CA2040550A1 - Synthesized speech terminal system for data communication - Google Patents
Synthesized speech terminal system for data communicationInfo
- Publication number
- CA2040550A1 CA2040550A1 CA002040550A CA2040550A CA2040550A1 CA 2040550 A1 CA2040550 A1 CA 2040550A1 CA 002040550 A CA002040550 A CA 002040550A CA 2040550 A CA2040550 A CA 2040550A CA 2040550 A1 CA2040550 A1 CA 2040550A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- telephone
- inquiry
- private branch
- branch exchange
- speech terminal
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
- H04M1/64—Automatic arrangements for answering calls; Automatic arrangements for recording messages for absent subscribers; Arrangements for recording conversations
- H04M1/65—Recording arrangements for recording a message from the calling party
- H04M1/6505—Recording arrangements for recording a message from the calling party storing speech in digital form
- H04M1/651—Recording arrangements for recording a message from the calling party storing speech in digital form with speech synthesis
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M11/00—Telephonic communication systems specially adapted for combination with other electrical systems
- H04M11/06—Simultaneous speech and data transmission, e.g. telegraphic transmission over the same conductors
- H04M11/066—Telephone sets adapted for data transmision
Abstract
SYNTHESIZED SPEECH TERMINAL SYSTEM
FOR DATA COMMUNICATION
Abstract of the Disclosure In cooperation with conventional telephones and a private branch exchange, a synthesized speech terminal expedites inquiries to a central data-bank computer by utilizing a microprocessor with memory, a voice synthesizer and a coder/decoder to provide dual tone multifrequency signals or decode the same and cooperatively accommodate data interface operations with the central data-bank computer. At a telephone, a caller accesses a synthesized speech terminal through the private branch exchange. Inquiry data packets are then composed in the synthesized speech terminal as the caller actuates the telephone keypad according to programmed instructions. On completion of an inquiry data packet, the microprocessor actuates the private branch exchange and the connected public telephone network facility to connect the synthesized speech terminal and the data-bank computer. The microprocessor next controls a rapid inquiry-response exchange, ter-minates the connection then drives the voice synthesizer to announce the response to the caller through the private branch exchange.
FOR DATA COMMUNICATION
Abstract of the Disclosure In cooperation with conventional telephones and a private branch exchange, a synthesized speech terminal expedites inquiries to a central data-bank computer by utilizing a microprocessor with memory, a voice synthesizer and a coder/decoder to provide dual tone multifrequency signals or decode the same and cooperatively accommodate data interface operations with the central data-bank computer. At a telephone, a caller accesses a synthesized speech terminal through the private branch exchange. Inquiry data packets are then composed in the synthesized speech terminal as the caller actuates the telephone keypad according to programmed instructions. On completion of an inquiry data packet, the microprocessor actuates the private branch exchange and the connected public telephone network facility to connect the synthesized speech terminal and the data-bank computer. The microprocessor next controls a rapid inquiry-response exchange, ter-minates the connection then drives the voice synthesizer to announce the response to the caller through the private branch exchange.
Description
8YNT~E~IZED ~P~C~ T~R~INAL 8Y8TEM
FO~ DATA COMM~NICA~ION
Ba~kqround ~nd 8ummary of tha ~nve~tion In recent years, uses of the traditional telephone have expanded to encompass many new ~unc-tions. For example, in some innovative uses, synthe-sized speech equipment provides audio responsPs to interfaca persons with computers or data processors.
Specifically, point-of-sale commercial data, messages relating to stock quotations, account inquiries, telephone service announcements (as time-of-day) and so on, are provided by person-to-computer interface systems.
While current techniques using synthesized voice responses are adequate for many applic~tions, difficulties are presented in relation to more elaborate operations~ In that regard, current systems often require callers to activate the keypad of a Touch Tone telephone to complete an inquiry. Typically, after being interfaced with a computex or processor, a caller is prompted to actuate the keypad to make selections or enter various information. Accordingly, several fields of information may be required from the caller, some of whi~h may contain many digits. Consequently, operations may be rather slow and mistakes are common. Therefore, preliminary interchanges may involve periods of several minutes with attendant telephone charges. Therefore, a ' ' . :' , ~, :
need exists for an effective system for improving telephonic interface communication between a telephone caller and a data-processing apparatus. Specifically in that regard, a ~articular need exists for a system for use in cooperation with a group of telephones severed by a private branch exchange, as in a hotel or other commercial facility, to reduce the telephone connection time on data calls so as to cut telephone charges and lower demands on a central processor.
In general, the present invention comprises an apparatus embodied as a synthesized speech terminal for individual or group use with a private branch exchange, and accessible by callers at linked telephones for improved interface communication with a remote computer-ized information service. In the disclosed embodiment, a synthesized speech terminal incorporates: a control processor, memory capability, a voice synthesizer and a DTMF (dial tone multiple ~requency) encoder/decoder.
In somewhat greater detail, the synthesized speech terminal disclosed herein may be used in groups to interact through a private exchange with conventional telephones (mouthpiece, earpiere, dialing keypad and telephone circuits) by incorporating a voice synthesizer to function in cooperation with a speech vocabulary memory for cueing or instructing a caller. For example, a private branch exchange couples the DTMF encoder/
decoder of the terminal to the telephone enabling the caller to formulate data for an inquiry to a remote computer system through a public telephone facility.
Generally, data formulated by the caller i5 assembled as an inquiry packet in the terminal memory before the telephone circuits are actuated to communicate with a central processor. Consequently, communication with the central processor can be prompt and concise. The resulting reply then actuates the speech terminal voice ': :
, :. .
.
synthesizer to effectively inform a caller accordingly.
A plurality o~ terminals may be used in rotary sPlection mode to accommodate substantial demand.
Brief De~cription of the Drawing~
In the drawings, which constitute a part of this specification, an exemplary embodiment exhibiting various objectives and ~atures hereof is set forth, specifically:
FIGURE 1 is a block diagram of a system constructed in accordance with the present inv~ntion;
FIGURE 2 is a more detailed block diagram of components of the system of FIGURE 1: and FIGURE 3 is a flow diagram of one operating process for the system of FIGURE 1.
Descriptio~ of the Illu~trative Embodiment As required, a detailed illustrative embodi~
ment of the present invention i5 disclosed herein.
However, physical communications systems, data formats and operating structures in accordance with the present invention may be embodied in a wide variety of forms, some of which may be quite dif~erent from those of the disclosed embodiment. Consequently, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative; yet in that regard, they are deemed to af~ord the best embodiment for purposes of disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims herein which define the scope of the present invention.
Referring initially to FIGURE 1, a saries of telephones L1-Ln (left) are represented connected to a private branch exchange E. The telephones Ll-Ln may take various forms as well known in the art; however, they incorporate the traditional elements as indicated ~or the telephone L1 including a keypad K, a handpiece - , ;
.. . .
