U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
Information Products Division |
U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
Patents classified in a subclass may be accessed by either clicking on
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(definitions have been obtained from the
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is produced by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Electronic Products Branch)
Class 379
TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATIONS
Class Definition:
STATEMENT OF THE CLASS SUBJECT MATTER:
(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.
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
1 through 36, for observation, measuring, or testing.
37 through 51, for coin-free paystation, emergency, or alarm
equipment.
52 for handicapped user.
55.1 through 56.3, for wireless or carrier link.
67.1 through 88.28, for voice signal storage.
90 through 110, for composite system or terminal.
111 through 142, for usage measurement or display.
143 through 155, for paystations.
156 through 187, for key, private or party systems.
188 through 200, for call or terminal limiting.
201 through 218, for special services.
219 through 332, for switch telephone network.
333 through 349, for network component systems.
350 through 386, for supervisory or control signalling.
387 through 418, for substation or line circuitry or
component.
419 through 456, for terminal structure or accessory.
457 for miscellaneous.
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
181, Acoustics, includes a mechanical telephone.
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, for electromagnetic switches for
automatic telephone switching type, per se.
340, 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.
370, Multiplex Communications, for subject matter including
multiplexing, particularly involving plural conversations,
regardless of recitation of telephone limitations; 276 for
duplex transmission.
380, Cryptography, includes all speech or telephone equipment
which conceals message content despite interception or
unauthorized reception of a telephone signal.
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing and Systems is 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.
439, Electrical Connectors, for electrical connectors merely
nominally characterized as for telephones, in the absence of
additional telephone structure.
455, includes audio signal telecommunications by a
modulated carrier wave not having telephone land line
structure or limitations.
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.
SUBCLASSES
Subclass:
1
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, appropriate
subclasses for an electrical measurement or test not limited
to a telephone instrument or system.
340, Communications: Electrical, 635 for fault indication
of an electrical apparatus, and an electrical parameter,
respectively.
Subclass:
2
Including fault responsive disconnection of tested
component:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter
including automatic removal from operation of a component
evaluated as faulty.
Subclass:
3
Of hybrid, or echo suppressor or canceller:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
345 391 and 402+, for a hybrid in telephone equipment.
406 for an echo suppressor.
Subclass:
4
Of repeater:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
338 for a telephone repeater.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
370, Multiplex Communications, subclass 243 for fault
detection of a multiplex repeater, and subclasses 246+ for
testing of a standard operation of a multiplex repeater.
375, Pulse or Digital Communications, subclass 213 for
testing of a pulse or digital repeater.
Subclass:
5
By loopback:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. 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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
370, Multiplex Communications, subclass 249 for loopback
testing in a multiplex system.
714, Error Detection/Correction and Fault Detection/Recovery,
subclass 716, for loopback testing of a communications
circuit of general utility by a digital test signal.
Subclass:
6
By analysis of injected tone signal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. 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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, subclass 628 for
measurement of interference between circuits.
Subclass:
7
For detection of eavesdropping device:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter
to determine whether an undesired or surreptitious receiving
device is connected to telephone equipment.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
35 for an eavesdropping device.
Subclass:
8
With blocking of normal usage:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter
including prevention of normal use of a telephone system
component being evaluated.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
381 for a make busy circuit, in general.
Subclass:
9
Of centralized switching system:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
242 for a centralized telephone switching system.
Subclass:
10
By automatic testing sequence (e.g., programmable,
scanning):
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
which serially performs plural steps included in a central
switching arrangement evaluation.
Subclass:
11
Routiner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter
wherein centralized switching equipment is tested by
performing actual line selection.
Subclass:
12
With dedicated testing line or trunk:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
including a line or trunk used exclusively for measurement or
diagnostic testing.
Subclass:
13
Of call timing or charging equipment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
for evaluating equipment which measures call duration or
cost.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
111 for a call timing and charging arrangement.
Subclass:
14
Of plural exchange network:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
wherein a plurality of switching offices facilities are
tested.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
219 for a plural exchange telephone network.
Subclass:
15
Of automatic switching equipment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
for testing switching equipment which performs a selective
call connection in response to a call address signal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
258 for automatic switching equipment.
Subclass:
16
Of switching path:
This subclass is indented under subclass 15. Subject matter
which evaluates the route of a switching connection through
telephone switching equipment.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
273 for alternate routing of a call connection.
Subclass:
17
Of switching selector:
This subclass is indented under subclass 15. Subject matter
for testing a device which selects a branch of the switching
path.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, 415 for testing of
an electromagnetic switch.
Subclass:
18
By use of call address signal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 15. Subject matter
which generates a selective switching control signal
specifying a called station address.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
352 for telephone call address signal generating, in
general.
Subclass:
19
Rapid manual connecting structure for test equipment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 15. Subject matter
designed or located for connection of a testing or
measurement arrangement.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
439, Electrical Connectors, appropriate subclasses for such
connectors not limited to testing telephone switching
devices.
Subclass:
20
Of switchboard element condition (e.g., lamp):
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
for evaluating an element of an arrangement for manual line
interconnection.
(1) Note. Such elements may include lamps or cords.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, 403 for testing of
a lamp, in general.
Subclass:
21
Using portable test set (e.g., handset type):
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.
Subclass:
22
Of trunk or long line:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter
wherein a characteristic of an interexchange or in specified
telephone conductor is evaluated.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
27 for testing of a subscriber line or loop.
Subclass:
23
Of line signalling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Subject matter
which evaluates the transmission or operation of a control
signal on a telephone line.
Subclass:
24
Electrical parameter measurement (e.g., attenuation):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, 600 for impedance
measurement of a nontelephone line.
Subclass:
25
Conductor identification or location:
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Subject matter
for determining the identity or position of a telephone line
conductor.
Subclass:
26
Fault detection or location (e.g., continuity, leakage):
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Subject matter
to determine the presence or location of a conductor fault in
a telephone line conductor.
Subclass:
27
Of subscriber loop or terminal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter
for evaluating, measuring, or monitoring a characteristic of
a subscriber line or station.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, appropriate subclasses for
physical testing, in general.
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
58 for evaluation of an audio device other than telephone
equipment.
Subclass:
28
Of data transmission instrument:
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Subject matter
for testing of a digital signal data terminal connected to a
telephone line.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.01 transmission of a digital message signal over a
telephone line.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
375, Pulse or Digital Communications, 224 for testing a
digital transmission instrument not part of a telephone
arrangement.
Subclass:
29
Terminal arrangement to enable remote testing (e.g., testing
interface):
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Subject matter
which includes an 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.
Subclass:
30
Loop impedance (e.g., resistance, capacitance):
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Subject matter
for measuring the electrical impedance along and across a
subscriber line or terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, 600 for electrical
impedance measurement.
Subclass:
31
Of line signalling generator (e.g., dial, tone code
generator):
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.
Subclass:
32
Indication of nonstandard condition of telephone equipment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter
for monitoring the condition of telephone equipment and
providing a perceptible indication of a fault or other
improper equipment condition.
(1) Note. Diagnostic testing of equipment responsive to a
fault only during performance of the test is excluded from
this subclass and classified in subclasses 2-30 above.
Subclass:
33
Alarm or emergency (e.g., cut line):
This subclass is indented under subclass 32. Subject matter
where the indicated condition is of damage, or imminent
hazard to, telephone equipment.
Subclass:
34
SERVICE MONITORING OR OBSERVATION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter for monitoring the response of a telephone
operator, or the response time of telephone equipment.
(1) Note. The response time usually indicates time elapsed
after the user service request.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
133 for determination of call traffic on, or usage of,
telephone system equipment.
Subclass:
35
Listening-in or eavesdropping type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 34. Subject matter
for making a telephone conversation audible to a person
without the conversing parties being notified.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
85 for audio recording of a telephone conversation.
Subclass:
36
FREE CALLING FROM PAYSTATION:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
45 for emergency calling not including free calling from a
paystation.
143 for a paystation.
Subclass:
37
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 287 for a signal box alarm
arrangement, particularly subclass 288 for alarm transmission
over a power line.
Subclass:
38
Personal monitoring (e.g., for the ill or infirm):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52 for a telephone instrument particularly designed for a
handicapped user.
Subclass:
39
Responsive to sensed nonsystem condition:
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Subject matter
which responds automatically to a condition, external to the
telephone system.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
106 for remote condition indication, other than an emergency
or alarm condition, over a telephone line.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 500 for a condition
responsive alarm system not including telephone apparatus.
Subclass:
40
Automatic dialing:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
51 for automatic dialing in transmission of a recorded audio
alarm message.
Subclass:
41
Transmission of recorded audio message:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
51 for transmission of recorded audio message in emergency
or alarm communications that is not automatically condition
responsive.
Subclass:
42
Plural conditions:
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).
Subclass:
43
Fire:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
wherein the detected condition is flame, heat or smoke.
Subclass:
44
Intrusion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
wherein the detected condition is the entry of a living being
into a given space.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 541 for an intrusion alarm
not limited to telephone equipment.
Subclass:
45
Central office responsive to emergency call or alarm (e.g.,
"911", operator position display):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
36 for free calling from a paystation.
Subclass:
46
Called line or station condition responsive (e.g., recall if
busy):
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Subject matter
where a condition of a called line or station controls
further operation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
33 for a telephone equipment alarm condition.
209 for this subject matter, in a nonalarm system.
Subclass:
47
Plural alarms over single line:
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Subject matter
wherein a plurality of alert signals are sent over one
telephone line.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
42 for a condition responsive plural alarm signals.
Subclass:
48
Announcement or alarm received at terminal station (e.g.,
"butt-in", alarm):
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.
Subclass:
49
Central station with plural substations:
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Subject matter
having a single central alarm station connected to a
plurality of terminal stations.
Subclass:
50
By pulse or digital signal:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.01 transmission of a digital message signal over a
telephone line.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
375, Pulse or Digital Communications, appropriate subclasses
for nontelephone digital communication.
Subclass:
51
With automatic dialing or transmission of recorded audio
message:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
69 for a call originating arrangement which transmits, a
previously recorded audio message, not limited to an
emergency condition.
Subclass:
52
INCLUDING AID FOR HANDICAPPED USER (E.G., VISUAL, TACTILE,
HEARING AID COUPLING):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter particularly designed for use by a physically
impaired individual.
(1) Note. Devices specifically for coupling a hearing aid
to a telephone (e.g., magnetic pickup, microphone holder) are
classified herein.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
395 for a terminal having an amplifying arrangement.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 825.19 for
communication or control for the handicapped.
Subclass:
55.1
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
246, Railway Switches and Signals, subclass 8 for similar
subject matter used in train dispatching.
343, Communications: Radio Wave Antennas, 700 for an
antenna used for baseband communication.
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
subclass 79 for a one-way near field voice system.
455, Telecommunications, subclass 41 for a modulated carrier
type near field communications system.
Subclass:
56.1
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 311.1 for a
generic paging arrangement.
359, Optics: Systems (Including Communication) and Elements,
109 for systems and subsystems using an optical carrier.
385, Optical Waveguides, appropriate subclasses for optical
conducting elements, per se.
Subclass:
56.2
Including fiber optic link within telephone network:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
385, Optical Waveguides, appropriate subclasses for optical
conducting elements, per se.
Subclass:
56.3
Including infra-red link with landline 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.
Subclass:
67.1
AUDIO MESSAGE STORAGE, RETRIEVAL, OR SYNTHESIS:
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.
Subclass:
68
Dynamic audio signal recording or reproduction:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval,
appropriate subclasses for a magnetic tape recorder.
369, Dynamic Information Storage or Retrieval, appropriate
subclasses for a phonograph.
Subclass:
69
Call originating:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
40 and 51, for similar subject matter to transmit fire,
burglar, or police calls or alarms over the telephone
system.
355 for an automatic telephone dialing device.
Subclass:
70
Call intercept or answering:
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.
Subclass:
71
Consecutive use of recorded phrases or words to form
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
368, Horology: Time Measuring Systems or Devices, subclass
63 for time announcing systems having details of the time
measuring system.
369, Dynamic Information Storage or Retrieval, subclass 23
for time announcing systems not limited to telephone
equipment.
704, Data Processing: Speech Signal Processing, Linguistics,
Language Translation, and Audio Compression/Decompression,
258 for speech synthesis based on sequential sounds or
bits.
Subclass:
72
Sequential or repeated announcement during single call
initiated cycle:
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.
Subclass:
73
Plural record carrier channels:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
72 for remote control over a telephone system.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
369, Dynamic Information Storage or Retrieval, 24 for remote
control of a recording or reproducing device other than by a
telephone system.
Subclass:
74
Remote control over telephone line:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
102 for remote control over a telephone system.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
369, Dynamic Information Storage or Retrieval, 24 for remote
control of a recording or reproducing device other than by a
telephone system.
Subclass:
75
Remote dictation:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
369, Dynamic Information Storage or Retrieval, 25 for
dictation devices.
Subclass:
76
Announcement selection or replacement:
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+.
Subclass:
77
Control by generated tone:
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Subject matter
wherein the specified signal has an audio frequency
component.
(1) Note. Included herein is control by push button
telephone devices.
Subclass:
78
Acoustic coupling:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
444 for an acoustic telephone system coupler.
Subclass:
79
With specified call initiated cycle control circuitry:
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.
Subclass:
80
Voice signal presence responsive:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
81 for similar subject matter responsive to any other line
condition.
420 for voice control of a telephone.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
369, Dynamic Information Storage or Retrieval, subclass 50
for voice control of a recording system.
Subclass:
81
Call termination responsive (e.g., hang-up):
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.
Subclass:
82
Having specified call initiation (e.g., ringing) responsive
circuitry:
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.
Subclass:
83
Structural detail of storage medium drive:
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.
Subclass:
84
At switching facility (e.g., central office, switchboard):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
89.4 for voice message storage or retrieval at a centralized
location.
Subclass:
85
Recording of telephone signal during normal operation:
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.
Subclass:
86
Inductive pickup:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
433 for an inductive telephone pickup.
Subclass:
87
Reproduced signal distributed over telephone line:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
101 for audio program distribution over a telephone line,
not limited to a reproduced signal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
77 for one-way audio signal program distribution, not
limited to a telephone system.
Subclass:
88.01
Voice activation or recognition:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88.15 for a pager device activated by an audio message
signal.
Subclass:
88.02
Voice verification (e.g., voice authorization, voiceprint,
etc.):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
704, Data Processing: Speech Signal Processing, Linguistics,
Language Translation, and Audio Compression/Decompression,
231 for speech signal processing and recognition using
artificial intelligence.
Subclass:
88.03
Voice dialing:
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.
