Combined mobile telephone and remote control terminal

ES 2 533 458 T3

DESCRIPTION

Mobile phone and remote control terminal combined

Background of the invention

Technical field of the invention

The present invention relates to communication systems and more particularly to a mobile phone that provides both mobile phone and remote control functions.

Description of Related Art

Recent advances in wireless telecommunications have been multifaceted, resulting in a multitude of new products and services. In the area of ​​mobile cellular telecommunications, some of the new services include both private services typically provided in a home or business environment for private mobile subscribers and public services provided over a public land mobile network for public mobile subscribers. Both private and public mobile services can be provided on a cellular basis, allowing mobile subscribers to roam between the geographic coverage areas of different base stations of each of the private and public systems.

Private mobile service is typically provided over a private mobile telephone network that is implemented using a private wireless system standard such as the Wireless Telephone Standard 2 (CT2). Private telephone systems can be provided as stand-alone networks or connected to a fixed telephone network.

On the other hand, public mobile service is generally provided over a cellular telecommunications network using one of the common cellular transmission standards such as the Advanced Mobile Telephone Service System (AMPS) standard or the Global System for Communications standard. mobile (GSM).

Another direction in which related developments have occurred is in the area of ​​wireless phone products. Communication systems for wireless phones that are connected to a public switched telephone system (PSTN) have been known for some time. Cordless telephones work by using a portable telephone unit in communication with a base station through a pair of radio frequency (RF) transceivers in the portable unit and in the base station. When the device is operational and a call is made, dial tone and voice signals are transmitted from the RF transmitter in the handheld unit to the RF receiver in the base station, and then over the PSTN lines in the ordinary way. Similarly, when a call is received, voice signals are transmitted from the RF transmitter in the base station to the RF receiver in the handheld unit.

Although cordless telephones are comfortable in that they allow telephone communication without the limitation in mobility imposed by a cord, they still require, like conventional corded telephones, the use of at least one hand to support the portable unit for operation. Recent attempts to overcome the limitations of conventional cordless telephones have resulted in handset-type portable units that allow hands-free operation. In US Patent No. 4,882,745 to Silver, a "helmet type cordless phone" is described in which only a single earpiece is included to cover one ear while the other is uncovered. Another related device is disclosed in US Patent No. 4,741,030 to Wilson, in which a wireless headset is provided with a dial panel positioned near the microphone for easy viewing by the user. As with the Silver device, the Wilson device does not disclose the use of two headphones and a volume control to improve sound quality and to block external ambient noise. Another cordless telephone headset using only a single earpiece is disclosed in US Patent No. 4,484,029 to Kennedy.

A recent improvement over these aforementioned cordless phone helmets is described in US Patent No. 5,113,428, in which the wearable unit is entirely contained in a helmet having its own push button keyboard, control buttons related products, a rechargeable battery, an RF transceiver and two headphones with volume control.

A co-pending US patent application entitled "Modular unit headset" describes an integrated system in which a host electronic system, coupled to a PSTN, can communicate with a helmet via both wireless and wired means thanks to a modular unit attached to it. In yet another co-pending US patent application entitled "Electronic equipment audio system", a module port is described having a module connector, which can communicate with a microphone via wireless and wired means.

It is readily apparent that a logical progression of these multifaceted advances is towards interoperability

ES 2 533 458 T3 increased and a modular integration of multiple physical devices to improve the comfort of the human operator. For example, it would be an advantage to have a mobile station equipped with a modular unit that can communicate with a cordless telephone base station so that it can function as an extension of the cordless telephone to perform fixed line communication. It would be an additional advantage to have a wireless headset that can communicate with a single protocol with both the mobile station and the wireless phone base station. In such a system, the human operator has the benefit of hands-free operation of multiple telecommunications devices without having to exchange different modular units.

Furthermore, it can be readily appreciated that it would be a significant advantage to interoperately integrate an electronic data terminal into such a local area communication system (LACS), thereby further maximizing the usefulness of the terminal. It is clear that such an electronic data terminal can be a computer, which in turn can be a stand-alone network or be in a local area network, or a telefax, a pager, a printer or a manual data organizer. Furthermore, the integration into the LACS of a conventional telephone answering machine that can function to play an outgoing greeting or a recorded message from the caller and record an incoming message will undoubtedly improve operator comfort and use of the device.

