BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to placing calls. More specifically, the present invention relates optionally to a method, system, and apparatus for enabling a call, particularly a long-distance call, with an improved cost structure, a non-location- linked identifier, or an improved user-convenience.

2. Description of the Related Art Traditional telephone systems employ a mix of local carriers (telephone service providers) and long distance carriers (telephone service providers spanning geographic distances). Local carriers connect calls within a given small geographic region (a defined local region). Local carriers are spread throughout the world, in different nations, geographic regions, and on different continents. Long distance carriers carry calls between local carriers.

In conventional long distance systems, telephone lines connect a home or office directly to a"wire center"or a"communication center"are referred to generally herein as a central office unless otherwise described in context with an adaptive system. A central office (CO) has one or more switches, which route or direct telephone calls from one destination to another. A central office (CO) is conventionally understood as a telephone company building where subscriber lines are joined to complex switching equipment for connecting to others, either locally or long distance. See, Newton's Telecom Dictionarv, by Harry Newton, 20th Ed., CMP Books, March 2004. Sometimes, a central office (CO) includes multiple switching exchanges and may be very large, and other times a central office (CO) may refer to a single telephone switch, depending upon context. Central offices (CO) are typically connected by a"trunk line", which is broadly termed a communication line between two or more switching systems or PBXs (Private Branch Exchange).

Telephone numbers typically include an area code, and in the United States, a seven digit telephone number. The seven-digit telephone number includes a three- digit central office (CO) number, and a four-digit central office extension. The three-digit central office number directs conventional calls to a particular central office. Once the conventional call reaches the desired central office, the four-digit extension directs the call to the telephone line that is served by that central office.

Area codes are typically used for long distance phone calls, as discussed below.

Local telephone calls within a small geographic region (or"geographic- umbrella") are often completed within a single central office location. In this configuration, the same central office often serves outgoing calls within the same geographic region, all under the geographic-umbrella of the local carrier. The central office connects the incoming call to the local destination number. Where the geographic region is slightly larger, two or more central offices, connected by a

trunk, may process the call still under the umbrella of the local carrier. Employing this conventional system, a destination receives an outbound call from the first central office (CO), and then directs this call along trunk lines to an appropriate destination based upon the dialed phone number.

Each area code corresponds to a particular group of central offices. In conventional use, when a call-originator dials an area code and then the seven-digit telephone number, the initial central office (CO) scrutinizes the dialed number and accesses a database. Where the dialed number is located within a Local Transport Access Area (LATA) or a service, the call is directed to the appropriate central office.

A LATA is typically a contiguous geographic area. Where the dialed number is outside the LATA, the local central office (CO) access a database to determine which long distance service provider a user (identified by the call- originating number) has selected to connect the call. The local service provider then switches the call to select lines that are connected to the identified long distance companies nearest switch, often referred to as a point of presence (POP). Once the long distance carrier receives the call, the long distance carrier accesses its own database and analyzes the called number to rout the call across the long distance provider's nearest POP located closest to the called-number. In operation, the POP conventionally functions to route the long distance call to a local central office (CO) nearest the identified destination phone. Once the long distance call is at the local central office (CO), the local service provider completes the call as discussed above.

Unfortunately, long distance and local phone companies incur costs for various physical equipment systems, switching calls, and generally maintaining their physical equipment and training their employees. Each costs is eventually passed on to a consumer.

In a conventional billing system, a call-originator pays a basic fixed fee for unlimited local calls. Unlike local calling, during"long distance calling, "calls are transferred from a first local telephone company, to a long distance telephone company, and then back to a second (distant) local telephone company. As a consequence, since each switch transfer may incur a cost, multiple switching long- distance calling is more expensive than a local call. As an additional detriment, in conventional billing systems, long distance calls are frequently charged to the call originator on a"per minute"basis and may vary over the distance called. For example, long distance calls between countries may be higher than long distance calls within a given country.

In sum, the negative aspects of the present long distance calling (telecommunication) system include variable charging, charging on a per-minute basis, and higher costs.

As broadly described, ALI or Automatic Location Information systems enable users, working with a database, to associate a known physical location with a known telephone number. See, Newton's Telecom Dictionary, by Harry Newton, <BR> <BR> 20th Ed. , CMP Books, March 2004. ALI information is commonly employed in Emergency 911 systems or Enhanced 911 systems to allow managers to facilitate prompt service arrive during emergency situations.

ANI, or Automatic Number Identification information, provides for transmission through a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) of a Billing Number (BN) of an originating party. Unlike CLID (Calling Line Identification), ANI delivers the number of the calling party and cannot be normally blocked by a calling party without extensive effort. See, Newton's Telecom Diction by Harry Newton, 20th Ed. , CMP Books, March 2004.

In sum, conventional identification systems exist, for example"Caller ID" and"Caller Location"type systems, that enable a called party to identify who the caller is and where a caller is located using conventional ALI and ANI information.