Subclass:
88.04
Voice controlled message management:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88.22 for a process for organizing or controlling the
receipt or delivery of a voice message.
Subclass:
88.05
Multilingual system or operation:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
704, 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.
Subclass:
88.06
Language selection:
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.
Subclass:
88.07
Digital Signal Processing (DSP):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
395, Information Processing System Organization, subclass
800.35 for an auxiliary processor configured to perform high
speed data manipulations.
Subclass:
88.08
Message signal analysis:
This subclass is indented under subclass 67.1. Audio message
storage, retrieval, or synthesis system wherein the audio
message signal is examined.
Subclass:
88.09
Statistical analysis (e.g., time, date, length of message,
etc.):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
111 for a means to determine the length, number, frequency,
or cost of telephone usage combined with telephone
equipment.
Subclass:
88.1
Including data compression:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
341, 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.
364, Electrical Computers and Data Processing Systems,
subclass 715.02 for representing a number or group of
numbers by a smaller number of digits than that possessed
originally or the inverse operation.
395, Information Processing System Organization, subclass
200.77 for a multicomputer data transfer ring having a means
to reduce the transfer payload volume or to recover the data
from a compressed payload, and subclass 888 for data
compression or expansion for improving transfer efficiency
between peripheral devices.
Subclass:
88.11
Display of message related information:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88.12 for an audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis
system having a visual or audio message notification.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
345, Computer Graphics Processing, Operator Interface
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.
Subclass:
88.12
Indication or notification of message:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88.11 for an audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis
system having a means to view data or information relating to
an audio message signal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 500 for a conditional
response indicating system.
Subclass:
88.13
Multimedia system (e.g., voice output combined with fax,
video, text, etc.):
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.
Subclass:
88.14
Presentation format conversion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.13. Multimedia
system having a means to convert the audio message signal
data to a user specified format.
Subclass:
88.15
Pager activation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.13. Multimedia
system wherein a pager device is activated in response to an
audio message signal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88.01 for a voice activated audio message storage,
retrieval, or synthesis system.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 331.1 for a paging
system and 825.44+ for a selective communication system with
a paging means.
Subclass:
88.16
Voice message synthesis:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
704, Data Processing: Speech Signal Processing, Linguistics,
Language Translation, and Audio Compression/Decompression,
258 for a system wherein component parts of a speech signal
are combined to produce a synthetic speech output.
Subclass:
88.17
Interaction with an external nontelephone network (e.g.,
Internet):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
90.01 for a telephone line or system in combination with a
diverse electrical system or signaling.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
395, Information Processing System Organization, 200.3 for
multicomputer data transferring.
Subclass:
88.18
Interacting voice message systems:
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.
Subclass:
88.19
Call source identification:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88.11 for the display of message related information.
142 for calling number display or recording at called
substation.
Subclass:
88.2
Automatic Number Identification (ANI):
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.19. Call source
identification wherein the disclosed information is an
originating telephone number.
Note: A positive recitation of an Automatic Number
Identification (ANI) is required for classification in this
subclass.
Subclass:
88.21
Caller identification received at substation:
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.
Subclass:
88.22
Message management:
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.
Subclass:
88.23
Controlled by subscriber or caller:
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.
Subclass:
88.24
By generated tone:
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.
Subclass:
88.25
Message storage in centralized location (e.g., central
office, PBX, etc.):
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.
Subclass:
88.26
Recording voice message from nonsubscriber caller:
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.25. Centralized
stored message wherein the stored audio message signal is
generated by a system nonsubscriber.
Subclass:
88.27
Separate storage for voice and control information:
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.22. Call
management system wherein message information and system
instructional information are stored in discrete memory
locations.
Subclass:
88.28
Solid state memory storage:
This subclass is indented under subclass 88.22. Call
management system wherein the memory allocation is solid
state.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
365, Static Information Storage and Retrieval, appropriate
subclasses for an apparatus or corresponding process for the
static storage and retrieval of information.
Subclass:
90.01
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
66 for a telephone carrier over a power line.
110 for a composite telephone set.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 310.01 for signalling over
a diverse electrical line.
370, 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.
Subclass:
90.02
Using Internet:
This subclass is indented under subclass 90.01. Subject
matter wherein the transmission involves TCP/IP (Transmission
Control Protocol/Internetwork Protocol).
Subclass:
91.01
Credit authorization:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
144 for a credit card operated pay station.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
235, Registers, 380 for a credit card operated register
having significant card reading structure.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 825.33 for remote
credit authorization, not limited to use of telephone
equipment.
395, Information Processing System Organization, 201 for
business oriented applications for computers.
Subclass:
91.02
At switching station:
This subclass is indented under subclass 91.01. Subject
matter including a switching facility having structure or
circuitry for credit transaction processing.
Subclass:
92.01
Polling:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
348, Television, 13 for television two-way interactive.
455, Telecommunications, subclass 2 for radio audience
survey and use of telephone equipment.
Subclass:
92.02
Televoting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 92.01. Subject
matter wherein the personal or personal choice status signal
is used to cast a vote.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
395, Information Processing System Organization, subclass 212
for voting.
Subclass:
92.03
Having central station equipment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 92.01. Subject
matter including a central station with specific structure or
circuitry for status signal processing.
Subclass:
92.04
Having subscriber station equipment:
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.
Subclass:
93.01
Having transmission of a digital message signal over a
telephone line:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
370, Multiplex Communications, appropriate subclasses for
simultaneous voice and data communications.
375, Pulse or Digital Communications, subclass 222 for
modems or data sets, per se.
709, Electrical Computers and Digital Data Processing
Systems: Multiple Computer or Process Coordinating, 200 for
data transferring among multiple computer and digital
processing systems.
710, Electrical Computers and Digital Data Processing
Systems: Input/Output, 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.
Subclass:
93.02
Access restricting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.01. Subject
matter which permits or denies the rights to use remote
digital computing or communication equipment.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
707, 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.
710, Electrical Computers and Digital Data Processing
Systems: Input/Output, 36 for digital data processing system
Input/Out access regulating and subclasses 107+ for bus
access regulating in a digital data processing system.
713, Electrical Computers and Digital Processing Systems:
Support, subclasses 182-186 for system access control based
on cryptographic user identification.
Subclass:
93.03
Personal 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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
382, Image Analysis, 115 for personnel identification.
Subclass:
93.04
Two or more calls:
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.02. Subject
matter whereby gaining access requires multiple calls.
Subclass:
93.05
Terminal interface circuitry:
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.01. Subject
matter having a specific electronic arrangement interrelating
a device or equipment to the telephone line.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
399 for connecting a telephone communications line to a
central switching office or a subscriber station.
442 for connecting a device to the line by direct connection
through the terminal.
Subclass:
93.06
Digital:
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.
Subclass:
93.07
To plural lines or networks:
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.
Subclass:
93.08
Transmission scheme (e.g., compression/decompression,
transmission rate):
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.01. Subject
matter including a particular detail of a methodology in
which the message signal is conveyed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.31 for modulated signal transmission scheme.
100.17 for image data transmission scheme.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
348, Television, 17 for video signal transmission scheme.
Subclass:
93.09
Switching between different terminal types (e.g., voice/data
switch):
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.01. Subject
matter including an arrangement for selecting between diverse
communication modes.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
100.15 for switching to other communication modes in which
the communication modes include a visual-s:graphic copy
reproduction mode (e.g., facsimile mode).
Subclass:
93.11
Among at least three terminal types:
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.09. Subject
matter wherein the arrangement includes switching among at
least three different modes.
Subclass:
93.12
Sales, ordering, or banking system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.01. Subject
matter wherein the transmitted digital message signal is used
for financial transactions.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
395, Information Processing System Organization, 201 for
business oriented applications for computers.
Subclass:
93.13
Amusement (e.g., game, lottery):
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.01. Subject
matter wherein the digital message signal is for conducting a
recreational activity.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
455, Telecommunications, subclass 6.3 for entertainment
systems.
463, Amusement Devices: Games, subclass 41 for games with a
telephonic communication link.
Subclass:
93.14
Having switching station:
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.
Subclass:
93.15
Having format conversion:
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.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
100.13 for image format conversion.
Subclass:
93.16
Diverse networks (e.g., PSTN, ISDN):
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.14. Subject
matter including at least two different types of telephone
systems.
(1) Note. PSTN stands for Public Switched Telephone
Network, and ISDN stands for Integrated Services Digital
Network.
Subclass:
93.17
Having station display:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
28 for testing of such an instrument.
142 376, and 386, for subject matter drawn to perceptible
display of supervisory control signals.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
375, Pulse or Digital Communications, 219 for a digital
signal transceiver.
Subclass:
93.18
Having tone code recognition for generating alphanumeric
characters:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.27 for generating alphanumeric information by tone
codes.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
345, Selective Visual Display Systems, 25 for alphanumeric
display and character generator.
Subclass:
93.19
Having pressure or position sensitive surface (e.g.,
touch-screen, light pen):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
178, Telegraphy, subclass 18 and 87 for stylus and tablet.
345, Selective Visual Display Systems, 173 for touch panels,
subclass 179 for stylus, and subclasses 180+ for light pen.
Subclass:
93.21
Having conferencing:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
202 for telephone conferencing.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
348, Television, subclass 15 for video conferencing.
370, Multiplex Communications, 260 for special services with
conferencing.
Subclass:
93.22
At pay station:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
91.01 for credit authorization.
143 for check operated control (e.g., pay station).
Subclass:
93.23
Having user information display (e.g., telephone number,
name, address, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.17. Subject
matter wherein the visual message signal is personal data.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
142 for calling number display.
354 for called number display.
Subclass:
93.24
Having electronic mail:
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).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
89.2 for subscriber or caller control of central office
audio message storage or retrieval.
100.08 for image electronic mailbox system.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
358, Facsimile and Static Presentation Processing, subclass
402 for electronic mailbox.
Subclass:
93.25
Having remote database (e.g., videotex system):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
100.11 for image information retrieval.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
348, Television, subclass 7 for broadcast on demand and
subclass 13 for two-way interactive communication.
358, Facsimile and Static Presentation Processing, subclass
403 for document filing and retrieval system.
455, Telecommunications, 4.1 for remote control of
distribution.
Subclass:
93.26
By voice frequency signal (e.g., tone code):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
375, Pulse or Digital Communications, 219 for modems and
digital transceivers, per se.
Subclass:
93.27
Alphanumeric:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.18 for display of alphanumeric characters generated using
tone code recognition.
Subclass:
93.28
Modulated audio tone:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
375, Pulse or Digital Communications, subclass 222 for
modems.
Subclass:
93.29
Reconfigurable:
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.
Subclass:
93.31
Protocol:
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.28. Subject
matter including particular details of transmission scheme.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.08 for transmission scheme, not limited to use of modem.
100.17 for image data transmission scheme.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
348, Television, 17 for video signal transmission scheme.
Subclass:
93.32
Initial setup:
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.31. Subject
matter including a particular start-up handshaking sequence.
Subclass:
93.33
Having adjustable speed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 93.31. Subject
matter wherein the transmission protocol includes different
data transmission rates.
Subclass:
93.34
Having recognition and selection:
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.
Subclass:
93.35
Having call-waiting:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
215 for call waiting with telephone equipment.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
370, Multiplex Communications, 259 for special services.
455, Telecommunications, 414 for special services in a
radiotelephone system.
Subclass:
93.36
Line powered:
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).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
102.04 for remote control of power source.
Subclass:
93.37
Having acoustic link:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
78 for an acoustic link between a telephone answering device
and a telephone line.
444 for a telephone acoustic coupler, per se.
Subclass:
100.01
To produce visual-s:graphic copy (e.g., facsimile):
This subclass is indented under subclass 90.01. Subject
matter where the nontelephone signal is a visual or s:graphic
representation of a document for producing a visually
readable reproduction at a receiving station.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
358, Facsimile and Static Presentation Processing, 500 for
natural color facsimile, in general; and subclasses 400+ for
facsimile.
Subclass:
100.02
Having detachable device (e.g., detachable storage medium,
scanner):
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject
matter having an arrangement wherein an element can be
separated from a main unit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
357 for insertable call signal generation circuitry (e.g.,
card).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
358, Facsimile and Static Presentation Processing, 473 for
hand-held reader.
Subclass:
100.03
Usage system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject
matter wherein data related to each transmission operation is
recorded or generated.
Subclass:
100.04
Communication charge calculation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject
matter wherein the cost of the transmission is tabulated.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
111 for usage measurement.
Subclass:
100.05
Monitoring:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject
matter wherein a condition of a visual-s:graphic copy
reproduction is sensed or determined.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
1 for diagnostic testing, malfunction indication, or
electrical condition measurement.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
358, Facsimile and Static Presentation Processing, subclass
406 and 441 for facsimile calibrating and alarm.
Subclass:
100.06
Communication status notification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject
matter wherein information relating to a
transmission/reception or line state is indicated.
Subclass:
100.07
Using mark sheet:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject
matter performing operations based on information read from a
marked form.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
235, Registers, 375 for systems controlled by data bearing
records.
358, Facsimile and Static Presentation Processing, subclass
468 for facsimile control.
Subclass:
100.08
Electronic mailbox:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
89.2 for subscriber or caller control of central office
audio message storage or retrieval.
93.24 for electronic mail messaging system, not limited to
use of facsimile equipment.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
358, Facsimile and Static Presentation Processing, subclass
402 for electronic mailbox.
Subclass:
100.09
Relay system:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
358, Facsimile and Static Presentation Processing, subclass
407 for facsimile relay system.
455, Telecommunications, 7 for signal repeaters that may
regenerate the repeated signal and which are used in radio
systems.
Subclass:
100.11
From a library:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject
matter wherein the visual or s:graphic information accessed
is from a collection of such information.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.25 for remote database, not limited to use of facsimile
equipment.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
358, Facsimile and Static Presentation Processing, subclass
403 for document filing and retrieval system.
Subclass:
100.12
Connection to plural networks or lines:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject
matter including connection to at least two telephone lines
or networks.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.07 for plural networks or lines, not limited to use of
facsimile equipment.
Subclass:
100.13
Format conversion:
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.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.15 for format conversion at switching station.
Subclass:
100.14
Call signal generation (e.g., auto-dial):
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject
matter wherein a called station address signal is
transmitted.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
355 for repertory or abbreviated call signal generation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
358, Facsimile and Static Presentation Processing, subclass
440 for telephone number or address of designator.
455, Telecommunications, subclass 564 for radiotelephone
equipment with auto-dialing or repertory dialing.
Subclass:
100.15
Having switching to other communication modes:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject
matter including an arrangement enabling connection between
different communication types.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.09 for switching between different communication modes,
not limited to use of facsimile equipment.
