IM Server Routing Voice Calls via Presence Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional telephone systems often result in busy signals when a single line is occupied, limiting simultaneous calls and restricting communication, especially when the line is used for computer sessions.
Innovation Solution
The system employs instant messaging (IM) servers to route calls based on user preferences, allowing voice and multimedia communications to be redirected to available IM clients over packet-based networks, even if the PSTN line is busy, by determining the presence of IM usernames and ringing them for incoming calls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single PSTN telephone line is used for voice communications, then the system is simple and cost-effective, but the line becomes occupied when in use, generating busy signals and limiting simultaneous calls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a single PSTN telephone line to handle multiple simultaneous calls through integration with IM clients. The system allows the telephone line to serve both traditional voice calling and IM-based calling functions, eliminating busy signals without requiring multiple physical phone lines. The IM server acts as a universal routing platform that can direct calls to either the PSTN line or available IM clients based on real-time status.
Solution Approach 2:
The IM server functions as an intermediary between the PSTN telephone line and end users. It receives incoming calls on the PSTN line, checks the availability of associated IM clients through presence information, and routes the call accordingly. This mediator resolves the contradiction by decoupling the single PSTN line from the limitation of single-call handling, allowing multiple call paths while maintaining system simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the PSTN telephone line is used for computer communications sessions (modem usage), then data transmission is enabled, but the line becomes occupied preventing incoming voice calls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication functions by separating voice call handling from data transmission. When the PSTN line is occupied with modem data transmission, the IM server detects this status through presence information and routes incoming voice calls to alternative IM clients instead of holding them on the occupied PSTN line. This segmentation allows simultaneous data and voice communications without interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by checking the presence status of IM clients before routing incoming calls. The IM server proactively determines whether IM users are available (not engaged in modem sessions) and pre-routes calls to available clients, preventing call waiting scenarios and eliminating time loss associated with line occupation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If call waiting services are implemented to handle simultaneous calls, then multiple calls can be managed, but additional services and complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the call waiting functionality into the existing IM infrastructure. Instead of implementing a separate complex call waiting service, the system combines telephony routing with IM presence management. The IM server leverages the already-deployed IM client presence information to determine call routing, eliminating the need for additional call waiting service infrastructure and reducing overall system complexity.
4Productivity
If multiple phone lines are installed to handle simultaneous calls, then call capacity increases, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by making IM clients serve dual purposes: instant messaging communication and voice call reception. A single PSTN line combined with multiple IM clients achieves the call capacity of multiple phone lines without the associated infrastructure complexity. The IM clients function universally as both messaging endpoints and telephony receivers, increasing productivity while maintaining simple infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for using instant messaging preferences and settings are used for predictive communications, including routing of data traffic, are provided. A voice call can be routed over a packet-based network if a voice network is not available, or for other reasons. In addition to voice calls, embodiments of the invention can route video calls, multimedia communications and other communications. In some implementations, an instant message presence can be queried for in determining how to route a voice-over-IP or PSTN telephone call. Thus, a call might be routed to a computer or computing device unrelated to the location of the PSTN telephone line being called, if an associated instant messenger presence is detected on that computer or computing device.