It is often convenient, for business or other reasons, to minimize or manipulate the information available to a call-receiver or a call-originator.

In a first example, for personal vanity reasons, a call-originator may desire to advertise as having a famous but increasingly rare telephone area code (for example a"212"New York City area code), and may be physically located in New Jersey (for example a"201"¢Fair Lawn, NJ area code). Using conventional methods, the call-originator is forced by a local telephone service provider to place calls providing a"201"ALI/ANI information set that is accessible using conventional methods to the call-receiver, and the call-receiver is similarly forced to give out the"201"area code number to receive incoming calls.

In a second example, for business reasons particularly for international business, a call originator may desire to advertise as having the same famous and rare telephone area code (the"212"New York City area code), and may also be physically located at the"201"Fair Lawn, NJ area code. Again, using conventional methods, the call-originator is forced by the local telephone service provider to place calls providing a"201"ALI/ANI information set that is accessible to the call- receiver, and the call-receiver is similarly forced to give out the"201"area code number to receive incoming calls.

In a third example, for personal security reasons, a call-originator may desire to mislead or misdirect someone trying to determine the call-originator's actual local telephone service call number and thereby their actual physical location via linked databases. In this example, a call-originator exposed to physical danger if identified as placing a call from an identifiable ALI/ANI data set, may wish to mislead a call-

receive from his true physical location. Similarly, a celebrity may wish to have a phone number that is not tied to a true physical location, or and so As a consequence, presently known systems and methods for placing calls, particularly long distance calls, include at least one of the following detriments : 1. Variation in cost between local and long distance calls. Such variation in costs is deleterious to both personal and business financial planning.

2. Variation in cost during a single call. a. For example, under certain plans, a long distance call begun before 05: 59pm may be charged at a first rate/minute, while the remaining portion of the call (after 06: 00pm) is charged at a second rate/minute.

3. Imposition of local, state and other jurisdiction taxes.

4. Imposition of variable fee surcharges.

5. Inability to block originating call location and address information.

6. Inability to disguise an originating call number or location.

7. Inability to select a preferred originating call number that is not otherwise geographically available.

8. Inability to select a preferred originating call number that promotes a marketing goal.

Therefore it is recognized that a need exists for a method, system, or an apparatus that is capable of responding to at least one of the detriments noted above.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide a method, system, or apparatus that responds to at least one of the needs noted above.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an a method or system that enables a reduction in call charges for placing a long distance call based on a virtual phone number.

In one alternative aspect, the present invention broadly relates to a system for transmitting information between at least two points, comprising: a first intermediate point operatively connected to at least one originating point to receive a virtual identifier, wherein the virtual identifier is convertible into at least one physical number, a second intermediate point capable of communicating with the first intermediate point over a computer network, at least one destination point operatively connected to the second intermediate point, wherein the second intermediate point is selectably determined based on its proximity to the at least one destination point.

In another alternative aspect, the present invention optionally relates to a method for transmitting information between two or more points, comprising the steps of : : receiving a virtual number at a first intermediate point from at least one originating point, converting the received virtual number into at least one physical number, determining a second intermediate point based on the at least one physical number, determining at least one destination point based on the at least one physical number, and transmitting information between the at least one originating point and the at least one destination point.

According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method for transmitting information between two or more points. The information that is received can be, for example, a telephone call. The method comprises at least one step of receiving a virtual number from at least one point on an originating network at a first intermediate point on a computer network. Then,

based on the virtual number, and other factors described, at least a second intermediate point on the computer network is determined. The first and second intermediate points are preferably capable of communicating over the computer network.

Once the second intermediate point is determined, a connection is established between the second intermediate point and a further point on a destination computer network, based on information related to the virtual number entered at the originating network. The first and second intermediate points then enable the point on the originating network and the point on the destination network to communicate.

This communication, optionally and alternatively, may include steps involving converting information from the originating and destination networks into a selected form suitable for ready transmission over the computer network.

In another alternative and adaptive embodiment, the virtual number may optionally include an area code designation that is within a local calling area of the designated point on the originating network. The point on the originating network may optionally be a telephone, but other alternative and adaptive points are envisioned. For example, the virtual number assigned to the first and second intermediate points, wherein the first and second intermediate points may be servers, allow communication between the originating point and the destination point based on a routing table.

In another alternative and exemplary embodiment of a selected aspect of the present invention, data is preferably transmitted over a computer network based on data packets, and data transmitted over at least one of an originating and destination network is transmitted by analog signals enabling ready interface with historic telecommunication systems. In another selected exemplary embodiment, and to aid a communication convenience between an originating user and a destination user, at

least one of the first and second intermediate points is capable of converting analog signals to digital signals that can be organized into data packets and vice versa.

In another alternative and exemplary embodiment of a selected aspect of the present invention, the present invention comprises an apparatus or system for transmitting information between at least two points. The system or apparatus including at least one point on an originating network that is capable of communicating with a first intermediate point based on at least one virtual number.

