(A) Systems, processes and instruments for the two-way electrical
transmission of intelligible audio information having arbitrary
content over a link including an electrical conductor, between spaced
apart locations, so as to enable conversation therebetween, and
intended for the private use of a listener or a group of listeners.
The term "intelligible" used above is intended to include the capability
for transmission of speech or the like (e.g., music), rather than
restriction to a specified audible signal, such as a bell or buzzer.
(B) Switching, signalling or signal transmission peculiar to,
or specified as for a telephone or a telephone system, except for
multiplex communications as indicated in Lines With Other Classes
and Within This Class, below.
(C) Subsystems, elements and adjuncts peculiar to such transmission
and not provided for elsewhere.
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
(1) Bi-directional audio communication is normally a duplex
arrangement, and simultaneous audio transmission of a single conversation
is in this class (379) and excluded from Class 370, Multiplex Communications, in
the absence of some other particular multiplexing technique.
(2) With exception of voice signal duplexing as pointed out
in (1) above, subject matter including multiplexing, particularly
involving plural conversations, regardless of recitation of telephone
limitations, is excluded from this class (379) and is classified
elsewhere.
(3) Audible signalling for call alerting, or producing a signal
having other specific content, such as bells, buzzers, etc., are
classified elsewhere, even if nominally characterized as used in
a telephone.
(4) Electromagnetic switches for automatic telephone switching
type, per se, are classified elsewhere.
(5) Electrical connectors merely nominally characterized as
for telephones, in the absence of additional telephone structure
are classified elsewhere.
(6) Named communications or telecommunications networks absent
recitation of telephone or voice limitation are not classifiable
herein.
(7) The following terms when used in a communication system
or instrument are considered to specify telephone equipment except
as specified in (2) above with respect to multiplexing or in class
or subclass search notes: dial tone - off-hook, handset - on-hook,
hookswitch - ringback, howler - sidetone, intercom - switchboard,
key set - switchhook, telephone line (used with switching system),
tip and ring (leads)
RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER SPEECH COMMUNICATIONS CLASSES
This class (379) requires the capability for two-way spoken
communications, or specified used of a telephone line, and subsystems
peculiar to either of the above.
A mechanical telephone is classified elsewhere. See References
to Other Classes, below.
All speech or telephone equipment which conceals message content
despite interception or unauthorized reception of a telephone signal
is classified elsewhere. See References to Other Classes, below.
Electrical speech processing system and apparatus, including
for example, such systems as, megaphones, public address systems
and hearing aids; and transducers such as microphones, earphones
or loudspeakers and also includes either of a telephone microphone
or receiver are classified elsewhere. See References to Other Classes,
below.
Audio signal telecommunications by a modulated carrier wave
not having telephone land line structure or limitations is classified
elsewhere. See References to Other Classes, below.
SECTION III - SUBCLASS REFERENCES TO THE CURRENT CLASS
Communications: Electrical, for audible signalling for call alerting, or producing
a signal having other specific content, such as bells, buzzers,
etc., even if nominally characterized as used in a telephone.
Multiplex Communications, for subject matter including multiplexing, particularly
involving plural conversations, regardless of recitation of telephone
limitations;
subclasses 276+ for duplex transmission.
Cryptography, includes all speech or telephone equipment which
conceals message content despite interception or unauthorized reception of
a telephone signal.
Electrical Audio Signal Processing and Systems, a generic electrical speech processing system and
apparatus class and includes, for example, such systems as, megaphones,
public address systems and hearing aids; and transducers such as
microphones, earphones or loudspeakers and also includes either
of a telephone microphone or receiver, but not their combination
as in a handset.
Telecommunications, includes audio signal telecommunications by a modulated
carrier wave not having telephone land line structure or limitations.
SECTION V - GLOSSARY
BI-DIRECTIONAL
Capable of use, particularly in transmitting information in
two opposite directions. Additionally, when used to describe an
audio transducer, capable of conversion of sound both to and from
electrical signal variations.
CALL ADDRESS SIGNAL
An electrical representation of a called terminal designation
(i.e., telephone number) which controls switching apparatus to establish
a connection from a calling terminal.
DIALING
Generating a call address signal. Although a dial is
a rotary pulse generating switch, the term dialing is sometimes
used generically as in the terms "tone dialing" and "resistance
dialing".
SUBSCRIBER
Telephone user or service location.
SUBSCRIBER
Telephone circuitry or instruments at subscriber location.
TELEPHONE
An instrument, known as a user terminal set, containing an
audio reproducer, and a speech-to-electricity transducer. An obsolete
usage of this term (telephone) is broad enough to include a microphone
or reproducer; however, a microphone or reproducer, per se, is classified
in Class 381.
