JP2011091661A - Telephone apparatus and telephone method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a telephone apparatus which allows a stable and economical telephone call using a dynamic IP address to a telephone apparatus which serves as a communication partner, without using a fixed IP address and a registration server. <P>SOLUTION: The telephone apparatus is provided with: a module for connection with a public network and an information communication network; an IP address identification module which identifies a sound signal or an electronic mail to know the IP address transmitted from a partner apparatus during call connection through the public network; and a control module which starts the telephone call using a VoIP through the information network, during the call connection using the IP address identified by the IP address identification module. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a communication system for telephones using a public line telephone network and an information communication network, and more particularly to a communication system that enables a VoIP call that does not require a registration server and a fixed IP address.

In recent years, IP telephone devices and softphones (Internet telephone programs) using an information communication network (IP network) have become widespread in addition to telephone devices using the conventional PSTN network.
Many IP telephone devices and softphones that use information communication networks solve the IP address problem between communication terminals via a SIP server.
As another method, the IP address of the own terminal is notified to a predetermined server by an operation such as login from a telephone device, and the IP address problem between communication terminals is solved within the server or between servers. Some are. This technique works particularly effectively when a global IP is dynamically assigned by a DHCP server. Such a technique is described in Patent Document 1, for example. Patent Document 1 describes a VoIP technique in which a non-fixed IP address (an IP address allocated by DHCP) is notified to a partner client (a partner device) via an IP telephone server, thereby enabling a call. Further, in order to prevent the IP address assigned to the client from changing during the VoIP call, the IP telephone server negotiates with the DHCP server so that the IP address of the client is fixed during the call.

  Moreover, the technique described in patent document 2 is mentioned as a technique relevant to this invention. In Patent Document 2, an existing telephone, a data communication network, and a public network (PSTN network) are connected, and if the other party's IP address (global IP) is known, an IP phone call is made from the data communication network. For example, an Internet telephone adapter is described which selects a network for making a normal telephone call from a public line and alternatively making a telephone call depending on the presence or absence of the other party's IP address. If the other party's IP address is not known, a telephone call is made via the public line network, the line is disconnected (reconnecting the line again), and the IP address is then transferred to the Internet via the public line using a DTMF signal or the like. A configuration is also described in which the telephone adapter is exchanged and the acquired IP address of the other party is recorded in a telephone directory table so that an IP telephone can be made from the next time. Note that the technique described in Patent Document 2 is based on the premise that fixed IP addresses are mutually used, and cannot be used in a data communication network using dynamic IP addresses.

JP 2003-069602 A JP 2001-257797 A

However, in any of the above technologies, in an Internet telephone (VoIP call) that does not use a registration server represented by a SIP server, a partner apparatus that is dynamically assigned an IP address by a DHCP server, The current IP address cannot be identified without knowing it.
That is, the IP address of the other party is indeterminate, and the destination of the message for making a call cannot be specified. It is not appropriate to use a fixed IP address as a solution in view of the number of IP telephone devices in the future. Further, there is no effective means for knowing whether the communication partner is continuing a fixed IP or a dynamic IP.

  In addition, an IP telephone apparatus using a registration server cannot make a call due to a failure of the server. Information communication networks and registration servers are becoming stronger with the times, but are still not as strong as PSTN networks.

  Further, as another problem, the IP telephone apparatus is assigned a number different from the existing telephone number, leaving a problem in the transition. In addition, reducing the load on the PSTN network will become a major issue in the future.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and is stable and economical for a telephone device serving as a communication partner whose IP address is indefinite without using a fixed IP address and a registration server. It is an object of the present invention to provide a telephone device and a telephone method that enable a telephone call.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a telephone device and a telephone method having a low load on a network replacing a telephone device using an existing public line network.

  The telephone device according to the present invention includes means for connecting to a public line network and an information communication network, and an IP address for identifying an acoustic signal indicating an IP address transmitted from a partner device during connection of a call via the public line network It comprises at least identification means and control means for starting a call using VoIP via an information communication network during connection of the call using the IP address identified by the IP address identification means.

  The telephone method according to the present invention can be connected to a public line network, and can be connected to an information communication network using a dynamic IP address, while a call is being connected via the public line network. An acoustic signal indicating an IP address is transmitted to the partner device, an acoustic signal indicating an IP address transmitted from the partner device is identified via the public network, and the call connection is performed using the identified IP address. In particular, a call using VoIP via an information communication network is started.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a telephone device that can stably and economically communicate with a telephone device that is a communication partner whose IP address is indefinite without using a fixed IP address and a registration server. .

  Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a low-load telephone device for a network that replaces a telephone device that uses an existing public line network.

1 is a configuration diagram schematically showing a telephone system in a first embodiment. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which illustrates the telephone directory table managed by the telephone apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the communication system peculiar to 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows schematically the telephone system in 2nd Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram which shows communication between the telephone apparatuses of 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows schematically the telephone system in 3rd Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram which shows the communication between the telephone apparatuses of 3rd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows roughly the telephone system in 4th Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram which shows the communication between the telephone apparatuses of 4th Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram which shows communication between the telephone apparatuses of 5th Embodiment. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a telephone device in Embodiment 1. FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the telephone apparatus in Example 2. FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a telephone device in Embodiment 3. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram illustrating communication between telephone devices in the third embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a telephone apparatus.

An embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram schematically showing a telephone system according to an embodiment.
The telephone device 100 according to the embodiment includes a communication interface connectable to an information communication network represented by the Internet and a public line network, and an information communication interface capable of making a VoIP call by designating an IP address; It has a telephone interface that enables a fixed telephone call by specifying a telephone number.
The telephone device 100 can communicate using an IP address assigned from the information communication network side each time or at a predetermined interval. That is, an IP address dynamically assigned by a DHCP server provided by an ISP or the like is used. For VoIP calls, a line is set using the IP address of the partner terminal directly without using a SIP server (registration server).
The telephone device 100 includes at least a configuration of a normal telephone device (legacy telephone device) (handset, display unit, dial, calling speaker, tone generation device, message reproduction unit, etc.). Moreover, you may equip a FAX transmission / reception function and an email transmission / reception function as needed.
The control unit 110 performs overall control of the telephone device, and maintains the line (at the time of call connection) using at least the IP address identified through the public line network by the IP address identification unit 121 described later. Various configurations are controlled so as to start a call using VoIP via the information communication network. The control unit 110 includes a storage unit (ROM, RAM, etc.) and manages a telephone book (phone book table). In addition, the control unit 110 performs management and control such as reproduction of a message that is recorded in advance in a ringing tone, a display unit, and a storage unit, and creation of sound by electronic sound.
The IP address exchanging unit 120 includes an IP address identifying unit 121 and an IP address requesting unit 122, and directly exchanges an IP address with a telephone device of a communication partner without using a SIP server or the like. In addition, the used port number may be exchanged as necessary.
The IP address identification unit 121 receives an acoustic signal indicating an IP address transmitted from a partner apparatus during call connection via the public line network, and identifies an IP address represented by the acoustic signal. Moreover, you may make it acquire the other party's use port number from an acoustic signal.
The IP address requesting unit 122 transmits an acoustic signal used for requesting an acoustic signal indicating an IP address to the partner apparatus via the public line network. In other words, the IP address requesting unit 122 sends a signal for converting the IP address into sound and transmitting it to the partner apparatus.
The communication interface unit 130 includes an information communication interface and a telephone interface, and is connected to the public line network and the information communication network, respectively, and takes charge between the control unit 110 and the network.

The telephone device 200 has a communication interface connectable to an information communication network and a public line network, and an information communication interface capable of making a VoIP call by specifying an IP address, and a fixed telephone call by specifying a telephone number Having a telephone interface that is possible.
The telephone device 200 can communicate using an IP address assigned from the information communication network side every time or at a predetermined interval. For VoIP calls, a line is set using the IP address of the other terminal directly without using the SIP registration server.
The telephone device 200 includes at least a configuration of a normal telephone device (legacy telephone device) (handset, display unit, dial, calling speaker, tone generation device, message reproduction unit, etc.). Moreover, you may equip a FAX transmission / reception function and an email transmission / reception function as needed.
The control unit 210 comprehensively controls the telephone device, and at least an IP address transmission unit 223 (to be described later) transmits an acoustic signal indicating the IP address to the partner device via the public line network, and then connects the call. While maintaining the control, various configurations are controlled so that a call using VoIP via the information communication network is started with the partner apparatus. The control unit 210 includes a storage unit (ROM, RAM, etc.), and also manages the allocated self IP address. In addition, the control unit 210 performs management and control such as reproduction of a message that is recorded in advance in a ringing tone, a display unit, and a storage unit, and creation of sound by electronic sound.
The IP address transmission unit 223 transmits an acoustic signal indicating the IP address to the partner apparatus during call connection via the public network. Moreover, you may include a use port number as needed.
The communication interface unit 230 includes an information communication interface and a telephone interface, and is connected to the public line network and the information communication network, respectively, and takes charge between the control unit 210 and the network.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a phone book table managed by the control unit 110. In the telephone book table, telephone numbers and IP addresses are recorded in association with serial numbers. Also, the name and name of the other party of the telephone and the e-mail address may be registered together.
The serial number is an arbitrary number and may be given in any manner. The telephone number is a normal telephone number according to the recommendation of ITU-T. In FIG. 2, the area code of Tokyo is illustrated, but a telephone number starting from the city code may be used. The IP address is stored in association with the telephone number in a format conforming to the IPv4 or IPv6 standard. In the telephone system according to the present invention, it is not necessary for a human to input an IP address.

  With such a configuration, it is possible to stably and economically communicate with a telephone device that is a communication partner whose IP address is indefinite without using a fixed IP address and a registration server.