10 and telephone circuits 18. Also, a switch cradle 16 extends from a housing 12 of the telephone L1 to receive the handpiece lo. In accordance with tradition, removing the handpiece 10 from the cradle 16 actuates the telephone L1 for dial-up communication. The telephone Ll-Ln might, for example, serve a hotel, all operating through the private exchange E.
Al~o in FIGURE 1, a series of terminal instruments T1-Tn (bottom) are connected to the private branch exchange E. As illustrated by the terminal Tl, the terminals T1-TN incorporate: a DTMF encoder/
decoder, telephone circuits, a voice synthesizer and processor for operation with one of the telephones Ll Ln associated by connection through the private branch exchange E. The associated telephone and terminal are coupled through a communication facility C (right) for communication with a central computer P.
The private branch exchange E (FIGURE 1, center) affords one-on-one communication between one of the telephones Ll-Ln and an associated one of the synthesized speech terminals Tl-Tn. Although each terminal Tl-Tn has a designated unique extension number, the terminals are connected as a rotary or as a single hunt group within the private branch exchange E. Thus, calling the extension numher of the first terminal T1 will connect the caller to the first non-busy terminal in the group T1-Tn.
Generally, in accordance with the present invention, a caller may use one of the telephones L1-Ln either as a conventional telephone (for vocal communica-tion) or in cooperation with a terminal, e.g. terminal Tl, to interface the remote data processing computer P.
The computer P may accommodate various data inquiries and the terminals Tl-Tn also may accommodate inquiries to other inter~ace computers (not shown). In conven-, ': " ' . ' - .:
, tional use, a telephone Ll-Ln is coupled through the exchange E in the usual manner, either to another extension telephone (L1-Ln) or through the facility C to an outside or remote telephone.
To accomplish a computer data-bank inquiry, a caller first establishes an associative communication with a terminal T1 through the private branch exchange E
using the telephone circuits 18 and 20. Once that communication is established, the user actuates the telephone keypad K to formulate the inquiry in response to instructions or cues provided by the terminal T1.
The formulated inquiry is stored in the terminal T1 initially to actuate the telephone communication facility C for a connection with the inquiry processing computer P. The stored inquiry then is rapidly and concisely transmitted to the computer P for processing.
In an alternative operation, the computer P may transfer the call to a manual terminal MT for person-to-person communication.
The computer P responds to an inquiry, specifically si~nals are provided through the public telephone communication facility C and the private branch exchange E. As a result, the system is actuated so that ultimately the voice synthesizer within the terminal T1, for example, to vocalize the reply informa-tion. Accordingly, the terminals Tl-Tn economically accommodate the leisurely formulation of inquiries, the brief, effective and economic transmission of such inquiries through the communication facility C to the computer P and the vocal delivery of responses to an associated on o~ the telephones L1-Ln. As indicated aboYe, in an alternative operation, the computer P may link a terminal Tl-Tn to the manual terminal MT. At such times, the terminal conferences the associated caller's telephone Ll-Ln directly to the manual terminal , ` :
MT. The terminal then disconnects itself, leaving the private exchange branch E as a connector between the user telephone and the manual terminal MT. The discon-nected terminal then is available for association with another telephone Tl-Tn to perform another computer inquiry.
To pursue the system in greater detail, reference will now be made to FIGU~E 2 showing the telephone Ll (left) in ah exemplary association with the terminal T1 (right3 through the exchange E and a switching unit SU. In such an interconnected configura-tion, the telephone Ll and the terminal Tl are said to be associated. As indicated above, the association is accomplished when a telephone Ll-L2 is touched to input the extension number for a rotary selection of the terminal Tl-Tn.
The switching unit SU in FIGURE 2 is illus-trated as a distinct block including a mode control 22 for actuating a switch 24 and interrelated telephone circuits 20. Normally, the switch 24 will be embodied as an electronic unit in accordance with well known technology and could be incorporated in the branch exchange or the terminal units T1-Tn. However, for ease of explanation, in FIGURE 2, the switching unit SU is ~hown separately and the switch 24 is electro-mechanically represented. Essentially, the switch 24 accommodates various connections between one of the telephones L1-Ln and elements of an associated terminal T1-Tn.
In accordance with convention, the telephone handpiece 10 includes a mouthpiece 2~ (microphone) and an earpiece 28 (earphone~. As represented, the earpiece 28, the mouthpiece 26, the keypad K and the telephone circuits 18 are connected to the elements of the terminal Tl (FIGURE 1) through the private branch .
exchange E and the switch unit SU. Specifically, the earpiece 28 of the telephone L1 is connected through a single-pole, double~throw switch element 30 of the switch 24 for alternate connection through a line 32 directly to telephone circuits 20 or through a line 34 to a voice synthesizer 35. Also in the switch 24, a single-pole, single-throw switch element 36 connects the mouthpiece 26 through a line 38 to the telephone circuits 20. Somewhat similarly, the keypad K is con-nected through a single-pole, double-throw switch element 40 for alter-nate connection through a line 42 to a DTMF encoder/decoder 44, or through a line 46 to the telephone circuits 20.
When the telephone Ll is used in a conven~
tional manner or the user is conferenced to the manual terminal MT (FIGURE 1, associated with the computer P) the movable contacts of the switch elements 30, 36 and 40 (FI~URE 2) are in a lowered position. Accordingly, the quiescent or residual state of the switch 24 as sst by the mode control 22 is with the movable contacts of the switch elements 30, 36 and 40 in a lowered position.
The terminal telephone circuits 20 are integrally associated with the mode control 22 and are also connected through a line 50 to the system micropro-cessor 52. Essentially, the microprocessor 52 controlsand regulates the system to accomplish the desired operating program. In one embodiment, a microprocessor designated Z80 has been determined to be satisfactory.
The microprocessor 52 i5 connected to the voice syntha-sizer 35, the DTMF encoder/decoder 44, and additionallyto a program ROM 54 (read-only memory), a speech ROM 56 and a random access memory 58.
Essentially, the program ROM or memory 54 implements the specific details of various operating programs for the apparatus. In a related manner, the speech ROM or memory 56 carries a vocabulary for use in the programmed operations. The random access or computer memory 58 is also programmed in accordance with the specific processes contemplated and accordingly S accommodates various operations of the microprocessor 52 involving various inquiry data packets. For example, considering an inquiry related to a check, the data might include: the telephone calling number for the computer P, the identification of the telephonic user, the type o~ inquiry, the originating State of the inquiry, identification for the subject of the inquiry, the amount of a transaction or check, and so on. The inquiry packet of data is composed from resident data in the computer memory 58 and data provided by the caller actuating the keypad K of the telephone Ll. Other formats may be programmed into the apparatus, for example to accommodate such telephonic operations as home banking, stock information retrieval and so on. In that regard, the software for processing inquiries and replies as well as the vocabulary in the speech memory 56 are programmed and function somewhat uniquely for each specific format application.