DIAGNOSTIC TESTING, MALFUNCTION INDICATION, OR ELECTRICAL CONDITION
MEASUREMENT:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter for either (a) evaluating or monitoring the
condition of a telephone system or a component thereof in order
to determine the presence of a faulty or nonstandard condition or
(b) quantitatively determining an electrical parameter of a telephone
system or component thereof.
(1)
Note. Testing to determine which one of several normal status
conditions exist (e.g., busy-idle, off-hook) is not classified in
this or indented subclasses.
(2)
Note. The testing or measurement must be specifically claimed
as in or for a telephone system or a component thereof for classification
in this or indented communication or telecommunication system is not
sufficient for classification in these subclasses.
Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices,
subclasses 1 through 138for safety and protection of electrical systems
and devices not provided elsewhere.
Telecommunications,
subclasses 423 through 425,67.11-67.7, 115.1-115.4 and subclasses 226.1-226.4
for testing of a cellular radiotelephone system, system having transmitter
and receiver at separated stations, and transmitter or receiver
only station, respectively.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.01. Subject matter including testing or qualifying an instrument
used for the retention, recovery, or formation of an audible information
signal (e.g., voice mail).
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.01. Subject matter including testing a two wire telephone
line using an audio modulated data signal to indicate proper line
quality.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter for testing a device for coupling a two-wire
to four-wire interconnecting circuit or for eliminating an echo
effect in a telephone system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter which tests a device which amplifies or transfers
a signal between two telephone circuits, or circuit sections.
Multiplex Communications,
subclass 243 for fault detection of a multiplex repeater, and
subclasses 246+ for testing of a standard operation of
a multiplex repeater.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter to determine whether an undesired or surreptitious
receiving device is connected to telephone equipment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter for evaluating the operation of a system
or component which selectively connects two of a plurality of telephone
lines for communication therebetween.
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter including testing a new or replacement
software in a telephone switching system to ensure its proper operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter including the use of a computer workstation
for monitoring or routine testing the telephone network.
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter including generating action reports with
regards to the outcome of a particular testing sequence including
initial input parameters.
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter including the use of a spare equipment
in case of failure or overload of the primary system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter including testing of circuitry which connects
a subscriber line or instrument to a telephone switching system
or network (e.g., analog to digital interface).
(1)
Note. The subscriber line interface circuitry (SLIC) performs
conventional Borscht functions such as, power to the telephone (battery
feed), over voltage protection, ringing, on or off hook status (supervision),
codec, 2 to 4 wire conversion (hybrid), and testing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter which serially performs plural steps included
in a central switching arrangement evaluation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.01. Subject matter which automatically places the call by
the test equipment in order to perform the testing operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter for evaluating the operation of a individual
telephone central office or peripheral equipment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 15.01. Subject matter wherein computer based elements control
the operation of the telephone network via out of band signaling
(e.g., signaling system 7).
This subclass is indented under subclass 15.01. Subject matter includes testing the implementation or
operation of newly added functions to the system (e.g., special
services)
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter in which a line test or measurement is performed
with a device which is small and light enough to be easily carried
by an individual.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter wherein a characteristic of an interexchange
or in specified telephone conductor is evaluated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Subject matter including transmitting a known signal from
a testing location over a communication path to a second remote
location which retransmits the known signal back to the testing location
for use in evaluating the transmission path or a device are the
remote location.
Error Detection/Correction and Fault Detection/Recovery,
subclass 716 , for loopback testing of a communications circuit
of general utility by a digital test signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22.01. Subject matter which includes placing a signal into the
system to be tested and comparing the parameters of the output signal
from the system over a continuous range with the corresponding parameters
of the signal input.
(1)
Note. Such testing is often used in determination of degradation
or crosstalk.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22.01. Subject matter to determine the presence or location of
a conductor fault in a telephone line conductor.
Telecommunications,
subclasses 423 through 425,67.11-67.7, 115.1-115.4 and subclasses 226.1-226.4
for testing in a cellular radiotelephone system, system having
transmitter and receiver at separated stations, and transmitter
or receiver only station, respectively.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22.03. Subject matter to determine the presence or location of
a loop fault in a network transmission equipment used to provide
a pair gain function.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22.04. Subject matter which includes a test controller connecting
in tandem between testing facilities and central office switch
which responds to test initiation signals by connecting a metallic
pair to the test facilities at one end and to the subscriber voice
frequency drop at the other end.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22.03. Subject matter which includes an accessing device connected
between the testing equipment and the device under test for facilitating the
testing process or procedure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22.03. Subject matter where a test signal is applied to more
than one conductors under test to locate the fault.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22.03. Subject matter wherein the evaluated parameter is representative
of an unwanted electrical disturbance or a spurious signal in the
circuit or substance being measured or tested.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Subject matter including structure for providing a quantitative
indication of an electrical characteristic of the line or trunk
or the signal thereon.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.01. Subject matter for evaluating, measuring, or monitoring
a characteristic of a subscriber s line or card as well as service
function of an interface.