An additional benefit could be obtained by endowing the mobile station with dual functionalities so that it can provide normal telephony functions and act as a remote control unit for a variety of peripheral devices accessible through some type of local area communication system or communication system. related communication. In this way, an individual can use the multifunction mobile phone to perform a variety of functionalities.

Document WO / 9711532 also discloses the prior art of interest, which refers to an incoming call system that acts to securely notify the user of the entry into a portable radio terminal of a mobile communication unit or similar without disturbing others and lessen the likelihood of misreporting. Thus, a transmitter of incoming notification signals for notifying the user of the input can detect an incoming tone by inserting an incoming tone by inserting a connector into and connecting it with a headset-microphone terminal provided for a portable phone side and in addition, a transmitter of incoming notification tokens is placed on and supported by the cellular phone. When the portable phone receives an incoming call signal according to the incoming call from a base station, it generates a voice signal of an incoming tone, and the voice signal is input to the incoming notification signal transmitter through the handset microphone to detect input. The incoming notification signal transmitter is constituted to generate an incoming notification signal, transmitting the signal to a card-type incoming notification signal receiver or a radio wrist-type incoming notification signal receiver, and notifying the user. input on the side of the portable phone by vibration or a sound emitting buzzer.

Summary of the invention

The present invention overcomes at least some of the above and other problems and provides a mobile device according to appended claim 1 and a local interface module according to claim 7. The present invention further provides a method for providing mobile telephony and remote control of a plurality of peripheral devices that can be remotely operated using a mobile device, according to claim 9. Preferred embodiments are set forth in the dependent claims.

Brief description of the drawings

With reference to the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, a more complete understanding of the method and apparatus of the present invention may be obtained in which:

Figure 1 is a block diagram of the wide network interconnection of an integrated local area communication system comprising a plurality of communication devices;

Figure 2 is a block diagram of an integrated local communication system, which is useful in understanding the present invention;

Figure 3 is a block diagram of the implementation of a local area communication system, which is useful in understanding the present invention;

Figure 4 is a block diagram of an implementation of a mobile station that provides mobile telephony and remote control functionalities within a local area communication system;

Figure 5 is a block diagram of an implementation of a mobile station according to one embodiment, providing both mobile telephony and remote control functionalities within a communication system using the mobile station as a master controller;

ES 2 533 458 T3 Figure 6 is a block diagram of a mobile station providing mobile telephony and remote control functionality within a first local area communication system and within a secure communication system using the mobile station as master controller;

Figure 7 is a block diagram of the system of Figure 5 in which a hands-free headset is replaced for the mobile station;

Figure 8 illustrates a network interconnection of multiple public land mobile networks (PLMN) to a public switched telephone network (PSTN);

Figure 9 is a block diagram of a PLMN;

Figure 10 is a block diagram of a conventional landline telephone unit;

Figure 11 is a block diagram of a conventional cordless telephone base unit;

Figure 12 illustrates a block diagram of a conventional wireless helmet unit;

Figure 13A shows a block diagram of a currently preferred embodiment of a local interface module adapted for use with a mobile station in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 13B is a block diagram of a currently preferred embodiment of a home base station or directly connectable local interface module adapted for use with a PSTN in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 13C is a block diagram of a currently preferred embodiment of a local interface module adapted for use with a serial computer port connector in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 13D is a block diagram of a presently preferred embodiment of a local interface module adapted for use with an electronic data terminal in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 13E is a block diagram of a currently preferred embodiment of a local interface module adapted for use with a cordless telephone base unit associated with a PSTN in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 13F is a block diagram of a currently preferred embodiment of a local interface module adapted for use with a peripheral device that can be remotely controlled by a mobile station in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 14 shows an exemplary decision tree that can be used to selectively effect local wireless communication for incoming calls; and FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B show an exemplary decision tree that can be used to selectively effect local wireless communication for call initiation.