  Next, the operation in the present embodiment will be described. The operation related to communication with a subscriber exchange, a relay exchange, etc. in the public line network is the same as that of the existing one, so the description is omitted. Also, description of the setting of the VoIP line through the information communication network and the operation after the setting are simplified or omitted.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a communication method unique to the present embodiment.
The calling telephone device 100 makes a call via the public line network at an arbitrary call timing via the communication interface unit 130 (step S301). The outgoing call is similar to the existing outgoing call, and is performed by sending a telephone number using a tone signal (DTMF) through a modular cable while a dial tone from the exchange is flowing.
The telephone device 200 on the receiving side identifies a call from the subscriber exchange, performs a ringing tone, automatically answers, etc., and connects the line by operating the hook (step S302).
The control unit 110 of the telephone device 100 controls the IP address requesting unit 122 to transmit a predetermined acoustic signal that requests transmission of the IP address to the partner device via the connected call (step S303). ). The timing for transmitting the acoustic signal may be, for example, the detection timing when the control unit 110 sets the call (line) between the own device and the partner device, or other similar timing may be used.
The control unit 210 of the telephone device 200 controls the IP address transmission unit 223 to identify an acoustic signal that is a transmission request for an IP address transmitted via the public line network, and The IP address is transmitted to the telephone device 100 using an acoustic signal (regardless of whether it is static) (step S304).
The control unit 110 of the telephone device 100 uses the IP address identification unit 121 to identify the IP address of the partner device from the acoustic signal, and records it in the telephone directory table in association with the telephone number that was called (step S305). At this time, the IP address is overwritten for the telephone number registered in the telephone book table, and the serial number is newly added to the number not registered, and the IP address is registered together with the telephone number.
The control unit 110 of the telephone device 100 uses the IP address (port number) identified by the IP address identifying unit 121 to set up a communication line via an information communication network based on the VoIP technology while maintaining a call on the public line network. After the setting, the telephone call is made possible by the IP phone (step S306). Note that SIP may be used for the VoIP line, or line setting by other VoIP technology may be used.

Thereafter, after setting the VoIP line, the public line network is disconnected from either the telephone device 100 or the telephone device 200.
By adopting such a communication method, it is possible to stably and economically communicate with a telephone device that is a communication partner whose IP address is indefinite without using a fixed IP address and a registration server. . In other words, even if the other device is a telephone device using a dynamic IP address, it is possible to make a call to a desired partner with certainty.

  Next, a second embodiment will be shown to explain the present invention. In the second embodiment, substantially the same configuration and operation as in the first embodiment are performed. The difference from the first embodiment is that when responding on the callee side, an IP correspondence notification for transmitting an acoustic signal notifying the counterpart device (calling device) that the device is compatible with VoIP Is to have a part. In addition, when the calling side device detects an acoustic signal transmitted from the IP correspondence notification unit of the receiving side device, the calling side device performs control to transmit the acoustic signal requesting the IP address.

FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram schematically showing a telephone system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram illustrating communication between telephone devices according to the second embodiment. As shown in the figure, the called telephone device 200 sends an IP correspondence notification (acoustic signal) via the public line network using the IP correspondence notification unit 224 within a predetermined time after answering the call. By transmitting to the device 100, the telephone device 100 transmits an IP address request.
The acoustic signal transmitted from the IP correspondence notification unit 224 may be, for example, a combination of predetermined DTMF signals, or may use a single frequency tone or a continuous tone or a voice message different from the DTMF signal. Further, a plurality of acoustic signal methods (types) that can be used between devices may be determined. For example, when the telephone devices have a FAX function, a FAX signal (acoustic signal) may be used.

By operating in this way, the public line network can be used efficiently regardless of the other device. That is, when the calling side device dials the telephone number to the receiving side device, the acoustic signal sent after the line connection is sent without knowing whether the receiving side device is compatible with the IP phone. Since the request is sent only when the IP address can be identified, an acoustic signal (request) is not sent unnecessarily. In addition, the receiving side device can also notify that the IP phone call is allowed if the calling side device is compatible with the IP phone only by sending a small acoustic signal at the time of answering. This has the effect of shortening the time for the telephone device to occupy the public line network after the line connection.
That is, if any of the calling side and receiving side telephone devices is not compatible with IP telephones, both the calling side and receiving side users (speakers) will have the same usability as conventional telephone devices. Become. On the other hand, when both the calling side and the receiving side telephone devices are compatible with IP telephones, it takes about several seconds to set up an IP telephone line by identifying an IP address request and IP address, but communication is required. Since the cost can be reduced, there is a merit for the calling side user.

  Next, a third embodiment will be shown to explain the present invention. In the first and second embodiments, the calling side telephone apparatus requests the IP address from the calling side telephone apparatus. However, the calling side telephone apparatus sends an IP address to the receiving side telephone apparatus. It is good also as a structure which transmits an address.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram schematically showing a telephone system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram illustrating communication between telephone devices according to the third embodiment.

The IP address transmission unit 123 operates in the same manner as the IP address transmission unit 223. The IP address identifying unit 221 operates in the same manner as the IP address identifying unit 121.
As shown in the figure, the called telephone device 200 sends an IP correspondence notification (acoustic signal) via the public line network using the IP correspondence notification unit 224 within a predetermined time after answering the call. By transmitting to the device 100, the telephone device 100 transmits an acoustic signal indicating an IP address.

  The acoustic signal transmitted from the IP correspondence notifying unit 224 may be a signal notifying that the IP telephone is supported by a predetermined acoustic signal, or a signal requesting an IP address. In other words, the signal can be differentiated from the method of operating the telephone system as in the second embodiment.

  By operating in this way, the public line can be used efficiently regardless of the counterpart device, as in the second embodiment. In other words, both the calling side and the receiving side users should use the IP phone when both the calling side and the receiving side telephone devices are compatible with the IP phone while maintaining the same feeling as the conventional telephone device. Is possible.