(1)
Note. Include herein the U or T type network terminating
interface, COT, SLIC, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 26.01. Subject matter which includes an automated diagnosis circuit
connected thereto and automatically places test signals to test
the subscriber s line card.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.01. Subject matter for evaluating, measuring, or monitoring
a characteristic of a subscriber line or station.
This subclass is indented under subclass 27.01. Subject matter which includes placing a signal into the
system to be tested and comparing the parameters of the output signal
from the system over a continuous range with the corresponding parameters
of the signal input.
This subclass is indented under subclass 27.01. Subject matter which includes placing signals into the
system to be tested by using programmable, or automated testing
device.
Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices,
subclasses 1 through 138,for safety and protection of electrical systems
and devices not provided elsewhere.
This subclass is indented under subclass 27.01. Subject matter which includes connection or disconnection
device for physically connecting or disconnecting communication
device from or to the telephone line.
This subclass is indented under subclass 27.01. Subject matter includes simple faulty identification device
capable to plug into telephone jack or to couple to tip and ring
wires in subscriber s premises location to troubleshoot problem
appeared on subscriber s loop or terminal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 27.01. Subject matter including a remote arrangement to facilitate
localization of faults in, or localized testing of, either a substation
or a subscriber loop.
(1)
Note. The testing may be performed either at the substation
or remotely, e.g., from a central office.
This subclass is indented under subclass 29.01. Subject matter which includes a single metallic test pair
providing between the central office and the remote terminals of
the pair gain system to accomplish metallic testing of the voice frequency
drops for a plurality of carrier-served subscribers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 29.01. Subject matter wherein a directory number of call equipment
at originating site is dialed back, or identity (i.e., caller ID)
of the call equipment at originating site is transmitted back from
a device under test.
This subclass is indented under subclass 29.01. Subject matter wherein a problem occurred or previous
configured condition changed from modification or addition of function
or device into an existing telecommunications network.
This subclass is indented under subclass 29.01. Subject matter diagnosing and segmenting a fault by comparing
measured parameter with stored parameter in a storage memory.
This subclass is indented under subclass 29.01. Subject matter includes a diagnostic circuit device placed
at subscriber s terminal of a telephone line for analyzing fault
and maintaining the line.
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Subject matter for testing or measuring a voice frequency
signalling generator or an impulsing signal producing arrangement,
in a terminal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.01. Subject matter including observing, watching or checking
the telephone system or device for a special purpose.
This subclass is indented under subclass 32.02. Subject matter wherein an advanced intelligent network
is being monitored.
(1)
Note. An AIN includes generally three basic elements: a)
signal control points (SCPs) or computerized database, b) signal
switching points (SSPs) or digital telephone switches, and c) signal
transfer points (STPs) or packet switches that shuttle messages
between SSPs and SCPs. In an AIN, one or more databases are queried
using signaling system 7 (SS7) to determine how a call should be handled.
This subclass is indented under subclass 32.01. Subject matter includes monitoring of a telephone line
connecting the local telephone central office to the subscribers
telephone instrument or system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 32.01. Subject matter for making a telephone conversation audible
to a person without the conversing parties being notified.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including a terminal, normally requiring
payment for usage, which has provision for limited usage without
payment.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes both emergency and nonemergency
free calling from a paystation, for example "0", "800" and "911"
calls.
EMERGENCY OR ALARM COMMUNICATIONS (E.G., WATCHMAN"S
CIRCUIT):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter for summoning response to a hazardous situation
over a telephone line.
(1)
Note. The term "hazardous situation" refers to a condition
or occurrence posing imminent danger to life, health, or property.
(2)
Note. The subject matter in this and it"s indented
subclasses included both systems solely for emergency use an details of
adjunct to other systems to specifically provide for emergency situations.
Further, an arrangement incidentally (e.g., an automatic dialer)
be used for an emergency situation will be classified with such
arrangement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Subject matter wherein the hazardous situation is a condition
of, or occurrence related to the well-being of an individual.
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter which generates a predetermined call address
signal for establishing a connection to a given telephone station.
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter which sends a previously stored sound message
signal over a telephone line in response to an emergency condition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter wherein more than one emergency or alarm
condition is detected (e.g., fire, intrusion, health hazard).
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Subject matter wherein a central office has equipment to
make a connection or provide a display for an emergency situation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Subject matter which enables a central station (a) to interrupt
normal telephone communication to make an announcement to, or (b)
to actuate an alarm at, a terminal station.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Subject matter wherein the alarm signal is transmitted over
a telephone line as a pulse or a digital signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Subject matter to either (a) generate a predetermined call
address signal for establishing a connection to a given telephone
station, or (b) send a previously stored sound message signal over
a telephone line response to an emergency condition.