Subclass:
100.16
Voice mode:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.15. Subject
matter wherein the different communication types include an
intelligible human sound mode.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
67.1 for audio message storage, retrieval, or synthesis.
Subclass:
100.17
Transmission scheme:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100.01. Subject
matter including a particular detail of the transmission
protocol.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.08 for transmission scheme, not limited to use of
facsimile equipment.
93.31 for modulated signal transmission scheme.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
348, Television, 17 for video signal transmission scheme.
Subclass:
101.01
Audio program distribution:
This subclass is indented under subclass 90.01. Subject
matter where an audio program is transmitted to subscribers
over a telephone system.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
87 for program distribution of dynamically retrieved audio
signal (e.g., from a storage medium).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
348, Television, 6 for television program distribution.
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
77 for one-way audio signal program distribution.
455, Telecommunications, 3.1 for radio program distribution,
other than by telephone equipment.
Subclass:
102.01
Remote control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 90.01. Subject
matter wherein the signal is used to operate a distant device
over a telephone line.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
74 for remote control of a telephone answering device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 825 for remote control
system not specified as using a telephone line.
Subclass:
102.02
Communication device:
This subclass is indented under subclass 102.01. Subject
matter wherein the device has the primary function of
receiving or transmitting information.
Subclass:
102.03
Entertainment appliance (e.g., TV, VCR, radio, 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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
348, Television, subclass 734 for remote control device not
specified as using a telephone line.
455, Telecommunications, 352 for remote control of a radio
receiver.
Subclass:
102.04
Power source:
This subclass is indented under subclass 102.02. Subject
matter wherein the control is directed toward applying
electric energy to the communication equipment.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.36 for power supply of modem.
Subclass:
102.05
Of heating, ventilation, air conditioner (e.g., HVAC):
This subclass is indented under subclass 102.01. Subject
matter wherein the device controls a climate or circulates
air.
Subclass:
102.06
Of physical entrance or exit lock:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
167 for an intercom system.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
70, Locks, appropriate subclasses for a lock.
235, Registers, subclass 382 for coded record controlled
access control.
340, Communications: Electrical, 825.31 for an electrical
access control arrangement responsive to intelligence
comparison.
Subclass:
102.07
Having indication:
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.
Subclass:
106.01
Remote indication over telephone line (e.g., telemetry):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
39 for similar subject matter which is responsive to an
emergency or alarm condition.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 500 for sensed condition
attainment signalling and subclasses 870.01+ for telemetering
system.
Subclass:
-2
106.02 Patient monitoring:
This subclass is indented under subclass 106.01. Subject
matter wherein the sensed condition includes medical data of
an individual.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
128, Surgery, subclass 904 for telephone telemetry.
Subclass:
106.03
Meter reading:
This subclass is indented under subclass 106.01. Subject
matter where the sensed condition is a measurement of a
quantitative indicating device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 870.02 for telemetering of
a meter indication.
Subclass:
106.04
Having power supply circuitry:
This subclass is indented under subclass 106.03. Subject
matter including particular electrical devices for connecting
electrical energy to the meter.
Subclass:
106.05
Having ringing suppression:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
106.09 for ringing suppression, not limited to use of meter
reading equipment.
Subclass:
106.06
Having time window:
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.
Subclass:
106.07
Having interrogation signal:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
106.11 for interrogation signal, not limited to use of meter
reading equipment.
Subclass:
106.08
Having line status detection:
This subclass is indented under subclass 106.03. Subject
matter including an arrangement for sensing an electrical
state of a subscriber circuit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
377 for line or loop condition detection.
Subclass:
106.09
Ringing suppression:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
106.05 for ringing suppression of meter reading equipment.
Subclass:
106.11
Interrogation signal:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
106.07 for interrogation signal of meter reading equipment.
Subclass:
108.01
Telegraphy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 90.01. Subject
matter for transmitting a telephone signal over a telegraph
circuit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93 for transmission of a digital message signal over
telephone equipment.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
178, Telegraphy, 79 for transmitters and subclasses 118+ for
receivers.
370, Multiplex Communications, subclass 214 for simultaneous
telegraphy and telephony.
Subclass:
108.02
Over telephone line:
This subclass is indented under subclass 108.01. Subject
matter for transmitting a telegraph signal over a telephone
line.
Subclass:
110.01
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
90 for a composite telephone further including transmission
of diverse signals or over a diverse line.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
455, Telecommunications, 344 for a receiver combined with
diverse art device.
708, Electrical Computers: Arithmetic Processing and
Calculating, subclass 109 for a digital calculating computer
combined with a telephone or other communication device.
Subclass:
111
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
13 for testing of usage measurement equipment.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
235, Registers, subclass 91 for a mechanical register
operated by a telephone.
368, Horology: Time Measuring Systems or Devices, subclass 4
for a horological device controlled by a nominally recited
telephone.
377, Electrical Pulse Counters, Pulse Dividers, or Shift
Registers: Circuits and Systems, appropriate subclasses for
an electrical counter or register, per se.
Subclass:
112
Computer or processor control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 111. Subject matter
wherein telephone usage determination is controlled by a
digital signal processing calculating device.
Subclass:
113
Call traffic recording:
This subclass is indented under subclass 112. Subject matter
where a computer or processor counts the number of calls.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
133 for telephone traffic recording not specifically
controlled by a computer or processor.
Subclass:
114
Call charge metering or monitoring:
This subclass is indented under subclass 111. Subject matter
for a particular telephone set or the cost to a subscriber.
Subclass:
115
Interexchange operations:
This subclass is indented under subclass 114. 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 "CAMA" - Centralized Automatic
Message Accounting where the accounting for several central
exchanges is handled at only one office.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
219 for interexchange switching or signalling.
Subclass:
116
Hardcopy record generating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 115. Subject matter
for producing a permanent record of the call charge or basis
therefor.
Subclass:
117
Of station on polystation or party line:
This subclass is indented under subclass 114. Subject matter
which determines a call charge of a terminal on a party line
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
177 for a party line telephone system.
Subclass:
118
Identification of station:
This subclass is indented under subclass 117. Subject matter
which determines to which station on a party line a call is
charged.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
183 for party line station identification.
Subclass:
119
Hardcopy record generating (e.g., ticket printing):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
116 for generating a hardcopy record at an exchange other
than that to which the calling station is connecting.
Subclass:
120
With line identification or class of service determination:
This subclass is indented under subclass 119. Subject matter
which ascertains the identity, or service entitlement, of a
calling line.
Subclass:
121
At central office:
This subclass is indented under subclass 114. Subject matter
wherein the determination is made at the central switching
office to which the telephone set is connected.
Subclass:
122
With display:
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter
which produces an indication of the call charge or basis
therefor.
Subclass:
123
Paystation (e.g., escrow control):
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter
for measuring the cost of a call from a paystation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
143 for a paystation arrangement.
Subclass:
124
Pulse counting or accumulating (e.g., "message metering"):
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter
wherein the charge determination is made by accumulation of
call connection timing pulses.
Subclass:
125
Local or zone:
This subclass is indented under subclass 124. Subject matter
wherein the charge determination is made of calls within the
local calling area.
Subclass:
126
Automatic message accounting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 124. Subject matter
which records the data necessary to prepare an itemized bill
for a subscriber.
Subclass:
127
Having line identification (e.g., automatic number
identification-"ANI"):
This subclass is indented under subclass 126. Subject matter
in which telephone message accounting equipment identifies
the telephone number of the dialing station.
Subclass:
128
Time of day controlled:
This subclass is indented under subclass 124. Subject matter
to count or accumulate timing pulses at different rates
controlled in accordance with the time of day.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
368, Horology: Time Measuring Systems and Devices, subclass
4 and 13 for time measurement controlled by, or combined
with a telephone.
Subclass:
129
Manually set (e.g., key and lock):
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter
having a hand operated call charge metering device.
Subclass:
130
At subscriber station:
This subclass is indented under subclass 114. Subject matter
wherein the determination is made at the location of the
telephone set being monitored.
Subclass:
131
Time controlled:
This subclass is indented under subclass 130. Subject matter
which modifies the call charge determination in accordance
with time or elapsed duration.
Subclass:
132
Paystation (e.g., escrow control):
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Subject matter
for measuring the cost of a call from a paystation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
143 for a paystation arrangement.
Subclass:
133
Call traffic recording or monitoring:
This subclass is indented under subclass 111. Subject matter
for making a determination of the total number of calls, or
the number of calls per unit time.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
34 for measuring the response time of telephone equipment.
Subclass:
134
At central station:
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Subject matter
wherein the determination is made at a switching station
spaced remotely from the user terminal.
Subclass:
135
With hardcopy record generation (e.g., ticket printing):
This subclass is indented under subclass 134. Subject matter
which produces a permanent record showing the number of calls
utilizing the particular monitored telephone system element.
Subclass:
136
With display:
This subclass is indented under subclass 134. Subject matter
for producing a visual indication of the number of calls.
Subclass:
137
Trunk usage (e.g., peg count):
This subclass is indented under subclass 134. Subject matter
which ascertains the number of calls on a shared trunk line.
Subclass:
138
All trunks busy metering:
This subclass is indented under subclass 137. Subject matter
which determines the duration during which all trunks
monitored are in a busy condition.
Subclass:
139
Counting the number of completed connections:
This subclass is indented under subclass 134. Subject matter
for incrementing a totalling device by one unit in response
to a successful call attempt.
Subclass:
140
At subscriber:
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Subject matter
wherein the determination is made at the location of a
telephone terminal set.
Subclass:
141
Mechanical register:
This subclass is indented under subclass 140. Subject matter
wherein the traffic information is sorted in a mechanical
register.
Subclass:
142
WITH CALLING NUMBER DISPLAY OR RECORDING AT CALLED
SUBSTATION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter located at the called substation which
provides either a visible indication, or a permanent or
semi-permanent record, of the telephone number of a calling
terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
120 for calling number identification on a hardcopy call
charge record.
264 for line identification at a central switching
facility.
Subclass:
143
WITH CHECK OPERATED CONTROL (E.G., PAYSTATION):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein a telephone is operated by an
authorized payment and includes telephone circuitry.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
36 for a paystation having provision for free calling.
123 for paystation charge metering at a central office.
132 for paystation charge metering at the terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
194, Check-Actuated Control Mechanisms, appropriate
subclasses for a check controlled telephone mechanism, per
se, or for a check controlled device of general utility.
Subclass:
144
Other than coin:
This subclass is indented under subclass 143. Subject matter
wherein the telephone paystation accepts paper currency or a
credit card.
Subclass:
145
Fraud or interference prevention:
This subclass is indented under subclass 143. Subject matter
for mitigation of inaccurate or false indication of payment.
Subclass:
146
Coin signalling or control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 143. Subject matter
having some detail of transmitting a signal, representative
of the presence and denomination of a coin to, o0r
controlling the disposition of a coin from, the central
office.
Subclass:
147
Coin box audit or totalizer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 146. Subject matter
where the amount or value of the coins in the coin box of the
pay station is signalled.
Subclass:
148
Denomination:
This subclass is indented under subclass 146. Subject matter
which determines the value of a deposited coin.
Subclass:
149
Post-pay coin collection:
This subclass is indented under subclass 146. Subject matter
which accepts deposit of the coin after the connection is
made between the pay station and a called subscriber.
(1) Note. Two-way audio connection is often not established
until deposit of the required payment.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
123 for a pay station in which metered services (e.g., long
distance toll charges) are paid in advance.
Subclass:
150
Coin disposition (i.e., return or collection):
This subclass is indented under subclass 146. Subject matter
which sends a deposited coin into one of a plurality of coin
handling paths e.g., selectively collecting or refunding
coin).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
123 for similar subject matter having escrow control.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
194, Check-Actuated Control Mechanisms, appropriate
subclasses for a coin return mechanism not combined with
telephone circuitry.
Subclass:
151
Upon connection to called station:
This subclass is indented under subclass 150. Subject matter
wherein coin disposition is directly responsive to the
successful call connection to a called party.
Subclass:
152
Magnet, electromagnet, or relay controlled from central
office:
This subclass is indented under subclass 150. Subject matter
wherein the paystation has a magnetic device controlled by a
signal from a central switching station, the magnetic device
in turn controlling the disposition of a deposited coin.
Subclass:
153
Paystation (e.g., controlled by refund key):
This subclass is indented under subclass 150. Subject matter
wherein coin disposition is controlled by equipment at the
paystation.
Subclass:
154
At central office:
This subclass is indented under subclass 143. Subject matter
wherein the control function is performed at a switching
station spaced remotely from the user terminal.
Subclass:
155
At terminal station (e.g., coin paystation):
This subclass is indented under subclass 143. Subject matter
wherein the control is performed within or adjacent to the
user terminal.
Subclass:
156
MULTI-LINE OR KEY SUBSTATION SYSTEM WITH SELECTIVE SWITCHING
AND CENTRAL SWITCHING OFFICE CONNECTION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including circuitry for allowing a subscriber
terminal to be selectively connected to one of a plurality of
lines, at least one of which is a public telephone line.
(1) Note. Each public telephone line is associated with a
unique director number.
(2) Note. A PBX is a system connected to one of a plurality
of shared usage lines (trunks) as opposed to lines associated
with individual directory numbers; however, a key system may
be associated with a PBX system.
Subclass:
157
With special service:
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Subject matter
providing for an additional service beyond normal telephone
call signalling or connection (i.e., those not normally
provided without additional fees).
(1) Note. Such services generally involve three or more
stations or two or more call connections.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
201 for centralized switching with special services.
Subclass:
158
Conferencing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 157. Subject matter
enabling three or more terminals to be included in a single
call connection.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
202 for conferencing not limited to a key telephone system.
Subclass:
159
With intercom system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Subject matter
having a line which is not normally connected to the public
telephone system.
(1) Note. These lines are often connected between terminals
on the key-type system.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
167 for an intercom system, per se.
Subclass:
160
With connection of intercom station to subscriber line:
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Subject matter
including connecting an intercom instrument to a public
telephone line.
Subclass:
161
With exclusion or priority feature (e.g., lockout or
privacy):
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Subject matter
where use of one terminal on a particular line denies or cuts
off access of another terminal to the line.
Subclass:
162
Detail of hold circuitry:
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Subject matter
including details of circuitry to allow an established
telephone connection be maintained without the transmission
or reception of audio signals.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
84 for dynamic reproduction of a recorded audio signal
combined with line holding.
393 for line holding other than in a key system.
Subclass:
163
Electronic:
This subclass is indented under subclass 162. Subject matter
having a discharge or solid state device.