Returning to the exemplary format (inquiry on check or credit card) consider next the preliminary programming or setup operations. The telephone number for the central computer P, the identification number for the inquiring merchant (caller~ and the private branch exchange information necessary to conference calls are stored for direct access in the computer memory 58. The specific operating program (treated below) is stored in the program memory 54.
The speech memory 56 stores a vocabulary of the synthesized speech terms for use in the point-of-sale inquiries. That is, the terms (words, numbers and letters) to be used to cue or prompt the caller and to , ~.
, :
report a reply are stored as a vocabulary in the speech memory 56. Consequently, representative signals for any vocabulary term can be provided from the speech memory 56 to the voice synthesizer 35 which in turn provides an audio representation for driving the earpiece 28 through the private branch exchange E. As a detailed format of the disclosed embodiment, the following vocabulary has been determined to be adequate for storage in the memory 56:
Vocabular~ For PO8 Transactions Zero One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine ~A" "B" ~C~ D~ "E" "F" IIGIi "H" "I" "J"
15 "K" "L" "M" "N" ~o~ llptl nQ~ ~R~ "S" ~T~
"U" ~ "W" "X" "Y" "Z"
Card Micr ID State License Birth Date Check Number Amount Re Enter Pick Up Transaction Cents Hold For Call Center Trans~er Approval Of Declined Dollars And Credit Touch Or Expiration Authorization Further in relation to the basic operation of the terminal T, the microprocessor 52 provides timing signals t0 through t5 for sequencing the various operations as detailed below. Summarily, the timing signals t0-t5 define operating intervals or stages for 30 function operations as follows:
~i~nal Function t0 Quiescent statel continues when terminal is not active tl Formulation of in~uiry data package ..
. . ~ ~ . .
, ~ :
, t2 Dial up for computer interface t3 Transmit inquiry package t4 Receive reply data t5 Communicate reply data The individual connections of the timing signal to various elements in the terminal T1 (FIGURE 2) are not shown in the interests of preserving the drawing legible, however, are discussed below.
In view of the above preliminary descrip-tions, a comprehensive understanding of the apparatus and the operating program may now best be accomplished by assuming certain conditions and explaining the detailed operations associated with the exemplary format inquiry and response. Accordingly, assume the apparatus is set up to accommodate various inquiry formats including POS inquiries (point-of-sale).
Referring to FIGURE 3, two operations are illustrated. Specifically, from a menu, as represented by a block 60, selections involve: (1) PoS inquiries as illustrated in detail by the path 64 or (2) stock market inquiries as illustrated generally by the block 66.
Detailed operation of a POS inquiry format will now be considered with reference to FIGURE 3.
When the telephone Ll is in a conventional state (tO) the terminal Tl is disassociated and the microprocessor 52 actuates the mode control 22 to set the switch elements in a lowered position (opposite to that shown). In the lowered position, the switch elements 30, 36 and 40 connect the telephone earpiece 28, mouthpiece 26 and keypad 14, respectively, to the telephone circuits 20 and 18 for conventional telephone operation through the private branch exchange E.
When the telephone L1 is used for directing an inquiry to a data bank, as at the computer P (FIGURE 1) , . ' ' ' , . ' . - , ': -- .
. .
,- . , , - : . -:, . . . .
.-~' the keypad 14 is actuated to call the terminal Tl through the private exchange E. As a result of that connection, the telephone Ll and the terminal T1 are associatively connected through the exchange E and the microprocessor 52 is actuated. The system enters the operating state defined by the timing signal tl (high) and is prepared to formulate an inquiry. As specific operations, the mode control 22 sets the switch 24 to raise the elements 30, 36 and 40 as illustrated.
Accordingly, the telephone L1 is connected for communi-cation with the terminal Tl. In that configuration, the microprocessor 52 in cooperation with the program memory 54 actuates the voice synthesizer 35 and the speech ROM
56 to formulate signal representations for instructions or cues to drive the earpiece 28 (through the switching element 30 and the private branch exchange E). Initial-ly, the caller would select the general nature of the inquiry, as from the menu 60. Next, in the disclosed operating mode, the initial instruction might cue the inquiry type selection, e.g.: I'Touch one for a check transaction or touch two for a credit card transactisn".
The queries are illustrated by a block 67 in FIGURE 3.
of course, the microprocessor 52 controls operations accordingly.
To consider the operation, the microprocessor 52 (FIGURE 2) actuates the speech memory 56 to provide signals representative of cue terms for the message to drive the voice synthasizer 35. ~n turn, the voice synthesizer formulates representative audio signals for the terms, supplied through the line 34, the switch element 30 and the private branch exchange E to the earpiece 28. Accordingly, the caller is cued to select the nature of the transaction and typically responds accordingly.
:
';
, Assume, for example, that the caller desires to pursue a check inquiry and, accordingly, touches the key 14 designated "1". The resulting signal is passed from the keypad K through private branch exchange E and the switch element 40 to the DTMF decoder/encoder 44 to produce a digital representation of a command signal for the microprocessor system 52. As a preliminary opera-tion, a memory space is set up in the microprocessor 52 to receive elements of data for the inquiry. Specifi-cally, a data packet is formulated in the microprocessor52 for transmission of data to the computer P (FIGURE
1~. Some data fields are loaded in the microprocessor 52 from the memory 58, e.g. telephone num~er to be dialed for the computer P, while the caller supplies other information, e.g. identification of originating authority ~as for billing). The operation is represent-ed in FIGURE 3 by a block 70.
As the operation proceeds, the caller is prompted to enter various data. Generally, several data items are individually cued, received and stored in a repeating sequence. Thus, data fields are composed in the inquiry data packet. For example, the cue or prompt might be, "Enter State" refarring to the State of the licPnse number being prof~ered. Again, the cue or prompt words are commanded by the microprocessor 52 for selection from the speech memory 56 to actuate the voice synthesizer 35. Consequently, audio signals are supplied from the VoicQ synthesizer 35 through the switching element 30 and the private branch exchange E
to the earpiece 28.
In the normal sequence, the caller responds to the cue by touching keys 14 which formulate DTMF signals that are passed through the private branch exchanye E, the switching element 40 and the line 42 to the decodar 44. The digital data supplied from the decoder 44 is : : ~
.
then passed to the microprocessor 52 for incorporation in the data packet.
The operating sequence of the timing signal tl to obtain data is illustrated in FIGURE 3 in the form of four sub-operations, specifically: synthesize vocal cue (block 72), cue caller (block 74), store data field (block 76) and read back data field (block 78).
As each field or information element is registered, it is formulated for audio confirmation by operation of the speech memory 56 and the voice synthe-sizer 35. For example, in response to an instruction to enter a State, by predetermined arrangement, the caller might touch the keys 14 in sequence, designated "2", "2", and "5" to indicate California. Accordingly, the speech memory 56 would provide representations of the numerals to the voice synthesizer 35 and as a conse~
quence the sequence o~ three numerals would be announced to the caller for confirmation, e.g. "two", "two", "five". Note that various techniques as have been used in the past may be employed to terminate and indicate approval of data fields. For example, the pound symbol "#" may be employed to indicate the end of a field.