HAVING NEAR FIELD LINK (E.G., CAPACITIVE, INDUCTIVE):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter having a transceiver, a base station, and
a limited range system (i.e., field strength=k/d
where k is a constant and d=distance between the transceiver
and base station antennas) whereby signal transfer is inductive
or capacitive, rather than electromagnetic.
HAVING LIGHT WAVE OR ULTRASONIC LINK FOR SPEECH OR PAGING SIGNAL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein a telephone circuit connection is
made by a transmitted electromagnetic wave group capable of propagating
at the velocity of light (about 186,281 miles per second), or which
has sonic vibrations above that of audible sound (16,000 Hz).
(1)
Note. For classification herein there must be some connection
to a telephone landline, for example, where a connection is made
through a telephone operator or exchange.
(2)
Note. Optical telephones are classified herein. For subcombinations
involving optical communication see the search notes below.
This subclass is indented under subclass 56.1. Subject matter wherein the electromagnetic wave is a light
wave which propagates within a light transmitting waveguide in
a telephone network.
This subclass is indented under subclass 56.1. Subject matter wherein the electromagnetic wave is in a
range of radiation wavelengths invisible to the human eye lying
between 750 nanometers and about 1 millimeter.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. System, process, or instrument for the two-way electrical
transmission of intelligible audio information further comprising
structure for the retention, recovery, or formation of an audio
message signal.
(1)
Note. Such storage or retrieval must include a telephone system
component at least nominally claimed. Mere designation of the apparatus
as a "telephone answering device" is, of itself, insufficient for
classification in this or indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Subject matter which utilizes relative motion with respect
to a record medium to perform the audio message storage or retrieval.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Subject matter including generating station-designating
signals for initiation of telephonic communication with a designated
station and subsequently transmitting a reproduced announcement
hereto or recording a message therefrom.
(1)
Note. The communication established is for connection to
the recorder or reproducer.
(2)
Note. The subject matter herein may include sequential selection
of designated stations.
This subclass is indented under subclass 68. Subject matter including establishing of telephonic communication
between a component connected to the recorder or reproducer and
a distinct calling station connected to the telephone system in
response to a calling signal initiated from the calling station.
(1)
Note. The component is often the station being called.
(2)
Note. The recorder or reproducer is usually actuated in response
to the telephonic communication.
(3)
Note. Such subject matter often includes both a reproducer
for transmitting an announcement upon initial actuation and subsequently
actuated recorder for generating a record of an incoming message.
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter selectively supplying phrases or words in
real time sequence to develop a complete announcement for transmission
through the telephone system.
(1)
Note. Typical of systems herein are time announcing systems
in which different words are reproduced in a desired order so that
the time is verbalized. For example: "The time is" -- "twelve"
-- "fifty" -- "four", in which each quoted phrase has been reproduced
from the storage medium.
(2)
Note. Time announcing systems not limited to a telephone
system are classified in Class 369, subclass 23.
Data Processing: Speech Signal Processing, Linguistics,
Language Translation, and Audio Compression/Decompression,
subclasses 258+ for speech synthesis based on sequential sounds
or bits.
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter wherein the announcement is restarted or
changed so as to form a series or repeated or changed announcements.
(1)
Note. A "series" means at least one repetition or modification
of an initial announcement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter wherein a single record carrier in the recorder
or reproducer has a plurality of distinct record tracks thereon.
(1)
Note. The term "record carrier" is the tangible object upon
which the recorded signal is stored.
(2)
Note. The plural tracks may be transversely displaced from
each other.
(3)
Note. The plural record tracks are often used for recording
distinct receive messages.
Dynamic Information Storage or Retrieval,
subclasses 24.01 through 42.01for remote control of a recording or reproducing
device other than by a telephone system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter which operates the recorder or reproducer
for other than its normal call responsive operation by a specified
signal transmitted over the telephone system.
Dynamic Information Storage or Retrieval,
subclasses 24.01 through 42.01for remote control of a recording or reproducing
device other than by a telephone system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Subject matter for correction of the recorded message subsequent
to recording and prior to reproduction of the final recorded incoming message.
(1)
Note. Mere naming of a device as for "dictation" absent particular
structure therefore is insufficient to provide classification in
this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Subject matter wherein the operation includes choosing or
changing a message to be transmitted by the reproducer to the telephone
system in response to an incoming call.
(1)
Note. A selection system may be used for a stock quotation.
Such a system not limited to a telephone system is classified in
Class 340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 825.26+.
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. subject matter wherein the connection between the telephone
system component and the reproducer or recorder is effected by a
sound wave produced and detected by a complementary pair of transducers.