Optionally included, is at least one point on a destination network capable of communicating with a second intermediate point, based upon the virtual number.

In another alternative and exemplary embodiment of a selected aspect of the present invention, the selected point on the originating network and the destination point on the destination network are preferably telecommunication devices (including, for example, telephones, computers, personal hand-held-devices, and others), and the first and second intermediate points may be servers or groups of servers. A computer network is operatively connected between the first and second servers allowing the telecommunications devices to operatively communicate. The servers are preferably capable of converting information from the telecommunication devices into a form conveniently suitable for transmission over the computer network.

In the embodiment noted above, the virtual number can include, for example a designated area code that is within the local calling area of the originating telecommunications device and any additional identifiers usable by a call processing system to ensure smooth connection. The virtual number assigned to the first and second servers enables communication between the originating and destination telecommunication devices (frequently referred to as, but not limited to telephones, <BR> <BR> routing systems, etc. ). The first and second servers allow this communication based

upon a call routing table or routing data assemblies that are preferably in ready communication with the selected server. hi another alternative and exemplary embodiment of a selected aspect of the present invention, data from the telecommunications device (optionally here a telephone) is transmitted initially as analog signals and is thereafter converted to digital data transmitted over a computer network based on divisible data packets. As a consequence, the servers noted herein may, but are not required to, include the system capacity to convert analog to digital signals and digital to analog signals.

This capacity may also enable the transmission of digital data as data packets. Those skilled in the art of designing electronic systems should recognize that a co- networked, but physically separate device or system, may enable this conversion- capacity and data packet operability without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

The above, and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description read in conduction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate the same elements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a diagram depicting an alternative exemplary system for placing out bound long distance calls from a Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a diagram depicting an alternative system for receiving an in-bound call from a non-VOIP call originator.

Fig. 3 is a diagram depicting another alternative aspect of the present invention wherein calls are directed between different VOIP subscribers.

Fig. 4 is a diagram depicting another alternative embodiment of the present invention where calls between differing VOIP subscribers are connected without employing the PSTN.

Fig. 5 is a block diagram depicting an overview of an exemplary system according to one alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 6 is a diagram depicting an overview of an alternative exemplary system according to one adaptive aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 7 is a diagram depicting another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS h1 view of the above, the present invention seeks to remedy at least one of the needs noted above.

Increasingly, phone companies are using computer networks such as the Internet, to transport long distance calls from one destination to another.

Transferring voice calls over a data network is typically accomplished by converting analog human-voice signals into data packets. This is often, but not necessarily

accomplished using an industry system known as Voice-over-Internet-Protocol (VoIP). Transporting calls over computer networks allows local phone companies to bypass long distance carriers, and as an additional benefit, because computer network infrastructures are already in place, the cost of transporting calls over computer networks is greatly minimized.

Among other aspects, the present invention provides optional methods, systems, and supporting apparatus for minimizing or managing the costs of long distance calls by transmitting data (including voice or video related data) over computer networks. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method and apparatus for transmitting voice information between originating and destination points. The originating and destination points may include, but are not limited to telecommunication devices including telephones of all types, fax machines, pagers, computers, two way radios, cellular telephones and telephones operatively connected to the public switched telephone network (PSTN). In one alternative embodiment, one of the originating and destination points is a telephone operatively connected to the PSTN. The originating and destination points are separated such that each network is operatively connected to its own intermediate point. The two intermediate points, which are preferably operatively connected by a computer network, allow the two users (originating and destination) to communication based on a virtual number assigned to at least one of the users telecommunication devices, as will be described.

An area code of the virtual number is preferably within a local calling area of <BR> <BR> the originating telecommunication device (phone, etc. ). In one embodiment (discussed below), a virtual number is assigned to a destination phone. Using this system, the assignment information is stored in a memory, and can be readily referenced to determine which"destination telephone number" (or destination address) a virtual number is assigned to. Operatively connecting a memory to one or

both of the two intermediate points allows any delay between receiving a number/address and determining its destination to be minimized.

In an exemplary embodiment, when a virtual number is received by a first intermediate point, the"call"may be routed from the first intermediate point to a second intermediate point within the local calling area of the destination telephone.

The second intermediate point then directs the call to the destination telephone. As a result of one alternative embodiment of the present invention, two intermediate points can direct a call to any destination number, regardless of the distance between the two telephones. This benefit allows a user to access (connect to for seeking) a telephone using only a local virtual phone number despite the physical location of the destination telephone. As a consequence, one embodiment of the present invention enables the reduction of cost for a long distance call.

It should be understood, that information may be transmitted on the originating and destination networks in any manner known to those skilled in the telecommunications or telephony arts. This may include, but is not limited to, information in analog, digital, or other format. Additionally, any type of information may be transmitted between the points of the originating and destination networks.

This may include, but is not limited to voice, data, or facsimile transmissions.