  Next, a fourth embodiment will be shown to explain the present invention. In the first to third embodiments, an acoustic signal used for transmission of an IP address or the like between the calling side and receiving side telephone devices can be heard by the user. In the fourth embodiment, an acoustic signal used to exchange an IP address with a partner apparatus is masked via a public line network.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram schematically showing a telephone system according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram illustrating communication between telephone devices according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in the drawing, the called telephone device 200 masks an acoustic signal mechanically sent through the public line network to the user by the acoustic mask unit 225 after answering the call. Further, the calling side telephone device 100 also masks the acoustic signal mechanically transmitted through the public line network to the user by the acoustic mask unit 125. Also, the user's voice may be masked so as not to flow through the public line network during the exchange of acoustic signals.

  In the masking process, for example, the predetermined acoustic signal is masked for a predetermined period after the line connection or for a predetermined period after receiving the predetermined acoustic signal. At this time, the masking process may be performed by reducing or eliminating the volume according to the frequency component corresponding to the acoustic signal to be transmitted / received. In the masking process, the user may be masked with other sounds (music and messages). As an example, in the flow shown in FIG. 9, the calling side telephone device 100 masks the frequency component or acoustic signal corresponding to the notification during the identification period of the predetermined IP correspondence notification, If the correspondence notification can be identified, the signal may be used as a key to play music indicating that switching to the IP telephone is in progress until the VoIP line is set. In addition, the called telephone device 200 operates to mask the frequency component or the acoustic signal corresponding to the DTMF signal for a predetermined period after transmitting the IP correspondence notification, and identifies the DTMF signal indicating the IP address. In addition, music indicating that switching to the IP telephone is being performed until the VoIP line is set may be played using the signal as a key.

  By operating in this way, it is possible to use an IP telephone when conditions are met without letting the user hear unnecessary acoustic signals.

  Next, a fifth embodiment is shown to explain the present invention. In the first to fourth embodiments, when both telephone devices are compatible with VoIP, a conversation between humans is not possible until the VoIP line is set. In the fifth embodiment, a mode capable of shortening the time until a human can talk is shown.

FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating communication between telephone devices according to the fifth embodiment.
The mutual control unit of the calling side telephone device 100 and the receiving side telephone device 200 opens the public line network so that humans can use it for conversation when entering the setting of the VoIP line after exchanging acoustic signals. To control.

  If each acoustic mask unit is configured to extract only the acoustic signal and mask it from flowing from the handset, it is possible to have a conversation immediately after connection to the public line. That is, an acoustic separation unit that separates an acoustic signal and voice is provided in the telephone interface, and both control units control each configuration so that the acoustic signal is exchanged in a state that is not known to humans. In addition, after the setting of the VoIP line with the partner apparatus is completed and the network can be switched, control is performed to switch the network through which the voice flows from the public line network to the information communication network.

  As described above, at least during connection of a call via the public line network, during the setting of a VoIP line that transmits and receives the same acoustic signal as the call of the public line network via the information communication network, the connection line of the public line network is set. By using the control to enable a telephone call, it is possible to provide a telephone device that gives the user a feeling of use equivalent to that of an existing public line network.

  In addition, when a VoIP line can be set up with a partner device during connection of a call through the public line network, the network that carries voice is automatically switched from the public line network to the information communication network, so that the user can Gives the same feel as the network.

  When the control unit switches from the public line network to the line using the information communication network, it is desirable to do the following.

  When a VoIP line can be set up with a partner device during connection of a call via the public line network, the control unit simultaneously causes the sound (voice) flowing through the public line network to flow through the VoIP line. After confirming that the same sound flows in the VoIP line, control is performed so that the network through which the voice flows is switched from the public line network to the information communication network. The sound that is played simultaneously at this time may be a speaker's conversation or another acoustic signal.

  In addition, when a VoIP line can be set up with a partner apparatus during connection of a call through the public line network, the sound flowing through the public line network is sent to the VoIP line, and the public line network and the VoIP line are connected. The communication network is controlled to switch from the public line network to the information communication network while correcting the communication delay time difference. That is, in the control unit, correction is performed in consideration of a transmission delay in the own apparatus.

  In addition, the control unit detects the same acoustic signal sent from the partner device through the public line network and the information communication network, respectively, and provides information on the sound flowing through the public line network. Detects acoustic delay and packet loss that have flowed through the communication network, and notifies the partner device to switch the network from the public line network to the information communication network if it is within a predetermined threshold. Control. Similarly, the control unit switches the network used by its own device to the information communication network.

  In addition, the timing for switching from the public line network to the information communication network is controlled to be switched at a silent timing.

  Also, control is performed so as to use the same switching timing as that of the counterpart device.

  In addition, after the transition to the VoIP line, when the deterioration of the environment of the VoIP line is detected, the line of the public line network is automatically connected using the telephone interface, and after switching to the newly connected line, Until the environment of the VoIP line is improved, control is performed so that a call can be made using the public line network. In other words, if the communication environment of the VoIP line is good, the call environment is provided using the VoIP line, and if the communication environment of the VoIP line is bad, the communication environment is provided using the public line network. When the deterioration of the VoIP line environment is detected only on the called party side after disconnecting the public line network, a signal instructing the caller side device to make a call on the public line network is transmitted via the information communication network. It is desirable to make a call from the caller side device. In this way, a configuration can be adopted in which a call is paid from the paying party to the public line network.