(1)
Note. Such subject matter often involves a pair of such acoustic
links in opposite directions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter including circuitry to control the actuation
or deactuation of the recorder or reproducer in response to a telephone
system condition related to an incoming call.
(1)
Note. For classification herein, either details of the circuitry
or response to a particular condition other than call receipt is
required. Mere nominal recitation of circuitry responsive to call
receipt is not classifiable herein, as such response is necessarily
inherent in a call answering or intercepting device.
(2)
Note. The "call initiated cycle" is a sequence of reproducing
and recording mode of the recording and reproducing device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Subject matter wherein the cycle control circuitry is responsive
to the continuation, cessation, or absence of an incoming audio
signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Subject matter wherein the cycle control circuitry is responsive
to a line condition representative of the cessation of telephonic communications
(e.g., open circuit, dial tone presence).
(1)
Note. Such cessation may be effected by the caller hanging
up or being disconnected.
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Subject matter including a detail of circuitry responsive
to a system or component condition related to call alert signalling
or start of receipt of call.
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Subject matter including a specific mechanical feature of
a mechanism for causing relative emotion of the record medium.
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter wherein the component connected to the recorder
or reproducer is located at a switching station to which a plurality
of telephone circuits are connected.
This subclass is indented under subclass 68. Subject matter wherein the record generated is of an audible
signal in a telephone system, which signal exists independently
of the recording device.
(1)
Note. Normal operation includes, for example, two-way voice
communication.
This subclass is indented under subclass 85. Subject matter wherein the signal from the telephone system
is coupled for record generating by two electrical devices having
an interacting magnetic field.
This subclass is indented under subclass 68. Subject matter wherein a reproduced information bearing
audio signal is coupled by the telephone system to a remote station
for conversion into sound.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes use of a telephone system as
a reproduced signal program distribution system.
Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and
Devices,
subclasses 77+ for one-way audio signal program distribution,
not limited to a telephone system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis system wherein
the system is responsive to the presence or absence of a spoken
word.
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.01. Voice activation or recognition wherein access to the system
is gained when the received spoken word matches a stored authorization
signal.
Data Processing: Speech Signal Processing, Linguistics,
Language Translation, and Audio Compression/Decompression,
subclasses 231+ for speech signal processing and recognition using
artificial intelligence.
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.01. Voice activation or recognition wherein a call address signal
is initiated in response to a spoken word.
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.01. Voice activation or recognition wherein the audio message
signal is manipulated or routed in response to a spoken word.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis system wherein
the system is capable of manipulating or generating an audio message signal
in more than one linguistical format.
Data Processing: Speech Signal Processing, Linguistics,
Language Translation, and Audio Compression/Decompression,
subclass 8 for a means or step to adapt to, process, or support
plural languages in systems or in software, or to support the conventions
or peculiarities of various national languages.
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.05. Multilingual system or operation wherein the system provides
options enabling a user to select the linguistic format for the
manipulation, storage, retrieval, or generation of an audio message
signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis system further
comprising an operation in which an analog audio message signal
is manipulated or processed in a digital format.
Electrical Computers and Digital Processing Systems:
Processing Architectures and Instruction Processing (e.g., Processors),
subclasses 34 through 35for an auxiliary processor configured to perform
high speed data manipulations.
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.08. Message signal analysis further comprising a means to collect,
organize, or interpret specific quantitative audio message signal
data.
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.08. Message signal analysis further comprising a method for
reducing the size of the audio message signal by eliminating unnecessary
information, such as blank or redundant data for efficient storage,
transmission, or organization.
Coded Data Generation or Conversion,
subclass 60 for converting to or from codes comprising more
than one shorter data words so that they can be handled by a machine
component designed for longer data words.
Electrical Computers: Arithmetic Processing and
Calculating,
subclass 203 for representing a number or group of numbers by
a smaller number of digits than that possessed originally or the inverse
operation.
Electrical Computers and Digital Processing Systems:
Multiple Computer or Process Coordinating,
subclass 247 for multicomputer data transferring having a means
to reduce the transfer payload volume or to recover the data from
a compressed payload.
Electrical Computers and Digital Data Processing
Systems: Input/Output,
subclass 68 for data compression or expansion for improving
transfer efficiency between peripheral devices.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis system having
a means to view data or information relating to the audio message
signal in a visual format.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems, appropriate subclasses for a process or apparatus
for selective electrical control of two or more light-generating
or light-controlling display elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis system further
comprising an audio or visual signal alerting the user to the presence
of a recorded or stored audio message signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis system further
comprising a means to accept or transmit an audio message signal
in a secondary format.
Communications: Electrical,
subclasses 7.2 through 7.63for a selective communication system with a paging
means and 311.2 for a nonselective paging system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis system further
comprising a means to formulate a system-generated spoken message.
