Virtual connection of a remote unit to a server

Abstract

Apparatus and associated methods are provided which allow a remote user to maintain a virtual session with a server. A virtual session allows a remote and possibly mobile user to maintain a virtual presence in an office environment without actually being present. Using the present invention, a remote user can access a central application program such as an Internet service provider, a database system, an inventory system or billing system. Likewise, the remote user can receive calls and other forms of communications as though he or she were present in an office environment. A virtual session does not require a physical connection to be continuously present in order to provide a virtual connectivity. This is especially important for mobile applications where the remote user may incur long distance and / or wireless toll charges. Also, methods are presented to allow a remote unit to rapidly reconnect in a transparent and seamless way without burdening the user with the need to connect and reconnect or to upload and download information. Related methods are provided to allow the virtual session to be established, operated and maintained.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] This invention relates generally to client-server computing architectures and communication techniques. More particularly, the invention relates to a system whereby a mobile worker and a central server may maintain a virtually continuous connection without the need to maintain a physical connection continuously. [0003] 2. Description of the Related Art [0004] The concept of a virtual connection has arisen in connection with telecommuting and related applications. Such a system is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,764,639. A telecommuter dials into a server using a standard telephone line. The telecommuter's modem and a modem controlled by the central server establish a connection therebetween. Once a connection is established, the telecommuter may access a computer connected to the server, read emails and receive phone calls and faxes. For example, if a customer attempts to call the telecommuter at work by dialing into a...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Likewise, this solution is very costly if the telecommuter is mobile and must maintain a virtual presence with the server using a cellular wireless connection.

Furthermore, in some areas it may be difficult to maintain a wireless connection continuously.

A lost connection may also prevent one from regaining access to the system until some period of time has passed.

Some mobile workers require only intermittent access to the server, but find it too inconvenient to place a dial-in call and to log onto the system every time access is needed.

Solutions using high-powered radio links have the disadvantage that costly spectrum may be required.

Maintaining a link on a cellular or PCS system is expensive in that a continuous connection consumes billable airtime which is also very costly.

This solution is tedious, and while saving airtime costs, may actually represent the more costly solution when professional service costs are factored in.

This method has the added disadvantage that when files are uploaded or downloaded the data must be synchronized in case another user has changed the data in parallel with the mobile worker.

Due to the aforementioned reasons, in many applications forcing the worker to repeatedly connect, disconnect, upload and download information is unacceptable.

A disadvantage to this approach is CDPD networks are not universally available.

Also, CDPD network subscribers must often pay high fees and hence CDPD may not represent the most economical solution.

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