  In addition, the same acoustic signal that flows through the public line network and the information communication network is detected, and the sound that flows through the information communication network is analyzed against the sound that flows through the public line network. Then, control is performed so that the codec used for the VoIP call is changed and the parameters are adjusted so as to approach the call quality of the public line network.

  In addition, when the telephone device has an e-mail transmission / reception function and has known information about the e-mail address assigned to the other device, the other device is connected during a call connection via the public line network. On the other hand, an e-mail may be transmitted and received for exchanging the IP address (port number). In other words, during the connection of a call via the public line network, an IP address transmission means for transmitting an e-mail indicating an IP address to the other apparatus, and the other apparatus during the connection of the call via the public line network Control for starting a call using VoIP through an information communication network during connection of a call using an IP address identifying means for identifying an e-mail indicating an IP address transmitted from the network and an IP address identified by the IP address identifying means It is possible to switch from a call using the public line network to a VoIP line.

  Further, when a DTMF signal is used as the acoustic signal, the IPv4 IP address may be transmitted one digit at a time in the normal notation (decimal notation). On the other hand, an IPv6 IP address cannot be transmitted one digit at a time as is normally indicated. Therefore, when sending and receiving IPv6 IP addresses, IPv6 IP addresses including “A” to “D” that are not normally used in “0” to “9”, “*” and “#” of the DTMF signal are included. It is necessary to determine in advance between apparatuses so that it transmits for every digit represented by the hexadecimal number which shows. For example, “*” and “#” are assigned to hexadecimal numbers “E” and “F”, and “0” to “9” and “A” to “D” are assigned to “0” to “9”. A configuration in which “A” to “D” are assigned may be used.

  The acoustic signal described in the above embodiment is a DTMF signal, but a single frequency tone signal, a FAX signal, or an audible acoustic signal for a dial-up modem may be used. Which acoustic signal is used may correspond to the function of the telephone device. For example, any FAX telephone apparatus can generate a DTMF signal and a FAX signal, and any signal may be used.

  In the above embodiment, the calling side telephone apparatus and the receiving side telephone apparatus have been described separately. However, the calling side telephone apparatus has a configuration related to incoming calls similar to the receiving side telephone apparatus. It is desirable that The same applies to the receiving telephone device.

  Moreover, after changing the call, the dynamic IP address is changed (released), and an IP address changing means for acquiring (updating) the dynamic IP address at the start of the call can be added, thereby preventing mischief calls from the IP network. Yes.

  Further, by adding a port setting means for automatically changing the port number used for setting of the VoIP line within a predetermined range at the time of connection to the public line network and notifying the other party's telephone device, it is possible from the IP network. Can also prevent mischievous phone calls.

  Moreover, although the said several embodiment was demonstrated, many forms generate | occur | produce by combining the structure which concerns on this invention in combination. Even in these forms, the current IP address can be known in accordance with the function of the counterpart device, and the VoIP line can be set.

  That is, it is possible to stably and economically communicate with a communication partner telephone apparatus having an indefinite IP address without using a fixed IP address and a registration server between the telephone apparatuses.

Next, a plurality of embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the telephone device according to the first embodiment.
In FIG. 11, the control unit 1110 of the telephone device A1100 performs overall control of the telephone device A1100. The control unit 1110 is also responsible for the operation of the IP address exchange unit. The fixed telephone control unit 1121 performs overall control of the fixed telephone function of the telephone apparatus telephone device A1100. The fixed telephone call control unit 1122 performs overall call control to the public line telephone 1300. The DTMF transmission unit 1123 transmits a DTMF signal to the public line telephone network 1300 via the NCU unit 1124. The NCU unit 1124 is connected to the public line telephone network 1300 and performs exchange control. The DTMF receiving unit 1125 receives a DTMF signal sent from the public line telephone network 1300 via the NCU unit 1124 and notifies the fixed telephone incoming call control unit 1126 of the signal information. The fixed telephone incoming call control 1126 controls the entire incoming fixed telephone call. The telephone directory storage unit 1127 records and stores the other party telephone number and the IP address of the other party telephone apparatus in association with each other. The own IP address storage unit 1131 stores and holds the IP address of the own device. The IP address acquisition unit 1132 acquires an IP address from the DHCP server 1410 via the digital line interface unit 1133 and the Internet 1400. The digital line interface unit 1133 is connected to the Internet 1400. The IP telephone control unit 1136 performs overall control of the IP telephone. The IP phone call control unit 1134 performs all IP phone calls to the Internet network 1400 via the digital line interface 1133. The IP telephone incoming call control unit 1135 controls all incoming IP telephone calls sent from the Internet 1400 via the digital line interface 1133.
The configuration of the telephone device B1200 is the same as that of the telephone device A1100.

Next, an operation in which the telephone device A 1100 connects to the telephone device B 1200 via the public line network 1300 and the Internet 1400 will be described using the block diagram of FIG.
When the telephone device A 1100 and the telephone device B 1200 are connected to the Internet, the IP address acquisition unit 1132 acquires the dynamic IP address assigned to the local device from the DHCP server 1410 and stores the dynamic IP address in the local IP address storage unit 1131. . Note that the telephone device A 1100 may acquire the IP address again when a call is made via the public network. In addition, the telephone device B1200 may acquire the IP address again when receiving or answering a call via the public line network. That is, the telephone device may request the DHCP server to update the IP address in response to a call from the public network.