Data Processing: Speech Signal Processing, Linguistics,
Language Translation, and Audio Compression/Decompression,
subclasses 258+ for a system wherein component parts of a speech
signal are combined to produce a synthetic speech output.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis system wherein
the telephone system is capable of transmitting and receiving audio
message signal information over a secondary network.
Electrical Computers and Digital Processing Systems:
Multiple Computer or Process Coordinating, appropriate subclassesfor multicomputer data transferring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis system wherein
a voice message signal is processed by plural intercommunicating
messaging.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis system wherein
a means is provided to disclose information regarding an originating
call signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.19. Call source identification wherein the disclosed information
relating to the incoming call is forwarded to a substation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis system further
including a process for organizing, directing, distributing, or
switching an incoming or outgoing audio message signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.22. Call management system wherein the organization, distribution,
or switching of an incoming or outgoing audio message signal is
completed in response to an input from the message recipient or
originator.
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.23. Subscriber or caller controlled audio signal management
system wherein the controlling input is a system generated signal
having a specified acceptable pitch.
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.23. Subscriber or caller controlled audio message signal management
system wherein the audio message signal is held in a centralized
memory location.
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.25. Centralized stored message wherein the stored audio message
signal is generated by a system nonsubscriber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.22. Call management system wherein message information and system
instructional information are stored in discrete memory locations.
Static Information Storage and Retrieval, appropriate subclasses for an apparatus or corresponding
process for the static storage and retrieval of information.
TELEPHONE LINE OR SYSTEM COMBINED WITH DIVERSE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
OR SIGNALLING (E.G., COMPOSITE):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein a nontelephone signal is transmitted
over a conductor of telephone signals, or a
telephone signal is transmitted over nontelephone electrical circuitry.
Multiplex Communications, appropriate subclasses for simultaneous transmission
of a telephone signal and another electrical communications signal,
or multiplexing plural telephone signals, over a common channel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90.01. Subject matter wherein the transmission involves TCP/IP
(Transmission Control Protocol/Internetwork Protocol).
This subclass is indented under subclass 90.01. Subject matter wherein the nontelephone signal is used to
permit or deny a charge to an individual account over a telephone
line.
Data Processing: Financial, Business Practice,
Management, or Cost/Price Determination, appropriate subclasses for business oriented applications
for computers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 91.01. Subject matter including a switching facility having structure
or circuitry for credit transaction processing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90.01. Subject matter wherein plural controlled devices transmit
a personal or personal choice status signal in response to an interrogation
signal.
(1)
Note. The personal or personal choice signal may be successively
transmitted.
This subclass is indented under subclass 92.01. Subject matter including a central station with specific
structure or circuitry for status signal processing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 92.01. Subject matter including a user terminal with specific structure
or circuitry for generating or transmitting the status signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90.01. Subject matter for transfer of message information by either
a multi-level pulse signal or a data signal consisting of a series
of ones and zeros, over a line specifically described as a telephone
line.
Electrical Computers and Digital Data Processing
Systems: Multiple Computer or Process Coordinating, appropriate subclassesfor data transferring among multiple computer
and digital processing systems.
Electrical Computers and Digital Data Processing
Systems: Input/Output,
subclasses 1+ for transferring data from one or more peripherals
to one or more computers or digital data processing systems for
the latter to process, store, or further transfer or for transferring
data from the computers or digital data processing systems to the
peripherals.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.01. Subject matter which permits or denies the rights to use
remote digital computing or communication equipment.
Data Processing: Database and File Management,
Data Structures, Or Document Processing,
subclass 9 for privileged access to a database or file in
a computer environment.
Electrical Computers and Digital Data Processing
Systems: Input/Output,
subclasses 36+ for digital data processing system Input/Out
access regulating and subclasses 107+ for bus access regulating
in a digital data processing system.
Electrical Computers and Digital Processing Systems:
Support,
subclasses 182 through 186for system access control based on cryptographic
user identification.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.02. Subject matter whereby access is granted by matching user
characteristics (e.g., voiceprint, fingerprint, signature) of the
person desiring access.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.01. Subject matter having a specific electronic arrangement
interrelating a device or equipment to the telephone line.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.05. Subject matter wherein the interface circuitry is connected
to a telephone line in which the information is encoded as a series
of ones and zeros.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.05. Subject matter wherein the interface circuitry is for connecting
to at least two telephone lines or groups of stations.