The phrase"routing table", as used broadly herein, may also be adaptively referred to as a"data table"or a"data assembly"that, as needed, includes a capacity to keep track of preferred routs by employing a user definable list of steps serving as treatment instructions for calls, call routing, and selecting supportive routing precursor steps. See, Newton's Telecom Dictionary, by Harry Newton, 20th Ed. , CMP Books, March 2004. Routing tables are often contained within a memory system in an electronic router device, or some other internetworking device, that keeps track of routs, electronic instructions, and in some cases metrics including preferences associated with those routs, related to particular network destinations.

The phrase"router"or"router device"as used herein may be understood to refer broadly to a routing system and a switching device or switch depending upon the particular context. In a classical understanding a"router system"or"routing device"may be a simple class 5 switch that direct calls based on incoming information and preset instructions. In a more complex understanding, a router or routing system may represent combined hardware and software devices enabling a connective interface between two"networks"based upon a variable degree of intelligent programming, including for instance destination addresses, minimum route distances, operational logic, etc. See, Newton's Telecom Dictionary, by Harry Newton, 20th Ed., CMP Books, March 2004. For example, in some embodiments, a selected router system/apparatus may comprise a processor device, such as a computer, or may be modified to interpret phone numbers and convert voice signals into data packets. In other adaptive embodiments, a router device may comprise a stand-alone server or a proxy server, depending upon the related context.

The phrase"telephony"as inclusively used herein refers to the art of transmitting voice, and optionally data, video, or other signals over a distance greater "than what can be transmitted by shouting."See, Newton's Telecom Dictionary, by Harry Newton, 20th Ed.,'CMP Books, March 2004. The phrase"telephony"is related to the phrase telecommunications and has been used interchangeably in past years. Telecommunications has been broadly defined as the art and science of "comununicating"over a distance via the switching of signals (electronic, optical, or <BR> <BR> otherwise). See also, Newton's Telecom Diction by Harry Newton, 20th Ed. , CMP Books, March 2004. Thus, while the present disclosure discusses placing a voice-call, more is intended, and as used herein the phrases telephony or telecommunications are not to be interpreted restrictively, but instead broadly to encompass more than just voice communications transferred over a distance.

In one adaptive embodiment of the present invention, two selected routing devices (routers, switches, etc. ) are distributed at differing geographic regions. Each routing device is operatively connected to a computer system such that they are capable of communicating with each other. Each of the routing devices may have a different construction and differing level of sophistication, and each is also operatively connected to one or more originating or destination networks to receive and process telephone calls.

Routing systems and devices are broadly included within a"gateway concept"or simply"gateway, "as will be described and facilitate signal transfer as noted herein. Very broadly, a gateway is an entrance and exit to a communications network or between two disparate communications networks, and may include operating software and various hardware constructs working together as a system.

Often a gateway includes some type of signal conditioner to remove unwanted signal noise and impose controlling characters. Very broadly, a gateway concept describes a system that connects two or more otherwise incompatible networks. See, Newton's Telecom Dictionary, by Harry Newton, 20th Ed. , CMP Books, March 2004. Thus, gateway constructs, gateway concepts, or gateway systems, particularly on data networks often perform code or protocol conversions, access data tables, preset instructions, etc. and generally make communication happen between otherwise incompatible networks.

One embodiment of a gateway construct is described below as enabling connection and communication transfer between different networks according to variable, but understood, communication protocols. Thus, in alternative embodiments, a routing device within a gateway concept is capable of acting as an interface between a first and a second network system and may be employed as an access aid between computer networks. In some cases, a routing device may even provide a gateway between a conventional central office and a computer network. In

any case, as discussed below, the present embodiment envisions the need to convert data into a format capable of transmission over one or more computer networks.

In another alternative embodiment of the present invention, a routing device receives and interprets a virtual number (address) transmitted from an originating network. After processing a phone number to determine it's further destination, the routing device connects to another communication device (for example a second routing device or other gateway device), to connect to a destination network. Once a connection is established between he originating and destination routers, the originating router device converts voice data into data packets using a pre-selected protocol (for example VoIP, or VoP). Preferably, the process of converting the voice signals into data packets is performed on a real-time, continuous basis. Each router device can also be capable of converting, the data packets back into voice data on a real-time, continuous basis. Nothing herein shall constrain the operation of a routing device, and such a conversion need not be performed by the routing device and may be performed elsewhere within the communication schemes.

Data conversion on a real-time, continuous basis allows data to be transmitted between the originating and destination networks, and the computer network (s) with a substantially minimal amount of delay. This provides the advantage of allowing the originating and destination users to communication with substantially minimal audible distortion. This also allows the two users to communicate over a long distance while minimizing the cost of the call.

Reference will now be made in relative detail to several embodiments of the invention that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps. The drawings are in simplified form and are not to precise scale, nor are connections physical but are merely visually representative for purposes of discuss. For purposes of convenience and clarity only,

directional terms, such as top, bottom, up, down, over, above, and below may be used with respect to the drawings. These and similar directional terms should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention in any manner. The words"connect," <BR> <BR> "couple, "and similar terms with their inflectional morphemes do not necessarily denote direct and immediate connections, but also include connections through mediate elements or devices.

Referring now to Fig. 1, in one alternative and adaptive embodiment of the present invention, an outbound VOIP call system 180 begins with a call placed by a VOIP subscriber employing a VOIP telecommunications device 171.

Telecommunications device 171, is shown as but not limited to a VOIP subscriber phone 171, and includes an electronic address identifier linked to at least one"virtual number"supplied by the VOIP service provider. Here, the address identifier is a numerical series and may include a known or random key (or keys) associated with a specific device 171, allowing ready identification by call processing system 161, as will be discussed. As will be discussed, call processing system 161 includes the electronic address identifier for device 171.

As will also be later discussed, the VOIP subscriber may acquire one or more virtual numbers 172 assigned to or electronically linked to that address identifier within a controlling system linked to device 171. For a first example, a VOIP subscriber may acquire and link with device 171 a virtual number having a desired area code for New York City (212-XXX-XXXX), Washington D. C. (703-XXX- XXXX), etc. As will be discussed in more detail below, by acquiring a series of desired virtual area code numbers each linked with device 171 and call processing system 161, the VOIP subscriber enables persons making local inbound calls from a selected area code to experience a local call via the PSTN, and pay only local charges.

The VOIP subscriber for device 171 may additionally contract with the VOIP service provider to acquire a virtual toll free (area code 800) number or a customized virtual fixed-fee line (area code 900) for business or personal reasons. In sum, one skilled in the telecommunications art should recognize that VOIP subscriber 171 may acquire a wide range of desired"virtual"phone numbers 172, each electronically linked through internet/computer network 162, with call processing system 161, via a series of internet broad band lines 163 that service providers license or otherwise operate with.

As should be additionally understood by those skilled in the art, as depicted in Fig. 1, VOIP subscriber device 171 is directly linked to continuous computer network 162 (Internet) for all communication. As a consequence, a local or long distance connection to the PSTN is unnecessary for device 171. In sum, the present system or apparatus removes or de-links device 171 from the PSTN, allowing all communication to occur through Internet broadband lines 163 at substantially lower costs.

While the present invention envisions broad band lines 163 to be those lines capable of"high speed"traffic; for example co-axial cable, Cat 5, DSL lines, Fire Wire, etc, this list is not exclusive, nor is it limited to"physical"lines. It is also envisioned that broad band lines 163 may be replaced by a wide variety of wireless connection systems (electromagnetic wave based communication systems) enabling, for example, device 171 to be a suitably programmed cellular device capable of wireless communication. In fact, it should be recognized by those skilled in the art that each communication pathway described herein is merely representative, is not limited to"physical"lines and may adapt to include alternative communication technologies as they are developed (for example, cellular technology, wireless technology, radio frequency technology, etc.)

As described, an outbound call is generated by device 171, and passes through Internet linked communication pipelines 163, and potentially through one or more individual transfer nodes (not shown) to call processing system 161. Call processing system 161 conducts data and organizational mapping to identify a desired ultimate"real phone"number (or virtual phone"number for a second VOIP subscriber). Call processing system 161 is feature focused, and enables the subscriber to coordinate how calls may be placed and received. Call processing system 161 also includes the capacity to receive inbound calls directed to the entire series of additional numbers 172, and direct those calls to subscriber device 171, as will be discussed in more detail below.

One principal benefit of the present system, employing call processing system 161, is that it functions to mask the actual geographic location of device 171, and mask the"number"of device 171. As a consequence, a subscriber employing outbound call system 180 places outbound calls using only an electronic"address identifier"within the call processing system 161, and this may be electronically crafted to reflect a desired result. Thus, for example, a subscriber located in New York may place an outbound"call"using device 171 over broadband communication lines 163 and computer network 162 to reach call processing system 161 that thereafter masks the subscriber's actual location and actual"virtual number"for device 171, by employing any desired identifier.

An"address identifier"as discussed may be"00. 010011...." or any other desired identifier created by the VOIP service provider, and a number of different "virtual numbers"may be electronically linked to that address identifier within the computer and data system within call processing system 161.

As discussed herein, a"virtual number" (broadly meaning a representative address identifier, typically a series of numbers or symbols) is assigned to an

electronic location and may be, but is not required to be, linked to a geographic destination within a communication system.

In many ways, a virtual number (virtual phone number) serves as an alias for, and directs calls to, physical device 171, but the virtual number is not physically "tied"to device 171. The virtual phone number does not exist, other than as an address, on an originating or destination network or a physical device as was the case in the previously described PSTN networks. As a consequence, calls placed to or from a virtual phone number do not require routing through a physical device on the originating or destination network, but instead are routed to the virtual number's mapped addressed identifier linked to device 171. As a consequence the complexity of call routing is substantially reduced, and costs are similarly minimized. As a similar consequence, calls directed to virtual number may be automatically directed to a replacement device 171 or a listed series of devices (not shown) allowing ready broadcasting of a single call to many devices 171 (for example a single"call"may be directed to a VOIP phone, a cellular phone, a pager, a PBX, all depending upon various programmed features).

In another example, here a small business, device 171 may be a PBX (private branch exchange) within a building, wherein the PBX includes one or more additional switches for managing multiple outgoing VOIP based calls. PBX devices may be simple switches, switch systems, or may be complex computerized management systems with voice and data transfer systems and a myriad of features. <BR> <BR> <P>In either case, "device"171 has a one ore more address identifier known to call processing system 161 enabling easy electronic connection.

As the outbound call progresses from device 171 and passes through call processing system 161 for mapping or directing the outbound call to a desired end location. Depending upon the mapped"location"for an outbound call made, call processing system 161 selects a desired broadband connection 163 to direct the

outbound call to a desired end location"physical phone number"177,167, 173 on the PSTN via a selected gateway concept 174 to a local carrier partner (telephone company) over a local facility connection system 168 (shown only once) managing local junctions 165 and the"physical phone number." Gateway concept 174 and PSTN 175, both labeled local junctions 165, are collectively to be understood as cooperative systems enabling transmission from respective lines 163, commonly through a local server (not shown) that receives and constructs the broadband signal within a selected gateway concept 174 and transmits the same to the respective linked PSTN 175.

For descriptive purposes, local facility connection systems 168 (only one shown) as discussed herein broadly includes systems enabling respective local junctions 165, to receive a broadband signal from call processing system 161, within gateway concept 174 and retransmit that signal over PSTN 175 to a desired destination physical number 167,176, 173, as shown.

As also shown, a central office 169 (shown only once), is positioned within connection system 168 at a variable position depending upon a particular location, electronic and software configuration and design. Despite previous narrower uses, as used herein"central office"is a very broad and inclusive term used descriptively to enable receipt of an outbound call, from call processing system 161 and transmission of that call to physical numbers 167,176, 173 via respective subscriber lines 166. Subscriber lines 166 join physical numbers to a respective central office.

Those skilled in the art should recognize that as used herein central office 169 may be a complex wiring center containing a variety of switching exchanges, a single switch, or a more complex exchange including broadband receiving servers and transfer interchanges for linking to the PSTN without departing from the scope of the present invention or being offensive to common usage. See, Newton's Telecom Diction, by Harry Newton, 20th Ed. , CMP Books, March 2004, noting

that"Central Office"is an ambiguous term spanning a single or multiple series of buildings or physical locations, and a wide range of equipment and functional aspects, including but not limited to a complex multi-local telecommunications nexus for an entire region or city.

As a consequence of this diverse range of scope, and for illustrative purposes only, central office 169 is shown spanning from PSTN 175 to a portion of gateway concept 174. In one expansive example, central office 169 may include multiple servers and other devices (not shown) within gateway concept 174, for receiving a broadband signal via line 163, and interpreting and transporting that signal to various switches and converter systems (not shown) out to a respective PSTN. In a second narrower example, central office 169 may be simplified and may not include servers for receiving signals (the servers would be separately managed within gateway concepts 174). In this second example, central office 169 would only involve a respective PSTN 175 and send the outbound signal over subscriber line 166. Thus, Fig. 1 is to be understood as illustrative only of the concept of enabling an outbound call from a VOIP device to a long distance"physical number"without the requirement of paying long distance fees.

Due to the innovative aspects of the present invention, an outbound call from VOIP device 171 is transmitted via computer network 162 to one or more call processing systems 161. The outbound call is then routed via Internet broadband lines 163 to a selected or mapped local facility connection 168 within a local calling range of a desired physical number 167,173, 176.

As also noted, an outbound call may be directed to an international (outside the US) phone number. Using the present system, call processing system 161 receives the call from device 171, recognizes the international phone number and directs the call as necessary to an international facility connection 164 for connection to a local telephone number 177.

As shown in Fig. 1, two alternatives exist for transmitting the broadband signal to international facility connection 164. In a first alternative, call processing system 161 is informed that international facility connection 164 includes server capacity to directly receive a broadband signal via a connection with broadband line 163, and as a consequence routs the digital broadband signal directly to international facility 164 (shown as dashed line joining facility 164 and broadband line 163). As a consequence, this first alternative enables international facility connection 164 to receive what seems to be a"local"call via the Internet and its server despite any geographic distance, and as a result costs are substantially reduced for the call originator.

In a second alternative, call-processing system 161 is informed that international facility connection 164 does not include server capacity to directly receive a broadband signal over internet/computer network broadband lines 163. As a consequence, in this second alternative embodiment, the outbound call signal is routed along broadband line 163 to a domestic server in gateway concept 174 at a domestic facility connection. The outbound call signal is then directed along common non-broadband lines/conventional telecommunication lines from domestic gateway concept 174 to international facility 164 (shown as dashed line joining facility 164 to gateway concept 174. In this manner, the local telecommunication facility or connection 168, including gateway concept 174, and"hands off'the international call using conventional telecommunication call lines or trunk lines.