The caller rejects or approYes each entered data field. Specifically, the test for entered fields is represented in FIGURE 3 by a query block 80. Accord-ingly, each field is either confirmed or re-entered. If a field is incorrect, the cycle is repeated to instruct the caller and receive data which is then confirmed.
Alternatively, if the data is correct, the process proceeds to the query block 84 indica~ing a test to determine whether or not the inquiry packet is complete.
The microprocessor 52 may have the facility to detect errors irl the fields of proYided data. In that regard, specific digits of individual fields may be checked or check digits may be employed. Also, callers ,:
. : . . ~ .. :
- ' : ' : . ' , .
! ~
may be afforded the ability to abort operations to supply a data field, resetting operations for a reentry.
For example, depression of the keys designated "*" and "~" might command a "backspace" for the reentry of the current field and cancellation of the symbols entered to that point.
In the interests of expediency, the program also might enable the caller to delete voice prompts as by depressing a specific'key 14 or combination of keys.
Also, various codes may be adopted for indicating alphabetic letters by select touching of keys 14.
In the exemplary operation, with the entry only of the State, the data packet is complete.
Accordingly, the process advances the cue counter ~in the microprocessor 52) as indicated by the block 86 to repeat the cycle for forming and storing the next field.
Specifically, the process may cycle to cue, receive, confirm and store the following data fields:
State License number or ID number Birth date Amount Check number With the confirmation of each data element, it is stored as a field of the inquiry data packet. Upon completion of the inquiry data packet, the terminal T1 proceeds to the stage defined by signal t2, of dialing up the computer preparatory to transmitting the inquiry.
Note that the mouthpiece 26 continues to be isolated as by being placed on "hold" by the PBX, or as illustrated for purposes of explanation. Thus, the caller's voice is blocked. A block 88 of FIGURE 3 rapresents the dial-up operation in the process.
,. : ,... .
With the establishment of communication between the terminal T1 and the computer P (timing signal t3) the data packet inquiry is transmitted through the facility C as indicated by a block 90 in FIGURE 3.
Upon receiving the inquiry, the central computer P may determine that connection between the caller's telephone Ll and the manual terminal MT (FIGURE
1) is appropriate as indicated by a block 92 in FIGURE
3. That is, a test operation may be involved as indicated by the block 94 to determine whether or not person-to-person communication is appropriate. The terminal re-establishes connection with the caller and announces "hold for trans~er". Initially, consider that sequence. The system microprocessor 52 conferences the telephone L1 to the manual terminal MT and actuates the mode control 22. At this time, the terminal Tl relin- -quishes control and is disconnected. The disconnection of the terminal T1 places it in a quiescent state (signal tl) and the switch 24 is set with the elements 30, 36 and 40 lowered. The lowering of the switch elements 30, 36 and 40 connects the earpiece 28, the mouthpiece 26 and the keypad K to the terminal telephone circuits 20 through the private branch exchange for traditional tel~phone operation, as indicated in a block 96 (FIGURE 3).
With the completion of the person-to-person communication between the telephone Ll and the manual terminal MT, the caller will traditionally cradle the handpiece 10 actuating the cradle switch 16 to discon-nect the telephone L1 through the telephone circuits 18.
The disconnection o~ the telephone circuits 18 from the terminal tslephone circuits 20 disenga~es the caller from the private branch exchange E.
;, :, . , , , ':
Typically, it is expected that most inquiries will be given computer-generated responses. Accor-dingly, operation proceeds in the inquiry-response mode from the junction of block 94. Consequently, the stage of timing signal t4 is entered and the computer P formu-lates a coded response indicative of a specific condi-tion, e.g. "41" indicating that the identification is valid and that no negative information exists with respect to the account.
The reply is communicated from the computer P through the telephone communication facility C and stored in the microprocessor 52 (FIGURE 23 as indicated by the block 100 in FIGURE 3. At that point, the telephonic interconnection (between central computer P
and terminal TL) is terminated as indicated by the block 102 (timing signal t5) the remaining operations being performed by the structure of FIGURE 2.
With the coded response stored, the terminal re-establishes connectively to th~ originating caller L1 and actuates the speech ROM to formulate an appropriate audio response, for example, "approval" or "authori-zation for $700". Addressed by the coded response, the words of the message are selected from the memory 56 and audio signal representations are supplied to the voice synthesizer 35 to formulate audio signals. The audio signals are supplied through the switch element 30 and the private ~ranch exchange E to drive the earpiece 28 for the vocal announcement.
In view of the above explanation of the exemplary system, it will be appreciated that embodi-ments of the present invention may be employed in many different applications to formulate and transmit inquiries and receive replies by use of telephonic facilities. While certain exemplary structures and operations have been described herein, the appropriate ,.
- .: ., , ~,~
scope hereof is deemed to be in accordance with the claims as set forth below.
: ~ . . . .
,........ ,, ~.,, . , , . , : . , , ~ . .
, ., , .' ' - , ,:
",
FO~ DATA COMM~NICA~ION
Ba~kqround ~nd 8ummary of tha ~nve~tion In recent years, uses of the traditional telephone have expanded to encompass many new ~unc-tions. For example, in some innovative uses, synthe-sized speech equipment provides audio responsPs to interfaca persons with computers or data processors.
Specifically, point-of-sale commercial data, messages relating to stock quotations, account inquiries, telephone service announcements (as time-of-day) and so on, are provided by person-to-computer interface systems.
While current techniques using synthesized voice responses are adequate for many applic~tions, difficulties are presented in relation to more elaborate operations~ In that regard, current systems often require callers to activate the keypad of a Touch Tone telephone to complete an inquiry. Typically, after being interfaced with a computex or processor, a caller is prompted to actuate the keypad to make selections or enter various information. Accordingly, several fields of information may be required from the caller, some of whi~h may contain many digits. Consequently, operations may be rather slow and mistakes are common. Therefore, preliminary interchanges may involve periods of several minutes with attendant telephone charges. Therefore, a ' ' . :' , ~, :
need exists for an effective system for improving telephonic interface communication between a telephone caller and a data-processing apparatus. Specifically in that regard, a ~articular need exists for a system for use in cooperation with a group of telephones severed by a private branch exchange, as in a hotel or other commercial facility, to reduce the telephone connection time on data calls so as to cut telephone charges and lower demands on a central processor.
In general, the present invention comprises an apparatus embodied as a synthesized speech terminal for individual or group use with a private branch exchange, and accessible by callers at linked telephones for improved interface communication with a remote computer-ized information service. In the disclosed embodiment, a synthesized speech terminal incorporates: a control processor, memory capability, a voice synthesizer and a DTMF (dial tone multiple ~requency) encoder/decoder.