Description of background examples and achievements

The following describes a mobile phone station that provides combined mobile phone and remote control terminal functionalities. The mobile station includes a transceiver part that provides normal mobile telephone functionalities, allowing a user to interact with a public land mobile network. One or more peripheral devices are associated with the mobile station and can be remotely operated in response to a set of predetermined control commands. A control command module within the mobile station generates the variety of predetermined control commands to which the peripheral devices respond. The control commands are transmitted to the peripheral device through a wireless communication link that is established between the peripheral device and the control command module. Alternatively the mobile station may include only means for generating the control command and communicating it to the peripheral devices without the transceiver providing mobile telephony functionality. Furthermore, the mobile station may consist of a hands-free helmet.

The control command module may further include one or both of a voice recognition module that allows the user to control peripheral devices through a spoken voice command or a DTMF recognition module that allows the user to control with the peripheral devices via DTMF inputs.

Figure 1 shows the wide network interconnection of an integrated local area communication system (LACS), generally designated by reference numeral 100, which is helpful in understanding the present invention. The

ES 2 533 458 T3 local communication system 100 provides for the continuous integration of a plurality of electronic communication devices, 110-1 to 110-N, at least one of which may be connected to an external communication network, shown in the herein by reference numbers 140-1 to 140-4. The connections, 130-1 through 130-4, between the plurality of devices 110-1 through 110-4 and the external communication systems 140-1 through 140-4, can be wireless or wired.

Still referring to Figure 1, a plurality of local interface modules, 120-1 through 120-N, are shown connected to the plurality of devices 110-1 through 110-N. Each of the plurality of modules 120-1 A 120-N local interface can perform wireless communication with the other N-1 local interface modules. Local communication can be voice, video, and data, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, local communication is carried out according to a single communication protocol that involves a local medium that can be electromagnetic waves such as radio, infrared, optical or microwave spectra or magnetic waves, or by cable. The local signal can be analog or digital, with any suitable modulation known in the art.

Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of an integrated local communication system, which is helpful in understanding the present invention. Reference numeral 210 refers to a radio enhanced telephone interconnect device coupled to a public switched telephone network (PSTN) 260. The radio enhanced telephone interconnect device 210 may simply be a known cordless telephone base unit that can support short range wireless communication in a home or office environment.

Continuing with Figure 2, reference numeral 240 refers to a known mobile station associated with a public land mobile network 270 (PLMN). Reference numeral 230 refers to an electronic data terminal, as referred to and described hereinbefore, that can be associated with a local area network (LAN) 280. It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art upon reference to this that there are many known variations and modifications of electronic data terminal 230. For example, it may be a selectable associated computer within a distributed computing environment. Alternatively, it can also be a printer, or a telefax machine, or a pager, or a telephone answering machine, or a handheld data organizer or any other electrical, electronic or mechanical device. These known variations and modifications of the electronic data terminal 230 can be arranged on a local communication network.

Still referring to FIG. 2, reference numeral 220 refers to a wireless headset, provided to maximize user comfort when making a local communication path. Reference numbers 250-1 through 250-4 refer to four local interface modules. Local interface module 250-1 is coupled to radio enhanced telephone interconnect 210, local interface module 250-2 is coupled to wireless headset 220, local interface module 250-3 is coupled to terminal 230 Electronic data carrier and local interface module 250-4 is coupled to mobile station 240. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that although local interface modules 250-1 to 250-4 are shown as separate functional blocks, they can be structurally integrated into their respective communication devices 210, 220, 230, and 240. Furthermore, the radio enhanced telephone interconnect device 210 may be such that its associated local interface module 250-1 is functionally integrated into its native circuitry as well. Similarly, the wireless helmet 220 and the local interface module 250-2 may also be functionally integrated.

Referring now to Figure 3, there is shown an implementation of a local area communication system, which is useful in understanding the present invention. Reference numeral 210 is the radio enhanced telephone interconnect device that is associated with the PSTN 260 for external landline communication. Reference number 261 is the associative path between PSTN 260 and radio enhanced telephone interconnect device 210. The communication signals on this path 261 may be analog or digital, and further, in a specific embodiment may be a T1 telephone line, or an Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) connection, or an asymmetric digital subscriber line ( ADSL) high capacity. The radio enhanced telephone interconnect device 210, shown having a local antenna 211 for local communication, may be a cordless telephone base unit coupled with a corresponding local interface module (not shown) or home base station that can connect directly.