  Next, in order to connect a telephone line from telephone apparatus A 1100 to partner telephone apparatus B 1200, the other party telephone number is acquired from telephone directory storage unit 1127 and connected via the public line telephone network 1300. It is also possible to dial manually. In this case, the dialed telephone number is temporarily stored in the telephone directory storage unit 1127 as the current call destination. During a call through the public line telephone network 1300, a DTMF signal indicating an IP address and a used port number is transmitted from the own apparatus or the partner telephone apparatus B 1200, and the DTMF signal is received by the DTMF receiving unit 1125 on the receiving side. The DTMF signal is notified from the DTMF receiving unit 1125 to the fixed telephone control unit 1126 via the fixed telephone incoming call control unit 1126, and the fixed telephone control unit 1121 analyzes the DTMF signal and uses the phone book as the other party's IP address and port number. The storage unit 1127 records and stores the record. That is, an IP address is received as an acoustic signal via the public line telephone network 1300 and recorded in the telephone directory as the current call destination.

Next, a call is made with the other party telephone apparatus B1200 via the Internet 1400. The control unit 1110 requests the IP telephone control unit 1136 to make an IP telephone call via the Internet 1400 to the counterpart telephone apparatus B 1200 using the fact that the IP address has been acquired via the public line telephone network 1300 as a key. At this time, IP telephone control unit 1136 identifies an IP address or the like passed from control unit 1110. Alternatively, IP telephone control unit 1136 may receive the telephone number of partner telephone apparatus B 1200 from control unit 1110 and search the corresponding number from telephone directory storage unit 1127 to identify the IP address. The IP telephone control unit 1136 passes the current IP address of the identified partner apparatus and the open port number to the IP telephone transmission control unit 1134 and requests transmission. The IP telephone call control unit 1134 connects to the Internet 1400 via the digital line interface unit 1133, calls the partner telephone device B1200 using the partner IP address and port number, and tries to establish an IP telephone line.
After establishing the IP telephone line, the telephone line is switched to the IP telephone line at a predetermined timing, and the connection using the public line telephone network is released.

  Next, Example 2 is shown. In the first embodiment, the IP address is acquired by the DTMF signal via the fixed telephone network as a means for acquiring the IP address with the other party. However, when the FAX function is implemented, a FAX procedure signal or image is acquired. An IP address may be acquired using a FAX signal for transmission.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating the telephone device according to the second embodiment.
In order for the telephone device A 2100 to make a call with the telephone device B 2200 on the Internet 2400, first, the IP address of the own terminal is acquired from the DHCP server 2410 on the Internet 2400. The IP address acquisition unit 2132 acquires its own IP address from the DHCP server 2410 on the Internet 2400 via the digital line interface unit 2133. The IP address acquisition unit 2132 records and stores the acquired own IP address in the own IP address storage unit 2131.
Next, the telephone device A 2100 obtains the other party telephone number from the telephone directory storage unit 2127 and connects via the public line network 1300 in order to obtain the IP address of the other party telephone device B 2200. During the communication, the other party telephone apparatus B 2200 sets the IP address to the FAX modem section 2143 and transmits it, so that the telephone apparatus A 2100 receives the FAX signal in the FAX modem section 2143 via the NCU section 2124 and receives the FAX. The modem unit 2143 transmits to the FAX control unit 2141 via the FAX communication control unit 2142. The FAX control unit 2141 analyzes the procedure signal or the FAX signal for data transmission, identifies the included IP address, and records it in the telephone directory storage unit 2127.
Next, the telephone device A 2100 performs a VoIP call with the telephone device B 2200 via the Internet 2400. That is, control unit 2110 requests IP phone control unit 2136 to make an IP phone call to telephone device B 2200. The IP telephone control unit 2136 acquires the IP address associated with the telephone number during the call from the telephone directory storage unit 2127. IP telephone control unit 2136 passes the acquired partner IP address to IP telephone transmission control unit 2134 and requests transmission. Based on the partner IP address, IP phone call control unit 2134 connects to the Internet via digital line interface unit 2133 and calls partner phone apparatus B 2200 to attempt to establish a VoIP line.
After establishing the IP telephone line, the telephone line is switched to the IP telephone line at a predetermined timing, and the connection using the public line telephone network is released.

