011 963 A1 and
DE 10 2014 104 811 A1, which were mentioned in the introduction.
According to a further aspect, the invention relates to an intercom
network according to the preamble of claim 10.
[0038] The aim of the invention consists in further developing the
generic type of intercom network so that it is more reliably and
more conveniently configured.
[0039] The invention achieves this aim through the characteristics
of claim 10.
[0040] In addition, the invention also achieves this aim through
the characteristics of claim 11.
[0041] A configuration device is accordingly provided, with which a
pre-setting of the parameter can be carried out, wherein the
pre-set parameter value of an operator can be assigned and saved.
The configuration device can be, for example, an electric or
electronic device that can be connected to the user, e.g. a
computer. Alternatively, it can also be provided that the switching
center itself constitutes or comprises a configuration device, on
which pre-settings for the parameters of the user connected to the
switching station can be made by direct manual entries.
[0042] According to the invention, the configuration device can
assign a pre-set parameter value to an operator. On the other hand
a parameter value of a given operator can be pre-set. This set
parameter value can be saved together with an assignment to the
operator. A corresponding saving action can be carried out either
in a switching center of the intercom network, or in one or a
number of users of the intercom network to which the operators can
log in.
[0043] Otherwise, in order to avoid repetitions in relation to the
explanation and interpretation of characteristics and concepts,
reference is also made to the explanations set out above. Moreover,
the invention concerns a method for operating an intercom network
according to the preamble of claim 1.
[0044] The aim of the invention is to further develop the known
state-of-the-art method, as it is currently put into practice by
the applicant (not verifiable in print) so that it becomes more
convenient and reliable.
[0045] The invention achieves this aim through the characteristics
of claim 13.
[0046] In order to avoid repetition in relation to the
characteristics and concepts used, reference is made in relation to
their comprehension and interpretation, to the explanations set out
above.
[0047] The steps (a) to (c) of claim 13 can advantageously be
performed, in terms of time, in advance (and a long way in advance)
of the holding of the event, and in particular in a location that
is remote from the location of the event. Steps (d) and (e) of
claim 13 are advantageously performed immediately before the event
or during the holding of the event at the event location. According
to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention it is
provided that in the course of carrying out an authorization check,
the device only allows an operator to log into a user if the
operator is saved and stored in the device as an authorised
operator. According to this embodiment, it can be provided that the
device carries out an authorization check. The device for managing
operators can check, during the course of a login by an operator,
whether the user currently trying to log in is even approved as an
authorised user or as an authorised operator. In this way an access
control is provided.
[0048] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the
invention it is possible for successive logins to be carried out by
several different operators on the same user. This takes into
account the fact that during the course of certain events different
operators will have to work on the same user.
[0049] According to a further aspect, the invention concerns a user
according to the preamble of claim 16.
[0050] The aim of the invention is accordingly to further develop a
state-of-the-art user as described above, so that an improved
operation of the user is made possible.
[0051] The invention achieves this aim through the characteristics
of claim 16, in particular through those of the identifier
component, and is accordingly characterized in that an RFID element
is provided on the user, by which a communication can be carried
out with a counterpart RFID element assigned to an operator.
[0052] Like the invention as described according to claim 1, the
principle of the invention consists in arranging an RFID element on
a user and assigning a counterpart RFID element to an operator. A
counterpart RFID element to be assigned to an operator is also
called, as in the normal expert way, a transponder. The RFID
element to be provided on the user is described as a reading device
for retrieving the identification codes on the transponder. For a
description of the advantages of the invention according to claim
16 and for an explanation of the functioning and the
characteristics of claim 16, reference can be made, in order to
avoid repetition, to the above explanations in respect of claim 1
and of the claims that are dependent on claim 1.
[0053] Moreover, any information disclosed or communicated in the
context of this patent application in relation to an NFC element
and/or a counterpart NFC element, can equally also be used in the
context of the invention in relation to an RFID element or a
counterpart RFID element, and in the context of this patent
application counts as disclosed in relation to an RFID element or a
counterpart RFID element.
[0054] Further advantages are revealed in the sub-claims that have
not been cited, as well as by means of the following description of
the embodiments depicted in the figures.
[0055] FIG. 1 shows, in a schematic block-diagram type view, an
embodiment of an intercom system according to the invention with
two switching centers and, connected to them, a total of six speech
stations according to the invention and a belt pack with a radio
link to the switching center,
[0056] FIG. 2 shows, in a schematic block-diagram type view, an
enlarged image of an embodiment of a speech station according to
the invention as in FIG. 1, and an operator carrying a pass-like
object with a counterpart NFC element hung around his neck, and
[0057] FIG. 3 shows the operator in FIG. 2 together with a user
formed as a belt pack with a headset connected to it.
[0058] In the following description of the figures, embodiments of
the invention are described by way of example and with reference to
the figures. In the process, for the sake of clarity--and to the
extent that different embodiments are concerned--similar or
comparable parts or elements or areas are labeled with the same
reference symbol, sometimes with the addition of lower case
letters.
[0059] Characteristics that are only described in relation to one
embodiment can, in the context of the invention, also be provided
in any other embodiment of the invention. Embodiments changed in
this way are encompassed by the invention--even if they are not
depicted in the drawings.
[0060] All of the disclosed characteristics are in themselves
essential to the invention. The disclosure of this application
hereby covers, in full, the subject matter disclosed in the
associated priority documents (copy of the prior application), as
well as the cited publications and the state-of-the-art devices
described, also for the purpose of including individual
characteristics, or a number of characteristics, of these documents
in one or a number of claims of the present application.
[0061] The intercom network shown in its entirety and labeled as 10
in the figures is explained below by the embodiments depicted in
the figures. The intercom network 10 users formed according to the
invention are also described below.
[0062] According to FIG. 1, the intercom network 10 comprises two
switching centers 19a, 19b, which are connected to each other via a
connecting line 21g. Three stationary speech stations 11c, 11d, 11e
are connected to the first switching center 19a and three speech
stations 11a, 11b, and 11f, to the second switching center 19b.
[0063] Each of the users 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 11f, 11g is
formed as a speech station 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 12e, 12f. The speech
stations are each connected to the respective switching station
19a, 19b by their own connecting line 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21e,
21f.
[0064] The intercom network 10 according to an embodiment of the
invention is deployed at shows and events, in particular live
events. In principle, any number of users 11 may be connected to
the switching centers 19a, 19b, that number being adapted to the
requirements for media coverage, support, or the carrying out of
the show or event.
[0065] The speech stations 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 12e, 12f are shown
as stationary users 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 11f. The intercom
network 10 according to the invention can moreover also comprise
one or a number of mobile users 11g that are formed in the style of
a belt pack 13.
[0066] First, FIG. 2 is intended to illustrate the basic build and
structure of a speech station 12, representing 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d,
12e, 12f, according to the invention:
[0067] In the embodiment in FIG. 2 a speech station 12 comprises a
microphone 14 and a loudspeaker 16. The operator 25 working at this
speech station 12 in FIG. 2 can make spoken entries in to the
microphone 14 and hear audio information over the loudspeaker 16.
This audio information is bi-directionally received by or
transmitted to the speech station 12 via a communication port 29
for connecting a connecting cable 21 of the corresponding switching
center 19 (e.g. 19a according to FIG. 1), which is not shown in
FIG. 2.
[0068] Moreover, FIG. 2 shows that a plurality of speed-dial keys,
a total of four speed-dial keys 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d in the case of
the embodiment in FIG. 2, are provided on the speech station
12.
[0069] By pressing a speed-dial key the operator 25 can put the
speech station 12 in FIG. 2 into immediate, direct, secure audio
communication with another user on another user 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d,
11e, 11f, 11g to the intercom network 10 in FIG. 1.
[0070] A corresponding switching of the direct point-to-point
connection is carried out via the switching centers 19a, 19b. If
the speed-dial key 15a is set or programmed so that pressing the
speed-dial key 15a creates an audio connection with an operator of
speech station 12b of the intercom network 10 in FIG. 1, a direct,
secure audio connection between the speech station 12 according to
FIG. 2 and the speech station 12b according to FIG. 1, is
achievable.
[0071] The speed-dial keys 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d can be set, wherein
the corresponding settings can be retained by the switching center
19a, 19b or saved and/or administered or managed there. Moreover,
the speech station 12 in FIG. 2 also makes it clear that a first
function key 17 is provided, with which for example, the brightness
of the background lighting appearing on the displays for the
speed-dial keys 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d can be set. Moreover the speech
station 12 in FIG. 2 shows a function key 18, with which for
example the volume of the loudspeaker 16 can be set.
[0072] In state-of-the-art-speech stations, the operator could only
set the functionalities of the speed-dial keys 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d
or the function keys 17, 18 manually or on-site. For this purpose a
function key 18 formed as a potentiometer, for example, could be
manually rotated in order to set the brightness of the display on
keys 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, or the function key 17, also formed like a
potentiometer, rotated to set the volume. Equally, a programming of
the speed-dial keys 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d could be carried out
manually by the operator, e.g. using alphanumeric input fields or
via another user interface. Thus, after the intercom network has
been installed the user can make adaptions to the local conditions
on-site as desired, or with regard to his experience-based
principles, e.g. programming a particular speed-dial key 15a so
that a convenient or desired user of another speech station is
always programmed to have a fixed position on the operating
panel.
[0073] Thus, for example, the function key 15a may always create a
connection with a unit manager.
[0074] For the purposes of the present invention, the possibility
of a target dial key or call dial key is designated as
functionality. Also the setting of a dimming value for the
illuminated display of key 15a by the function key 17, or the
setting of the volume, is seen as setting a functionality for the
purposes of the invention.
[0075] The setting of a specified target person or a specified
target speech station is seen as the setting of a parameter value
for the purposes of the present patent application.
[0076] The parameter for a target dial key can, for example, be the
name of a specific other operator, e.g. Axel Muller, or his
identification number, e.g. operator number 22, or an abbreviation
or a code. Alternatively however, the parameter can also be a name
of the speech station or the user of the intercom network, such as
for example the name "recording director", "moderator" or "artist
xy" or similar.
[0077] According to the invention, it is provided that an operator
25 can log into a user 11 according to FIG. 2, i.e. into a speech
station 12 according to FIG. 2. The explanation of the speech
station 12 in FIG. 2 will therefore be entirely exemplary for all
users 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 11f, 11g to the intercom network in
FIG. 1:
[0078] According to FIG. 2, the speech station 12 features a device
27 for managing operators. This involves, for example, a
microprocessor or the component of an electronic circuit. The
device 27 comprises an NFC element 22 with which it is connected
via a connecting line 33.
[0079] Moreover, the device 27 for managing operators is connected
to a memory 32 via a connecting line 34. Finally, the device 27 for
managing operators is, moreover, connected with a communication
port 29, e.g. directly via a connecting line 35, or indirectly,
e.g. via a control unit, which is not depicted here, via which
communication port 29 the speech station 12 can be connected to the
switching center 19a in accordance with FIG. 1. The operator 25 has
an object 24, like an identity document, which comprises a
counterpart NFC element 23. This can, for example, be laminated
into the identity card or check-card sized object, or stuck onto
it. The counterpart NFC element 23 can also feature a memory chip
26.
[0080] In the course of configuring the speech station 12, for
example in the course of configuring the intercom network 10 in
FIG. 1 and the associated configuration of the speech station 12 in
FIG. 2, it is possible to set or program which operator should or
may work with the speech station 12 at time of the event. In some
cases this can also be a number of people.
[0081] Furthermore, a pre-setting of parameter values for the
previously described functionalities can be set in the course of
configuring the speech station 12. Thus, for example, for a
particular operator, e.g. for operator number 22 or the operator
named Axel Muller, it can be set so that a pre-setting and saving
of the parameter values for the function keys 15a, 15b, 15d is
carried out, so that particular target users 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d,
11e, 11f, 11g are addressed when the corresponding speed-dial keys
15a, 15b, 15c, 15d are pressed. It can also be recorded with
reference to this user number 22, or for the operator named Axel
Muller, that a given parameter value be set for the function keys
17, 18.
[0082] Corresponding parameter values can be saved in the memory 32
in the user 11, i.e. the speech station 12, in association with the
prescribed operator number 22.
[0083] If the live event now takes place, the operator 25 can log
into the user 11 in FIG. 2 as follows:
[0084] Having moved relatively close to the NFC element 22, the
operator 25 holds his identity card object 24 against the NFC
element 22 or brings it close to the latter, in particular to a
distance of, for example, only a few centimeters. As a result of
moving closer, a data communication takes place, according to the
NFC standard, between the NFC element 22 and the counterpart NFC
element 23.
[0085] In the course of this data exchange, the counterpart NFC
element can transmit information about the operator 25, for example
a user identification or the name of the operator, to the NFC
element 22. The counterpart NFC element 23 can either carry this
information itself, or can retrieve it from a separate memory
element 26 on the object 24.
[0086] This information is transmitted from the NFC element 22 via
the connecting line 33 to the device 27 for managing operators.
Immediately following the receipt of the information about the
logged-in user 25, the device 27 can cause the parameter values of
this operator 25 that are saved in the memory 26, to be set as
functionalities for the corresponding function elements 15a, 15b,
15c, 15d, 15, 17, 18.
[0087] To this extent, the operator 25 only needs to identify or
register himself with respect to the speech station 12 by logging
in, and can have direct recourse to the user-defined settings
without there being a need for any individual adjustment on-site
using the user. However, the invention also comprises embodiments
of users 11, 12, whereby, after logging in, the operator 25 can
make additional changes to the functionality settings.
[0088] If instead of the operator 25 in FIG. 2, another operator
logs into the speech station 12 in FIG. 2, the parameters for this
other operator that are also stored in the memory 32 can equally be
adopted.
[0089] Thus, in cases of doubt it does not depend entirely on which
individual device 11, 12 is assigned to the relevant operator,
rather, the required information can be retained by saving it
correspondingly in the device's 27 memory 32. In the embodiment
according to FIG. 2, the device 27 for managing operators is
provided autonomously in the speech station 12, i.e. in the user
11.
[0090] Equally, all of the users 11 depicted in the intercom system
10 in FIG. 1 can have their own such device 27. However, the
invention also includes a situation where the device 27 for
managing operators is provided in a decentralized way. For example,
components of this device for managing operators, e.g. a component
27a according to FIG. 1, can also be provided in one or a number of
switching centers 19a, 19b.
[0091] To this extent, components 27a of the device 27 for managing
operators can be provided in the switching center 19a, 19b and
maintain an appropriate data exchange with other components such
as, for example, the device 27 according to FIG. 2 in the speech
station.
[0092] The decision as to the degree to which the intelligence of
the device 27 for managing operators is dealt with in a
decentralized manner, i.e. is shared between a number of users 11a,
11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 11f, 11g, or a centralized manner, i.e.
provided essentially in a switching center 19a, is left to the
expert to make according to the required conditions.
[0093] According to the embodiment in FIG. 1, the intercom network
10 also has a mobile user 11g in the form of a belt pack 13. This
is depicted only schematically in FIG. 1 and in more detail in FIG.
3.
[0094] According to FIG. 1 the switching center 19a has a
communication module 31 that can establish a radio link to the belt
pack 13 according to the DECT standard. For this purpose the belt
pack 13 has a communication module 30, and the switching center 19a
has a communication module 31, which can enter into a radio link
with one another in order to transmit audio information. The
communication module 31 can be connected via a control line 36 to
the component 27a of the device for managing operators, or directly
to a microprocessor 20a in the switching center 19a. Moreover, FIG.
1 makes it clear that a memory 32a for saving parameter values in
association with different operators can also be provided in the
switching center 19a.
[0095] Moreover, in the context of the data exchange that must in
any event be carried out between the individual users 11a, 11b,
11c, 11d, 11e, 11f, 11g and the switching centers 19a, 19b, an
exchange can occur of the parameter values and associated
information about the operators held in the memory 32a of the
switching center 19a, or the memory 32 of the speech station 12
according to FIG. 2.
[0096] The structural setup of the belt pack 13 according to the
invention will now be explained in accordance with FIG. 3: On the
one hand, the belt pack can have--as in the speech station
12--destination selection keys 15e, 15f, which can be programmed.
Equally, function keys 17b and 18b can be provided that correspond,
for example, to the function keys 17, 18 of the speech station 12
according to FIG. 2.
[0097] The belt pack 13 is connected via a microphone port 28 or a
headset port to a headset 37. The latter can have headphones 38 and
a microphone 39.
[0098] The belt pack 13 in FIG. 3 has a communication module 30
with which it can implement an audio connection to the
communication module 31 on the switching center 19a.
[0099] In order to log an operator 25 according to FIG. 3 into the
belt pack 13 with aid of a counterpart NFC element 23, an NFC
element 22b is provided on the belt pack 13. The NFC element 22b is
connected to a device 27b for managing operators via a control line
33b. The device 27b for managing operators is connected to a memory
32b via a control line 34b. Parameter values and associated
information about the operator 25 are stored in the memory 32b. If
the operator 25 logs in by moving the counterpart NFC element 23
closer to the NFC element 22b on the belt pack 13, the user-defined
pre-settings (settings) for the function elements 15e, 15f, 17b,
18b can be adopted. The corresponding processing is carried out
either by the device 27b for managing operators or by an electronic
component, which is not depicted, in the belt pack 13.
[0100] A configuration device by which a configuration of the
intercom network 10 and/or the individual users 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d,
11e, 11f can be carried out, is not depicted in the figures. The
configuration device can involve, in the simplest case, a computer
that can be connected to one of the two switching centers 19a, 19b
by, for example, a data cable port, and can enter into
communication with the switching center 19a, 19b and enter the
relevant parameter values and associations with the operator 25
into the memory 32a by the microprocessor 20a and/or by the device
27a, 27. Equally, this configuration device can, if necessary,
directly address the speech station 12 according to FIG. 2, and
there directly access the memory 32.
[0101] Embodiments of the invention comprise intercom networks 10
with only one switching center 19, or also with a number of
switching centers, such as, for example, two switching centers 19a,
19b, as depicted in FIG. 1. Here it depends on the discretion of
the expert whether such an intercom network is organized in a
centralized or decentralized manner.
[0102] The second switching center 19b of the embodiment in FIG. 1
can have a similar or identical structure, as shown in FIG. 1 for
switching center 19a. Thus it can also be provided that the belt
pack can not only establish an audio radio link with the switching
center 19a, but also with the switching center 19b. It is also
conceivable and included in the invention that a belt pack 13 can
establish an audio radio link with another stationary user 11a,
11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 11f.
[0103] The description of the embodiments in the drawings relates
to an NFC element 22 and a counterpart NFC element 23. In a further
embodiment, which is not depicted but is encompassed by the
invention, the elements 22, 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, 22f depicted
in the drawings are all RFID elements and the element 23 depicted
according to the drawings is a counterpart RFID element 25.
* * * * *