In somewhat greater detail, the synthesized speech terminal disclosed herein may be used in groups to interact through a private exchange with conventional telephones (mouthpiece, earpiere, dialing keypad and telephone circuits) by incorporating a voice synthesizer to function in cooperation with a speech vocabulary memory for cueing or instructing a caller. For example, a private branch exchange couples the DTMF encoder/
decoder of the terminal to the telephone enabling the caller to formulate data for an inquiry to a remote computer system through a public telephone facility.
Generally, data formulated by the caller i5 assembled as an inquiry packet in the terminal memory before the telephone circuits are actuated to communicate with a central processor. Consequently, communication with the central processor can be prompt and concise. The resulting reply then actuates the speech terminal voice ': :
, :. .
.
synthesizer to effectively inform a caller accordingly.
A plurality o~ terminals may be used in rotary sPlection mode to accommodate substantial demand.
Brief De~cription of the Drawing~
In the drawings, which constitute a part of this specification, an exemplary embodiment exhibiting various objectives and ~atures hereof is set forth, specifically:
FIGURE 1 is a block diagram of a system constructed in accordance with the present inv~ntion;
FIGURE 2 is a more detailed block diagram of components of the system of FIGURE 1: and FIGURE 3 is a flow diagram of one operating process for the system of FIGURE 1.
Descriptio~ of the Illu~trative Embodiment As required, a detailed illustrative embodi~
ment of the present invention i5 disclosed herein.
However, physical communications systems, data formats and operating structures in accordance with the present invention may be embodied in a wide variety of forms, some of which may be quite dif~erent from those of the disclosed embodiment. Consequently, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative; yet in that regard, they are deemed to af~ord the best embodiment for purposes of disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims herein which define the scope of the present invention.
Referring initially to FIGURE 1, a saries of telephones L1-Ln (left) are represented connected to a private branch exchange E. The telephones Ll-Ln may take various forms as well known in the art; however, they incorporate the traditional elements as indicated ~or the telephone L1 including a keypad K, a handpiece - , ;
.. . .
10 and telephone circuits 18. Also, a switch cradle 16 extends from a housing 12 of the telephone L1 to receive the handpiece lo. In accordance with tradition, removing the handpiece 10 from the cradle 16 actuates the telephone L1 for dial-up communication. The telephone Ll-Ln might, for example, serve a hotel, all operating through the private exchange E.
Al~o in FIGURE 1, a series of terminal instruments T1-Tn (bottom) are connected to the private branch exchange E. As illustrated by the terminal Tl, the terminals T1-TN incorporate: a DTMF encoder/
decoder, telephone circuits, a voice synthesizer and processor for operation with one of the telephones Ll Ln associated by connection through the private branch exchange E. The associated telephone and terminal are coupled through a communication facility C (right) for communication with a central computer P.
The private branch exchange E (FIGURE 1, center) affords one-on-one communication between one of the telephones Ll-Ln and an associated one of the synthesized speech terminals Tl-Tn. Although each terminal Tl-Tn has a designated unique extension number, the terminals are connected as a rotary or as a single hunt group within the private branch exchange E. Thus, calling the extension numher of the first terminal T1 will connect the caller to the first non-busy terminal in the group T1-Tn.
Generally, in accordance with the present invention, a caller may use one of the telephones L1-Ln either as a conventional telephone (for vocal communica-tion) or in cooperation with a terminal, e.g. terminal Tl, to interface the remote data processing computer P.
The computer P may accommodate various data inquiries and the terminals Tl-Tn also may accommodate inquiries to other inter~ace computers (not shown). In conven-, ': " ' . ' - .:
, tional use, a telephone Ll-Ln is coupled through the exchange E in the usual manner, either to another extension telephone (L1-Ln) or through the facility C to an outside or remote telephone.
To accomplish a computer data-bank inquiry, a caller first establishes an associative communication with a terminal T1 through the private branch exchange E
using the telephone circuits 18 and 20. Once that communication is established, the user actuates the telephone keypad K to formulate the inquiry in response to instructions or cues provided by the terminal T1.
The formulated inquiry is stored in the terminal T1 initially to actuate the telephone communication facility C for a connection with the inquiry processing computer P. The stored inquiry then is rapidly and concisely transmitted to the computer P for processing.
In an alternative operation, the computer P may transfer the call to a manual terminal MT for person-to-person communication.
The computer P responds to an inquiry, specifically si~nals are provided through the public telephone communication facility C and the private branch exchange E. As a result, the system is actuated so that ultimately the voice synthesizer within the terminal T1, for example, to vocalize the reply informa-tion. Accordingly, the terminals Tl-Tn economically accommodate the leisurely formulation of inquiries, the brief, effective and economic transmission of such inquiries through the communication facility C to the computer P and the vocal delivery of responses to an associated on o~ the telephones L1-Ln. As indicated aboYe, in an alternative operation, the computer P may link a terminal Tl-Tn to the manual terminal MT. At such times, the terminal conferences the associated caller's telephone Ll-Ln directly to the manual terminal , ` :
MT. The terminal then disconnects itself, leaving the private exchange branch E as a connector between the user telephone and the manual terminal MT. The discon-nected terminal then is available for association with another telephone Tl-Tn to perform another computer inquiry.
To pursue the system in greater detail, reference will now be made to FIGU~E 2 showing the telephone Ll (left) in ah exemplary association with the terminal T1 (right3 through the exchange E and a switching unit SU. In such an interconnected configura-tion, the telephone Ll and the terminal Tl are said to be associated. As indicated above, the association is accomplished when a telephone Ll-L2 is touched to input the extension number for a rotary selection of the terminal Tl-Tn.
The switching unit SU in FIGURE 2 is illus-trated as a distinct block including a mode control 22 for actuating a switch 24 and interrelated telephone circuits 20. Normally, the switch 24 will be embodied as an electronic unit in accordance with well known technology and could be incorporated in the branch exchange or the terminal units T1-Tn. However, for ease of explanation, in FIGURE 2, the switching unit SU is ~hown separately and the switch 24 is electro-mechanically represented. Essentially, the switch 24 accommodates various connections between one of the telephones L1-Ln and elements of an associated terminal T1-Tn.
In accordance with convention, the telephone handpiece 10 includes a mouthpiece 2~ (microphone) and an earpiece 28 (earphone~. As represented, the earpiece 28, the mouthpiece 26, the keypad K and the telephone circuits 18 are connected to the elements of the terminal Tl (FIGURE 1) through the private branch .
exchange E and the switch unit SU. Specifically, the earpiece 28 of the telephone L1 is connected through a single-pole, double~throw switch element 30 of the switch 24 for alternate connection through a line 32 directly to telephone circuits 20 or through a line 34 to a voice synthesizer 35. Also in the switch 24, a single-pole, single-throw switch element 36 connects the mouthpiece 26 through a line 38 to the telephone circuits 20. Somewhat similarly, the keypad K is con-nected through a single-pole, double-throw switch element 40 for alter-nate connection through a line 42 to a DTMF encoder/decoder 44, or through a line 46 to the telephone circuits 20.