  Next, Example 3 is shown. In the first and second embodiments, the IP address is acquired by an acoustic signal via a fixed telephone network as a means for acquiring the other party's IP address. However, when the mail function is implemented, mail transmission / reception is performed. The IP address may be acquired by performing the function.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating the telephone device according to the third embodiment. FIG. 14 is a sequence diagram illustrating communication between telephone devices according to the third embodiment.
The telephone device A 3100 and the telephone device B 3200 acquire their own IP addresses from the DHCP server 3410 on the Internet 3400. The IP address acquisition unit 3132 records the acquired own IP address in the own IP address storage unit 3131. In the telephone directory storage unit 3127, an e-mail address is recorded and stored in association with the telephone number, and the IP address can be recorded.
Next, telephone device A 3100 connects the line via public telephone line network 3300, receives an IP response notification, and obtains the IP address of telephone device B 3200 from telephone directory storage unit 3127 to receive the mail address of the partner device. And using the mail transmission unit 3132, a mail indicating an IP address exchange request is sent to the mail address. When the telephone device B 3200 receives an incoming call from the public telephone line network 3300 and receives the incoming call, the telephone device B 3200 accesses its mail server and confirms the mail. If a mail has been received, it is identified whether the received mail is a mail requesting exchange of an IP address, and if it is a corresponding mail, its own IP address is returned. The telephone device A 3100 confirms the reception of the mail to the mail server using the mail receiving unit 3133 after the elapse of a predetermined time after mail transmission, and if there is a response mail, the mail control unit 3131 acquires the IP address thereof. The IP address is recorded in the telephone directory storage unit 3127.
Next, the telephone device A 3100 performs a VoIP call with the telephone device B 3200 via the Internet 3400. Control unit 3110 requests IP phone control unit 3136 to make an IP phone call to telephone device B 3200. The IP telephone control unit 3136 obtains an IP address associated with the telephone number in a call from the telephone directory storage unit 3127. IP telephone control unit 3136 passes the acquired counterpart IP address to IP telephone transmission control unit 3134 and requests transmission. The IP telephone call control unit 3134 connects to the Internet 3400 via the digital line interface unit 3133 based on the partner IP address, calls the partner telephone device B 3200, and tries to establish a VoIP line.
After establishing the IP telephone line, the telephone line is switched to the IP telephone line at a predetermined timing, and the connection using the public line telephone network is released.

  As described above, the present invention has the following effects.

The first effect is that it is possible to set a fixed IP address in the telephone device and an IP telephone line via the information communication network without going through the registration server.
The second effect is that it is possible to accurately set the IP telephone line via the information communication network by acquiring the IP address acquired from the DHCP server again.
In addition, the telephone device according to the present invention can have the same operation specifications as those of the existing telephone device, and a person can simply call a phone number or select a partner from a phone book or a speed dial, and a human can use the IP address of the partner. It becomes possible to make a call without being conscious of the exchange of addresses. In addition, the feeling of use can be equivalent to that of an existing public line telephone.
Further, as shown in FIG. 15, if the ADSL communication network is used and the configuration is connected to the public line network and the ADSL communication network via a single modular cable (RJ11 compatible cable), the contract is established. Other than the above, other physical connections and operations can be the same as those of a conventional telephone device. That is, it is also possible to migrate and use the existing model phone book as it is for replacement. This is because, for example, a partner apparatus using any telephone number such as a telephone number from a local number or an international call can make a call using the partner apparatus according to the present invention.
The above-mentioned matters will enable the service to be developed in accordance with the reliability and stability of the existing public telephone network. That is, it is possible to promote the use of IP telephones without giving anxiety or disgust to IP telephones even for people who are not good at IT and personal computers.

  In addition, the provider of a public network (such as a subscriber exchange) can reduce the scale of the exchange as the number of simultaneous connections of the public network is reduced, and effectively works against the cost associated with the exchange.

  As described above, according to the telephone device to which the present invention is applied, without using a fixed IP address and a registration server, it is stable and economical for a telephone device serving as a communication partner whose IP address is indefinite. Can be provided with a telephone device capable of making a call.

  Similarly, according to the telephone device to which the present invention is applied, a telephone device having a low load can be provided for a network that replaces a telephone device that uses an existing public line network.

  It should be noted that the specific configuration of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment and examples, and modifications within a range not departing from the gist of the present invention are included in the present invention.

  The present invention can be applied to a telephone device, a FAX telephone device, a telephone device with a mail function, and the like.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Telephone apparatus 110 Control part 120 IP address exchange part 121 IP address identification part 122 IP address request part 123 IP address transmission part 125 Acoustic mask part 130 Communication interface part 200 Telephone apparatus 210 Control part 220 IP address exchange part 221 IP address identification part 223 IP address transmission unit 224 IP correspondence notification unit 225 acoustic mask unit

Claims (28)