Subclass:
164
Line status indication or call alerting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Subject matter
including circuitry to provide a perceptible indication of an
incoming call or other status of one or more of the lines
connected to a terminal.
Subclass:
165
Switching or supervision feature (e.g., common control,
digital):
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Subject matter
which provides for connection control or signalling within a
telephone key system.
Subclass:
166
Detail of line circuit or line card:
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Subject matter
including a subscriber loop or line circuit or an
interchangeable support therefor.
(1) Note. Included herein are circuit boards having
features of the subscriber loop or line.
Subclass:
167
PRIVATE (E.G., HOUSE OR INTERCOM) OR SINGLE LINE SYSTEM:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter having (a) a plurality of stations none of
which is connected to the public telephone system, (b) two
subsets connected by a single line.
Subclass:
168
Lockout:
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter
which blocks access to the system by stations other than
those involved in a specific communication.
Subclass:
169
Central power source:
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Subject matter
having a single energy source for the entire system.
Subclass:
170
With paging:
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter
which produces a perceptible call notification signal
intended for a specific individual.
(1) Note. This subclass includes an audible or other
individualized signal for summoning an individual to a
particular location.
(2) Note. The subject matter in this subclass excludes
ringing or other nonindividualized call alerting signals.
Subclass:
171
Having plural stations with selective calling (e.g.,
master):
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter
having three or more station at least two of which have
provision to direct a call to any other station.
Subclass:
172
With call addressing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 171. Subject matter
in which an originating station generates a signal
representing the called station which signal actuates
equipment to cause the desired connection.
Subclass:
173
With call addressing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter
in which the originating station generates a signal
representing the called station which signal actuates
equipment to cause the desired connection.
Subclass:
174
Including body or apparel supported terminal (e.g.,
headgear):
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter
in which a system has a voice terminal peculiarly adapted to
be retained by a body portion or an article of clothing.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
430 for a body supported terminal.
Subclass:
175
For underwater use (e.g., in diver's suit):
This subclass is indented under subclass 174. Subject matter
in which terminal is specifically adapted for operation by a
submerged user.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
367, Communications, Electrical: Acoustic Wave Systems and
Devices, subclass 132 for an underwater speech communication
system using acoustical waves in water as a portion of the
transmission link.
Subclass:
176
With central power source:
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter
having a single electrical energy source for the entire
system.
Subclass:
177
POLYSTATION LINE SYSTEM (I.E., PARTY LINE):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein the terminals of plural subscribers
having different call addresses are connected to the central
switching office by a single line.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
178, Telegraphy, subclass 2 for party line telegraph
systems.
340, Communications: Electrical, 825.38 for selective party
line signalling.
Subclass:
178
Revertive call:
This subclass is indented under subclass 177. Subject matter
which enables calling another party on the same line.
Subclass:
179
Call alerting (e.g., ringing):
This subclass is indented under subclass 177. Subject matter
which directs a call alerting signal to a party line
subscriber terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
252 for call alerting.
Subclass:
180
Full selective or tuned (e.g., harmonic):
This subclass is indented under subclass 179. Subject matter
which uniquely directs the ringing signal to a particular
subscriber terminal.
(1) Note. The unique direction often uses frequency
selection of the ringing signal.
Subclass:
181
Semi-selective (e.g., line side, polarized):
This subclass is indented under subclass 179. Subject matter
wherein the ringing signal is directed to a subset of the
terminals connected to the line.
(1) Note. The signal direction often uses control of the
polarity of, or the side to which, the signal is directed.
Subclass:
182
Automatic or unattended:
This subclass is indented under subclass 177. Subject matter
including a switching exchange for performing call connection
solely in response to a call address signal.
Subclass:
183
Station identification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
which further ascertains the identity of a calling station.
Subclass:
184
Lockout:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
for blocking access to a line already in use.
Subclass:
185
Portable or mobile:
This subclass is indented under subclass 177. Subject matter
wherein a terminal is either mounted in a vehicle, or is of
such size and configuration so as to be carried by an
individual.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
55.1 for similar subject matter having a near field link.
56.1 for similar subject matter having a radio or an
electromagnetic field link.
Subclass:
186
Central power source:
This subclass is indented under subclass 177. Subject matter
having a common electrical energizing supply for the stations
connected to a line.
Subclass:
187
Connected to central office:
This subclass is indented under subclass 177. Subject matter
wherein a polystation line is connected to a central
switching office.
Subclass:
188
CALL OR TERMINAL ACCESS ALARM OR CONTROL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter for restricting the calls that may be made
from a particular station, or generating an alerting signal
in response to a call or call attempt in violation of a call
restriction.
Subclass:
189
Fraud or improper use mitigating or indication (e.g., "blue
box", "black box"):
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Subject matter
to defeat or indicate an attempt to override the call range
restriction without a proper authorization or control
function.
Subclass:
190
Time out:
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Subject matter
which in response to a specified equipment status for a
specified duration either changes the status, or generates an
alerting signal.
(1) Note. This subclass would include disconnection of a
terminal after a set time.
Subclass:
191
At switching center:
This subclass is indented under subclass 190. Subject matter
wherein a status control or an alerting function is performed
at a switching center remote from the terminal.
Subclass:
192
Of call duration (e.g., conversation timer):
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Subject matter
wherein a status control or an alerting function is performed
when the duration of elapsed time during a call exceeds a
predetermined length.
Subclass:
193
Of specific equipment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Subject matter
wherein the status of particular telephone system equipment
is determined for the status control or alerting function.
Subclass:
194
Lockout or double use signalling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Subject matter
which locks access to, or indicates an attempt to access, the
system by a station other than one previously in use.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
160 for this subject matter in a key telephone system.
168 for this subject matter in a private system.
184 for this subject matter in a party line system.
Subclass:
195
In automatic system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 194. Subject matter
wherein the access prevention or attempt determination is
made in an automatic switching system.
Subclass:
196
At switching center:
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Subject matter
wherein the call restriction function or generation of the
alerting signal is performed at a switching station remote
from a user terminal.
Subclass:
197
Central office:
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Subject matter
wherein the switching center is a central office.
Subclass:
198
PBX:
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Subject matter
wherein the switching center is a private branch exchange.
Subclass:
199
At substation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Subject matter
wherein the call or terminal restriction or alerting function
is performed at a subscriber terminal.
Subclass:
200
Restrictive dialing circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 199. Subject matter
wherein the call restriction limits the call address signals
which may be generated.
Subclass:
201
SPECIAL SERVICES:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including a switching, connection, or control
function additional to those necessary to establish and
maintain a single call connection between two stations.
(1) Note. These services generally involve three or more
stations or two or more call connections.
(2) Note. Examples of such special services are
conferencing, abbreviated dialing, call forwarding or
transfer, paging, call waiting, and special networks.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
157 for this subject matter in a key telephone system.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
370, Multiplex Communications, 259 for such special services
combined with multiplex switching.
Subclass:
202
Conferencing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 201. Subject matter
which enables three or more terminals on distinct subscriber
lines to be included in a single call connection.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
158 for conferencing involving a key-type substation
system.
Subclass:
203
Operator control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 202. Subject matter
wherein the conferencing connection is performed by an
attendant at a central switching office.
Subclass:
204
Subscriber control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 202. Subject matter
wherein the conferencing connection is established or
modified by central office switching equipment in response to
signalling from a subscriber terminal.
Subclass:
205
Conference initiation by single calling station:
This subclass is indented under subclass 204. Subject matter
wherein a signalling function is performed at the calling
terminal to originate the conference call.
Subclass:
206
At substation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 202. Subject matter
wherein the conference call line coupling or switching is
performed at a subscriber station.
(1) Note. Included herein are plural line conferencing and
audio conferencing.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
158 for a key telephone system having a conferencing
circuit.
Subclass:
207
At plural exchanges:
This subclass is indented under subclass 201. Subject matter
providing a modification of normal telephone call signalling
or connection between different exchanges.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
219 for plural exchange networks or signalling.
Subclass:
208
Priority override (e.g., butt-in):
This subclass is indented under subclass 201. Subject matter
allowing a designated type of call to interrupt another
telephone conversation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
215 for call interruption or signalling therefor by any
additional incoming call.
218 for call interruption performed by an operator.
Subclass:
209
Repetitive call attempts (e.g., camp-on-busy, retry):
This subclass is indented under subclass 201. Subject matter
which includes producing successive repeated call attempts.
Subclass:
210
Call diversion (e.g., call capture):
This subclass is indented under subclass 201. Subject matter
for directing a call connection from an addressed telephone
station to another.
(1) Note. The changed connection may be either the calling
or the called station.
Subclass:
211
Call forwarding:
This subclass is indented under subclass 210. Subject matter
for rerouting an incoming call from an intended addressed
station to another desired station without completion of the
call connection to the addressed station.
Subclass:
212
Call transfer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 210. Subject matter
for changing a completed call connection to an addressed
station to another station after completion of call
connection to the addressed station.
Subclass:
213
Intercept (e.g., dead or changed number):
This subclass is indented under subclass 210. Subject matter
wherein a call made to one of a specified group of addresses
is directed to a predetermined location.
Subclass:
214
Secretarial or answering service:
This subclass is indented under subclass 210. Subject matter
for call completion to an alternative station upon a
designated condition.
(1) Note. The designated condition may include: time, no
answer for specified interval, or request.
Subclass:
215
Call waiting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 201. Subject matter
for signalling a first station in communication with a second
station that a third station desires communication with the
first station.
(1) Note. The first station can usually communicate
alternatively with the second and third stations.
Subclass:
216
Abbreviated dialing or direct call (e.g., hot line):
This subclass is indented under subclass 201. Subject matter
responsive to either a service request condition or, to a
line signal code of less than the complete call address
signal, for completing the call address connection in the
same manner as if the full call address signal were
received.
(1) Note. The term "service request condition" is generally
an off-hook condition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
355 for abbreviated call signal generation.
Subclass:
217
Audible paging:
This subclass is indented under subclass 201. Subject matter
which connects a telephone circuit to a loudspeaker system
for summoning an individual.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 311.1 for a
paging system.
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
subclass 75 for a megaphone and subclass 82 for a public
address system.
Subclass:
218
Performed by operator (e.g., butt-in, busy verification):
This subclass is indented under subclass 201. Subject matter
wherein the special service is performed by an attendant at a
central or branch switching station.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
48 for telephone alarm butt-in equipment.
Subclass:
219
PLURAL EXCHANGE NETWORK OR INTERCONNECTION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including a system having more than one
exchange (e.g, switching office), or a circuit connection
therebetween.
(1) Note. A branch exchange (e.g., PBX, PABX, etc.) is
considered to be a separate switching office for purposes of
this and its indented subclasses.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
242 for single exchange and generic centralized switching.
Subclass:
220
With interexchange network routing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter
for selecting one of plural paths for a call switched between
two or more exchanges.
Subclass:
221
Alternate routing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Subject matter
for selecting a different path in response to a blockage or
other failure to connect.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
273 for alternate routing within a single exchange.
Subclass:
222
Toll center:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter
including a switching center for switching toll calls from
other exchanges.
Subclass:
223
With operator assistance:
This subclass is indented under subclass 222. Subject matter
where the toll center has an operator to assist in completion
of toll calls.
Subclass:
224
Tandem switching center:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter
having a switching center or office located intermediate
between an originating and receiving switching office for
switching the trunks connected to such offices.
Subclass:
225
Multi-PBX interconnection:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter
which connects a plurality of private branch exchanges by
shared trunks therebetween.
Subclass:
226
Having a manual exchange:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter
wherein at least one of the plural exchanges has manual call
connection.
Subclass:
227
With an automatic exchange:
This subclass is indented under subclass 226. Subject matter
further including an exchange which switches calls in
response to a call address signal.
Subclass:
228
Having signalling to operator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 227. Subject matter
which causes an indication at an operator position at a
remote switching office.
Subclass:
229
Interexchange signalling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter
including transmission of control or supervisory signals
between exchanges.
Subclass:
230
Signalling path distinct from trunk (e.g., CCIS):
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Subject matter
wherein the control or supervisory signals for a group of
trunks are multiplexed and transmitted over a single separate
communication channel.
Subclass:
231
Central office-to-PBX signalling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 231. Subject matter
including transmission of control or supervisory signals from
a central office to a private branch exchange.
Subclass:
232
PBX trunk groups:
This subclass is indented under subclass 231. Subject matter
including a plurality of shared trunk lines connecting the
central office and the private branch exchange.
Subclass:
233
Direct inward dialing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 231. Subject matter
wherein a call address designating a terminal connected to a
private branch exchange will control connection to such a
terminal.
Subclass:
234
PBX to central office signalling (e.g., direct outward
dialing):
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Subject matter
which transmits control or supervisory signal from a private
branch exchange to a central switching exchange.
Subclass:
235
Voice frequency signalling over trunk:
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Subject matter
wherein control or supervisory signals are transmitted as
tones within the audible frequency range.
Subclass:
236
D.C. signalling over trunk:
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Subject matter
wherein the control or supervisory signal is represented by
the presence or polarity of the current or voltage in a
particular circuit.
Subclass:
237
Pulse or digital signalling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 236. Subject matter
wherein the control or supervisory signals are represented by
the time pattern of abrupt variations in a specified signal.
Subclass:
238
Having signalling repeater:
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Subject matter
including amplification of interexchange pulse or digital
signals.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
341 for a telephone pulse signalling repeaters, per se.
Subclass:
239
Using register-sender:
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Subject matter
including storage and subsequent retransmission of pulse or
digital interexchange signalling information.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
288 for a centralized switching register-sender.
Subclass:
240
Interexchange trunk circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Subject matter
including trunk circuit switching.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
333 for subscriber line and trunk switching.
Subclass:
241
Glare or simultaneous seizure mitigation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 240. Subject matter
for prevention of call blocking caused by seizing of a trunk
at both ends thereof.
Subclass:
242
CENTRALIZED SWITCHING SYSTEM:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter which selectively connects two telephone
subscriber lines for communication.
(1) Note. This subclass includes a single telephone office
and generic telephone switching.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
219 for a plural exchange network.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
711, Electrical Computers and Digital Processing Systems:
Memory, 1 for addressing combined with specific memory
configurations (e.g., extended, expanded, dynamic, etc.) in a
digital data processing system, subclasses 100+ for
generalized address forming in a digital data processing
system, and subclasses 200+ for generalized storage accessing
and control in a digital data processing system.
Subclass:
243
Class of service determination or transmission:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
to identify or supply a designation related to different
types or levels of service applicable to calling station.
Subclass:
244
In common control system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Subject matter
which supplies a type of service designation in stored number
switching equipment.
Subclass:
245
Identification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
at a central switching office for determining which telephone
system component is used in a particular call.