When the telephone Ll is used in a conven~
tional manner or the user is conferenced to the manual terminal MT (FIGURE 1, associated with the computer P) the movable contacts of the switch elements 30, 36 and 40 (FI~URE 2) are in a lowered position. Accordingly, the quiescent or residual state of the switch 24 as sst by the mode control 22 is with the movable contacts of the switch elements 30, 36 and 40 in a lowered position.
The terminal telephone circuits 20 are integrally associated with the mode control 22 and are also connected through a line 50 to the system micropro-cessor 52. Essentially, the microprocessor 52 controlsand regulates the system to accomplish the desired operating program. In one embodiment, a microprocessor designated Z80 has been determined to be satisfactory.
The microprocessor 52 i5 connected to the voice syntha-sizer 35, the DTMF encoder/decoder 44, and additionallyto a program ROM 54 (read-only memory), a speech ROM 56 and a random access memory 58.
Essentially, the program ROM or memory 54 implements the specific details of various operating programs for the apparatus. In a related manner, the speech ROM or memory 56 carries a vocabulary for use in the programmed operations. The random access or computer memory 58 is also programmed in accordance with the specific processes contemplated and accordingly S accommodates various operations of the microprocessor 52 involving various inquiry data packets. For example, considering an inquiry related to a check, the data might include: the telephone calling number for the computer P, the identification of the telephonic user, the type o~ inquiry, the originating State of the inquiry, identification for the subject of the inquiry, the amount of a transaction or check, and so on. The inquiry packet of data is composed from resident data in the computer memory 58 and data provided by the caller actuating the keypad K of the telephone Ll. Other formats may be programmed into the apparatus, for example to accommodate such telephonic operations as home banking, stock information retrieval and so on. In that regard, the software for processing inquiries and replies as well as the vocabulary in the speech memory 56 are programmed and function somewhat uniquely for each specific format application.
Returning to the exemplary format (inquiry on check or credit card) consider next the preliminary programming or setup operations. The telephone number for the central computer P, the identification number for the inquiring merchant (caller~ and the private branch exchange information necessary to conference calls are stored for direct access in the computer memory 58. The specific operating program (treated below) is stored in the program memory 54.
The speech memory 56 stores a vocabulary of the synthesized speech terms for use in the point-of-sale inquiries. That is, the terms (words, numbers and letters) to be used to cue or prompt the caller and to , ~.
, :
report a reply are stored as a vocabulary in the speech memory 56. Consequently, representative signals for any vocabulary term can be provided from the speech memory 56 to the voice synthesizer 35 which in turn provides an audio representation for driving the earpiece 28 through the private branch exchange E. As a detailed format of the disclosed embodiment, the following vocabulary has been determined to be adequate for storage in the memory 56:
Vocabular~ For PO8 Transactions Zero One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine ~A" "B" ~C~ D~ "E" "F" IIGIi "H" "I" "J"
15 "K" "L" "M" "N" ~o~ llptl nQ~ ~R~ "S" ~T~
"U" ~ "W" "X" "Y" "Z"
Card Micr ID State License Birth Date Check Number Amount Re Enter Pick Up Transaction Cents Hold For Call Center Trans~er Approval Of Declined Dollars And Credit Touch Or Expiration Authorization Further in relation to the basic operation of the terminal T, the microprocessor 52 provides timing signals t0 through t5 for sequencing the various operations as detailed below. Summarily, the timing signals t0-t5 define operating intervals or stages for 30 function operations as follows:
~i~nal Function t0 Quiescent statel continues when terminal is not active tl Formulation of in~uiry data package ..
. . ~ ~ . .
, ~ :
, t2 Dial up for computer interface t3 Transmit inquiry package t4 Receive reply data t5 Communicate reply data The individual connections of the timing signal to various elements in the terminal T1 (FIGURE 2) are not shown in the interests of preserving the drawing legible, however, are discussed below.
In view of the above preliminary descrip-tions, a comprehensive understanding of the apparatus and the operating program may now best be accomplished by assuming certain conditions and explaining the detailed operations associated with the exemplary format inquiry and response. Accordingly, assume the apparatus is set up to accommodate various inquiry formats including POS inquiries (point-of-sale).
Referring to FIGURE 3, two operations are illustrated. Specifically, from a menu, as represented by a block 60, selections involve: (1) PoS inquiries as illustrated in detail by the path 64 or (2) stock market inquiries as illustrated generally by the block 66.
Detailed operation of a POS inquiry format will now be considered with reference to FIGURE 3.
When the telephone Ll is in a conventional state (tO) the terminal Tl is disassociated and the microprocessor 52 actuates the mode control 22 to set the switch elements in a lowered position (opposite to that shown). In the lowered position, the switch elements 30, 36 and 40 connect the telephone earpiece 28, mouthpiece 26 and keypad 14, respectively, to the telephone circuits 20 and 18 for conventional telephone operation through the private branch exchange E.
When the telephone L1 is used for directing an inquiry to a data bank, as at the computer P (FIGURE 1) , . ' ' ' , . ' . - , ': -- .
. .
,- . , , - : . -:, . . . .
.-~' the keypad 14 is actuated to call the terminal Tl through the private exchange E. As a result of that connection, the telephone Ll and the terminal T1 are associatively connected through the exchange E and the microprocessor 52 is actuated. The system enters the operating state defined by the timing signal tl (high) and is prepared to formulate an inquiry. As specific operations, the mode control 22 sets the switch 24 to raise the elements 30, 36 and 40 as illustrated.
Accordingly, the telephone L1 is connected for communi-cation with the terminal Tl. In that configuration, the microprocessor 52 in cooperation with the program memory 54 actuates the voice synthesizer 35 and the speech ROM
56 to formulate signal representations for instructions or cues to drive the earpiece 28 (through the switching element 30 and the private branch exchange E). Initial-ly, the caller would select the general nature of the inquiry, as from the menu 60. Next, in the disclosed operating mode, the initial instruction might cue the inquiry type selection, e.g.: I'Touch one for a check transaction or touch two for a credit card transactisn".
The queries are illustrated by a block 67 in FIGURE 3.
of course, the microprocessor 52 controls operations accordingly.
To consider the operation, the microprocessor 52 (FIGURE 2) actuates the speech memory 56 to provide signals representative of cue terms for the message to drive the voice synthasizer 35. ~n turn, the voice synthesizer formulates representative audio signals for the terms, supplied through the line 34, the switch element 30 and the private branch exchange E to the earpiece 28. Accordingly, the caller is cued to select the nature of the transaction and typically responds accordingly.