In either alternative for international access, the outbound long distance call from device 171 ultimately reaches foreign"real number"177 without traveling the conventional telecommunications networks. As result, the present system achieves a substantial cost savings while enabling call processing system 161 to mask the originating VOIP address identifier completely, replace it with a selected virtual number 172, or provide a random identifier.

Referring now to Fig. 2 an inbound call system 181, depicts a call from a non-VOIP user having a"physical"phone number or a"physical"address 183 to a VOIP subscriber 193 employing a"virtual number"or series of virtual numbers similar to virtual numbers 172 shown previously in Fig. 1, and discussed above.

As an inbound call is made from physical number 182, the call passes over subscriber line 184 to the PSTN 185 as a local call for connection to broader gateway concept 182A. As discussed above, gateway concept 182A includes a capacity to receive and transmit data over a series of broadband connections between call processing system 191 and PSTN 185, as shown. While a the broad operation of a gateway concept was discussed above, and is again incorporated herein, the functionality of the gateway concept is the guiding factor, namely enabling a connection from a physical number 183 or subscriber line 184 on the PSTN 185, to call processing system 191.

In the present embodiment, gateway concept 182A includes a central office 186 visualized as connecting a local server 188 via lines 187 to switches within central office 186. As discussed, local server 188 enables receipt, transmission, and retransmission of packetized data 189 over Internet connections/computer networks 190,192 in a manner well know to those skilled in the arts of digital transfer. As suggested above, it is additionally envisioned, that one optional system construction incorporates local server 188 within an expansively understood central office 186, allowing central office 186 to now interact directly between Internet 190 and PSTN 185.

In the present embodiment, VOIP device 193 is assigned a virtual number as an address identifier (for example a New York City phone number 212-XXX- XXXX) by a VOIP service provider (not shown). This virtual number is known to call processing system 191, which enables inbound calls received from computer network 190 to be mapped directly to virtual number 193. It will be recognized, that

the actual physical location of VOIP device 193 may be anywhere, including a local geographically distant from New York City.

Here, an inbound caller, calling from a physical number 183 for example located within a local-call-region of the virtual number, makes only a local call over <BR> <BR> subscriber line 184 to the local PSTN 185 (for example area code (212) ) and hence incurs only local call charges for calling device 193 however geographically distant.

After receiving the physical call from number 183 and local PSTN, the gateway concept 182A enables the local telecommunications company to convert the physical number into data and transmit it to call processing system 191, where the digitized number is mapped to the address identifier for VOIP device 193.

In this manner, broadly an inbound call may be made using any of a series of virtual numbers assigned to a VOIP subscriber, most conveniently and cheaply by selecting a local-call virtual number. The call is linked through a common series of class 4 or class 5 switches with gateway concept 182A, where the real physical number is converted to an identifier identified with the call-receiver's VOIP service provider and transmitted to call processing system 191. Call processing system 191 links this digital identifier to the VOIP subscriber/customer and the list of VOIP customer address identifiers and transmits the digital call to device 193. As a consequence, a local call made from a"physical"number incurs only local phone charges and may reach a VOIP subscriber's addressed device anywhere in the world (either"local"or"long distance") Referring now to Fig. 3, a communications system 194 describes a communication pathway between a first VOIP subscriber's device 199 to a second VOIP subscriber's device 199A, wherein the VOIP service provided to each device originates from different providers operating different protocols and addressing identifying formats.

In this system, as discussed earlier, a call is made from device 199 through computer network 198 to a first service provider's call processing system 197, and thereafter employs a gateway concept 196 to reach the PSTN 195. The call is then directed from PSTN 195 through a second gateway concept 196A to the second service provider's call processing system 197 over computer network 198A and finally to VOIP device 199A.

This present system allows low cost and reasonably effective transmission between devices 199, 199A, but still requires the use of the telecommunications industry PSTN 195 as an interface. As a consequence, communications system 194 enables the beneficial use of a variety of"virtual numbers"for vanity, business, or other reasons and also eliminates long distance call charges.

Referring now to Fig. 4, an alternative and adaptive communications system 200 removes the PSTN requirement noted in Fig. 1, and allows a session border controller 202 to convert diverse protocols from different VOIP provider's call processing centers 201,201'. For example, a first call originator using virtual phone numbers and device 205 accesses first call processing center 201 using computer network 203. First call processing center 201 employs SIP (session initiation protocols), one of the emerging standards for setting up telecommunications, particularly real-time communications over the Internet. Second call processing center 201'employs a second non-similar protocol (HTTP-hypertext transfer <BR> <BR> protocol, HTTPS-hypertext transfer protocol secure, etc. ). As a consequence, session border controller 202 includes a capacity to convert one service provider's protocol into another protocol without unduly slowing a call transmission and increasing costs. This solution, the use of a session border controller 202 enabling protocol conversions protects computer networks 203,204, and call processing centers 201,201', while enabling all the benefits noted above.