Means for connecting to a public line network and an information communication network;
IP address identifying means for identifying an acoustic signal indicating an IP address transmitted from a partner apparatus during connection of a call via a public line network;
A telephone device comprising: control means for starting a call using VoIP through an information communication network using the IP address identified by the IP address identifying means during connection of the call. Means for connecting to a public line network and an information communication network;
An IP address transmission means for transmitting an acoustic signal indicating an IP address to a partner device during connection of a call via a public network;
A telephone device comprising: control means for starting a call using VoIP through an information communication network during connection of the call using the IP address transmitted by the IP address transmission means. 3. The telephone apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising IP address requesting means for transmitting an acoustic signal used for requesting an acoustic signal indicating an IP address to a partner apparatus via a public line network. 4. The IP correspondence notifying means for transmitting an acoustic signal for notifying the counterpart apparatus that it is compatible with VoIP via a public line network, according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The telephone device described. 5. The telephone according to claim 1, further comprising mask means for masking an acoustic signal used for exchanging an IP address with a partner apparatus via a public line network. apparatus. Control means for enabling a call using a connection line of the public line network during setting of a VoIP line for transmitting and receiving the same sound as that of the call via the information communication network during connection of the call via the public line network The telephone device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein Control for switching the voice-carrying network from the public line network to the information communication network when a VoIP line can be set up with the counterpart device of the call via the information communication network during connection of the call via the public line network The telephone apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising means. When a VoIP line can be set up with the other party device of the call via the information communication network during the connection of the call via the public line network, the sound (voice) flowing through the call connection via the public line network is 8. A control means for switching from a public network to an information communication network after confirming that the same sound flows through the VoIP line and confirming that the same sound flows through the VoIP line. Telephone equipment. When a VoIP line can be set up with the counterpart device of the call via the information communication network during the connection of the call via the public line network, the sound flowing through the call connection via the public line network is 8. A control means for switching a network through which a voice is transmitted from a public network to an information communication network while correcting a communication delay time difference between the public network and the VoIP circuit. Telephone equipment. The telephone device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, further comprising control means for setting a timing at which the network is switched from the public line network to the information communication network as silent timing. The same sound flowing through the public line network and the information communication network is detected, and the delay and / or packet of the sound flowing through the information communication network with respect to the sound flowing through the public line network 11. The control unit according to claim 7, further comprising a control unit configured to detect a loss and switch the network from the public line network to the information communication network if the loss is within a predetermined threshold. Telephone device. Detects the same sound flowing through the public line network and the information communication network, and analyzes the sound flowing through the information communication network against the sound flowing through the public line network. The telephone device according to claim 7, further comprising a control unit that adjusts a codec related to VoIP so as to approach a call quality of a network. When the deterioration of the VoIP line environment is detected after setting the VoIP line, the public line network is automatically connected and switched to the line, and then the public line network is used until the VoIP line environment is improved. The telephone apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising a control unit that controls the telephone so as to enable communication. 14. The sound signal according to claim 1, wherein the sound signal is any one of a DTMF signal, a single frequency tone signal, a FAX procedure signal, a FAX signal, and an audible sound signal for a dial-up modem. The telephone device according to the paragraph. The acoustic signal is a DTMF signal. When an IPv6 IP address is transmitted / received, an IPv6 IP address including “*” and “#” is added to “0” to “9” of the DTMF signal. The telephone apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein transmission is performed for each digit represented by a hexadecimal number. Means for connecting to a public line network and an information communication network;
IP address identifying means for identifying an e-mail indicating an IP address transmitted from a partner device during connection of a call via a public line network;
A telephone device comprising: control means for starting a call using VoIP through an information communication network using the IP address identified by the IP address identifying means during connection of the call. Means for connecting to a public line network and an information communication network;
IP address transmitting means for transmitting an e-mail indicating an IP address to a partner apparatus during connection of a call via a public line network;
A telephone device comprising: control means for starting a call using VoIP through an information communication network during connection of the call using the IP address transmitted by the IP address transmission means. The information communication network is an ADSL communication network,
18. The means for connecting to the public line network and the information communication network is configured to connect to the public line network and the ADSL communication network via a single modular cable. The telephone device according to the paragraph. When a call is connected via a public network between telephone devices that can be connected to the public network and can be connected to an information communication network using a dynamic IP address, an IP address is assigned to the partner device. Send an acoustic signal to indicate
An acoustic signal indicating an IP address transmitted from a partner device via a public network is identified;
A telephone method using the identified IP address to start a call using VoIP over an information communication network during connection of the call. While a call can be connected via a public line network between telephone devices that can be connected to a public line network and can be connected to an information communication network using a dynamic IP address, the other unit via the public line network Send an acoustic signal used to request an acoustic signal indicating an IP address to
An acoustic signal indicating the IP address is responded to the partner device via the public network,
An acoustic signal indicating an IP address transmitted from a partner device via a public network is identified;
A telephone method using the identified IP address to start a call using VoIP over an information communication network during connection of the call.   21. The telephone method according to claim 20, wherein the acoustic signal used for requesting the acoustic signal indicating the IP address is transmitted when an acoustic signal notifying that VoIP is supported is received from the counterpart device. . During the connection of a call through the public line network, during the setting of a VoIP line for transmitting and receiving the same sound as the call through the information communication network, a call between humans is possible using the connection line of the public line network, The telephone method according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein a waiting time for setting a VoIP line is reduced.   23. The telephone method according to claim 22, wherein the timing for switching the network from the public line network to the information communication network is a silent timing. The same sound flowing through the public line network and the information communication network is detected, and the delay and / or packet of the sound flowing through the information communication network with respect to the sound flowing through the public line network The telephone method according to claim 22 or 23, wherein a loss is detected, and if the loss is within a predetermined threshold, the network is operated to switch from the public network to the information communication network. When the deterioration of the VoIP line environment is detected after setting the VoIP line, the public line network is automatically connected and switched to the line, and then the public line network is used until the VoIP line environment is improved. The telephone method according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the telephone is controlled so as to be able to talk. 26. The sound signal according to claim 19, wherein the sound signal is any one of a DTMF signal, a single frequency tone signal, a FAX procedure signal, a FAX signal, and an audible sound signal for a dial-up modem. The telephone method described in the section. The acoustic signal is a DTMF signal. When an IPv6 IP address is transmitted / received, an IPv6 IP address including “*” and “#” is added to “0” to “9” of the DTMF signal. 27. The telephone method according to claim 19, wherein transmission is performed for each digit represented by a hexadecimal number. It can be connected to the information communication network and the public line network, has an e-mail transmission / reception function, and is connected to a partner apparatus during a call connection via the public line network between telephone apparatuses using dynamic IP addresses Send an email indicating the IP address,
Identify the IP address from the email sent from the other device,
A telephone method using the identified IP address to start a call using VoIP over an information communication network during connection of the call.

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