Data Processing: Financial, Business Practice,
Management, or Cost/Price Determination, appropriate subclasses for business oriented applications
for computers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.01. Subject matter including equipment which performs the functions
of establishing and releasing connections and includes structure
or circuitry for digital message signal processing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.14. Subject matter wherein an electronic structure is particularly
adapted for transforming the digital message signal from one form
into another form (e.g., text-to-voice, voice-to-text, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.01. Subject matter including a structure particularly adapted
for conversion of a digital information signal into a visual message
signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.17. Subject matter including an arrangement for character or
symbol pattern recognition to show letters of the alphabet or numerals.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.17. Subject matter wherein the terminal display includes input
means responsive to force or location along the display face.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 173+ for touch panels, subclass 179 for stylus, and
subclasses 180+ for light pen.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.17. Subject matter which enables three or more data terminals
on distinct subscriber lines to be included in a single call connection.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.17. Subject matter wherein the structure includes a public telephone
from which calls can be paid for by means of currency, credit, or
debit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.17. Subject matter wherein the information signal is assigned
to a memory location for storage and retrieved by a station having
access to the memory location (e.g., text mail).
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.17. Subject matter including a database having structure or
circuitry for supplying information in electronic form from the
database to subscriber terminals.
Interactive Video Distribution Systems, appropriate subclasses, especially
subclasses 86 through 104for user-requested video program system, subclasses
105-134 for video distribution with upstream communication, and
subclasses 135-142 for one-way local video distribution system with
local interaction.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.01. Subject matter wherein the pulse or data signal is specifically
described as converted into one or more tones lying within the audible
frequency spectrum.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.26. Subject matter including a structure particularly adapted
for recognition of tone codes generated via dual-tone, multi-frequency
signals into letters or numbers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.26. Subject matter wherein a pulse or data signal causes a variation
in the frequency, phase, or amplitude of an audible tone.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.28. Subject matter wherein communication operating parameters
can be reprogrammed to conform with different communication standards or
perform different communication modes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.31. Subject matter including determination of one of a plurality
of modulator-demodulator types and for connecting to a compatible
type.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.28. Subject matter for signalling a first station in communication
with a second station that a third station desires communication
with the first station.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.28. Subject matter including particular circuitry for deriving
power from the telephone line to data communication equipment (DCE).
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.26. Subject matter wherein a digital signalling device is connected
to a telephone line by a sound wave passing between a complementary pair
of electroacoustic transducers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90.01. Subject matter where the nontelephone signal is a visual
or graphic representation of a document for producing a visually
readable reproduction at a receiving station.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject matter wherein the transmitted message is assigned
to a memory location for storage and retrieved by a station having
access to the memory location.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject matter wherein the message is transmitted to some
intermediate point, and at a later time, further retransmitted to
a remote destination.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject matter wherein the visual or graphic information
accessed is from a collection of such information.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject matter having a specific structure for transforming
the nontelephone signal to another form (e.g., image-to-voice, image-to-text,
etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 102.02. Subject matter wherein the device converts media signals
into humanly perceivable signals, typically sight or sound, or records
the media signals for later playback.
This subclass is indented under subclass 102.02. Subject matter wherein the control is directed toward applying
electric energy to the communication equipment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 102.01. Subject matter wherein the control restricts movement of
a person by permitting or preventing ingress or egress through
a door or other similar structural closure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 102.01. Subject matter wherein a condition or state of the controlled
device is reported in humanly perceivable form.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90.01. Subject matter for providing a signal representing a sensed
condition at a distant station via the telephone line.
This subclass is indented under subclass 106.03. Subject matter wherein the signal is exchanged between a
central station and the subscriber"s telephone without
causing the telephone bell to sound.
This subclass is indented under subclass 106.03. Subject matter wherein the sensed condition is transmitted
to a central station at an appointed time period.
This subclass is indented under subclass 106.03. Subject matter wherein the sensed condition is transmitted
to a central station in response to a request signal initiated by
the central station.
This subclass is indented under subclass 106.01. Subject matter wherein the signal is exchanged between a
central station and the subscriber"s telephone without
causing the telephone bell to sound.
This subclass is indented under subclass 106.01. Subject matter wherein the signal is transmitted to a central
station in response to a request signal initiated by the central
station.
COMPOSITE SUBSTATION OR TERMINAL (E.G., HAVING CALCULATOR, RADIO):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter in which a telephone instrument also has
structure or circuitry for performing a diverse independent (i.e.,
nontelephone) function.
(1)
Note. There may be a relationship between the telephone and
diverse function, as in diverse audio muting.
Electrical Computers: Arithmetic Processing and
Calculating,
subclass 109 for a digital calculating computer combined with
a telephone or other communication device.
WITH USAGE MEASUREMENT (E.G., CALL OR TRAFFIC REGISTER):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter which determines the length, number, frequency,
or cost of telephone usage and is combined with telephone equipment.
(1)
Note. The telephone usage determining equipment, per se,
is classifiable elsewhere.
(2)
Note. Such equipment often includes a register for counting
calls, or determining time of usage.
Electrical Pulse Counters, Pulse Dividers, or
Shift Registers: Circuits and Systems, appropriate subclasses for an electrical counter
or register, per se.
This subclass is indented under subclass 111. Subject matter including a computer or control processor
for counting and registering the number of telephone calls.
This subclass is indented under subclass 112.01. Subject matter wherein a primary processor or computer implements
the functionality of telephone usage and if the primary processor
fails, a secondary processor or computer is activated to take over
its functionality.
This subclass is indented under subclass 112.01. Subject matter wherein an estimation is performed to determine
the possibility of a network being congested due to incoming call traffic
to avoid being unable to service calls.
This subclass is indented under subclass 112.01. Subject matter wherein a load capacity of a network component
is pre-established or established dynamically by a network to avoid congestion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 112.01. Subject matter wherein a network manager implements a plurality
of options to service incoming call traffic by using different network
components to avoid congestion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 112.06. Subject matter which determines a number of incoming calls
being serviced by a carrier or the frequency by which a carrier
is being used.
This subclass is indented under subclass 112.06. Subject matter which determinates the frequency of using
a communication line to service incoming calls.
This subclass is indented under subclass 112.06. Subject matter which collects data or information about
usage of 1-800, 1-900 and other virtual numbers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 112.06. Subject matter wherein data or information is gathered over
a period of time to determine the congestion or overload rate of
a network.
This subclass is indented under subclass 111. Subject matter which determines the usage cost for a particular
telephone set or the cost to a subscriber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.01. Subject matter wherein a service provider with the best
competitive price or the cheapest cost among a plurality of providers
is selected to service a subscriber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.01. Subject matter wherein a service provider utilizes a computer
software or program in determining the cost of a telephone service provided
to a subscriber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.01. Subject matter wherein charging apparatus is monitored to
detect any error associated with determining telephone cost for
any given subscriber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.01. Subject matter wherein a subscriber is charged for customized
features in addition to a standardized telephone bill.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.01. Subject matter which charges a subscriber for telephone
services as a function of factors affecting a network.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.06. Subject matter wherein a subscriber is charged based on
the time of the day, or a specific day or month.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.01. Subject matter wherein a subscriber is offered a special
charge rate to encourage usage of network services.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.1. Subject matter wherein a subscriber engaged in a telephone
call can be offered opportunities to win a reward.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.1. Subject matter wherein a subscriber is offered a cost
lower than the standard cost based on telephone usage or plan subscribed
to.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.1. Subject matter wherein a service provider provides information
detailing rewards or offers for telephone usage.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.01. Subject matter wherein fraudulent usage of a telephone or
a subscribers account is determined and monitored.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.01. Subject matter wherein a subscriber is enable to make a
call by billing a card account number provided by a subscriber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.15. Subject matter wherein a subscriber can re-activate a calling
card or an account by adding more money to the account or card.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.15. Subject matter wherein items other than a card or in conjunction
with a card with calling indicia can be used in making telephone calls.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.15. Subject matter wherein a card, other than a calling card,
used in paying for other services can be used in making telephone
calls after verification.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.21. Subject matter wherein a plurality of subscribers can arrange
to pay for a part of telephone usage cost.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.21. Subject matter wherein a party other than the calling or
called party assumes responsibility for telephone cost.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.21. Subject matter wherein a service provider pays for telephone
usage cost when a subscribers calls to inquire about or order a provided
service.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.21. Subject matter wherein a subscriber pays for telephone cost
associated with inquiring about a service being offered by a service provided
or when ordering a service.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.21. Subject matter wherein a subscribers with a plurality of
accounts can have telephone usage billed to a specific account based
on a triggered code.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.01. Subject matter wherein a subscriber is billed for telephone
usage associated with an assigned unique directory number which
can be used in several geographic location.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.01. Subject matter wherein a switch queries a centralized service
control point database for billing information.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.28. Subject matter wherein a plurality of service control point
databases may be queried for billing information or a service management
system (SMS) may be queried by a service control point for billing
information.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.01. Subject matter wherein the charge determination is made
at one exchange and then transmitted to another related to the calling
station.
(1)
Note. Included herein is the Centralized Automatic Message
Accounting (CAMA) where the accounting for several central exchanges
is handled at only one office.
This subclass is indented under subclass 115.01. Subject matter wherein interexchange carriers located in
different countries co-operate to complete a call between a calling
party and a called party.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114. Subject matter which produces a permanent record showing
a numerical quantity indicating the call charge or basis therefor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114.01. Subject matter wherein the call charge metering or monitoring
is performed at a toll call network switching office to which a
call is connected and passed through.
(1)
Note. Example of a toll call network switching office herein
is the long distance telephone service provider.
![[Search a list of Patent Appplications for class 379]](../as.gif)
CLASS 379,![[List of Patents for class 379 subclass 1.01]](../ps.gif)
1.01