Referring now to Fig. 5, an exemplary system according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention includes a user 101 placing a call to a user 103 employing VOIP. As noted, user 101 dials a"virtual number"assigned to user 103 (for example number 202-424-XXXX), which is a local call for user 101.

The call accesses a routing device or routing system 105 that accesses a routing data assembly 107 to understand where and how to respond to the"virtual number" assigned to user 103. As shown, a decision is made to access telecommunications network 111, where network 111 often employs a computer network to access multiple connections based on addressed routing information including the address identifier for user 103 and routing device 109. As noted, routing device 105 may include a complete routing system or series of communications elements depending upon design. Once routing information is obtained When information is provided to routing device 109, routing device 109 accesses a routing data assembly 113 to confirm the identity and"address identifier" of user 103 and enables a direct connection to user 103.

In one unusual situation, user 103 physically moves their connection to computer network 111 to a new physical location 160. For example, user 103 moves from Seattle to Paris, thereby employing a different network access portal. When user 103, now shown in location 160 as user 103', reconnects to computer network 111, a new"address location"is created at a call processing center (not shown) for connecting device or system 109'. In this system, routing device 105 transfers a call through network 111 to router 109. When the call is transferred from device 105 to device 109, the virtual numbers of their equivalents are included in the transmitted information. When the call reaches device 109, device communicates with database 113 to determine a preferred address the virtual number is assigned to. Based on this communication, device 109 determines that the destination number is, for example 732-528-XXXX, which corresponds to user 103. A connection is then established

between device 109 and user 103. This connection may include, but is not limited to a connection via selected internet protocols. Once this connection is established, users 101 and 103 may communicate without incurring typical long distance charges. Employing this system, user 103 may transport their VOIP device geographically to new location 160 and employ all the unique benefits noted above.

Referring now to Fig. 6, a diagram showing an exemplary embodiment of one alternative aspect of the present invention enables multiple virtual numbers, commonly local area call phone numbers, to reach a geographically distant location at local calling prices. As shown, a plurality of multiple virtual numbers 201,150 may be assigned to a virtual address identifier 152 for a VOIP subscriber 103 having a connection to the Internet via connecting network and routing device 109. In conjunction with the understanding from Fig. 5, each routing device may be accessed using a plurality of known virtual numbers. Each virtual number preferably allowing an originating user (for example user 101) to dial a number within their local area code to access a designated destination user 103,103.'As shown in Fig. 6, multiple users may communication, simultaneously or independently, with user 103 via device 109 which may be configured to receive virtual calls from a plurality of lines 201,150 and rout each one to address identifier 152.

Referring now to Fig. 7, in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, one or more virtual numbers may be assigned to multiple physical numbers 301. In other words, a virtual number may be used to call more than one physical number 301, individually or simultaneously. These calls may be directed to assigned physical numbers 301 (numbers 155,156, 157) in any desired manner, either individually in series, or broadcast in parallel.

In one example, a virtual number 303 may be assigned such that server device or routing device 109 rings physical devices 301 all at once, or one at a time.

Information regarding the order, sequence, timing, and other preferences relating to call routing may be stored in data assembly described as data system 113.

In another example, if all of the devices ring at the same time, the call is routed to the number that answers first, if each number rings one at a time, a user 103 has the option of rolling the call to the next number in a random or pre-selected order. For example, where user 301 employs a virtual number 157 to a VOIP device, a physical pager number 156, and a cellular number 155, each may be rung simultaneously or in a selected order, according to user preferences.

One convenient aspect of the present invention is understood when a virtual number, assigned to a specific physical device (VOIP device, cellular, pager, real <BR> <BR> phone, computer, etc. ) via a call processing system is easily changed upon a user's request. This type of"re-addressing"may be done quickly with minimal effort via simple Internet based programming or voice command.

In sum, the present embodiments and inventions noted above respond to at least one of the needs earlier noted by providing at least one solution to making a long distance call, or any call linked with a virtual number at a substantially lower cost by minimizing or avoiding several of the steps provided by the existing PSTN network.

As an additional benefit, the present invention discloses the capacity to broadcast calls to multiple devices in a pre-selected manner, and in other embodiments to receive multiple calls directed to a single address identifier simultaneously or in a selected priority.

In the claims, means-or step-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described or suggested herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Thus, for example, although a nail, a screw, and a bolt may not be structural equivalents in that a nail relies on friction between a wooden part and a cylindrical surface, a screw's helical

surface positively engages the wooden part, and a bolt's head and nut compress opposite sides of a wooden part, in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail, a screw, and a bolt may be readily understood by those skilled in the art as equivalent structures.

Having described at least one of the preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that various changes, modifications, and adaptations may be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention as defined in the appended claims.