Subclass:
246
Of line or trunk:
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter
wherein the identified component is a telephone signal
conductor unique to a terminal station or concentrator.
Subclass:
247
With display:
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Subject matter
for providing a visual indication of the line or trunk used.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
142 for a calling number display at a called substation.
Subclass:
248
Using matrix:
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Subject matter
including an array of elements to determine the line or trunk
identity.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 825.79 for a selective
matrix.
Subclass:
249
For nuisance call mitigation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Subject matter
for identifying a calling station which is a source of
undesired, annoying, or abusive calls.
Subclass:
250
Four-wire switching:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
for connecting two lines, each of which has a physically
separate pair for each direction of transmission.
Subclass:
251
With generating of call associated substation signal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
which generates and transmits a signal to a substation which
indicates the presence of, or result of, a call attempt.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
315 for signalling to an operator at a switching facility.
372 for line signalling received at substation.
418 for call signal generating, per se.
Subclass:
252
For alerting signal at called station (e.g., ringing):
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Subject matter
where the signal is a humanly perceptible signal at the
called terminal.
Subclass:
253
Electronic:
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Subject matter
having an electric circuit element utilizing an electron
discharge device or semiconductor component.
Subclass:
254
Associated with connector:
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Subject matter
wherein the call signal generating device is associated with
a particular final stage selecting device.
Subclass:
255
With interrupter:
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Subject matter
having timing equipment which periodically blocks the
alerting signal.
Subclass:
256
Having automatic or through ringing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Subject matter
which generates a call alerting signal in response to a
connection being made to a line by the operator, or which
enables an operator to by-pass another operator position for
subscriber signalling.
Subclass:
257
For calling station (e.g., status or progress tones):
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Subject matter
where a line condition responsive or call associated signal
is transmitted back to the calling terminal.
(1) Note. Included herein are tones indicating the
condition or result of a call attempt.
Subclass:
258
Switching controlled in response to called station addressing
signal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
including ccontrol of line interconnection in response to a
call address signal.
(1) Note. The call address signal is a selectively signal
which specifies the identity of the particular line or
terminal with which communication is desired.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
18 for testing of automatic switching arrangement by use of
a call address signal.
111 for usage measurement.
173 for an intercom with call addressing.
201 for identification of a station address.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, 105 for an automatic telephone switch,
per se.
340, Communications: Electrical, 825 for a signal
controlled switching system, not limited to telephone
switching.
Subclass:
259
Including deflected electron beam switching device or
mechanical or optical switching control (e.g., fluidic):
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
in which a supervisory or control signal controls the
operation of (a) electron beam deflecting equipment, (b) a
light modifying element, or (c) a mechanical force or flow
modifying element, so as to cause a change in a detected
pattern of the deflected to modified quantity, which in turn
controls a call connection.
(1) Note. The supervisory or control signal is often a call
address signal.
(2) Note. Such control often utilizes optical, fluidic, or
mechanical logic.
Subclass:
260
With operator position or completion of call (e.g., dial "0",
semi-automatic):
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
where intervention by a human operator is necessary in order
to complete at least some telephone calls.
(1) Note. There must be a called station addressing signal
(e.g., dial pulses) included in order to classified here.
(2) Note. Some examples of semi-automatic systems are:
Operator dialed calls and calls dialed at a terminal which
cause a visible indication of the called station's number at
a manual operator's position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
308 through 332, for centralized switching systems having
human operators without a called station signal.
Subclass:
261
Operator controlled register-sender:
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Subject matter
wherein a register-sender is located at an operator attended
switchboard for manual actuation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
239 for a plural exchange network with a register-sender.
288 for common control central switching with a
register-sender.
Subclass:
262
Call extension by operator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Subject matter
where the operator dials the called station address.
Subclass:
263
With call indicator or announcer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 262. Subject matter
having means to provide the operator with a visual or sound
indication of a desired called station address.
Subclass:
264
A to B operator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 262. Subject matter
in which a call is extended from an operator answering the
calling station to another operator who completes the
connection to the called station.
Subclass:
265
Call distribution to operator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Subject matter
for selecting and connecting a calling terminal to an
operator.
Subclass:
266
Call queuing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 265. Subject matter
which processes a plurality of simultaneous call attempts to
a lesser number of operators by holding each of the calls in
excess of the number of operators until an operator is
available.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
309 for call distribution or queuing to an operator absent
called number controlled switching.
Subclass:
267
Operator's console:
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Subject matter
having details of the equipment used by the operator.
Subclass:
268
Having shared or common switching control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
having a device which stores the call address signal and
equipment for controlling switching in response to the stored
signal.
(1) Note. This and indented subclasses include equipment
for code conversion of the call address signal.
Subclass:
269
Distributed control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 268. Subject matter
including plural switching stages and having several address
signal storage means each providing control based on
switching stage, level, or function.
Subclass:
270
In-stage or interstage scanning (e.g., link scanning):
This subclass is indented under subclass 268. Subject matter
which sequentially provides connection between a plurality of
link between or within plural switching stages.
Subclass:
271
Having multistage switching:
This subclass is indented under subclass 268. Subject matter
wherein the switching is performed by plural interconnected
and interactive switching stage.
Subclass:
272
Path selection or routing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Subject matter
which determines a path configuration through plural
switching stage.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 826 for channel selection
through a plural stage switching matrix.
Subclass:
273
Alternate routing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
which modifies the path configuration in response to a
blockage of a previous chosen configuration.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
221 for alternate routing in interexchange network routing.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 827 for alternate
routing channel selecting switching not limited to telephone
equipment.
Subclass:
274
With busy or idle test:
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Subject matter
which determine whether or not a component desired for use is
already in use.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
277 297 and 381, for busy or idle testing of a telephone
system component other than in alternate routing multistage
common control.
Subclass:
275
Including marking circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
which includes placing a potential on a lead or contact of a
path selecting multistage switching device and a hunting
circuit for making a connection to the lead or contact in
response to the potential thereon.
Subclass:
276
End-to-end marking (e.g., self-seeking):
This subclass is indented under subclass 275. Subject matter
which includes placing a marking potential at both ends of
the switching path.
Subclass:
277
With busy or idle test:
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
which determines whether a line or a switching element is in
use.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
274 for busy or idle testing of a telephone system component
in alternate routing multistage common control equipment.
297 337 and 381, for busy or idle testing of a telephone
system component other than in multistage common control
equipment.
Subclass:
278
Interstage junctor or "trunk":
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Subject matter
including a circuit connecting the stages of multistage
switching equipment.
Subclass:
279
Control reliability (e.g., redundancy):
This subclass is indented under subclass 268. Subject matter
with switching control in accordance with the reliability of
the control components.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
714, Error Detection/Correction and Fault Detection/Recovery,
820 for redundancy in a signal transmission facility or
channel not limited to telephone equipment.
Subclass:
280
Including registering or storing device for call address
signal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 268. Subject matter
which includes a specific detail of a call address signal
storage device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
377, Electrical Pulse Counters, Pulse Dividers, or Shift
Registers; Circuit and Systems, appropriate subclasses for a
register circuit, per se.
711, Electrical Computers and Digital Processing Systems:
Memory, 1 for addressing combined with specific memory
configurations (e.g., extended, expanded, dynamic, etc.) and
subclasses 101+ for storage accessing and control of specific
memory compositions in a digital data processing system.
Subclass:
281
Conversion between dial pulse and voice frequency signal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Subject matter
which changes the call address signal between a pattern of
abrupt variation in a DC signal such as pulses and
corresponding tone frequencies and variations thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
339 for signal conversion in a telephone repeater.
Subclass:
282
Voice frequency receiver:
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Subject matter
which is selectively responsive to audio frequency signalling
tones.
Subclass:
283
Dual tone multifrequency (DTMF) receiver:
This subclass is indented under subclass 282. Subject matter
in which the voice frequency receiver is responsive to the
simultaneous occurrence of designated frequency pairs.
Subclass:
284
With processor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Subject matter
which controls switching functions in accordance with
instructions stored in memory.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
395, Information Processing System Organization, for digital
data processing systems, per se; 200.3 for data transferring
among multiple computer systems; and subclasses 311+ for
intrasystem switching control.
709, Electrical Computers and Digital Data Processing
Systems: Multiple Computer or Process Coordinating, 200 for
data transferring among multiple computer and digital
processing systems.
Subclass:
285
With magnetic memory:
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Subject matter
having a magnetizable element for signal storage.
Subclass:
286
Signal processing (e.g., dial pulse analysis):
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Subject matter
wherein the call signal storage device or associated
circuitry modifies the call address signal.
Subclass:
287
Electronic:
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Subject matter
in which the call address storage device includes an electron
discharge device or a semiconductor component.
Subclass:
288
Register-sender:
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Subject matter
including storage and subsequent transmission of received
call address signal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
239 for plural exchange signalling using a register-sender.
Subclass:
289
Translator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 268. Subject matter
which changes an electrical signal appearing in one code
representation of the same information.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
341, Coded Data Generation or Conversion, appropriate
subclasses for code converting devices.
Subclass:
290
With time division of control or supervisory signals:
This subclass is indented under subclass 268. Subject matter
including a communication channel for control or monitoring
signals corresponding to one of a plurality of distinct
speech channels and in which access to the communication
channel is divided into discrete time intervals, each of such
intervals corresponding to one of the speech channels and
which are switched so rapidly as to give the effect of
simultaneous transmission of all of the control or indicating
signals.
(1) Note. Placement in this subclass is limited to those
systems in which only the control or supervisory signals are
multiplex. Systems in which the voice signals are also
multiplexed are found in Class 370.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
370, Multiplex Communications, appropriate subclasses for
multiplexing of message signals.
Subclass:
291
With detail of crosspoint switching structure (e.g.,
crossbar):
This subclass is indented under subclass 268. Subject matter
particularly describing a feature of selection equipment for
an element of a switching array.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
306 for crosspoint switch detail in other than common
control equipment.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclass 112 for a telephone crossbar
switch, per se.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 825.79 for
details of switching arrays or matrices, not elsewhere
classifiable.
Subclass:
292
Electronic crosspoint (e.g., solid-state):
This subclass is indented under subclass 291. Subject matter
wherein the switching element includes an electron discharge
device or a semiconductor component.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
287 for common control switching with registering or storing
a call address signal and having an electronic component.
Subclass:
293
Having line finder:
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
for locating and connecting a calling line to switching
apparatus.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
377 for an off-hook detector, per se.
Subclass:
294
Including electronic element (e.g., tube or semiconductor):
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter
including an electron discharge device or semiconductor
component.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
287 and 292, for electronic elements in other telephone
switching systems.
Subclass:
295
Plural:
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter
including multiple line finders.
Subclass:
296
With repeater:
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
having means which receives, amplifies and retransmits a
signal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
238 for interexchange signalling having a repeater.
338 for a telephone repeater, per se.
Subclass:
297
Having specified busy-idle test:
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
including equipment to determine whether or not a component
desired for use is already in use.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
274 277, 337, and 381, for busy-idle testing in specific
equipment.
Subclass:
298
Direct control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
wherein successive switching devices for making the call
connection are directly responsive to the calls address pulse
signal transmitted from the calling station.
Subclass:
299
Step-by-step system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 298. Subject matter
having a plurality of switching stages working sequentially
and independently of the state of subsequent stages.
Subclass:
300
Having plural wiper sets:
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Subject matter
having multiple rotary movable circuit contact elements.
Subclass:
301
Having potential control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Subject matter
which establishes or maintains electrical potential at some
part of the switching system.
Subclass:
302
Having rotary switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Subject matter
including a movable circuit completing device, which has
rotational motion.
Subclass:
303
Coordinate system (e.g., X-Y):
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Subject matter
having a movable circuit completing element, the motion of
which has two perpendicular components.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
302 for a step-by-step coordinate system where one of the
components is angle of rotation.
Subclass:
304
All relay type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 298. Subject matter
in which all switching is performed by electromagnetically
controlled contact apparatus.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 825.79 for a
relay matrix.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, 139 for a
relay control circuit.
Subclass:
305
Having motor-driven switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 298. Subject matter
having a switching element driven by a motor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
302 for a similar subject matter in a step-by-step system.
Subclass:
306
With crosspoint switch detail:
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
having a detail or a switching element of a rectangular
switch array.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
291 for common control crosspoint switch detail.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclass 112 for a telephone crossbar
switch, per se.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 825.79 for
details of switching arrays or matrices, not elsewhere
classifiable.
Subclass:
307
With power supply:
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
which provides electric power to at least part of the
telephone equipment being used.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
322 for a power supply in centralized switching.
Subclass:
308
Switching apparatus for connecting calling line to operator's
position:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
which connects a terminal to an operator's position in
response to the presence of a call.
Subclass:
309
Call distribution or queuing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 308. Subject matter
with circuitry for handling a plurality of calls at the same
time to a lesser number of operator's positions.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
266 for call queuing to an operator an automatic or
semiautomatic system.
Subclass:
310
Divided central (e.g., communication between switchboards):
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
in which subscriber lines are grouped upon separate
switchboards at a switching exchange.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
219 for interexchange signalling.
264 for call extension from an A operator to a B operator.
Subclass:
311
Having signalling path feature:
This subclass is indented under subclass 310. Subject matter
having signalling conductors connecting a plurality of the
switchboards for signalling between any two switchboards.
Subclass:
312
Having multiple answering jacks for multiplied line:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
including plural jack connectors for a line on different
switchboards of a switching exchange.
(1) Note. The plural line appearances enable a call to be
handled by operators at different switchboards.
Subclass:
313
Multiple section switchboard:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
having a switchboard with plural sections, each section
having a separate jack connector for each subscriber.
Subclass:
314
Auxiliary (e.g., overflow):
This subclass is indented under subclass 313. Subject matter
in which a switchboard has an additional section which is
used primarily when the capacity of the other sections is
exceeded.
Subclass:
315
With line-signal control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
having a switchboard with a line condition responsive
indicator and controlled in response to an operator's action
on the call connection.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
350 for telephone line signalling.
Subclass:
316
Spring-jack cut-off:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Subject matter
wherein the switchboard has a jack containing resilient
contact elements which contact elements are disconnected by
insertion of plug into the jack and which insertion stops the
operation of the indicating signal.
Subclass:
317
Relay cut-off:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Subject matter
wherein the line signal operation is stopped by a relay in
response to insertion of a plug into a switchboard jack.
Subclass:
318
Central power source:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Subject matter
including a common, centrally located, power supply for
signalling, talking, or both.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
322 for power supplies in centralized switching systems.
Subclass:
319
Single switchboard (e.g, cord circuit):
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
including structure or circuitry of a manual line switching
apparatus actuated by a single operator.
Subclass:
320
Switchboard circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 319. Subject matter
including a detail of the switchboard circuitry.
Subclass:
321
Connection to operator's terminal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 320. Subject matter
including a detail of a connection between the switchboard
and the operator's telephone set.
Subclass:
322
Power supply:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
which supplies electricity to a telephone system component.
Subclass:
323
Power to switching equipment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 322. Subject matter
which supplies electricity to the centralized switching
equipment.
Subclass:
324
Central power source (e.g., common battery, line current
feed):
This subclass is indented under subclass 322. Subject matter
where a single power supply provides electricity for a
plurality of branches connected to the central switching
equipment.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
318 for line signal control with a central power source.
Subclass:
325
Structure of equipment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
directed to the physical configuration of the switching
system.
Subclass:
326
Wire or cable distribution:
This subclass is indented under subclass 325. Subject matter
including the structure of conductors in central switching
equipment.
Subclass:
327
Main or intermediate distribution frame:
This subclass is indented under subclass 326. Subject matter
having a structure for holding the wires or cables.
Subclass:
328
Equipment mounting or support:
This subclass is indented under subclass 325. Subject matter
which retains the equipment at a given location against the
force of gravity.
Subclass:
329
Allowing movement of equipment (e.g., movable, modular):
This subclass is indented under subclass 328. Subject matter
permitting relative motion between the mounting or support
and the equipment.
Subclass:
330
Housing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 325. Subject matter
including a cover for a part of the equipment.
Subclass:
331
Having protective circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
which prevents damage to the circuits of the central
switching system from improper conditions.
Subclass:
332
Plug and socket:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Subject matter
in which part of the equipment is inserted to a cooperating
connector in another part of the equipment.
Subclass:
333
CONCENTRATOR OR TRUNK SELECTOR:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter for connecting a large number of subscriber
lines to a smaller number of shared or trunk lines.
(1) Note. The subscriber lines are only connected
alternatively to the shared or trunk lines; for simultaneous
transmission see Class 370, Multiplex Communications.
Subclass:
334
Concentrator-distributor pair (e.g., line concentrator):
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter
having two similar complementary contractors to permit a
large number of subscriber lines to be connected and
supervised over a small number of trunk lines connecting the
two complementary concentrators.
Subclass:
335
Using crossbar or crosspoint switching:
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter
wherein the connection is performed either by a rectangular
switch array or a selective plural stage switch having plural
horizontal and vertical contact paths.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
291 for crosspoint switching structure in a common control
system.
306 for crosspoint switch detail in a centralized switching
system.
Subclass:
336
With magnet, electromagnet, or relay:
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. subject matter
wherein the concentrator includes either (a) an electrically
excited, or a permanent, source of magnetic polarization, or
(b) a magnetically operated switch.
Subclass:
337
With busy-idle test (e.g., idle trunk finder):
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter
which determines if a trunk is in use and controls the
switching in response to a determination of nonuse.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
274 277, 297, and 381, for busy or idle testing.
Subclass:
338
REPEATER (E.G., VOICE FREQUENCY):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter which receives and retransmits a signal which
is amplified or processed in a telephone system.
(1) Note. This subclass excludes amplifiers in terminal
sets, particularly of the hands-free type.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
4 for testing of a repeater.
146 for a coin signal repeater.
238 for a interexchange signalling repeater.
296 for an automatic centralized switching system with a
repeater.
420 for a hands-free terminal.
432 for terminal having an amplifier.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
330, Amplifiers, appropriate subclasses for an amplifier.
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
appropriate subclasses for an amplifier in an electrical
audio system.
Subclass:
339
With signal conversion (e.g., dial to DTMF, analog to PCM):
This subclass is indented under subclass 338. Subject matter
which coverts a signal from variations in one parameter to
variations of another.
(1) Note. an example such variations conversion is from
that of abrupt variations in a DC signal such as pulses to
variations of tone frequency.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
281 for signal conversion in a common control system.
353 for control line signalling.
Subclass:
340
Having line length compensation or equalization:
This subclass is indented under subclass 338. Subject matter
including structure to either modify an electrical parameter
in a complementary relationship with a distance-related
effect on a telephone signal, or to cause the signal
transmitted through the line to be independent of frequency.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
394 for line equalization at a telephone substation.
398 for telephone line equalization.
Subclass:
341
Pulse or tone repeater (e.g., electromechanical relay):
This subclass is indented under subclass 338. Subject matter
for amplifying or restoring a pulse or tone signal.
(1) Note. Included in this subclass are electromagnetic
relays.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
238 for interexchange signalling repeaters.
296 for similar subject matter combined with a centralized
switching facility.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, 160 for
relay control circuits.
375, Pulse or Digital Communications, 211 for a pulse
repeater.
Subclass:
342
Electronic (e.g., logic circuitry):
This subclass is indented under subclass 341. Subject matter
having a signal processing component utilizing an electron
discharge device or semi-conductor component.
Subclass:
343
Controlled by a pilot or reference signal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 338. Subject matter
wherein the repeater is controlled by a signal having a
predetermined characteristic (e.g., frequency, amplitude).
Subclass:
344
Component processes bidirectional signals:
This subclass is indented under subclass 338. Subject matter
including a component handling signals travelling in either
direction over a telephone line.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
370, Multiplex Communications, 276 for a duplex repeater.
Subclass:
345
Including two-to-four wire conversion or hybrid circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 344. Subject matter
including a component for coupling two physically separate
line pairs each conducting a signal in opposite directions to
a single two-wire line carrying signals in opposite
directions.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
391 and 402, for other hybrid circuits in telephone
equipment.
Subclass:
346
With frequency discriminator or negative impedance element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 338. Subject matter
which (a) selectively passes particular signal frequencies,
or (b) has elements which have negative impedance.
Subclass:
347
With gain or attenuation control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 338. Subject matter
having circuitry to maintain or modify any increase or
decrease in the magnitude of the signal.
Subclass:
348
Transmission of power to distant repeater:
This subclass is indented under subclass 338. Subject matter
where a repeater receives energizing power over the telephone
line.
Subclass:
349
Having voice frequency transformer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 338. Subject matter
under having a transformer specifically intended for use in
the audio frequency range.
Subclass:
350
SUPERVISORY OR CONTROL LINE SIGNALLING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter for transmitting either a selective control
signal, or a status indicating signal, over a telephone
line.
(1) Note. Included herein are dialing, ringing, and
off-hook signals.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
251 for centralized switching combined with call associated
signalling.
Subclass:
351
Signalling integrity protection (e.g., voice signal
immunity):
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Subject matter
including circuitry to distinguish between the supervisory or
control signal and other signals on the line and prevent
response to the other signals.
Subclass:
352
Substation originated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Subject matter
which transmits a called station address signal over a
telephone line from a subscriber terminal.
(1) Note. This subclass also includes a transmitted line
signal.
(2) Note. Supervisory signals (e.g., off-hook) are excluded
from this and indented subclasses are classified in
subclasses 377+.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
31 for diagnostic testing of a line signal generator.
90 for selective signalling over a telephone line for
control of a diverse are device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 825 for selective
signalling not limited to a telephone system; subclasses 345+
for a code transmitting device.
362, Illumination, subclass 24 for an illuminated telephone
dial.
Subclass:
353
Conversion of signal form:
This subclass is indented under subclass 352. Subject matter
which converts a signal from variations in one parameter to
variations of another.
(1) Note. Examples of such parameters are amplitude,
frequency, or phase of the control signal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
339 for a repeater having signal conversion.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
341, Coded Data Generation or Conversion, appropriate
subclasses for code converters.
Subclass:
354
With called number display:
This subclass is indented under subclass 352. Subject matter
which produces a visual indication of the called station
address.
Subclass:
355
Repertory or abbreviated call signal generation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 352. Subject matter
which produces a complete call address signal i response to
actuation of a single key or in response to a generated code
of less than the complete address signal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
216 for abbreviated calling performed at a central switching
office.
Subclass:
356
With dynamic memory:
This subclass is indented under subclass 355. Subject matter
including storage or retrieval of dialing code information by
relative motion between a transducer and a relatively movable
storage medium a property of which is altered in accordance
with the stored information.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
68 for a dynamic audio signal memory combined with a
telephone system component.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
369, Dynamic Information Storage or Retrieval, appropriate
subclasses for dynamic recording reproduction.
Subclass:
357
Insertable control element or circuitry (e.g., card):
This subclass is indented under subclass 355. Subject matter
comprising a circuit element or other object which controls
the generation of the call signal, and is readily removable
from the signal generator.
Subclass:
358
By motor driven dial rotating device:
This subclass is indented under subclass 355. Subject matter
wherein the abbreviated call signal controls an
electromechanical device which actuates a rotary dial pulse
generator.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
363 for an electromechanical dial rotating device.
Subclass:
359
Pulse signal generating (e.g., dialing):
This subclass is indented under subclass 355. Subject matter
which produces a call address signal in the form of several
sequential groups of pulses.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
362 for pulse signal call address generators.
Subclass:
360
Voice frequency band signalling (e.g., reed devices):
This subclass is indented under subclass 352. Subject matter
wherein of tones within the audible sound spectrum and which
have distinct frequencies to perform selective control.
(1) Note. The voice frequency tones are often combination
of frequencies.
(2) Note. This subclass also includes read devices.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
235 for voice frequency signalling between exchanges.
282 for a voice frequency call address signal receiver.
341 for tone repeaters.
386 for voice frequency line signalling reception.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
341, Coded Data Generation or Conversion, appropriate
subclasses for code converters.
375, Pulse or Digital Communications, 272 and 303+ for voice
frequency digital communications and transmitters.
Subclass:
361
Electronic (e.g., tone generator):
This subclass is indented under subclass 360. Subject matter
wherein the signalling tones are produced by an electron
discharge device or a semiconductor component.
Subclass:
362
Pulse signal generator (e.g., rotary dial):
This subclass is indented under subclass 352. Subject matter
wherein the selective control signal is composed of abrupt
variations imposed upon a signal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
341, Coded Data Generation or Conversion, subclass 30 and
184+ for a numerical pulse code transmitter.
375, Pulse or Digital Communications, appropriate subclasses
for digital pulse communications.
Subclass:
363
Control of motor driven dial rotating device:
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter
which includes an electromechanical apparatus for actuating a
rotary dial.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
358 for repertory or abbreviated dialing using a motor
driven dial rotating device.
Subclass:
364
With nonrotary actuator (e.g., key or slide type):
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter
having a pulse producer actuated by a mechanism having linear
motion.
(1) Note. Included herein are actuators of the slide or
push button type.
Subclass:
365
Specified switching contact (e.g., contact spring):
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter
including structure of the electrical switching element.
(1) Note. Included herein are contact spring arrangements.
Subclass:
366
With detail of dial return mechanism (e.g., driving spring,
speed governor):
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter
including structure of the mechanical arrangement for
returning the dial to its original position.
(1) Note. Included are driving spring arrangements.
Subclass:
367
Finger wheel or mechanical adjunct (e.g., finger stop):
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter
including structure of the rotary finger engaging element.
(1) Note. A subcombination limited in extent to a finger
wheel, per se, is also classified herein.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
456 for a dialing tool.
Subclass:
368
Plural-switch number input device (e.g., keypad):
This subclass is indented under subclass 352. Subject matter
including a manually actuated device having several switches
for determining the content of the selective control signal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
341, Coded Data Generation or Conversion, 20 and 173+ for
code transmitters.
Subclass:
369
Detail of mounting of switch pad or dial:
This subclass is indented under subclass 352. Subject matter
including a support of a manual actuator for the address
signal.
Subclass:
370
In handset:
This subclass is indented under subclass 369. Subject matter
wherein the actuator and mounting are located in a unitary
housing containing both a microphone and earphone.
Subclass:
371
Magneto signalling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 352. Subject matter
contains a manually actuated generator for providing a line
signal.
(1) Note. These are generally the older hand crank
telephone.
(2) Note. The line signal is considered an address signal
for purposes of subclass 352.
Subclass:
372
Signal reception at substation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. subject matter
wherein a control or line signal is received at a subscriber
terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
386 for systems where the signals are received at a point
not specifically designated to be a subscriber terminal.
Subclass:
373
Incoming call alerting (e.g., ringing):
This subclass is indented under subclass 372. Subject matter
where the control or supervisory signal is generated in
response to a call directed to a subscriber terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
179 for call alerting on a party line.
251 for call associated signal generation in a central
switching system.
Subclass:
374
With music or audible message generation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Subject matter
for generating an audible alerting signal consisting of music
or of a recorded or synthesized spoken message.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
67.1 for transmission of a synthesized or a dynamically
reproduced audio signal over a telephone line.
Subclass:
375
With electronic call sounder (e.g., tone "ringer"):
This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Subject matter
where an audible alerting signal is generated at a subscriber
terminal by a circuit having at least one electronic device.
Subclass:
376
With visual indication of incoming call:
This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Subject matter
where there is a visible indication at a subscriber terminal
which indicates the presence of an incoming telephone call.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
247 for display of the identity of a called line or trunk.
Subclass:
377
Using line or loop condition detection (e.g., line circuit):
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Subject matter
in which the supervisory or control signal is generated in
response to an electrical state of a subscriber circuit.
Subclass:
378
With current controlling electromagnetic core device (e.g.,
Hall-effect device):
This subclass is indented under subclass 377. Subject matter
having a magnetizable element within a coiled conductor for
current control.
Subclass:
379
With optical link between line and switching system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 377. Subject matter
including a communication link between a subscriber's line
and a central switching system which uses light waves.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
359, Optics: Systems (Including Communication) and Elements,
109 for optical communications.
Subclass:
380
By bridge circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 377. Subject matter
including a network arranged so that, when an electromotive
force is present across one branch, the response of a
suitable detecting device in another branch may be zeroed by
suitable adjustment of the electrical consistents of still
other branches.
Subclass:
381
Busy test or make busy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 377. Subject matter
for determining whether or not a loop or line connected to a
terminal is in use, or to simulate such an in-use condition
on a line.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
274 277 and 337, for various busy testing circuits.
Subclass:
382
For ring trip or polarity reversal detection:
This subclass is indented under subclass 377. Subject matter
including detection of a change in the polarity of the
potential difference across the line or loop, or of an
off-hook condition of the called terminal to cause cessation
of the alerting signal.
(1) Note. Off-hook detection often accomplished by
distinguishing a voice signal from an A.C. ringing signal.
Subclass:
383
Of plural lines:
This subclass is indented under subclass 377. Subject matter
having more than one line or loop.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
156 for a multiline system with selective switching and
central office connection.
264 for identification of a line in a central office.
333 for a line concentrator.
Subclass:
384
By scanning:
This subclass is indented under subclass 383. Subject matter
where a condition of each of the plural loops or lines is
detected by sensing each line in sequence.
Subclass:
385
Relayless:
This subclass is indented under subclass 377. Subject matter
wherein line or loop condition signalling is performed by
circuitry other than electromagnetically operated contacts.
Subclass:
386
Signal receiver (e.g., tone decoder):
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Subejct matter
for receiving the supervisory or control line signal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
351 for similar subject matter having spurious response
protection.
372 for supervisory or control line signalling reception at
a subscriber terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 825.36 for selective
signal indicating.
375, Pulse or Digital Communications, 316 for a pulse
communication receiver.
Subclass:
387
SUBSTATION OR TERMINAL CIRCUITRY:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter comprising electrical relationships of circuit
elements of a terminal set or a group of such sets connected
to a single line circuit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
156 for a key substation system.
177 for a polystation line system.
199 for a call limiting substation system.
419 for the structure of a terminal.
Subclass:
388
For loudspeaking terminal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 387. Subject matter
including a terminal set having an electrical-to-audio signal
transducer which produces an audible signal of sufficient
intensity to be intelligible to a user not in contact with
the telephone terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
420 for loudspeaking terminal structure.
432 for a loudspeaking terminal housing.
Subclass:
389
With circuitry for voice control of transmission direction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 388. Subject matter
permitting operation f the terminal in only one direction in
response to the presence of a voice signal to be
transmitted.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
subclass 110 for a voice controlled one-way audio system.
Subclass:
390
With amplification or attenuation level control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 388. Subject matter
having a circuit for adjusting or maintaining the level of
signal strength.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
347 for amplification or attenuation control in a telephone
repeater.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
104 for amplitude or volume control for an audio system.
Subclass:
391
Sidetone control or hybrid circuit (e.g., induction coil):
This subclass is indented under subclass 387. Subject matter
for maintaining that portion of the speech signal which is
transmitted from a telephone transmitter and reproduced at
adjacent receiver at a desired degree of separation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
402 for similar subject matter at a telephone line
interface.
Subclass:
392
Suppression (e.g., anti-sidetone):
This subclass is indented under subclass 391. Subject matter
for minimizing the amount of sidetone reproduced by a
receiver.
Subclass:
393
Hold circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 387. Subject matter
for maintaining a subscriber loop circuit in an active but
noncommunicating mode.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
162 for a key system hold circuit.
Subclass:
394
Impedance matching or line equalizing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 387. Subject matter
wherein the terminal includes a circuit to either make the
terminal and line impedances equal, or to equalize frequency
attenuation characteristic.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
398 for telephone line equalization or impedance matching,
other than in terminal circuitry.
Subclass:
395
Amplifying:
This subclass is indented under subclass 387. Subject matter
for increasing the audio signal at a terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
330, Amplifiers, appropriate subclasses for an amplifier.
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
120 for audio systems with amplifiers.
Subclass:
396
Visual signalling (e.g., lamp):
This subclass is indented under subclass 387. Subject matter
to modify or emit light in response to one or more terminal
conditions.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
376 for visual call alerting.
Subclass:
397
Wire distribution:
This subclass is indented under subclass 387. Subject matter
including the placement of conductors within the terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
326 for wire or cable distribution at a centralized
switching facility.
Subclass:
398
LINE EQUALIZATION OR IMPEDANCE MATCHING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including a circuit to cause the signal
transmitted through the line to be independent of frequency,
or providing for adjustment of the impedance thereof to
optimize signal transmission to, and reception from, a
telephone line.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
394 for this subject matter in terminal circuitry.
Subclass:
399
SUBSCRIBER LINE OR TRANSMISSION LINE INTERFACE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including a circuit for connecting a telephone
communications line to a central switching office or a
subscriber station.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
27 for diagnostic testing of a subscriber loop.
219 for interconnection of plural exchanges.
377 for line signalling using line or loop condition
detection.
387 for substation circuitry.
398 for line equalization or impedance matching.
414 for transmission line characteristic control.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
333, Wave Transmission Lines and Networks, appropriate
subclasses for a passive connection between a transmission
line and another device.
Subclass:
400
For line length compensation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter
including structure to change an electrical parameter in a
complementary relationship with a distance-related effect on
a telephone signal.
(1) Note. Amplifying of a telephone signal is classified in
subclasses 338+.
Subclass:
401
Voltage boosting circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 400. Subject matter
which increases the magnitude of a voltage source in
accordance with the length of a related telephone line.
Subclass:
402
Hybrid circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter
including a two-wire to four-wire converter.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
3 for testing of a hybrid circuits.
344 for similar subject matter including a telephone
repeater.
391 for a hybrid circuit in a substation of terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
333, Wave Transmission Lines and Networks, 24 for a coupling
network.
Subclass:
403
With adjustable balance circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Subject matter
which includes a circuit having an impedance the reactive
component of which is substantially equal in magnitude and
opposite in sign to that of the two-wire line, the impedance
being variable for adjustment purposes.
Subclass:
404
Automatic adjustment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 403. Subject matter
which varies the impedance of the balance circuit in
accordance with a sensed unbalanced condition.
Subclass:
405
Electronic noninductive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Subject matter
which connects the bidirectional two-wire line with two
unidirection two-wire lines and operated by means of an
element in which signal transmission is controlled by an
electron discharge device or a semiconductor component.
Subclass:
406
Echo suppression, antisinging, or reverse path blocking:
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter
including circuitry to prevent undesired reflection,
oscillation, or signal transmission.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
3 for testing an echo suppressor.
392 for sidetone suppression in a terminal or substation.
Subclass:
407
Disable or inhibit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 406. Subject matter
wherein the undesirable signal prevention device includes
signal blocking.
Subclass:
408
Control by pilot frequency signal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 406. Subject matter
wherein the undesirable signal is prevented by equipment
responsive to a reference frequency signal.
Subclass:
409
Having variolosser or attenuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 406. Subject matter
wherein the undesired path signal prevention device reduces
the magnitude of the signal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
333, Wave Transmission Lines and Networks, subclass 81 for
an attenuator.
Subclass:
410
Echo cancellation (e.g., phase opposition):
This subclass is indented under subclass 406. Subject matter
which produces a replica of the undesired signal and
offsetting the undesired signal by said replica.
(1) Note. An example of such signal offsetting would
include combining the undesired signal with a phase opposed
replica thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
3 for testing of an echo suppressor or canceller.
392 for an anti-sidetone device in a telephone terminal or
substation.
Subclass:
411
Having transversal filter:
This subclass is indented under subclass 410. Subject matter
wherein an echo is cancelled by a multiply tapped delay line
with a summing or weighting circuit.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
333, Wave Transmission Lines and Networks, subclass 165 for
a time domain filter.
Subclass:
412
Protective circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter
having a circuit which prevents damage to the telephone
line.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Device, subclass
119 for high voltage surge protection of a communication
line.
Subclass:
413
Power supply (e.g., battery feed):
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter
wherein the interface further includes a source of electrical
energy.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
322 for a power supply at a central switching office.
Subclass:
414
TRANSMISSION LINE CONDITIONING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter for varying an electrical parameter of a
telephone channel.
(1) Note. This subject matter is often included to bring a
circuit value of a desired or standard value.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
22 for diagnostic testing of a telephone transmission line.
381 for a make busy arrangement.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
174, Electricity: Conductors and Insulators, appropriate
subclasses for a telephone conductor.
333, Wave Transmission Lines and Networks, appropriate
subclasses for a load line.
Subclass:
415
Reactance neutralizing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Subject matter
for adding a reactive impedance to counteract reactive line
impedance.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
394 for impedance matching in a telephone substation or
terminal.
398 for impedance matching or line equalization.
Subclass:
416
Interference suppression:
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Subject matter
which reduces or eliminates an undesired signal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
3 for testing of an echo suppressor.
400 for echo cancellation or antisinging in a subscriber
line or transmission line interface.
Subclass:
417
Anti-crosstalk:
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Subject matter
to reduce or eliminate a signal from one telephone channel
induced in another.
Subclass:
418
CALL SIGNAL GENERATING (E.G., RINGING OR TONE GENERATOR):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter which produces an electrical signal which
actuates a device producing a perceptible signal indicative
of the status or presence of a desired call connection.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
31 for testing of a line signalling generator.
65 for a single channel telephone carrier system including
call signalling.
164 for call alerting in a multiline or key substation.
179 for call alerting in a polystation line system.
201 for a special service.
251 for call signal generation in a centralized switching
system.
352 for substation originated call signal generation.
373 for reception of a call alerting signal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 384.1 for an audible
indication.
Subclass:
419
TERMINAL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including an audio reproducer and microphone.
(1) Note. This and indented subclasses also include
subcombinations and components peculiar to such devices and
not elsewhere classified.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
110.01 for a composite terminal.
156 for key system.
167 for an intercom system station.
352 for call address or other line signalling structure at a
terminal.
441 for accessory or auxiliary equipment usable with the
subject matter of this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
362, Illumination, subclass 88 for an illuminated telephone
instrument.
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
150 for a microphone or speaker, per se.
Subclass:
420
Having loudspeaking conversation capability (e.g., hands-free
type or speakerphone):
This subclass is indented under subclass 419. Subject matter
which permits conversation with a user without physical
contact with the terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
388 for circuitry particularly designed for a loudspeaking
terminal.
Subclass:
421
Having muting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 419. Subject matter
where a transducer in the terminal is prevented from being
operational.
Subclass:
422
Switch or switch actuator structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 419. Subject matter
comprising a mechanical or electrical device which completes,
breaks, or changes the path of an electrical current.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
200, Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers, appropriate
subclasses for a switch, per se.
Subclass:
423
Line selection:
This subclass is indented under subclass 422. Subject matter
where the switch connects one of a plurality of lines to a
component of the system.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
156 for substation circuitry including plural lines used
with line selecting terminals.
Subclass:
424
Receiver or handset position responsive (e.g., hookswitch):
This subclass is indented under subclass 422. Subject matter
which opens or closes the switch contacts in response to a
change of relative position between the part of the terminal
containing the audio reproducer and the rest of the
terminal.
Subclass:
425
With mechanism for latching hookswitch or plunger against
motion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 424. Subject matter
which includes structure to prevent a hook or plunger
operated switch from being operated by the handset or
receiver.
Subclass:
426
Movable holder for receiver or handset:
This subclass is indented under subclass 424. Subject matter
having a switch actuator which holds the telephone
reproducer, the actuator being movable relative to the rest
of the terminal.
Subclass:
427
Having plunger and lever linkage:
This subclass is indented under subclass 424. Subject matter
where the switch actuator includes a movable rodlike place
engaging a rigid piece that pivots about a point to actuate
the switch.
Subclass:
428
Housing or housing component:
This subclass is indented under subclass 419. Subject matter
having a casing enclosing components of a terminal set.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
D14, Recording, Communication, or Information Retrieval
Equipment, 140 for a design a telephone housing.
Subclass:
429
Having distinct circuitry support structure (e.g., circuit
board):
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Subject matter
including structure separate from the other terminal elements
to hold or connect an electrical component of a telephone.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, 600 for a
housing or mounting assembly for a plurality of diverse
electrical components.
Subclass:
430
Body supported (e.g., headgear):
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Subject matter
including apparatus for frictional abutting engagement
between the user's body and a telephone terminal
receiver-transmitter device.
(1) Note. These instruments include structure to support
both a receiver and a transmitter casing adjacent a user's
head by engagement therewith.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
449 for handset holders that are attachable to terminal
housing.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
321 for a stereo headphone, subclass 74 for a headphone
circuit, and subclasses 370+ and 385 for a headphone.
Subclass:
431
Separate housings for earphone and microphone (e.g,
candlestick type):
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Subject matter
including a transmitter and a receiver in different cases.
(1) Note. The different cases may be separately
positioned.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
426 for similar subject matter including a hookswitch
supported receiver.
Subclass:
432
Loudspeaking set:
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Subject matter
in which a telephone housing radiates reproduced sound to a
user located away from the terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
420 for a loudspeaking terminal.
Subclass:
433
Handset structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Subject matter
including a housing that contains both the receiver and the
transmitter devices.
(1) Note. The receiver and transmitter are usually spaced
apart, and have separate acousitc chambers, with a portion of
the surrounding or connecting housing forming a handle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
370 for a handset mounting feature for a dial or switchpad.
Subclass:
434
Specified terminal configuration (e.g., novelty type):
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Subject matter
having a specific shape, orientation, simulation or other
geometric relation of portions of a telephone terminal
housing.
(1) Note. The term simulation is intended to comprehend
fanciful characters and caricatures.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
446, Amusement Devices: Toys, 141 for a nonoperative toy
telephone.
D14, Recording, Communication, or Information Retrieval
Equipment, 140 for an ornamental design of telephone
equipment.
Subclass:
435
Wall set or convertible type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Subject matter
wherein the telephone set includes structure to provide
support from an adjacent vertical building element or to
convert the wall set for use upon a horizontal planar
surface.
Subclass:
436
Desk set:
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Subject matter
wherein the terminal is configured so as to provide normal
operation with the terminal base resting on a horizontal
planar surface.
Subclass:
437
Protective structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Subject matter
wherein a terminal includes apparatus to prevent damage to
the terminal or some component thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
451 for similar subject matter separable from telephone
terminal structure.
Subclass:
438
Of cord or connector:
This subclass is indented under subclass 437. Subject matter
for protecting a terminal lead wire or connector.
Subclass:
439
Antiseptic:
This subclass is indented under subclass 437. Subject matter
for protective germicidal or hygienic structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
452 for an antiseptic terminal accessory.
Subclass:
440
Casing or enclosure, per se:
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Subject matter
consisting of housing structure surrounding the
electromechanical parts of the telephone set.
Subclass:
441
TERMINAL ACCESSORY OR AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter used with and not part of a telephone set.
Subclass:
442
With circuit connection to terminal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 441. Subject matter
for connecting a device to the line by direct connection
through the terminal.
(1) Note. Included herein is a terminal patch cord or
connector.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
90.01 for a similar circuit connection for diverse art
device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
439, Electrical Connectors, appropriate subclasses for
circuit connectors, per se.
Subclass:
443
Including coupler (e.g., inductive);
This subclass is indented under subclass 441. Subject matter
for transferring a signal from a telepone terminal other than
by direct circuit connection.
(1) Note. Such transfer may be performed by an inductive or
other coupling to the telephone terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
55.1 for an inductive or other near field link telephone
system.
Subclass:
444
Acoustic:
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter
where the transfer is performed by direct circuit
connection.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
78 for this subject matter combined with a telephone
answering device.
Subclass:
445
Locking device:
This subclass is indented under subclass 441. Subject matter
wherein a fastening apparatus prevents unauthorized usage of
a telephone.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
70, Locks, appropriate subclasses for a lock, per se.
Subclass:
446
Telephone receiver support:
This subclass is indented under subclass 441. Subject matter
including apparatus for holding a telephone receiver to a
telephone set.
(1) Note. A support to hold a telephone reproducer to
structure other than at telephone set is classified in Class
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
subclasses 386+.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
426 for a terminal having a movable holder or a telephone
receiver which operates a switch.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
248, Supports, appropriate subclasses, for a support, per
se.
Subclass:
447
Attachable to terminal housing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 441. Subject matter
having structure to support the accessory or auxiliary
equipment adjacent the terminal housing.
Subclass:
448
Hookswitch operator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 447. Subject matter
including apparatus for depressing the actuator of a receiver
or handset position responsive switch.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
424 for a hookswitch.
Subclass:
449
Handset holder (e.g., shoulder rest):
This subclass is indented under subclass 447. Subject matter
including apparatus for holding a handset on a human body.
Subclass:
450
Clips onto terminal structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 447. Subject matter
including a device that attaches to the telephone terminal
structure.
Subclass:
451
Protective structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 441. Subject matter
including apparatus that guards and/or shields the telephone
or some part thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
437 for a terminal including apparatus to prevent damage to
the terminal or a component thereof.
Subclass:
452
Antiseptic, disinfecting, or disposable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 451. Subject matter
including structure to prevent cross-infection by telephone
users.
(1) Note. Included herein is antiseptic, disinfecting, or
disposable structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
439 for antiseptic terminal structure.
Subclass:
453
Hood or enclosure (e.g., booth):
This subclass is indented under subclass 441. Subject matter
including a protective covering for a telephone or a fenced
off or confined area for a telephone as in a telephone
booth.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
52, Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), appropriate
subclasses for structural detail of a telephone booth absent
any significant telephone component structure or
relationship.
Subclass:
454
Support or stand:
This subclass is indented under subclass 441. Subject matter
including structure to retain the telephone apparatus in a
desired position.
(1) Note. The structure can serve as a mounting for a push
button, a volume control or other items.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
446 for structure to support a telephone receiver from
another part of the telephone terminal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
248, Supports, appropriate subclasses for a support, per se.
Subclass:
455
Handset holder:
This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Subject matter
including apparatus that supports the telephone handset.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
449 for handset holder attachable to a telephone terminal
housing.
Subclass:
456
Dialing tool:
This subclass is indented under subclass 441. Subject matter
comprising a device having structure for dialing a
telephone.
(1) Note. This subclass requires the device to have a
limitation particularly designed for cooperation with the
manual actuation device and not merely incidentally useful
therewith (e.g., a pencil).
Subclass:
457
MISCELLANEOUS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter not provided for in any of the preceding
subclasses.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
381, Electrical Audio Processing Systems and Devices,
appropriate subclasses for one way-audio circuits and audio
transducers, per se.
CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS
Subclass:
900
INTERNET (e.g., Internet phone, webphone, Internet-based
telephony):
Subject matter comprising combination of a telephone system
or component and the Internet, wherein telephonic
conversations are conducted, controlled, or monitored via the
Internet.
Subclass:
901
VIRTUAL NETWORKS OR VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORKS:
Subject matter for programmably effecting as needed, or for
controlling, telephone networks, as distinguished from
"hard-wired" networks. Sometimes called "software-defined"
networks.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
370, Multiplex Communications, 351 for a pathfinding or
routing through a switching network or a packet switching
network.
Subclass:
902
AUTO-SWITCH FOR AN INCOMING VOICE, DATA, OR FAX TELEPHONE
CALL (E.G., COMP/FAX/TEL):
Subject matter comprising a receiving device for
automatically detecting an incoming telephone call on a
single line and routing to one of several divergent devices
intended for communication of voice or data over that
telephone line (e.g., answering machine, fax machine,
telephone, computer), or for switching between such devices
by remote control of a caller.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.09 for the telephone switching between different terminal
types.
100.01 for a fax telephone.
Subclass:
903
PASSWORD:
Subject matter for entering a code through a telephone system
to identify an authorized user.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93.03 for a personal identification.
Subclass:
904
AUTO-CALLING:
Subject matter for automated dialing and completion of
telephone calls to plural, predetermined destinations.
(1) Note. Such systems may use memory-, repertory- or
speed-dialers for addressing of calls, but also perform some
additional functions such as automatically retrieving plural
stored numbers, or automatically detecting answering devices
or persons.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
355 for an auto dialer.
Subclass:
905
FAX MAIL:
Subject matter for storing or transmitting a non-telephone
signal (that is, a visual or s:graphic representation of a
document for producing a visually readable reproduction at a
receiving station) from or to a predetermined facsimile
destination via a telephone communication channel, usually
within a pre-specified time window.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
100.08 for an electronic mailbox.
Subclass:
906
TOUCHTONE MESSAGE TRANSMISSION:
Subject matter comprising a system or device using a standard
or modified telephone keypad for transmitting an alphanumeric
message over a telephone line or channel.
Subclass:
907
SPEECH RECOGNITION VIA TELEPHONE SYSTEM OR COMPONENT:
Subject matter for recognizing speech or voice by means of a
telephone set or system component, for purpose of control,
identification or access limitation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
704, Data Processing: Speech Signal Processing, Linguistics,
Language Translation, and Audio Compression/Decompression,
231 for speech recognition per se.
Subclass:
908
MULTIMEDIA:
Subject matter comprising a telephone system for transmitting
and receiving more than one data type (e.g., text/fax/voice)
during a single call session, or for one form of
communication to be converted to another (e.g.,
speech-to-text, text-to-speech, handwriting-to-text or voice,
etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
704, Data Processing: Speech Signal Processing, Linguistics,
Language Translation, and Audio Compression/Decompression,
subclass 260 for speech synthesis including an
image-to-speech conversion.
Subclass:
909
ALTERNATIVES:
Subject matter comprising more than one way or preference to
perform a specific telephone function or operation.
Subclass:
910
BAR CODE OR OPTICAL CHARACTER READER WITH TELEPHONE:
Subject matter combining a bar code or optical character
reader with a telephone component and providing for
transmission of data read by the reader over a telephone line
or channel.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
235, Registers, subclass 462 for a bar code reader.
Subclass:
911
DISTINCTIVE RINGING:
Subject matter for the generation or detection of telephone
ringing signals distinguishable from the standard
mechanical-bell signals, for selective identification or
routing of received calls relative to the caller or called
party or equipment.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
180 for full selective or tuned (e.g., harmonic).
Subclass:
912
GEOGRAPHICALLY ADAPTIVE:
Subject matter for selective adaptation of aspects of the
telephone system or equipment dependent on where a caller,
called party, terminal, or call-processing equipment is
geos:graphically located.
Subclass:
913
PERSON LOCATOR OR PERSON-SPECIFIC:
Subject matter for tracking the location (i.e., finding) of a
telephone-system subscriber, user, or terminal, or for
adapting an aspect of the system or terminal to a specific
person.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
211 for a call forwarding.
Subclass:
914
PROGRAMMABLE TELEPHONE COMPONENT:
Subject matter to enable or facilitate programming of a
telephone system component by a subscriber or user, e.g.,
enabling a user to use a Dual Tone Multifrequency (DTMF) set
to remotely program operational features of a telephone
switching system or terminal.
Subclass:
915
"SOFT" KEY:
Subject matter wherein the telephone system component is a
programmable function key or an adjunct device coupled to the
set and intended for effecting transmission of signals over a
telephone line or channel, or controlling the transmission
thereof.
Subclass:
916
TOUCH SCREEN ASSOCIATED WITH TELEPHONE SET:
Subject matter combining a telephone set with sensors in
front of a display screen which respond to the presence, or
touch, of an operator for controlling transmission of signals
over a telephone line or channel.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
178, Telegraphy, 18.01 for a writing digitizer pad.
345, Computer Graphics Processing, Operator Interface
Processing, and Selective Visual Display Systems, 173 for a
combined touch panel and a selective display.
Subclass:
917
VOICE MENUS:
Subject matter for providing stored-voice message strings
that offer telephone users a variety of selectable
responses.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
67.1 for a telephone system having audio message storage or
retrieval capability.
FOREIGN ART COLLECTIONS
Subclass: FOR 100
HAVING NEAR FIELD LINK (E.G., CAPACITIVE, INDUCTIVE): Foreign
art collection having a transceiver, a base station, and a
near field or limited range system (i.e., field strength=k/d
where d=distance between the transceiver and base station
antennas) whereby signal transfer is inductive or capacitive,
rather than electromagnetic.
Subclass: FOR 101
HAVING ELECTROMAGNETIC LINK FOR SPEECH OR PAGING SIGNAL
(E.G., LIGHT WAVE LINK): Foreign art collection wherein a
circuit connection is made by a transmitted electromagnetic
field or wave group.
Subclass: FOR 102
Control of selectively responsive paging arrangement over
telephone line: Foreign art collection in which telephone
equipment is used to transmit a signal to selectively operate
or control equipment to produce a perceptible notification
signal over an electromagnetic link.
Subclass: FOR 103
Radio telephone system or instrument: Foreign art collection
including either (a) a base station transceiver connected to
a land telephone line, or (b) a mobile station.
Subclass: FOR 104
Zoned or cellular system: Foreign art collection including
plural stations providing service to different geos:graphical
areas.
Subclass: FOR 105
Having zoned/cellular system switching (e.g., handoff):
Foreign art collection having communication between base
stations to control communications with a mobile station.
Subclass: FOR 106
Including cordless extension set (i.e., having single
subscriber line access): Foreign art collection including a
base transceiver connected to a single subscriber line and a
cooperating portable transceiver.
Subclass: FOR 107
With privacy or lockout (e.g., identity verification):
Foreign art collection which permits use of a base station
only by an authorized subscriber or transceiver.
Subclass: FOR 108
Including supervisory or control signalling: Foreign art
collection for generating, processing, or receiving switching
or status indicating signals.
Subclass: FOR 109
HAVING SINGLE CHANNEL TELEPHONE CARRIER: Foreign art
collection wherein a single telephone speech signal modulates
a carrier signal which has a frequency above the range of
human audibility.
Subclass: FOR 110
Including call signalling (e.g., ringing, off-hook, dialing):
Foreign art collection which performs a call related
signalling operation distinct from voice information.
Subclass: FOR 111
Over power line: Foreign art collection wherein a modulated
telephone carrier is transmitted over a power line electrical
conductor.
Subclass: FOR 112
TELEPHONE LINE OR SYSTEM COMBINED WITH DIVERSE ELECTRICAL
SYSTEM OR SIGNALLING (E.G., COMPOSITE): Foreign art
collection wherein a nontelephone signal is transmitted over
a conductor of telephone signals, or a telephone signal is
transmitted over nontelephone electrical circuitry.
Subclass: FOR 113
Credit authorization: Foreign art collection to permit or
deny a charge to an individual account by nonvoice signals
over a telephone line.
Subclass: FOR 114
Polling (e.g., audience survey): Foreign art collection
wherein plural controlled devices transmit a personal or
personal choice status signal in response to an interrogating
signal.
Subclass: FOR 115
With transmission of a digital message signal over a
telephone line: Foreign art collection for transmission of
message information by either a multi-level pulse signal, or
a digital data signal, over lines specifically described as
telephone lines.
Subclass: FOR 116
Including switching station: Foreign art collection including
a switching facility having structure or circuitry for
digital message signal processing.
Subclass: FOR 117
Access restricting: Foreign art collection for restricting
telephone access to digital computing or communication
equipment.
Subclass: FOR 118
Including terminal for display of digital information:
Foreign art collection including structure particularly
adapted for conversion of a digital information signal into a
visual message signal.
Subclass: FOR 119
By voice frequency signal (e.g., tone code): Foreign art
collection wherein the pulse or digital data signal is
specifically described as converted into one or more tones
lying within the audible frequency spectrum.
Subclass: FOR 120
By modulated audio tone: Foreign art collection wherein a
pulse or digital data signal causes a variation in the
frequency, phase or amplitude of an audible tone.
Subclass: FOR 121
Having acoustic link: Foreign art collection wherein a
digital signalling device is connected to a telephone line by
a sound wave passing between a complementary pair of
electroacoustal transducers.
Subclass: FOR 122
To produce visual-s:graphic copy reproduction (e.g.,
facsimile): Foreign art collection where the nontelephone
signal is a visual or s:graphic representation of a static
document for producing a visually readable permanent copy at
a receiving station.
Subclass: FOR 123
Audio program distribution: Foreign art collection where an
audio program is transmitted to subscribers over a telephone
system.
Subclass: FOR 124
Remote control: Foreign art collection having signalling over
a telephone line for control of a nontelephone device at a
remote location.
Subclass: FOR 125
Of entrance of exit lock: Foreign art collection which
controls a mechanism for permitting or preventing access
through a door or other similar structural closure.
Subclass: FOR 126
With indication: Foreign art collection which indicates a
condition of the controlled device.
Subclass: FOR 127
From terminal: Foreign art collection wherein a device is
controlled from a telephone terminal.
Subclass: FOR 128
Remote indication over telephone line (e.g., telemetry):
Foreign art collection for providing a signal representing a
sensed condition at a remote location over the telephone
line.
Subclass: FOR 129
Meter reading: Foreign art collection where a sensed
condition is an indication of a quantitative indicating
device.
Subclass: FOR 130
Telegraphy: Foreign art collection for transmitting a
telephone signal over a telegraph circuit.
Subclass: FOR 131
Over telephone line: Foreign art collection for transmitting
a telegraph signal over a telephone line.
Subclass: FOR 132
COMPOSITE SUBSTATION OR TERMINAL (E.G., HAVING CALCULATOR,
RADIO): Foreign art collection in which a telephone
instrument also has structure or circuitry for performing a
diverse independent (i.e., nontelephone) function.
Subclass: FOR 133
WITH AUDIO MESSAGE STORAGE OR RETRIEVAL: Foreign art
collections including subject matter combined with structure
for retention of an audio massage signal, or for retrieval
thereof.
Subclass: FOR 134
Stored in digital form: Foreign art collections including
subject matter including a feature of digital storage or
retrieval of the audio signal.
Subclass: FOR 135
Subscriber control of central office message storage or
retrieval: Foreign art collections including subject matter
wherein the message storage is located at a central switching
office and wherein the content of the audio message is
controlled from a subscriber terminal.
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000