:
';
, Assume, for example, that the caller desires to pursue a check inquiry and, accordingly, touches the key 14 designated "1". The resulting signal is passed from the keypad K through private branch exchange E and the switch element 40 to the DTMF decoder/encoder 44 to produce a digital representation of a command signal for the microprocessor system 52. As a preliminary opera-tion, a memory space is set up in the microprocessor 52 to receive elements of data for the inquiry. Specifi-cally, a data packet is formulated in the microprocessor52 for transmission of data to the computer P (FIGURE
1~. Some data fields are loaded in the microprocessor 52 from the memory 58, e.g. telephone num~er to be dialed for the computer P, while the caller supplies other information, e.g. identification of originating authority ~as for billing). The operation is represent-ed in FIGURE 3 by a block 70.
As the operation proceeds, the caller is prompted to enter various data. Generally, several data items are individually cued, received and stored in a repeating sequence. Thus, data fields are composed in the inquiry data packet. For example, the cue or prompt might be, "Enter State" refarring to the State of the licPnse number being prof~ered. Again, the cue or prompt words are commanded by the microprocessor 52 for selection from the speech memory 56 to actuate the voice synthesizer 35. Consequently, audio signals are supplied from the VoicQ synthesizer 35 through the switching element 30 and the private branch exchange E
to the earpiece 28.
In the normal sequence, the caller responds to the cue by touching keys 14 which formulate DTMF signals that are passed through the private branch exchanye E, the switching element 40 and the line 42 to the decodar 44. The digital data supplied from the decoder 44 is : : ~
.
then passed to the microprocessor 52 for incorporation in the data packet.
The operating sequence of the timing signal tl to obtain data is illustrated in FIGURE 3 in the form of four sub-operations, specifically: synthesize vocal cue (block 72), cue caller (block 74), store data field (block 76) and read back data field (block 78).
As each field or information element is registered, it is formulated for audio confirmation by operation of the speech memory 56 and the voice synthe-sizer 35. For example, in response to an instruction to enter a State, by predetermined arrangement, the caller might touch the keys 14 in sequence, designated "2", "2", and "5" to indicate California. Accordingly, the speech memory 56 would provide representations of the numerals to the voice synthesizer 35 and as a conse~
quence the sequence o~ three numerals would be announced to the caller for confirmation, e.g. "two", "two", "five". Note that various techniques as have been used in the past may be employed to terminate and indicate approval of data fields. For example, the pound symbol "#" may be employed to indicate the end of a field.
The caller rejects or approYes each entered data field. Specifically, the test for entered fields is represented in FIGURE 3 by a query block 80. Accord-ingly, each field is either confirmed or re-entered. If a field is incorrect, the cycle is repeated to instruct the caller and receive data which is then confirmed.
Alternatively, if the data is correct, the process proceeds to the query block 84 indica~ing a test to determine whether or not the inquiry packet is complete.
The microprocessor 52 may have the facility to detect errors irl the fields of proYided data. In that regard, specific digits of individual fields may be checked or check digits may be employed. Also, callers ,:
. : . . ~ .. :
- ' : ' : . ' , .
! ~
may be afforded the ability to abort operations to supply a data field, resetting operations for a reentry.
For example, depression of the keys designated "*" and "~" might command a "backspace" for the reentry of the current field and cancellation of the symbols entered to that point.
In the interests of expediency, the program also might enable the caller to delete voice prompts as by depressing a specific'key 14 or combination of keys.
Also, various codes may be adopted for indicating alphabetic letters by select touching of keys 14.
In the exemplary operation, with the entry only of the State, the data packet is complete.
Accordingly, the process advances the cue counter ~in the microprocessor 52) as indicated by the block 86 to repeat the cycle for forming and storing the next field.
Specifically, the process may cycle to cue, receive, confirm and store the following data fields:
State License number or ID number Birth date Amount Check number With the confirmation of each data element, it is stored as a field of the inquiry data packet. Upon completion of the inquiry data packet, the terminal T1 proceeds to the stage defined by signal t2, of dialing up the computer preparatory to transmitting the inquiry.
Note that the mouthpiece 26 continues to be isolated as by being placed on "hold" by the PBX, or as illustrated for purposes of explanation. Thus, the caller's voice is blocked. A block 88 of FIGURE 3 rapresents the dial-up operation in the process.
,. : ,... .
With the establishment of communication between the terminal T1 and the computer P (timing signal t3) the data packet inquiry is transmitted through the facility C as indicated by a block 90 in FIGURE 3.
Upon receiving the inquiry, the central computer P may determine that connection between the caller's telephone Ll and the manual terminal MT (FIGURE
1) is appropriate as indicated by a block 92 in FIGURE
3. That is, a test operation may be involved as indicated by the block 94 to determine whether or not person-to-person communication is appropriate. The terminal re-establishes connection with the caller and announces "hold for trans~er". Initially, consider that sequence. The system microprocessor 52 conferences the telephone L1 to the manual terminal MT and actuates the mode control 22. At this time, the terminal Tl relin- -quishes control and is disconnected. The disconnection of the terminal T1 places it in a quiescent state (signal tl) and the switch 24 is set with the elements 30, 36 and 40 lowered. The lowering of the switch elements 30, 36 and 40 connects the earpiece 28, the mouthpiece 26 and the keypad K to the terminal telephone circuits 20 through the private branch exchange for traditional tel~phone operation, as indicated in a block 96 (FIGURE 3).
With the completion of the person-to-person communication between the telephone Ll and the manual terminal MT, the caller will traditionally cradle the handpiece 10 actuating the cradle switch 16 to discon-nect the telephone L1 through the telephone circuits 18.
The disconnection o~ the telephone circuits 18 from the terminal tslephone circuits 20 disenga~es the caller from the private branch exchange E.
;, :, . , , , ':
Typically, it is expected that most inquiries will be given computer-generated responses. Accor-dingly, operation proceeds in the inquiry-response mode from the junction of block 94. Consequently, the stage of timing signal t4 is entered and the computer P formu-lates a coded response indicative of a specific condi-tion, e.g. "41" indicating that the identification is valid and that no negative information exists with respect to the account.
The reply is communicated from the computer P through the telephone communication facility C and stored in the microprocessor 52 (FIGURE 23 as indicated by the block 100 in FIGURE 3. At that point, the telephonic interconnection (between central computer P
and terminal TL) is terminated as indicated by the block 102 (timing signal t5) the remaining operations being performed by the structure of FIGURE 2.
With the coded response stored, the terminal re-establishes connectively to th~ originating caller L1 and actuates the speech ROM to formulate an appropriate audio response, for example, "approval" or "authori-zation for $700". Addressed by the coded response, the words of the message are selected from the memory 56 and audio signal representations are supplied to the voice synthesizer 35 to formulate audio signals. The audio signals are supplied through the switch element 30 and the private ~ranch exchange E to drive the earpiece 28 for the vocal announcement.
In view of the above explanation of the exemplary system, it will be appreciated that embodi-ments of the present invention may be employed in many different applications to formulate and transmit inquiries and receive replies by use of telephonic facilities. While certain exemplary structures and operations have been described herein, the appropriate ,.
- .: ., , ~,~
scope hereof is deemed to be in accordance with the claims as set forth below.