Mobile station 240 is associated with PLMN 270 for cellular communication. Cellular path 271 can be made between mobile station 240 and PLMN 270 using any one of the common cellular transmission standards such as the Advanced Mobile Station Service System (AMPS) standard or the Global System Standard for Mobile Communication ( GSM). Mobile station 240 is equipped with a non-local antenna 242 to facilitate transmission and reception of cellular communication signals between mobile station 240 and a base station (not shown). In addition, mobile station 240 is coupled to a local interface module 241 having a local antenna 243 for local communication. The coupling between mobile station 240 and local interface module 241 is such that non-local cellular communication signals over cellular path 271 can be selectively converted to local communication signals, and vice versa, to be transmitted over a communication link. local as will be discussed below in this document. Local interface modules 241 also allow communications between peripheral devices 210, 220.

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The wireless headset 220 can be operated either as a wireless extension of the mobile station 240 via a first local radio communication link 310 or as a hands-free phone unit for PSTN communication 260 via a second link 320 of local radio communication. A third local radio communication link 330 is selectably established between the mobile station 240 and the radio enhanced telephone interconnect device 210 whereby the mobile station 240 can be selectably operated as an associated handheld telephone unit. with the radio enhanced telephone interconnect device 210 to make a call on the PSTN 260.

Referring now to FIG. 4, an implementation of a mobile station 2000 is illustrated that provides both mobile telephony and remote control functions through the local area communication system. A radio enhanced telephone interface device 2005 that interfaces with the mobile station 2000, such as a home base station, enables communication between the mobile station 2000 and the PSTN for external landline communication. The mobile station 2000 includes a communication link 2010 that enables communication with an associated public land mobile network (PLMN) 2020 for cellular communications through the mobile phone functions module 2015. The cellular communication link 2010 can be effected between the mobile station 2000 and the PLMN 2020 using any one of the common cellular transmission standards, such as the advanced mobile phone service system (AMPS) or the global system for mobile communications (GSM ).

The mobile station 2000 also includes a command control module 2025 and a local communication module 2027 for local communication and control with a plurality of associated local interface modules 2035, associated with various peripheral devices 2040. The command control module 2025 generates instructions to control peripheral devices 2040 in response to user input. Local communication module 2027 forms a local communication link 2045 between mobile station 2000 and peripheral devices 2040 via local interface modules 2035. Local interface modules 2035 are coupled to mobile station 2000 command control module 2025 via a local communication link 2045 using a communication protocol involving a local medium involving electromagnetic waves such as radio, infrared, optical spectra, microwaves or magnetic waves. Local communications link 2045 can be analog or digital, with any suitable modulation known in the art. Local interface modules 2035 are associated with a variety of peripheral devices 2040 including, but not limited to, a headset, television, radio, stereo, VCR (video player), personal computer, printer / plotter, station home base, answering machine, light, dimmer switch, thermostat, door, alarm, vibrator, car alarm, car locking mechanism, garage door, personal alarm, wristwatch type telephone, refrigerator or freezer. Using local communication link 2045, each of these devices can be controlled from mobile station 2000.

In some situations, the remote control and mobile phone functionalities may work together such as with the personal security alarm. A user equipped with a peripheral device 2040 comprising a personal alarm associated with a mobile station 2000 through a local communication link 2045 can activate a button on the alarm device that transmits a signal to the mobile station over the communication link. communications. This signal causes the mobile station 2000 to automatically contact a previously stored number or transmit an SMS message to a previously selected person via the PLMN communication link 2010. The user could then communicate with a person at the previously stored number using the handheld mobile station 2000 or a hands-free headset.

In a further example, a mobile station 2000 and a wireless vibrator may work together to notify a user of a call to the mobile station 2000. When a mobile station is initially powered up, an identification code is transmitted to the vibrator. After this initialization, the vibrator acts upon detection of a ring signal from a mobile station 2000 transmitting the correct ID code. This allows a user to carry only the vibrator rather than an entire mobile station 2000 within a local area and separates the vibration unit from the sensitive electronics of the mobile station.

A user enters control commands through a user interface 2050 of the mobile station 2000. Control commands are processed by command control module 2025 and transmitted to an associated local peripheral device 2040 via communication link 2045. In one embodiment, the user interface 2050 (and / or command control module 2025) has associated with it a voice recognition module 2055 that allows the user to control the various peripheral devices 2040 through spoken commands. Control of peripheral devices 2040 can also be accomplished through a dual-tone multi-frequency (DTMF) recognition module 2060 that responds to DTMF commands typed in by a user. Additional command formats can also be used to control the peripheral device through some types of command modules. Alternatively, user interface 2050 may include means for initiating commands through the use of buttons, a touch screen, a joystick, or other type of mechanical controller useful for individuals with disabilities.

Referring now to FIG. 5, an alternative implementation of the multifunction mobile station 2000 is illustrated in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, in which the mobile station is not implemented in a local area communication system. Instead, the mobile station 2000 comprises a master controller of a network of

ES 2 533 458 T3 local communications. All signals from the local communications link 2045 are controlled through the local communications module 2027. Mobile station 2000 can communicate with a PSTN network, PLMN network, and a variety of peripheral devices 2040 through local interface modules 2035 associated with each of these elements. Each peripheral device 2040 can communicate directly with the mobile station 2000 via a communication link 2045 associated between the command control module 2025 and the local interface modules 2035 of the peripheral devices. In this configuration, communications are not possible between peripheral devices 2040 and the respective PLMN and PSTN, through the local interface module 2035. All communications must go through the mobile station 2000 local communications module 2027 (ie, the local interface modules 2035 cannot communicate with each other). The types of peripheral devices 2040 controlled and the manner of control using this configuration are the same as those discussed with respect to Figure 4.

Referring now to Figure 6, yet another alternative implementation of the multifunction mobile station 2000 is illustrated in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the mobile station is implemented within a local area communication system and as a master controller of a local communication network. In this situation, in a first area 2067 all the signals of a local communication network are controlled through the local communication module 2027 in the mobile station 2000. The mobile station 2000 is a master controller of the local interface modules 2035 and the peripheral devices 2040 cannot communicate with each other in the first area. In a second area 2068, within the local area communication system, each of the local interface modules 2035 can communicate with each other and with the mobile station 2000. This allows intercommunication between all of the peripheral device 2040 and the mobile station 2000. The types of peripheral devices 2040 controlled and the manner of control using this configuration are the same as those discussed with respect to Figures 4 and 5.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 7, the handheld mobile station 2000 may be replaced by a hands-free helmet 2000a. The helmet 2000a would include a command control module 2025 and a local communication module 2027 that provide a communication link 2045 with the local interface modules 2035 of the peripheral devices 2040 and / or a home base station attached to a PSTN network. The helmet 2000a may or may not include an additional communication link 2010 with a public land mobile network 2020. Control of the various peripheral devices 2040, such as those discussed above with respect to Figure 3, would occur through the local communications link 2045 between the hands-free headset 2000a and the peripheral devices 2040.

Referring now to Figure 8, reference numeral 410 generally illustrates a possible network interconnection of multiple PLMN 270A, 270B to PSTN 260. A mobile subscriber 420 (MS) is associated with one of the PLMNs as his home PLMN 270A . Within each PLMN 270A, 270B, there are multiple mobile switching centers (MSCs) 470A, 470B, serving the geographic areas covered by the network. The mobile subscriber 420 served by its home PLMN 270A can communicate with other wireless and wired terminals by connecting to the PSTN 260 through a gateway mobile switching center (GMSC) 430A. An associated access tandem (AT) 440 within the PSTN 260 routes mobile calls generated from the PLMN 270A to cable terminals served by one of its exchanges within the PSTN 260, or to another PLMN 270B through its GMSC 430B . If the mobile subscriber 420 moves out of the coverage area of ​​his home PLMN 270A and enters the geographic area covered by an adjacent PLMN 270B, a handover occurs between the home PLMN 270A and the adjacent PLMN 270B with the following telecommunications service being provided to MS 420 from adjacent PLMN 270B as a roamer.

Figure 9 is a block diagram of the PLMN 270 that includes the mobile switching center 470. In addition, the PLMN 270 comprises a subscriber location register 480 (HLR), a visitor location register 490 (VLR), and various antenna systems 500-1 to 500-M. Mobile switching center 470 is also generally known in the art as a base station system and includes a base station controller 510 and one or more of base station transceiver (BS) stations 520-1 to 520-L. Each of the base station transceiver stations is associated with a subset of the antenna systems 500-1 to 500-M. In order for the mobile subscriber 420 to be assigned to a home network, an entry is made in the HLR 480. Whenever the MS 420 is powered up, and possibly at regular intervals thereafter, it will log into the PLMN 270 and give its location area.

The MSC 470 communicates directly with the HLR 480 and VLR 490 to obtain subscriber information and transfers calls from one BS to another as the MS 420 moves within the geographic area covered by the PLMN 270. In addition, the GMSC 430 acts as gateway to allow access to other cable terminals associated with the PSTN 260 or wireless mobile subscribers associated with other PLMNs.

Establishing a cellular call within and without the PLMN 270 is typically accomplished through Signaling System Number 7 (SS7) network protocols using network addresses. A co-pending US patent application "Identification of mobile calls within a mobile telephone system," filed December 22, 1995, describes a method and system for using network addresses to construct a unique call identifier for a cell phone call.

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Referring now to Fig. 10, a block diagram of a conventional landline telephone is generally shown at 610. This 610 telephone consists of a 635 base and a 645 handset. The 610 telephone is connected to the PSTN 260 via a cable connection 615 carrying analog or digital telephone signals. It can be readily appreciated that the cable connection 615 may be substantially identical to the associative path 261 shown in Figure 3 and described hereinbefore. The base 635 includes a data access facility (DAA) section 620, a keypad 625, and a call circuit 630. On the other hand, the headset 645 includes a speaker 640 and a microphone 650. The DAA 620 contains analog filters and other known protection devices required for connection to the PSTN 260. The keypad 625 is used to provide the number to be called to the PSTN 260. The ringing circuit 630 and signaling means Known partners are provided to inform the user when there is an incoming call.

Figure 11 illustrates a block diagram of a conventional cordless telephone base unit, shown generally with 710, which can be operated, for example, at frequencies near or within the frequency range of 46 MHZ to 49 MHZ. The cordless phone base unit 710, conceptually, is a sub-miniature cellular system that provides at least one signaling channel that transmits outgoing signals in a manner similar to a conventional cellular outgoing signaling channel and receives service requests from a handheld unit 715. remote.

Base unit 710 has a local PSTN line interface 720, a remote unit interface 730 coupled to an antenna 770, a channel switch 740, a tone signal source 750 that generates tone signals such as a tone signal call and a 760 controller. Channel switch 740 selectively establishes a channel between local PSTN line interface 720 and remote unit interface 730, and a channel between tone signal source 750 and remote unit interface 730. It is known in the art that the local PSTN line interface 720 may comprise a switching circuit (not shown) that performs loop open / close control, a call detection circuit (not shown) to detect a signal and a sender (not shown) to send dial push button signals. It is also well known in the art that remote unit interface 730 comprises a voice band processing circuit (not shown), a mixer (not shown), a radio transceiver (not shown) coupled to antenna 770. Controller 760 it controls the local PSTN line interface 720, channel switch 740, and remote unit interface 730. Referring now to Figure 12, reference numeral 810 generally shows a block diagram of a wireless headset. An antenna 820, operable to receive and transmit local communication signals which can be accomplished using either conventional wireless communication protocols or a proprietary protocol, is electrically connected to a radio transceiver 830. As is well known in the art, the functionality of the radio transceiver 830 can be implemented in numerous known ways, with consequent electronic circuitry for tuning, etc.

Continuing with Figure 12, the signal output from the radio transceiver 830 is then fed to a baseband modulator / demodulator block 840 that either extracts the information signal from the local carrier radio wave or modulates the radio wave. local carrier using the information signal. The incoming information signal is then fed to a speaker 880 through a driver / amplifier block 850. It is also known in the art that loudspeaker 880 and driver / amplifier block 850, in physical implementation, can take a variety of known forms. The outgoing information signal is generated by a microphone 870 which is amplified by the driver / amplifier block 850. The amplified outgoing information signal is then modulated with a local carrier radio wave for local transmission over a local medium. Preferably a controller block 860 is provided that is in loop communication with radio transceiver 830, baseband modulator / demodulator 840, and driver / amplifier 850, to monitor the bi-directional transfer of the information signals. Controller block 860 may comprise a microprocessor, a plurality of wired digital logic, memory, and / or control switches. In yet another background example, the wireless headset implementation may include a single housing with its own push button keyboard and related control buttons, and a portable power source such as a rechargeable battery. In a further example, the wireless headset may include two headphones, a movable microphone, flexibly mounted in the housing, a volume control for enhanced realistic binaural sound, and a supplemental headband to attach the unit to the head of the headset. Username. In addition, the antenna 820 may preferably be disposed within the movable arm provided for the microphone 870, although in yet another example, it may be attached to one of the earphones so that it can extend from the earpiece housing. Furthermore, instead of a conventional on / off switch, a voice activated mechanism may preferably be provided to facilitate connection / disconnection of a local communication link with the helmet. Additionally, the headphones may preferably be formed of an elastic rubber or plastic material to securely engage the wearer's ear and minimize the reception of external background noise. Alternatively, the headphones can be concave foam ear cushions similar to hi-fi headphones in order to further reduce background ambient noise. Furthermore, it will be understood upon reference to that the aesthetic aspects of the wireless headset may in turn also give rise to certain design features.

Figure 13A is a block diagram of a currently preferred exemplary embodiment of a local interface module adapted for use with mobile station 240 (not shown) that is associated with PLMN 270.

ES 2 533 458 T3 (not shown). Figure 13B is a block diagram of a currently preferred exemplary embodiment of a local interface module adapted as a home base station that can be connected directly associated with the PSTN 260. Figure 13C is a block diagram of one embodiment as a presently preferred example of a local interface module adapted for use with a serial computer port connector . FIG. 13D is a block diagram of a currently preferred exemplary embodiment of a local interface module adapted for use with electronic data terminal 230. Figure 13E is a block diagram of a currently preferred exemplary embodiment of a local interface module adapted for use with the cordless telephone base unit 210 associated with the PSTN 260.

Referring now specifically to the local interface modules, 905-A through 905-F of Figures 13A through 13F, respectively, it can be readily appreciated that according to a presently preferred exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the local interface modules They are substantially identical to each other, and to a large extent, they are similar to the wireless headset, shown in Figure 12. As previously described herein, the antenna 820 can be operated to receive and transmit local communication signals which can be accomplished using either conventional wireless communication protocols or a proprietary protocol, on a single local communication medium that can be it an electromagnetic wave, an infrared wave, a radio wave, a microwave, a magnetic wave, an optical wave, or even a cable connection. Modulation and demodulation of the communication signal is accomplished by baseband modulator / demodulator 830 which is coupled to a block of interface circuitry, 910-A through 910-F. Interface circuitry block 910-A performs appropriate conversion of communication signals between local interface module 905-A and a system connector 920 coupled to mobile station 240 (not shown). The interface circuitry block 910-B performs the appropriate conversion of communication signals between the directly connected local interface module 905-B (or, home base station, as described earlier herein) and the PSTN 260. Interface circuitry block 910-C performs appropriate conversion of communication signals between local interface module 905-C and a serial port connector 930. The serial port connector 930 may preferably be an RS-232 type connector. Alternatively, the interface circuitry block 910-C may be of the PCMCIA-compliant type, as described in a co-pending US patent application serial number 08 / 353,966. Interface circuitry block 910-D performs an appropriate conversion of communication signals between local interface module 905-D and electronic data terminal 935. The interface circuitry block 910-E performs an appropriate conversion of communication signals between the local interface module 905-E and the cordless telephone base unit 210 that is associated with the PSTN 260.

In accordance with a presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, each of the local interface modules 905-A to 905-F may preferably be disposed within the housing of the communication device (not shown) with which it will interface. Alternatively, the local interface module can also be arranged in a separate housing so as to form a plug-in unit to be received at a module port in the communication device. As mentioned earlier herein, the controller module 860 in Figures 12A through 12F is substantially similar to the controller module 860 in Figure 11.

Figures 14, 15A and 15B show two flow charts illustrating an exemplary decision tree that can be used in order to perform local wireless communication between at least one radio enhanced telephone interface device, a station mobile phone and a wireless helmet. As it is desired to maximize user comfort and flexibility, different decision trees can be used to suit different operating conditions.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 14, there is shown a flow chart for selectably making local wireless communication links for receiving calls. Steps 1005 and 1020 are decision blocks for determining whether the incoming call is a PSTN call or a cellular call over the PLMN. If the call is a PSTN call, then the user needs to determine whether the mobile station or headset is to be used to function as a call termination device. This step is provided in decision block 1010. If the mobile station is present within the geographic coverage area provided for the radio transceiver unit of the local interface module attached to the radio enhanced telephone interface device and the user selects to use the mobile station to receive the PSTN call, user takes MS path 1011. After making that determination, the user can selectively establish a wireless local communication link between the mobile station and the radio enhanced telephone interface device as shown at 1015. On the other hand, if the mobile station is out of range for use with the radio enhanced telephone interface device, or if the user wishes to use the wireless headset to receive the incoming PSTN call, the user takes path 1013 headset to selectively establish in step 1017 a local wireless communication link between the wireless headset and the radio enhanced telephone interface device. Also, if the wireless headset is out of range, or if the user does not want to use the wireless headset, then the user can proceed as in step 1016 to receive the PSTN call using the wireless telephone set, or the wired headset. , conventional taking the path shown in 1012.

ES 2 533 458 T3

If the incoming call is a cellular call, as determined by step 1020, then the user has the choice of using the mobile station in a conventional way to receive that call, shown in step 1035, or establishing a local communication link. wireless between the mobile station and the wireless headset, as long as they are within a suitable range of each other, as shown in step 1040.

Referring now to Figures 15A and 15B, an exemplary decision tree for initiating a call is shown therein. Decision blocks 1105 and 1125 are used to determine whether the outgoing call is to be transmitted over the PLMN or the PSTN. If the outgoing call is a PSTN call, the user takes the YES path shown in 1104. After this stage, the user has the choice of initiating a call using a wireless headset with a keypad, or using a mobile station as shown in decision block 1110. If the user wishes to use the mobile station and if the mobile station is within local range of the radio enhanced telephone interface device, the user can, taking MS path 1113, selectively establish the local communication link between mobile station and radio enhanced telephone interface device as shown in 1121. If the user wishes, on the other hand, to use the helmet by taking the helmet path 1111, the later stages of the decision tree depend on whether the wireless helmet is equipped with its own keypad necessary for remote operation. This condition is tested in decision block 1115. If the determination is NO, the user takes path 1116 to initiate the PSTN call using the keypad associated with the radio enhanced telephone interconnect device as shown in step 1117. The user can then go back through the path 1118 to use the wireless headset as in step 1119 which is also reached if the user takes path 1114 YES from decision block 1115. Alternatively, if the user selects neither the mobile station nor the wireless headset, then the PSTN call initiation will proceed using a conventional handset / headset, if equipped with the radio enhanced telephone interface device, shown in step 1120.

Similarly, if the outgoing call is a cellular call as determined at 1125, then the user has the choice of wearing either the headset or the mobile station. If either the helmet is not in adequate range or the helmet is not equipped with a keypad, then the user initiates the cellular call using the mobile station as shown in step 1165 which is reached through 1141 or 1136. After initiating the cellular call using the mobile station, the user has the option of either using the helmet again via a return path 1172 or continuing to use the mobile station as shown at 1175. In addition, taking step 1142 YES from At decision block 1140, the user can selectively establish a local communication link between the helmet and the mobile station as shown at 1160.

Although presently preferred exemplary embodiments of the method and apparatus of the present invention have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and have been described in the detailed description above, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but which allows numerous restructurings, modifications and substitutions without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth and defined by the following claims. For example, it will be readily appreciated that local communication paths may also comprise infrared (IR) or microwave or magnetic wave links and corresponding receivers / transmitters will be used in place of radio transceivers. Additionally, the term "radio transceiver" as used herein comprises appropriate radio control logic of the type necessary to constitute a radio device that can communicate using a wireless communication standard such as DAMPS, GSM, DECT, etc. The transceiver may include, in addition to a transmitter and receiver, data modem circuitry, when the communications device is used for data transmission. In addition, both local and non-local communication signals (ie, arranged between the plurality of communication devices and their respective external communication networks) can be analog or digital, and can comprise voice, video, and data. Accordingly, it will be readily appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art upon reference to this that the exemplary modifications and substitutions mentioned hereinbefore do not depart from the scope of the present invention.