Automatic access to information service providers
May 23, 2012. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.Patent References 3600522 Data base auto bill calling using CCIS direct signaling Data base communication call processing method Method of providing person locator service Financial quotation system using synthesized speech Method for customer definable telephone capability Telephone office service assist and handoff International commodity trade exchange Method and apparatus for disallowing the extension of a call through a network Telephone system for connecting a customer to a supplier of goods InventorsAssigneeApplicationNo. 869931 filed on 04/17/1992US Classes:379/221.09, Service control point (SCP, ISCP, external database)379/88.2, Automatic Number Identification (ANI)379/88.25, Message storage in centralized location (e.g., central office, PBX, etc.)379/114.05, Special service fees (e.g., customized feature)379/114.29, Using more than one advanced intelligent elements (e.g., accessing multiple AIN databases)379/230Signalling path distinct from trunk (e.g., CCIS)ExaminersPrimary: Dwyer, James L.Assistant: Hunter, Daniel S. Attorney, Agent or FirmInternational ClassH04M 003/42AbstractA short dedicated code, such as an N11 telephone number, is used to access an information source selected from a large number of voice, data, facsimile and/or video services offered by information service providers. The system can use a single N11 number for all calls, or a first code number for preprogrammed call processing and a second number for casual access. The system can route an information service call based at least in part on preprogrammed selection data for the caller stored in a central data base, or can prompt a casual caller for various inputs to determine which service the caller currently wants to access. The disclosed system of call routing eliminates the need for information service users to know a large number of different telephone numbers to access a variety of information services. In the preferred embodiments, the user only needs to know one or two three-digit N11 type access numbers, such as 211 or 511. Because of the use of a programmable central data base, the system can provide customized routing and call processing procedures for different customers and for accessing different providers' services. Also, the system allows easy modification and updating of the stored data to suit a customer's current needs for accessing different information sources. The system can also provide access authorization procedures as defined by the customer or as defined by the information service provider.Other References
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