: ~ . . . .
,........ ,, ~.,, . , , . , : . , , ~ . .
, ., , .' ' - , ,:
",
Claims (8)
1. A speech terminal apparatus for use in association with a private branch exchange and a plurality of telephones each including an earpiece, a keypad and first telephone circuits to communicate with a remote inquiry processing computer through the private branch exchange and a public dial-up telephone facility, the speech terminal apparatus comprising:
a vocabulary memory for storing signal representations of select words;
a voice synthesizer for receiving the signal representations of select words to provide voice signals;
second telephone circuits for operation with the private branch exchange to communicate with the private branch exchange and the dial-up telephone facility; and control means for, selecting signal repre-sentations from the vocabulary memory, coupling the voice synthesizer to the telephone earpiece, receiving inquiry signals from the keypad to formulate an inquiry and actuating the second telephone circuits to dial up the central processor to communicate the inquiry and receive a response.
a vocabulary memory for storing signal representations of select words;
a voice synthesizer for receiving the signal representations of select words to provide voice signals;
second telephone circuits for operation with the private branch exchange to communicate with the private branch exchange and the dial-up telephone facility; and control means for, selecting signal repre-sentations from the vocabulary memory, coupling the voice synthesizer to the telephone earpiece, receiving inquiry signals from the keypad to formulate an inquiry and actuating the second telephone circuits to dial up the central processor to communicate the inquiry and receive a response.
2. A system including a plurality of speech terminal apparatus in accordance with claim 1 coupled to said private branch exchange.
3. A speech terminal apparatus according to claim 2 wherein said control means alternatively couples a select one of said telephones for independent opera-tion or operation with the speech terminal apparatus.
4. A speech terminal apparatus according to claim 1 further including an encoder/decoder for coupling to the keypad of said telephone.
5. A speech terminal apparatus according to claim 2 further including an encoder/decoder for coupling to the keypad and wherein the switching structure couples the encoder/decoder to the keypad.
6. A speech terminal for operation with a plurality of telephones through a private branch exchange to communicate with a central processor, the telephones including an earpiece and a keypad, said terminal comprising:
telephone connection and processing circuits;
a vocabulary memory for storing signal representations of select words;
a voice synthesizer for receiving the signal representations of select words to provide voice signals; and control means for, selecting signal repre-sentations from said vocabulary memory, coupling the voice synthesizer to the telephone earpiece, receiving inquiry signals from the telephone keypad to formulate an inquiry and actuating the telephone circuits to dial up the central processor to interface for communication of an inquiry and to receive a response.
telephone connection and processing circuits;
a vocabulary memory for storing signal representations of select words;
a voice synthesizer for receiving the signal representations of select words to provide voice signals; and control means for, selecting signal repre-sentations from said vocabulary memory, coupling the voice synthesizer to the telephone earpiece, receiving inquiry signals from the telephone keypad to formulate an inquiry and actuating the telephone circuits to dial up the central processor to interface for communication of an inquiry and to receive a response.
7. A terminal according to claim 6 wherein said control means alternatively couples a select one of said telephones for independent operation or operation with the speech terminal apparatus.
8. A system including a plurality of speech terminal apparatus in accordance with claim 7 coupled to said private branch exchange.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US50969790A | 1990-04-16 | 1990-04-16 | |
| US509,697 | 1990-04-16 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2040550A1 true CA2040550A1 (en) | 1991-10-17 |
Family
ID=24027735
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002040550A Abandoned CA2040550A1 (en) | 1990-04-16 | 1991-04-16 | Synthesized speech terminal system for data communication |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5239573A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2040550A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5428210A (en) * | 1992-01-10 | 1995-06-27 | National Bancard Corporation | Data card terminal with embossed character reader and signature capture |
| US5334823A (en) * | 1992-01-10 | 1994-08-02 | National Bancard Corporation | Systems and methods for operating data card terminals for transaction chargeback protection |
| US5535264A (en) * | 1993-02-10 | 1996-07-09 | Unisys Corporation | Prompt issuing protocol for an intercept voice messaging system |
| US5483586A (en) * | 1994-07-18 | 1996-01-09 | Sussman; Lester | Electronic on-line subscriber telephone directory |
| US5483588A (en) * | 1994-12-23 | 1996-01-09 | Latitute Communications | Voice processing interface for a teleconference system |
| US5696909A (en) * | 1995-01-27 | 1997-12-09 | Hypercom, Inc. | Virtual POS terminal |
| WO1999000758A1 (en) * | 1997-06-26 | 1999-01-07 | Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. | System and method for automatically providing financial services to a user using speech signals |
| US8582764B2 (en) | 2003-03-24 | 2013-11-12 | The Western Union Company | Device and method for concealing customer information from a customer service representative |
Family Cites Families (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4503288A (en) * | 1981-08-31 | 1985-03-05 | Novation, Inc. | Intelligent telephone |
-
1990
- 1990-10-17 US US07/599,781 patent/US5239573A/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1991
- 1991-04-16 CA CA002040550A patent/CA2040550A1/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US5239573A (en) | 1993-08-24 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US5359645A (en) | Voice-data telephonic interface control system | |
| US5224153A (en) | Voice-data telephonic interface control system | |
| US20020085693A1 (en) | Voice-data telephonic interface control system | |
| US5802156A (en) | Method for billing and controlling fraud in providing pay information services | |
| US5416830A (en) | Integrated voice meassaging/voice response system | |
| US5073929A (en) | Voice-data telephonic control system | |
| US5974120A (en) | Telephone interface call processing system with call selectivity | |
| CA1321666C (en) | Telephone answering service with integrated voice and textual message storage | |
| US5251252A (en) | Telephone interface call processing system with call selectivity | |
| US20060133591A1 (en) | Call screening apparatus and method | |
| WO1985000489A1 (en) | Method and apparatus for providing a plurality of special services | |
| CN1131491A (en) | Method for permitting subscribers to change call features in real time | |
| US20020085692A1 (en) | Voice-data telephonic interface control system | |
| EP1466466B1 (en) | A system and a method for connecting telephone calls directly on the basis of a text query | |
| FI95525C (en) | Information system for telephone exchange | |
| CA2040550A1 (en) | Synthesized speech terminal system for data communication | |
| AU727253B2 (en) | Method of and apparatus for establishing call forwarding service for subscriber's telephone terminal in switching system with verification function | |
| EP0766444B1 (en) | Service evaluation system and method for a telephonic switch | |
| WO1990011661A1 (en) | Catalog ordering system with increased security | |
| EP0735735A2 (en) | Video and audio directory assistance | |
| EP1046270B1 (en) | Telecommunications networks | |
| US20020034283A1 (en) | Voice-data telephonic interface control system | |
| JPH04284765A (en) | Called party name display system | |
| GB2303276A (en) | Office line incomming call service method | |
| CA2042281A1 (en) | Telephone terminal incorporating speech synthesizer for enhanced communication |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |