Automatic price determination

The present invention relates to a communication device, particularly a communication device that supplies goods and services from one of a plurality of suppliers and acquires them. The present invention mainly relates to, but is not limited to, the supply of communication services from a plurality of communication providers to customers. In many countries (eg the UK), customers can get telecommunications services from one or more carriers. Therefore, the customer has the option of getting the service from one or more sources, which is based on the price, quality and other factors (including brand value) of the service. Different carriers can access through a common communication network. For example, in the United Kingdom, a telephone, which is a major part of a communication network operated by a first supplier, is connected by a user to another supplier's network via the first supplier's communication network. A button may be provided to enable. Currently, different carriers offer services at different prices, which are calculated on different criteria. Many service providers charge based on the time they are used, but different rates are used at different times and in different distance ranges (eg, regions, long distances or between nations). Different suppliers have different ranges of time and distance, and different suppliers offer features such as discounts for multiple uses, reservations, or low prices during times of low network utilization. provide. All of these allow the user's time consumption and price of the telecommunications service to make it difficult to make notification decisions based on charges, and the price can be adjusted within the telecommunications service market.Interfere with the range of competition. Usually, users tend to make long-term contracts with specific communication service providers, who set prices relatively infrequently prior to such long-term contracts. The overall level of price (determined by reference to a set of different services, for example) is adjusted by a government coordinating body. Literature (ABC-A State of-the Art Private Networking Solution, 1991 L'onde Electrique, by F Seveque and W Sussman, September / October 1991, No. 5, pages 49-53) describes a single-facility network consisting of parts obtained from sellers of different equipment. A distributed adaptive routing mechanism is used to distribute the call through this network. In this mechanism, different passages through the network are associated with a "price", and each such "price" constitutes a "price" unit from each node along the passage, the longer the route, the more. Associated with high prices. Each node propagates price upstream to the node to which it is connected. Route setting is done at each node according to the stored price of different routes obtained from the nodes. This "minimum price path" does not take into account actual prices and is used simply as a way to distribute communications through a single network without financial or technical relevance. Similar techniques are described in the English abstract of US Pat. No. 5,067,127 and, apparently, JP-A-2-94755. U.S. Special No. 4 897 742 describes a system in which two facsimile terminals can be arranged to share a nominal (fixed) price in one of several different ratios. There is. The calling terminal proposes a payment ratio. The called terminal can evaluate the ratio and present different ratios as alternatives. If the alternative is rejected, no call is set. European Patent Application Publication No. 0 526 Specification 118 discloses a communication system that transmits price information updated by a single network center to each user. In one aspect, the present invention typically relates to the configuration of a communication system comprising a user negotiation device and a service provider negotiation device, the user negotiation device having a plurality of communication services so as to receive price data from each provider. It is configured to communicate with the provider and select one service provider based on price data, and the service provider negotiation device generates a calculated price to provide the service, and this price is used by the user. It is configured to communicate with the device. The present invention relates to both user equipment and supplier equipment, which are also independent of each other, and in fact the two may be located in different national jurisdictions. Preferably, the price is set in a short period of time and more preferably set according to each service request of the user negotiation device. This "real-time" pricing also allows for more complex bargaining transactions such as auctions, barters or exchange transactions between users and supplier equipment, both directly and in real time. Thus, in one embodiment, when a telecommunications customer activates a handset device and turns a destination dial to initiate a normal telephone service (POTS) call, the handset device communicates indicating the destination of the call. A polling signal is sent to the network, and the service provider connected to the network sends a charge signal (for example, an hourly charge such as 1 pence per minute) as a response. The customer equipment selects the network that offers the lowest price and notifies its supplier of a request to connect the call. Therefore, each call process can be performed on the basis of competing charges. In the future, private networks (such as power, transportation or other institutions) where the telecommunications supplier is not only a typical telecommunications carrier but also a person with extra capacity or a large telecommunications service user with extra capacity. Assuming that the owners of) are included, the present invention provides a very effective resource allocation mechanism that can offer prices that indicate the instantaneous allowances available to potential telecommunications service providers. Therefore, (easily available Prefer efficient communication providers (even if only) and match communication service users to communication capacity. In fact, the present invention may also be applied within a single communication network in which multiple paths are available between points in the network, with each switch or switching center in the network and the link between them. Effectively acting as a price center, when there is a choice to switch a message through several different exchanges or switching centers, each generate a price signal and the message is switched to a route that offers the lowest price. The same principle can be extended to, for example, other communication network elements (eg, databases). Therefore, the network can be effectively "self-organized" and allocate resources according to market forces (subject to macroeconomics, regulations or other restrictions). Further, the present invention can be extended to services other than communication services, for example, providers of goods or services such as entertainment providers, education founders, special hobby groups or stores, as well as communication networks. You may have a pricing or price signaling device that interconnects with you through, so you may use your own communication terminal to order goods or services from one of multiple competing sources. it can. It may be believed that the present invention can be performed by humans as well. However, discussions have shown that this is not the case. For example, in communications applications, a user-competitive quote before making a phone conversation through the process of having some preliminary phone conversations to set prices and more conversations to direct appropriate bidders. It is clear that this process is more expensive than the call given the quote, and secondly (in preparing the quote, negotiating, deciding and positioning the call). ) Because it takes a long time, the ability to take advantage of short-term fluctuations in real time in the demand and supply of communication services is lost. Many other preferred features, viewpoints, examples and applications of the present invention will become apparent from the description and claims below. An example of the present invention is attached. This will be explained with reference to the drawings, but this is merely an example. FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a connection between a local and long-distance network according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the elements of the exchange in the local network that form a part of FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing a selection device structure forming a part of the station of FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the price device in the long-distance network of FIG. FIG. 5a is a flow chart schematically showing the process performed by the selection device of FIG. FIG. 5b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the price device of FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the structure of the customer terminal device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing a plurality of communication networks in which the device of FIG. 6 is communicating. FIG. 8 is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the device of FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the process performed by the apparatus of FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a first communication network structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the elements of the second network according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the supply of services through the communication network according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 corresponds to FIG. 4 and shows the structure of the selection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention (where FIG. 1 is applicable). FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 3 and schematically shows the structure of the auction device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16a is a flow chart schematically showing the processing performed by the selection device of this embodiment. FIG. 16b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the auction device of FIG. 15 of this embodiment. Figure 16c shows in more detail the process of generating one of the steps in Figure 16b of this example. FIG. 17a is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the selection device of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 17b is a flow chart schematically showing the operation of the auction device according to the seventh embodiment. However, this is just an example. FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a connection between a local and long-distance network according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the elements of the exchange in the local network that form a part of FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing a selection device structure forming a part of the station of FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the price device in the long-distance network of FIG. FIG. 5a is a flow chart schematically showing the process performed by the selection device of FIG. FIG. 5b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the price device of FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the structure of the customer terminal device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing a plurality of communication networks in which the device of FIG. 6 is communicating. FIG. 8 is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the device of FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the process performed by the apparatus of FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a first communication network structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the elements of the second network according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the supply of services through the communication network according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 corresponds to FIG. 4 and shows the structure of the selection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention (where FIG. 1 is applicable). FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 3 and schematically shows the structure of the auction device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16a is a flow chart schematically showing the processing performed by the selection device of this embodiment. FIG. 16b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the auction device of FIG. 15 of this embodiment. Figure 16c shows in more detail the process of generating one of the steps in Figure 16b of this example. FIG. 17a is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the selection device of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 17b is a flow chart schematically showing the operation of the auction device according to the seventh embodiment. However, this is just an example. FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a connection between a local and long-distance network according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the elements of the exchange in the local network that form part of FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing a selection device structure forming a part of the station of FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the price device in the long-distance network of FIG. FIG. 5a is a flow chart schematically showing the process performed by the selection device of FIG. FIG. 5b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the price device of FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the structure of the customer terminal device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing a plurality of communication networks in which the device of FIG. 6 is communicating. FIG. 8 is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the device of FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the process performed by the apparatus of FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a first communication network structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the elements of the second network according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the supply of services through the communication network according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 corresponds to FIG. 4 and shows the structure of the selection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention (where FIG. 1 is applicable). FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 3 and schematically shows the structure of the auction device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16a is a flow chart schematically showing the processing performed by the selection device of this embodiment. FIG. 16b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the auction device of FIG. 15 of this embodiment. Figure 16c shows in more detail the process of generating one of the steps in Figure 16b of this example. FIG. 17a is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the selection device of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 17b is a flow chart schematically showing the operation of the auction device according to the seventh embodiment. FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a connection between a local and long-distance network according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the elements of the exchange in the local network that form a part of FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing a selection device structure forming a part of the station of FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the price device in the long-distance network of FIG. FIG. 5a is a flow chart schematically showing the process performed by the selection device of FIG. FIG. 5b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the price device of FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the structure of the customer terminal device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing a plurality of communication networks in which the device of FIG. 6 is communicating. FIG. 8 is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the device of FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the process performed by the apparatus of FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a first communication network structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the elements of the second network according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the supply of services through the communication network according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 corresponds to FIG. 4 and shows the structure of the selection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention (where FIG. 1 is applicable). FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 3 and schematically shows the structure of the auction device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16a is a flow chart schematically showing the processing performed by the selection device of this embodiment. FIG. 16b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the auction device of FIG. 15 of this embodiment. Figure 16c shows in more detail the process of generating one of the steps in Figure 16b of this example. FIG. 17a is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the selection device of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 17b is a flow chart schematically showing the operation of the auction device according to the seventh embodiment. FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a connection between a local and long-distance network according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the elements of the exchange in the local network that form part of FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing a selection device structure forming a part of the station of FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the price device in the long-distance network of FIG. FIG. 5a is a flow chart schematically showing the process performed by the selection device of FIG. FIG. 5b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the price device of FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the structure of the customer terminal device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing a plurality of communication networks in which the device of FIG. 6 is communicating. FIG. 8 is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the device of FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the process performed by the apparatus of FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a first communication network structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the elements of the second network according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the supply of services through the communication network according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 corresponds to FIG. 4 and shows the structure of the selection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention (where FIG. 1 is applicable). FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 3 and schematically shows the structure of the auction device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16a is a flow chart schematically showing the processing performed by the selection device of this embodiment. FIG. 16b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the auction device of FIG. 15 of this embodiment. Figure 16c shows in more detail the process of generating one of the steps in Figure 16b of this example. FIG. 17a is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the selection device of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 17b is a flow chart schematically showing the operation of the auction device according to the seventh embodiment. Shown. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the elements of the exchange in the local network that form part of FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing a selection device structure forming a part of the station of FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the price device in the long-distance network of FIG. FIG. 5a is a flow chart schematically showing the process performed by the selection device of FIG. FIG. 5b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the price device of FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the structure of the customer terminal device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing a plurality of communication networks in which the device of FIG. 6 is communicating. FIG. 8 is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the device of FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the process performed by the apparatus of FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a first communication network structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the elements of the second network according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the supply of services through the communication network according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 corresponds to FIG. 4 and shows the structure of the selection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention (where FIG. 1 is applicable). FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 3 and schematically shows the structure of the auction device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16a is a flow chart schematically showing the processing performed by the selection device of this embodiment. FIG. 16b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the auction device of FIG. 15 of this embodiment. Figure 16c shows in more detail the process of generating one of the steps in Figure 16b of this example. FIG. 17a is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the selection device of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 17b is a flow chart schematically showing the operation of the auction device according to the seventh embodiment. Shown. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the elements of the exchange in the local network that form a part of FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing a selection device structure forming a part of the station of FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the price device in the long-distance network of FIG. FIG. 5a is a flow chart schematically showing the process performed by the selection device of FIG. FIG. 5b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the price device of FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the structure of the customer terminal device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing a plurality of communication networks in which the device of FIG. 6 is communicating. FIG. 8 is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the device of FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the process performed by the apparatus of FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a first communication network structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the elements of the second network according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the supply of services through the communication network according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 corresponds to FIG. 4 and shows the structure of the selection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention (where FIG. 1 is applicable). FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 3 and schematically shows the structure of the auction device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16a is a flow chart schematically showing the processing performed by the selection device of this embodiment. FIG. 16b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the auction device of FIG. 15 of this embodiment. Figure 16c shows in more detail the process of generating one of the steps in Figure 16b of this example. FIG. 17a is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the selection device of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 17b is a flow chart schematically showing the operation of the auction device according to the seventh embodiment. It is a block diagram shown substantially. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the price device in the long-distance network of FIG. FIG. 5a is a flow chart schematically showing the process performed by the selection device of FIG. FIG. 5b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the price device of FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the structure of the customer terminal device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing a plurality of communication networks in which the device of FIG. 6 is communicating. FIG. 8 is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the device of FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the process performed by the apparatus of FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a first communication network structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the elements of the second network according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the supply of services through the communication network according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 corresponds to FIG. 4 and shows the structure of the selection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention (where FIG. 1 is applicable). FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 3 and schematically shows the structure of the auction device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16a is a flow chart schematically showing the processing performed by the selection device of this embodiment. FIG. 16b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the auction device of FIG. 15 of this embodiment. Figure 16c shows in more detail the process of generating one of the steps in Figure 16b of this example. FIG. 17a is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the selection device of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 17b is a flow chart schematically showing the operation of the auction device according to the seventh embodiment. It is a block diagram shown substantially. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the price device in the long-distance network of FIG. FIG. 5a is a flow chart schematically showing the process performed by the selection device of FIG. FIG. 5b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the price device of FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the structure of the customer terminal device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing a plurality of communication networks in which the device of FIG. 6 is communicating. FIG. 8 is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the device of FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the process performed by the apparatus of FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a first communication network structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the elements of the second network according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the supply of services through the communication network according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 corresponds to FIG. 4 and shows the structure of the selection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention (where FIG. 1 is applicable). FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 3 and schematically shows the structure of the auction device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16a is a flow chart schematically showing the processing performed by the selection device of this embodiment. FIG. 16b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the auction device of FIG. 15 of this embodiment. Figure 16c shows in more detail the process of generating one of the steps in Figure 16b of this example. FIG. 17a is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the selection device of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 17b is a flow chart schematically showing the operation of the auction device according to the seventh embodiment. It is a block diagram which showed the structure of the customer terminal apparatus. FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing a plurality of communication networks in which the device of FIG. 6 is communicating. FIG. 8 is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the device of FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the process performed by the apparatus of FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a first communication network structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the elements of the second network according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the supply of services through the communication network according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 corresponds to FIG. 4 and shows the structure of the selection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention (where FIG. 1 is applicable). FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 3 and schematically shows the structure of the auction device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16a is a flow chart schematically showing the processing performed by the selection device of this embodiment. FIG. 16b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the auction device of FIG. 15 of this embodiment. Figure 16c shows in more detail the process of generating one of the steps in Figure 16b of this example. FIG. 17a is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the selection device of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 17b is a flow chart schematically showing the operation of the auction device according to the seventh embodiment. It is a block diagram which showed the structure of the customer terminal apparatus. FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing a plurality of communication networks in which the device of FIG. 6 is communicating. FIG. 8 is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the device of FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the process performed by the apparatus of FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a first communication network structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the elements of the second network according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the supply of services through the communication network according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 corresponds to FIG. 4 and shows the structure of the selection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention (where FIG. 1 is applicable). FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 3 and schematically shows the structure of the auction device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16a is a flow chart schematically showing the processing performed by the selection device of this embodiment. FIG. 16b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the auction device of FIG. 15 of this embodiment. Figure 16c shows in more detail the process of generating one of the steps in Figure 16b of this example. FIG. 17a is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the selection device of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 17b is a flow chart schematically showing the operation of the auction device according to the seventh embodiment. Correspondingly, the structure of the selection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention (to which FIG. 1 is applicable) is shown. FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 3 and schematically shows the structure of the auction device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16a is a flow chart schematically showing the processing performed by the selection device of this embodiment. FIG. 16b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the auction device of FIG. 15 of this embodiment. Figure 16c shows in more detail the process of generating one of the steps in Figure 16b of this example. FIG. 17a is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the selection device of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 17b is a flow chart schematically showing the operation of the auction device according to the seventh embodiment. Correspondingly, the structure of the selection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention (to which FIG. 1 is applicable) is shown. FIG. 15 corresponds to FIG. 3 and schematically shows the structure of the auction device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16a is a flow chart schematically showing the processing performed by the selection device of this embodiment. FIG. 16b is a flow diagram schematically showing the process performed by the auction device of FIG. 15 of this embodiment. Figure 16c shows in more detail the process of generating one of the steps in Figure 16b of this example. FIG. 17a is a flow chart schematically showing the operation process of the selection device of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 17b is a flow chart schematically showing the operation of the auction device according to the seventh embodiment.

[First Example] A first embodiment of the present invention will be described, in which the present invention is applied to long-distance communication. With reference to FIG. 1, the network 1 of some regional communication operators (eg, local or national communication operator or private network) is shown by 1a, 1b, 1c. Each of them is connected to multiple long-range operators (indicated by 2a, 2b, 2c), which provide intercontinental communication channels to long-range station 3 via satellite or submarine cables or transcontinental cables. Each local operator 1a, 1b or 1c can be connected to the long-distance station 3 via any of the long-distance operators 2a, 2b, 2c. Referring to FIG. 2, each local network 1a to 1c selectively interconnects network 1 with one of operators 2a, 2b, 2c to route long-distance communication via a long-distance operator. Includes device 10. Such switches form part of an existing communication network. Further, a selection device 12 is provided, which is arranged so as to make signal transmission contact with the networks 2a, 2b, and 2c in order to exchange price information as described in detail later. Referring to FIG. 3, the selection device 12 includes a digital processor 14, a program storage memory 16 that stores a program that controls the operation of the processor 14, and an operating memory 18 that stores data used for the operation of the processor 14. It comprises a transmit circuit 19a and a receive circuit 19b (including, for example, a wavelength-dividing or time-dividing multiplexer and a demultiplexer), through which the processor 14 communicates with network 1 and long-range operators 2a-2c. The control line 11 extends from the selection circuit 12 to the switch 10, both of which are conveniently located in the switching center or switch of network 1. Referring to FIG. 4, each international operator network 2a, 2b, 2c includes a pricing device 20 comprising a processor 24, program storage memory 26, operating memory 28, transmit and receive circuits 29a, 29b, transmit and receive. Circuits 29a and 29b are selection devices 1 It is for communicating with 2. The processor 24 also has, for example, an input line 21 for receiving input data about currently available long-range channels from the network control center where the pricing device 20 is located. Processor 14, 24 may perform other tasks, such as forming part of a network plan or network or service management computer. An example of the operation method of the devices of FIGS. 1 to 4 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. Refer to Figure 5a (for example, checking the current number of such calls in progress and / or for long-distance communications with respect to the date and time including consideration of the type of date ie holidays, working days, weekends, etc. As the processor 14 of the selector in each network 1a-1c evaluates the demand for long-distance calling in step 100 at predetermined intervals (by using stored average data showing typical demand). It is configured. Processor 14 formulates a tender signal (preferably indicates an approximate predicted level of specific demand or demand), which is passed through the transmit circuit 19a to some or all long-distance operators 2a. The long-distance operators 2a to 2c are registered in the voting list in step 102 by transmitting to to 2c. Prior to this, some initial "handshake" signal communication is performed to establish the identity of the selection device 12 and the pricing device 20. Referring to FIG. 5b, within each international operator network 2a-2c, the price device processor 24 detects the reception of the bid signal via the receiving circuit 29b in step 110, frameworks the price in step 111, and the transmitter in step 120. It is configured to output the corresponding price level signal via circuit 29a. In this embodiment the price calculation step 111 is performed after the bid signal is received, but in other embodiments it is possible to calculate the price level infrequently or different times and store the price level data in advance. In one method of calculating the price, calculation step 111 is dictated by long-term factors such as labor, assembly, fixed equipment, maintenance, and other service delivery costs, and thus calculation of the price element. Evaluate the availability of long-distance communication resources (which are memorized constants or relatively rarely updated memorized values) Step 11 6 (eg a long-term average that monitors the number of transatlantic cable or satellite channels that are not currently in use, or infers from the channels that are using it, and / or represents the average level available at the relevant date and time. By using) and step 118, where other price factors are considered. One of these other factors is, for example, the form of direct information about publicly available prices, or the calculation of the number of past cases where processor 14 outputs a price level signal but cannot guarantee additional work. It may be "feedback" about the price level added by other long-distance operators in an indirect form of. One simple algorithm for generating a price signal is as follows, the price is C, and the available capacity of the long-range operator is A. Price = ((1 + a) .C) + (b. (A)_tot/ A))-(cN) where N is the number of cases where the processor 24 generated the price signal from the last case where the price signal was allowed, A_totIs the total capacity of the long-distance operator for long-distance communication, and a, b, and c are constants. Therefore, using this formula, the processor 24 sets an initial price that is a few percent higher than the price, and changes the price in opposition to the current availability of the resource (according to the so-called "law of supply"). It is directly related to the required speed of service (ie according to the so-called "law of supply"). In contrast to the price of competing long-haul networks, an unreasonably high initial price will gradually decrease until the price of the competing network is reached, competing for each long-haul operator. When setting the price, the demand level transmitted by processor 14 is taken into account by adding this to the existing demand to calculate the (predicted) availability A. In addition to indicating the price level (eg, per minute, per packet, or per bit), the price signal also indicates other indications of the characteristics or quality of the service given, such as the predictive mode of transmission (satellite). Or a fixed link, etc.) A channel that contains an indication of the confidentiality of the (encoded or encrypted or unencrypted) transmission, or a quality of service parameter such as delay and / or bit error rate (BER). It is also possible to give parameter instructions and the like. When receiving a price signal from each of the long-range networks 2a to 2c via the receiver circuit 19b, one of the long-range networks 2a to 2c is selected in step 104 of FIG. 5a for future billing. The processor 14 of the selection device is arranged to store or record the price data related to the network. The processor 14 outputs the corresponding signal on the line 11 to the switch 10 in order to set a longer-distance call path in the long-distance network selected in step 106. In the comparison and selection step 104, the processor 14 mainly operates to select the lowest price. However, preferably considering the quality of service data subjectively (ie, as judged by the user) or objective, it includes quality data indicating, for example, an unacceptably low level of quality. The network that transmitted the price signal is easily ignored, or more typically, the adjusted price for each long-range network is calculated as: P_adj= P + a₁Q₁+ a₂Q₂... a_iQ_iWhere a₁, A₂Etc. are predetermined constants stored in the memory 18, Q₁, Q₂, ... Q_iAre different quality measures such as delay, BER, etc. Rather than using a constant, instead of using a predetermined nonlinear function F of the form:₁, F₂Etc. can be used to provide a non-linear weight for each quality measure. P_adj= P + F₁(Q₁) + F₂(Q₂) ... F_i(Q_iFurther, preferably, the processor 14 stores data representing the actual quality of service encountered with each long-distance operator 2a-2c, such as the average BER actually encountered, the number of customer complaints, network interruptions, audible echo levels, etc. 18 Arranged to take into account actual prior experience with each long-haul network by recording or storing in. In the event of a new encounter with a long-distance operator who does not have track memory, an additional "factor of safety" will be added to the adjusted price. The "adjusted price" therefore usually serves as an indicator of the desire (judged in terms of financial value) of each long-haul operator. Processor 14 selects the lowest tuned price (ie, the price tuned according to the quality promised and predicted based on past performance). If the prices are estimated at different quotes, the processor 14 should also consider the non-endurance of the associated currently normal exchange rate, along with the consideration of the currently normal conversation rate, and thus the storage device 18 or processor 14 May be combined to receive currently normal change data from financial information service providers. Referring to FIG. 5b, when the selected pricing device detects that the price has been accepted in step 122, it remembers the price agreed upon for that call in step 104 for later payment. Price device 20 not selected does not work anymore. Nominal quantities located in each long-haul network 2a-2c for each price (and preferably individual user data such as user level) are compared to claims received from long-haul network operators 2a-2c. Is filled in and stored (eg, downloaded on a recording medium) in an account calculator (not shown) connected to a selection device 12 and a switch 10 to enable. Transmitters and receivers 19a, 19b, 29a, 29b transmit relatively small amounts of data, in each case an approximation of the source's instructions and the destination of the bid or price message, and the approximate level and / or price of demand. A relatively small number of bids that indicate a target level and / or a predetermined standard type of contract. Including. Therefore, they are the packet headers of any low-level signal channels present in networks 1 and 2, such as out-of-band or tone signals or digital packet transmission systems (eg asynchronous conversion mode (ATM) or synchronous digital classification (SDH) systems). Use even a part. Similar to or instead of the above-mentioned polling system in which the customer networks 1a to 1c generate a bid signal and the supplier circuits 2a to 2c respond with a price level signal, the price device 22 does not wait for the bid signal. The selection circuit 12 may be arranged to generate a new price level signal in response to changes in market conditions. Of course, the long-distance operator 2 and the regional network 1 do not need to be separated, but rather exist as a single unit to provide regional and long-distance communication links. As mentioned above, long-term or fixed prices are considered. In certain embodiments of the invention, it is preferable to have a short-term knowledge of the ever-increasing price of operating a service provider. Therefore, the pricing device 20 of this embodiment is connected to a calculation center in the network 2 and often calculates the renewal price. In one particular embodiment of this type, when receiving a polling signal, the pricing device 20 generates a real-time (ie, in receiving the porting signal) priced value by reading price data from part of network 2. It is arranged like this. If the service provided by the service provider itself depends on the service provided by another service provider (eg at distance point 3), the pricing device 20 is also used to obtain an indication of the price paid to the service provider. When receiving a polling signal from person 1, one more polling signal may be issued to each service provider and arranged to be used to calculate the price of the user. When received from the pricing device 20 by the pricing user, the pricing device 20 further signals the reception to the service provider. It is also used as part of the packet header of a packet transmission system (eg, an asynchronous teller machine (ATM) or synchronous digital classification (SDH) system). Similar to or instead of the above-mentioned polling system in which the customer networks 1a to 1c generate a bid signal and the supplier circuits 2a to 2c respond with a price level signal, the price device 22 does not wait for the bid signal. The selection circuit 12 may be arranged to generate a new price level signal in response to changes in market conditions. Of course, the long-distance operator 2 and the regional network 1 do not need to be separated, but rather exist as a single unit to provide regional and long-distance communication links. As mentioned above, long-term or fixed prices are considered. In certain embodiments of the invention, it is preferable to have a short-term knowledge of the ever-increasing price of operating a service provider. Therefore, the pricing device 20 of this embodiment is connected to a calculation center in the network 2 and often calculates the renewal price. In one particular embodiment of this type, when receiving a polling signal, the pricing device 20 generates a real-time (ie, in receiving the porting signal) priced value by reading price data from part of network 2. It is arranged like this. If the service provided by the service provider itself depends on the service provided by another service provider (eg at distance point 3), the pricing device 20 is also used to obtain an indication of the price paid to the service provider. When receiving a polling signal from person 1, one more polling signal may be issued to each service provider and arranged to be used to calculate the price of the user. When received from the pricing device 20 by the pricing user, the pricing device 20 further signals the reception to the service provider. It is also used as part of the packet header of a packet transmission system (eg, an asynchronous teller machine (ATM) or synchronous digital classification (SDH) system). Similar to or instead of the above-mentioned polling system in which the customer networks 1a to 1c generate a bid signal and the supplier circuits 2a to 2c respond with a price level signal, the price device 22 does not wait for the bid signal. The selection circuit 12 may be arranged to generate a new price level signal in response to changes in market conditions. Of course, the long-distance operator 2 and the regional network 1 do not need to be separated, but rather exist as a single unit to provide regional and long-distance communication links. As mentioned above, long-term or fixed prices are considered. In certain embodiments of the invention, it is preferable to have a short-term knowledge of the ever-increasing price of operating a service provider. Therefore, the pricing device 20 of this embodiment is connected to a calculation center in the network 2 and often calculates the renewal price. In one particular embodiment of this type, when receiving a polling signal, the pricing device 20 generates a real-time (ie, in receiving the porting signal) priced value by reading price data from part of network 2. It is arranged like this. If the service provided by the service provider itself depends on the service provided by another service provider (eg at distance point 3), the pricing device 20 is also used to obtain an indication of the price paid to the service provider. When receiving a polling signal from person 1, one more polling signal may be issued to each service provider and arranged to be used to calculate the price of the user. When received from the pricing device 20 by the pricing user, the pricing device 20 further signals the reception to the service provider. Similar to or instead of the pricing system, the pricing device 22 may be arranged to generate a new price level signal in response to changing market conditions without waiting for a bid signal, and the selection circuit 12 may be arranged to respond. May be done. Of course, the long-distance operator 2 and the regional network 1 do not need to be separated, but rather exist as a single unit to provide regional and long-distance communication links. As mentioned above, long-term or fixed prices are considered. In certain embodiments of the invention, it is preferable to have a short-term knowledge of the ever-increasing price of operating a service provider. Therefore, the pricing device 20 of this embodiment is connected to a calculation center in the network 2 and often calculates the renewal price. In one particular embodiment of this type, when receiving a polling signal, the pricing device 20 generates a real-time (ie, in receiving the porting signal) priced value by reading price data from part of network 2. It is arranged like this. If the service provided by the service provider itself depends on the service provided by another service provider (eg at distance point 3), the pricing device 20 is also used to obtain an indication of the price paid to the service provider. When receiving a polling signal from person 1, one more polling signal may be issued to each service provider and arranged to be used to calculate the price of the user. When received from the pricing device 20 by the pricing user, the pricing device 20 further signals the reception to the service provider. Similar to or instead of the pricing system, the pricing device 22 may be arranged to generate a new price level signal in response to changing market conditions without waiting for a bid signal, and the selection circuit 12 may be arranged to respond. May be done. Of course, the long-distance operator 2 and the regional network 1 do not need to be separated, but rather exist as a single unit to provide regional and long-distance communication links. As mentioned above, long-term or fixed prices are considered. In certain embodiments of the invention, it is preferable to have a short-term knowledge of the ever-increasing price of operating a service provider. Therefore, the pricing device 20 of this embodiment is connected to a calculation center in the network 2 and often calculates the renewal price. In one particular embodiment of this type, when receiving a polling signal, the pricing device 20 generates a real-time (ie, in receiving the porting signal) priced value by reading price data from part of network 2. It is arranged like this. If the service provided by the service provider itself depends on the service provided by another service provider (eg at distance point 3), the pricing device 20 is also used to obtain an indication of the price paid to the service provider. When receiving a polling signal from person 1, one more polling signal may be issued to each service provider and arranged to be used to calculate the price of the user. When received from the pricing device 20 by the pricing user, the pricing device 20 further signals the reception to the service provider. The pricing device 20 of the example is connected to a calculation center in the network 2 and often calculates the renewal price. In one particular embodiment of this type, when receiving a polling signal, the pricing device 20 generates a real-time (ie, in receiving the porting signal) priced value by reading price data from part of network 2. It is arranged like this. If the service provided by the service provider itself depends on the service provided by another service provider (eg at distance point 3), the pricing device 20 is also used to obtain an indication of the price paid to the service provider. When receiving a polling signal from person 1, one more polling signal may be issued to each service provider and arranged to be used to calculate the price of the user. When received from the pricing device 20 by the pricing user, the pricing device 20 further signals the reception to the service provider. The pricing device 20 of the example is connected to a calculation center in the network 2 and often calculates the renewal price. In one particular embodiment of this type, when receiving a polling signal, the pricing device 20 generates a real-time (ie, in receiving the porting signal) priced value by reading price data from part of network 2. It is arranged like this. If the service provided by the service provider itself depends on the service provided by another service provider (eg at distance point 3), the pricing device 20 is also used to obtain an indication of the price paid to the service provider. When receiving a polling signal from person 1, one more polling signal may be issued to each service provider and arranged to be used to calculate the price of the user. When received from the pricing device 20 by the pricing user, the pricing device 20 further signals the reception to the service provider.

[Second Example] In the second embodiment of the present invention, the customer (ie, the end user of the communication service) is fitted with a selection circuit 12, which is, for example, a city range or other local area or communication. It is configured to select and connect to one of several telecommunications service providers in the Free Trade Area (FTZ). Referring to FIG. 6, the customer device 300 (eg, a car phone) is described in, for example, the literature (Wireless Access and the Local Telephone Network, G. Calhoun, Artech House, Norwood, It comprises an air interface circuit 301 connected to a radio antenna 302 of the type described in the United States (1992)) and a digital cell car phone device 303. Other selection circuits 312 are provided, which include a program memory 316, a data memory 318, a processor 314, a processor 314, and a transmit circuit 319a and a receive circuit 319b that interconnect the processor 314 with the air interface circuit 301. To do. Referring to FIG. 7, a plurality of different wireless communication network providers have local transmit / receive stations 304a, 304b, 304c, respectively. For example, all may provide digital cell automotive services according to a common standard (eg GSM standard), or some may operate according to a cordless telephone standard (eg DECT or CT2). Price devices 320a, 320b, and 320c are connected to each station 304a to 304c, and the price devices 320a to 320c are transmissions / in a digital vehicle base station or exchange, or a central or local network exchange or network control station. It is in the receiving station. For the sake of brevity, each transmit / receive stations 304a-304c will operate at different bandwidth frequencies using other competing signal transmission processes. In this embodiment, the elements constituting each price circuit 320 are the same as those shown for the elements constituting the price device 20 of the first embodiment, and are not described repeatedly for the sake of clarity. The elements that make up the selection circuit 312 in FIG. 7 are functionally the same as those that make up the selection device 12 of the first embodiment, but the processor 314 is properly programmed so that the customer device 300 does not significantly increase in size. Such a device may be equipped with a microprocessor or microcontrol device which has been used and has already performed other functions of the device 300. With reference to FIG. 8, this corresponds to FIG. 5a, which describes the normal operation of this embodiment. When the user selects a (eg dial) number, this is detected in step 400 by the selection circuit 312. Processor 314 is the country of dialing number (if any) A bid message including another code and a region code is formed, and the air interface circuit 301 is controlled via the transmission circuit 319a so that the bid message is transmitted to the signal frequencies of the respective networks 304a, 304b, and 304c in the polling step 402. Instead, the bid message may be broadcast on that frequency if there is a commonly provided signal channel common to all network operators 304. Each pricing device 320a-320c usually follows the same process as in Figure 5b. Similarly, the same price formula may be used as in the first embodiment above. It sends back a price level signal (per minute or per bit) with each service type and quality information (eg encrypted half / full speed, current BER, etc.). Referring again to FIG. 8, the price message is received by processor 314 via air interface 301 and receiver 319b, which is as in the first embodiment to consider service quality factors (and / or other factors). Adjust various prices to pick up the cheapest adjusted price in step 404. The network operator's price and identity are stored in memory 318 at step 406, and the air interface 301 is controlled to set up a connection with the operator selected during the duration of the call at step 408. During the call period, processor 314 counts the current time through the call, multiplies it by the stored rate, and displays the current and cumulative charges on the display 305 for the convenience of the user. At the end of the call, the processor 314 produces a signal on the display 305 by the operation of the input device (eg, keypad) 306 to confirm to the user whether the quality of the just ended call is acceptable. If the user indicates that the call is unacceptable, for example will a large amount be added to the adjusted price received in the future from the associated operator, so registration will be done to prevent the operator from making future choices. Or it is updated with memory 318. This In this embodiment, in addition to performing the actions of steps 400-408 when attempting to execute the call output by the user, the processor 314 is configured to do so at other times, eg, used every time. Possible channels are scanned within the cell communication network or periodically within the call, or as part of the normal registration process when the vehicle device 300 moves out of the coverage of one of the stations 304 currently communicating. .. In this embodiment, processor 314 is properly configured to allow the vehicle unit 300 to change frequency and change between cells (now often based on signal strength criteria) or between cell operators. Use the takeover process. In this case, the received signal strength or bit error rate (BER) is also one quality indicator Q_iIt may be used to make the adjusted price comparison described above.

[Third Example] With reference to FIG. 9, the third embodiment is similar to the second embodiment, but the user terminal 500 of this embodiment is a telephone or a video telephone (for example, the document Digital Signal). Processsing in Telecoommunications (Ed.), FA Westhall & SFAIp, Chapman & It may be a fixed terminal such as Hall, London (1993). It comprises a common telephone or video telephone device 503 configured to communicate with a local line 502 via a line interface circuit 501. In this embodiment, for convenience, a large number of selection circuits 512 are provided on the so-called "smart card" type card 511, with the processor 514 and the program and data memory 516, It has 518 and (in this embodiment) a credit unit memory 517 that stores the amount of credit for payment for goods and services. The customer device 500 includes a card inlet 505 into which the card can be inserted, and has contacts for interconnection between the transmit and receive circuits 519a, 591b and the processor 514 that communicate with the line interface circuit 501. Local loop line 502 (including, for example, copper or fiber optic cable, or wireless link) interconnects customer equipment 500 (eg, located in an office or home) to local exchange device 523. In the local switch 523, the switch switch circuit 521 is arranged to respond not only to normal dial tones, pulses or digits, but also to network selection tones, pulses, digits or other signals to accommodate the customer device 500. It interconnects to one of several competing networks 504a, 504b, 504c. For example, in the UK now, customer premises equipment connected to the UK news agency's network carries tone dial buttons, which, when urged by the user, are Mercury Communication. The network operated by ploc) connects the local switch 523 to the device owned or rented by the user. In this embodiment with reference to FIG. 10, when the user intends to initiate a telephone call, the user inserts the card 511 into device 500 (step 601) and calls (eg, by lifting and dialing the handset). To start. Since the card 511 has a credit unit that can be used for payment in this embodiment, the process of initiating the call is also preferably preferred by the user for the data maintained in the memory 516-518 of the card 511. It includes a confidentiality or identity verification step of entering a PIN code to be checked (step 602), and the call can only proceed if the two match (step 603). After the user dials the number (step 604), in step 605 processor 514 generates a poll signal for each available network operators 504a-504c via transmit circuit 519a and line interface circuit 501. Includes a network instruction signal, a polling instruction signal, and a signal indicating the destination number and identity of the device 500. The local switching device 523 responds to each polling signal in sequence for transmission to each network operator 504a to 504c. Each network 504a-504c includes each price unit 520 (not shown), functionally including the same elements as shown in FIG. 2 of the first embodiment, the first embodiment. Alternatively, it operates in the same manner as in the second embodiment. Therefore, when receiving a polling signal, each price unit 520a-520c (not shown) responds with a charge level (per minute, per bit, per unit packet, per frame of data, per circuit or in a virtual circuit. In some cases, the price signal indicating (per part of the circuit) is usually sent back to the processor 514 via the switch 523 according to the process of FIG. 5b. When receiving the price signal, the processor 514 is priced The network 504 having the lowest price (adjusted according to the above embodiment) is selected (step 606), and the discrimination data for discriminating the network from the rate is stored in step 607. In step 608, processor 514 generates a network selection signal that is transmitted to switching device 523 through local line 502 via transmit circuit 519a and line interface circuit 501. The switching device 523 connects the telephone device 500 to the desired network 504 in the usual way and the call proceeds in step 609. At the beginning of the call, fee data indicating the caller's identity (more precisely, the identity of the card 511) is sent to network 504, which automatically accounts for credit units as the call progresses. Similarly, the processor 514 is configured to debit the whale credit memory 517 as the call progresses. Processor 514 is configured to automatically debit card 511 at predetermined timing intervals determined by the stored price rate, or network 504 debits processor 514 to credit memory 517. Send a common charge tone to the telephone device 500 to trigger (usually like a cash or card payment phone). If the credit memory 517 is empty, the processor 514 is configured to instruct the user to replenish the credit memory or end the call. Rather than using a "smart card" credit memory 517, use a card 511 with the usual form of magnetic stripe storage to store prepaid credit data or credit account data (eg of the type used with credit cards). This is also possible, and the telephone device 500 is similarly provided with a magnetic card reading means. It is also possible to allow payments to be made in a single action at the end of the call or in the middle of the call with a change in the network (if it occurs earlier). Making payments during or immediately after the communication service period reduces the amount of call data It is less effective, and it is clear that it needs to be remembered by the user otherwise (although historical nominal price data is selectively remembered in this example as well). This advantage can be applied to the above-described embodiment as well. In addition, making quick payments during or shortly after the service is running allows you to take advantage of short opportunities (eg, a short and appropriate exchange rate period), which is a payable and appropriate situation. Is particularly convenient in the first embodiment because is prioritized. The equipment of at least one program data that controls the operation of the processor 514 on the personal card stores data about the price and quality of the service obtained from the provider and uses this data in the choice of the service provider's next opportunity. It is useful because it allows users to benefit from the experience of different service providers. Therefore, one user who has developed an appropriate price algorithm can sell, rent, and disseminate the card algorithm to others. Instead of having a personal card, the customer allows the company (eg, a communications operator) to hold the card for confidentiality at some cost (eg, in the form of authority used by the user) or it. Can also be required. In this case, the cardholder is permissible to amend or improve each user's pricing algorithm or to comply with a particular user's request. Typically, the processor 514 can be incorporated into other types of devices (eg, automotive music playback devices) configured to be coupled to public or private communication devices in use. Is especially convenient. The equipment of at least one program data that controls the operation of the processor 514 on the personal card stores data about the price and quality of the service obtained from the provider and uses this data in the choice of the service provider's next opportunity. It is useful because it allows users to benefit from the experience of different service providers. Therefore, one user who has developed an appropriate price algorithm can sell, rent, and disseminate the card algorithm to others. Instead of having a personal card, the customer allows the company (eg, a communications operator) to hold the card for confidentiality at some cost (eg, in the form of authority used by the user) or it. Can also be required. In this case, the cardholder is permissible to amend or improve each user's pricing algorithm or to comply with a particular user's request. Generally, the processor 514 can be built into other types of devices (eg, automotive music playback devices) that are configured to be coupled to public or private communication devices in use. Is especially convenient. The equipment of at least one program data that controls the operation of the processor 514 on the personal card stores data about the price and quality of the service obtained from the provider and uses this data in the choice of the service provider's next opportunity. It is useful because it allows users to benefit from the experience of different service providers. Therefore, one user who has developed an appropriate price algorithm can sell, rent, and disseminate the card algorithm to others. Instead of having a personal card, the customer allows the company (eg, a communications operator) to hold the card for confidentiality at some cost (eg, in the form of authority used by the user) or it. Can also be required. In this case, the cardholder is permissible to amend or improve each user's pricing algorithm or to comply with a particular user's request. Typically, the processor 514 can be incorporated into other types of devices (eg, automotive music playback devices) configured to be coupled to public or private communication devices in use. .. Generally, the processor 514 can be built into other types of devices (eg, automotive music playback devices) that are configured to be coupled to public or private communication devices in use. .. Generally, the processor 514 can be built into other types of devices (eg, automotive music playback devices) that are configured to be coupled to public or private communication devices in use.

[Fourth Example] In the fourth embodiment, the present invention allows different passages of messages through a network to compete, allowing the network to organize itself using price criteria. Implemented within the communication network to allow. Referring to FIG. 11, the communication network may include a plurality of switches 700a-700f interconnected by cables (or other communication channels such as wireless links) 702a-702g. Each switch comprises a switching circuit 710 that interconnects the input cable to a customer device, another switch 700, or one of multiple output cables led to different networks. Each switch is also equipped with a selection device 712 and a pricing device 720. Each switch 700 of this embodiment can operate as an individual profit or price center and can be aimed at maximizing the inherent operating profit. When a message is transmitted between a node connected to the first switch 700a and a node connected to the second switch 700c, the switch 700a is a switch connected via channels 702a, 702f. Pole 700b and 700e. The poled switch calculates the price and sends the price signal in a manner similar to the previous embodiment, taking into account the cost and the capacity of the circuit currently available, and the first (polling) switch offers the lowest price. Select the route that goes through the exchange. As in the first embodiment, the pricing device 720 calculates the price including the short-term valuation of frequent updates. Instead, the process of determining the price valuation requires the price device to negotiate with another element of the network (eg, a trunk line or yet another switch) so that the price signal can be supplied as in the first embodiment. And. If both polling and the selected switch are part of a single economic agent, no actual payment will be made, but the polling switch will be recorded in the local or national accounting system after the call. Conceptually, it is debited at the agreed price and the selected exchange is therefore credited. Therefore, the communication through the network of FIG. 11 is controlled by the price signal. Over time Thus, high-use switches seek to maximize profits by increasing prices, and thus some communications are extended to low-use switches. The network can therefore be considered to regulate its own communication distribution. It is also possible to provide a process that leverages the elements of profit generated at each profit center to expand the center and / or ensure that the capacity of the center causing the loss is reduced. Thus, automatic price competition between the parts of a single economic agent operating a network can act to serve to reconfigure the network to prefer a more appropriate route. It can be seen that this example is similar to the first example. This embodiment differs in that the components, which are operated by a common economic EE and normally appear to work with subsystems, are positioned in competition with each other as internal communication allocation means. Referring to FIG. 12, in this embodiment the network profit centers 710a-710h can be composed of various different elements. An example of a segment / unit that can operate as a profit center is shown below. Switching switch or switch group Database or database group Responding video center network / service management platform Application platform information Tollgate to ultra-highway network or database system LAN, MAN, WAN Private network Individual workstations, computers , Multimedia Systems General and Special Order Services General and Special Information Services Bureau In Figure 12, 710a represents the so-called information super highway and 710b is between the information super highway and the network (eg WAN). It shows the connection function as a toll gate, 710c shows the group of database 716 connected to WAN 712 via gateway 714, and 710d shows the local switch 718 connected to the group of customer equipment 719. Each price center area (enclosed by the dashed line in Figure 12) usually follows the other examples. A price device and a selection device will be provided. In the embodiment of FIG. 12, the price device of each price center 710 may be arranged to take into account the prices of multiple factors, for example, the price device of price center 710d is not only the operating cost of the switch 718 but also the switch. Consider the line connecting the consumer device 719 and other exchanges or networks. The level at which the network is divided into individual price centers varies and tends to require fine division over time to take advantage of the self-control effect of the price negotiation process. Like the other examples, the selection process of this example preferably considers expected or expected quality or other factors. This embodiment may use the features of other embodiments with the necessary modifications. Price signals can be transmitted via ATM or SDH packet headers. In this embodiment, the invention is performed, for example, by modifying the stored program control (SPC) sequence of a switch operating under a signal 7 (S7) system for intelligent network (IN) purposes.

[Fifth Example] In this embodiment, the present invention is applied to the supply of goods or services through a communication network from a plurality of sources interconnected with a user through a network. Referring to FIG. 13, multiple service providers (eg, demand-based video providers) have pricing stations 902a-902d, each with a pricing circuit 920 and each transmission channel (eg local line) 904a. It is provided with a communication circuit (not shown here) for connecting to the network 903. The other network is provided with a database station 905 equipped with a digital storage device 906 (for example, RAM) that stores a plurality of price data corresponding to price level signals for the price stations 906a to 906d, respectively. The 905 is connected to the network 903 via a communication link 907 (eg, a local line). Customer device 900 comprises an audible and visible playback device 911 (eg, such as a regular television or monitor and an audible playback circuit) and an audible and visible signal unit 910 suitable for receiving on-demand video. To do. In addition, a selection circuit 912 having the same structure as the selection device shown in FIG. 3, FIG. 6 or FIG. 9 is provided. In operation, each price device 920a-920d of each price station 902a-902d is a demand-based video service cyclically based on price and demand in a manner similar to that described for the first embodiment. Generate a calculated price. Each price station 902 periodically sends price level data P, along with data (ID) indicating the identity or phone number dialed by the user device 900, eg resolution, wide screen / narrow screen format, stereo / monaural. Get a price-related demand-based video service (selectively) with quality data Q that dictates other issues regarding the quality of the soundtrack or service. With reference to FIG. 14, when the user wants to get a video service on demand, the user chooses the instructions that he wants to do in the processor of circuit 912. Enter in 914. In this embodiment, the selection circuit 912 generates a dial tone or pulse to access line 907, which is led to database station 905 via network 903, and indicates the service characteristics requested to database station 905 (eg, Western). Or send instructions) that horror movies are required. In response, database station 905 supplies price, identity, and quality data, which are supplied first by the respective price stations 902a-902d. The connection is discontinued and the selection circuit 912 evaluates the lowest "adjusted" price as in the previous embodiment, and the quality of service data and the memory associated with the supplier having the same identity in the past encountered earlier. Consider with the quality of the data. If the selection is made as before, the price rate is stored and the control circuit 914 is the number indicated by the ID data provided by the database station 905 to obtain the video service on demand at the estimated price. Select. Price stations 902a to 902d may be provided at a video supply station connected to network 903, although not necessarily required. In this embodiment, it is clear that many different types of services or, of course, goods are supplied in the same way. In the above embodiment, the central database (or its locally distributed and updated copy) is accessed by different pricing stations 920 to hold price data. This has several advantages, as the user device 900 requires access only to a single point rather than communicating with multiple suppliers as in the previous embodiment. Price details also have the advantage of being kept confidential from other suppliers by specifying that the database station 905 is operated by an individual independent party (eg, a coordinating authority). Instead of having the selection circuit 912 in the customer equipment 900, it is possible to have the selection circuit 912 in the database station 905 instead, providing all the stored price information for different suppliers. Cheapest, not allowing you to make decisions Or make recommendations to the Customer Department regarding the best value currently available. In this case, instead of providing all customer equipment 900 with a single selection circuit 912 that provides the same selection, the data that allows the database station 905 to perform different selection processes for different users. Can be memorized (eg, memorize different predetermined constants in the price adjustment equation given in the first embodiment). Database station 905 therefore acts in this case as a "broker" that fairly recommends one of several service providers. A device that provides separate databases for storing price data from multiple different suppliers and thus effectively interrupts direct communication between the selection device and the pricing device is also an embodiment before communication services are given. It can be applied.

[Multimedia] In the above embodiment, an audible or audible / video communication service is provided. It is also possible to apply the present invention to multimedia communication services, where data (eg, text data) communication channels are provided in a single communication session as well as video and / or audio. In this case, the user device is typically an acoustic input and output device (microphone and loudspeaker), a video input and output device (camera and visible display unit), and a graphic input device (mouse, trackball or needle / pad). Control or monitor display (typically) for controlling user devices in collaboration with (combination of), document input and output devices (scanners and printers), text input devices (keyboards), and text or graphic input devices. A visible display unit having a menu or graphic user interface (GUI) such as Windows (brand name). A single control or processor or multiple devices (eg microprocessors such as Intel's 486DX microprocessor and / or digital processors such as Texas Instruments' TMSC30) are line interface circuits between input and output devices. It is configured to process and route data and audible and visible signals to and from, which is configured to receive and transmit data in the appropriate multimedia format (eg, ATM format). Each data stream (audible, video, text) is given via separate logical channels (typically sharing the same physical cable), and the duration and price of the connection across each channel is the same as in the other embodiments. Each may be negotiated separately. The monitor display sends negotiation progress and / or debiting or pricing instructions for each channel. Typically, the user device is provided by a computer workstation and has ports for connecting to the audible video and text input and output devices described above.

[Sixth Example] In the above-described embodiment, the process of reaching a price agreement between the selection device and the price device when started by the selection device when the demand for the service arises is described, and the selection device is described. Works to select one of multiple proposals from competing pricing devices. However, it often happens that the communications or other service providers have extra available capacity. The same is true for users of telecommunications services (eg, multinational companies) who have purchased more capacity than required. Therefore, in this embodiment, the communication resources are provided periodically when they are available, and the communication user bids competitively for the available resources. This embodiment is more convenient when the user of the communication service is not a private individual or other small terminal user but a large user who has a relatively constant demand (at a certain level) for the communication service. For example, this embodiment is applicable to the conditions described with reference to FIG. 1 of the first embodiment, where the plurality of long-distance networks 2a-2c serve a plurality of local networks 1a-1c. Supply. Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, in this embodiment, each long-distance network (service provider) 2 is equipped with a selection device 820, and each local communication network 1 (service user) is equipped with a bidding device 812. Bidding device 812 includes processor 814 and program and data storage memory 816, Equipped with 818 and input and output signal devices 819a, 819b (functionally corresponding to equivalent devices 12, 14, 16, 18, 19a, 19b in FIG. 3), similarly the selection device 820 is a processor 824 and a program. And data storage memory 826, 828, and input and output signal devices 829a, 829b (corresponding to the corresponding devices 24, 26, 28, 29a, 29b in FIG. 4). The operation of this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 16a and 16b. As in the first embodiment, each processor 824 in long-range network 2 utilizes the network in step 200 (by normal criteria and / or in response to sudden changes in long-range channel availability). It is arranged so that the possible capacity A is periodically obtained. The available resource capacity (eg, the number of available channels) is transmitted in step 202 (eg, along with the predicted quality of service, channel type, bit rate, etc.) to each bidding device 812 in the local networks 1a-1c. Each bidding device 812 of the local network 1 receives the resource capacity signal transmitted by the long-distance network selection device in step 210, calculates the price in step 212, and outputs the calculated price in step 214. The selection device 820 receives the price offer signal from each local network 1 in step 204, compares the prices in step 206, selects the highest price, notifies the local network selected in step 208 of acceptance, and is appropriate. Instruct to enter into a bidding contract to be executed so that a good connection is made. Each of the local networks 1a to 1c waits for the reception of the acceptance signal. The unselected local network will not work further, and the local network receiving the acceptance signal will interact with the long-range operator at the agreed price (which is also stored in the bidding device 812) in step 218. Connect to a long-distance operator with. In this example, the price calculation step 212 performed by the bidding device typically includes step 220 to evaluate the demand for the service provided and step 222 to evaluate the current cost of the equivalent service used. , Step 224 to evaluate the stored cost of the equivalent service used in the past, and memory of the quality of service previously received from the same long-range network as the transmission quality data, as shown in Figure 16c. It has step 226 to assess the quality of service provided (based on the data provided). If the demand evaluated in step 220 is low because the service provided is not currently needed by a large number of users of local network 1, the bidding device 812 does not simply calculate the price, or (eg subsequently followed). You may output a lower price (to get a service for resale). If the demand assessed in step 220 is already substantially met and therefore there is no excess demand, then reduce the existing costs assessed in step 222 (to take into account the costs inherent in the changing supplier). And make positive or negative adjustments based on the quality adjusted to take into account the relevant historical cost data evaluated in step 226 (eg, certain long-range networks usually exist). By indicating that it is cheaper than the supply device), the bidding device 812 reduces the price based on the price of the existing service evaluated in step 222. If the processor 814 evaluates that a large excess demand for the services provided is present in step 220, the processor 814 usually sets the bid price directly related to the excess demand level. For example, processor 814 evaluates the maximum possible price that can be paid in step 228 (ie, the price at which network 1 does not benefit from the acquisition of the service provided) and is currently offered unmet (excessive demand). Set a bid price between the existing service price (or the memorized historical price valued at 224) valued at step 222 and this maximum possible price in proportion to part of the demand for the service. Therefore, in this embodiment, the bidding device 212 normally operates to calculate the bid price directly in relation to the unsatisfied demand level for the service provided. .. From another point of view, the operation of this embodiment is the same as the operation described for the first embodiment. The two embodiments are, of course, not limited to that, and the processors 812 and 824 of this embodiment may also be configured to include processors 12, 24 of the first embodiment. This embodiment is also used in the above-mentioned second to fifth embodiments.

[7th Example] In the operation of this embodiment, the long-distance communication network 2 (service provider) has a selection device 820, and the local network (service user) 1 has a bidding device 812, respectively. It is similar to the operation of the preceding embodiment in that it does. However, in this embodiment the selection device 820 operates in a more auction-like manner. Referring to FIGS. 17a and 17b, in this embodiment (as in the previous embodiment), after the evaluation step 200 and the resource instruction signal output step 202, the selection device 820 of this embodiment has an initial price in step 250. Is calculated and the price in step 252 is arranged to be transmitted to each bidding device 812 of the local network 1 in this step 252. Pricing step 250 of this embodiment is essentially the first except that an uplift is added to the initially calculated price so that the resource rises to the highest level that can be realistically provided. It is the same as the first embodiment. In this embodiment, each bidding device receives a resource signal in step 210 and calculates the price to be bid on the resource in step 212, both of which are similar to the previous embodiment. However, the price is not output from this example. Instead, the bidding device 812 waits for a price signal from the selection device 820, which is received in step 254. The price received is compared to the price calculated in step 212 in step 256. If the price received is equal to or lower than the calculated price, the bidding device sends a signal indicating acceptance to the selection device 820 in step 258. The selection device 820 waits for an acceptance signal from the bidding device 812 in step 260 at predetermined intervals. When one or more acceptance signals are received, the first acceptance signal is taken to form a supply contract and the confirmation signal is sent back in step 262. If there is no acceptance signal received in step 260 within a predetermined time, the selection device returns to step 250 and recalculates the cheaper price by reducing the price present by a predetermined amount. To. The following steps are until acceptance is received from one bid device 812, or the price calculated in calculation step 250 reaches a slightly lower threshold (lower values make it uneconomical to provide communication services). It repeats until it does. After sending the acceptance in step 258 at the bidding device 812, the bidding device waits for the receipt of the contract approval signal in step 264 and then proceeds to connect to the selected long-distance operator in step 218. If the price signal received in step 254 is more expensive than the price calculated in step 212, the bidding device detects whether the "contracted" signal was transmitted by the selection device 820 in step 266. And signal the end of the process. Otherwise, the bidding device returns to step 254 to wait for the cheap signal from the selection device 820. Although the above process describes a reverse auction, or "Dutch" auction, the behavior of the bidding and selection devices 812, 820 in Figures 17a and 17b can also be easily modified to perform a normal auction. The price signal generated by the selection device here can be progressively increased until only one bidding device is active. In addition, transmission between the bidding device and the selection device takes place on a common broadcast channel, allowing each bidding device to monitor the behavior of other bidding devices and appropriately modify future behavior. In the "general" auction process described above, the sequence of price signals monotonically increases or decreases, but non-monotonic behavior may be performed in some embodiments. If it is more expensive than the calculated price, the bidding device detects in step 266 whether the "contracted" signal has been transmitted by the selection device 820 and signals the end of the process. Otherwise, the bidding device returns to step 254 to wait for the cheap signal from the selection device 820. Although the above process describes a reverse auction, or "Dutch" auction, the behavior of the bidding and selection devices 812, 820 in Figures 17a and 17b can also be easily modified to perform a normal auction. The price signal generated by the selection device here can be progressively increased until only one bidding device is active. In addition, transmission between the bidding device and the selection device takes place on a common broadcast channel, allowing each bidding device to monitor the behavior of other bidding devices and appropriately modify future behavior. In the "general" auction process described above, the sequence of price signals monotonically increases or decreases, but non-monotonic behavior may be performed in some embodiments. If it is more expensive than the calculated price, the bidding device detects in step 266 whether the "contracted" signal has been transmitted by the selection device 820 and signals the end of the process. Otherwise, the bidding device returns to step 254 to wait for the cheap signal from the selection device 820. Although the above process describes a reverse auction, or "Dutch" auction, the behavior of the bidding and selection devices 812, 820 in Figures 17a and 17b can also be easily modified to perform a normal auction. The price signal generated by the selection device here can be progressively increased until only one bidding device is active. In addition, transmission between the bidding device and the selection device takes place on a common broadcast channel, allowing each bidding device to monitor the behavior of other bidding devices and appropriately modify future behavior. In the "general" auction process described above, the sequence of price signals monotonically increases or decreases, but non-monotonic behavior may be performed in some embodiments.

[Eighth Example] In this embodiment, one class of another service (or a service for commodities or vice versa) is exchanged instead of exchanging an exchange service for financial payment. This embodiment may be performed by, for example, the device of the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the selection device 12 performs steps 100 to 106 shown in FIG. 5a. However, first, the capacity evaluation step is performed by the selection device 12 to evaluate the available capacity of the service (eg 64 KB / second digital link), and the highly available service is selected as the payment medium. And thereby gaining long-distance communication services. The polling signal transmitted in step 102 of this embodiment therefore indicates that the payment was made in units of the discriminated service type (eg minutes, packets, bits). The remaining operation of the selection device 12 of this embodiment is identical to FIG. 5a except that the price being compared is a unit of the discriminated class of calling service rather than in terms of monetary value. Similarly, in Figure 5b, one of the price factors evaluated in step 118 is the demand or value of local services provided to long-haul network operators. If the value is not significant, the price calculated by the price unit 20 (in the unit of the indicated local call service) has (or values) the demand for the local service provided by the long-distance operator 2 as payment. Much more expensive than. Therefore, in this embodiment, one type of communication service (local service) unit is provided in the exchange of another type of communication service (long-distance service) unit. In fact, long-range network 2 also provides local services, local network 1 also provides long-range services, so this embodiment may provide internal operational capabilities between competing networks. Yes, so use both resources. Similarly, embodiments may be used as a means of allocating resources between local and long-distance portions of a single network. Resources provided by the communication service exchange in this embodiment

[Other Examples] Considering the above description, it is clear that many other alternatives, examples, and variants are possible. For example, the price process described above spans several negotiation stages, with the first high price being answered with a low offer to converge to the price between the two. The bidding, tender, trading and auction processes described above therefore develop into more complex combinations of price negotiations. It provides a more complex mechanism for adapting specific methods (such as competing bids and undercut calculations). The multiple selection device 12 shares the price and quality information received from the price unit, or communicates with each other so as to acquire communication services together based on the shared price. This, in principle, results in complex interactions in the telecommunications service market, creating the potential for sudden, intense or discontinuous price changes when multiple selectors make the same choices at the same time at the same price. When the user device has a visible display device, the supplier device periodically generates an "advertisement" message indicating the availability of price, characteristics or quality and / or service data, and the user device such data. Is displayed. To obtain information on the price of a competitor, the communication service provider mimics the behavior of the selection device and generates a polling signal to collect the price information. Such price information forms the basis for pricing by the telecommunications supplier's pricing device. To prevent such behavior, the safety process for confirmation or confidentiality may form part of the polling and bidding process. Instead of using a PIN, it is possible to use other sensitive checks (eg voice recognition). It is possible to perform such a confidentiality check immediately during the processing period as before the processing. Periodically monitor prices offered by pricing devices (eg, in specific areas) to detect obvious cartel behavior or other types of non-competitive behavior offered by suppliers who compete for the same price over a long period of time. It is also desirable to provide an adjusting device for this purpose. The user device can selectively operate remotely to stop the operation when it is detected. It may be equipped with a sable device. Rather than the behavior of pricing and selection algorithms, the price and selection equipment is provided with a self-learning structure, where, for example, "service availability and demand levels and these and other possible factors are remembered in the past. Prices are calculated and / or bids are evaluated and compared using a "data" based "neural network" algorithm (eg, a multi-layer sensor field forward network or a backward propagation type or hop field network). The algorithm. Means may be provided by a human operator to allow manual intervention to invalidate or arbitrate negotiations. For this purpose, means may be provided to automatically access a particular person (eg, an adviser or arbitrator). Such additional functionality may be provided as a plug-in module for attachment to a personal computer or telephone device. It is clear that the present invention is applicable to the supply of all types of communication services such as general telephone services (POTS), multimedia services, video telephones, fax and digital message communications. Similarly, the present invention can also be applied, for example, to provide services via communications such as demand-based video, entertainment services and the like. Further, the present invention can be applied to other resource allocation or service supply domains. For example, a power grid running a computer polls multiple competing generators running a computer and provides real-time price and duration of power supplied from the generators selected through the grid as described in the previous embodiment. Adjust with. Private communication networks are used to signal and negotiate prices as an alternative to public networks, or instead signals are superimposed as modulation of the power supply grid, which therefore acts as a communication network. The present invention is therefore not limited to the aforementioned examples, but extends to all modifications, modifications and improvements within the technical scope of the present invention. A self-learning structure is provided in the price and selection device, where, for example, a "neural network" based on "past-stored data on service availability and demand levels and these and other possible factors". "Algorithms (eg, multi-layer sensor field-forward or back-propagation type or hop-field networks) are used to calculate prices and / or evaluate and compare bids. Means may be provided by a human operator to allow manual intervention to invalidate or arbitrate negotiations. For this purpose, means may be provided to automatically access a particular person (eg, an adviser or arbitrator). Such additional functionality may be provided as a plug-in module for attachment to a personal computer or telephone device. It is clear that the present invention is applicable to the supply of all types of communication services such as general telephone services (POTS), multimedia services, video telephones, fax and digital message communications. Similarly, the present invention can also be applied, for example, to provide services via communications such as demand-based video, entertainment services and the like. Further, the present invention can be applied to other resource allocation or service supply domains. For example, a power grid running a computer polls multiple competing generators running a computer and provides real-time price and duration of power supplied from the generators selected through the grid as described in the previous embodiment. Adjust with. Private communication networks are used to signal and negotiate prices as an alternative to public networks, or instead signals are superimposed as modulation of the power supply grid, which therefore acts as a communication network. The present invention is therefore not limited to the aforementioned examples, but extends to all modifications, modifications and improvements within the technical scope of the present invention. A self-learning structure is provided in the price and selection device, where, for example, a "neural network" based on "past-stored data on service availability and demand levels and these and other possible factors". "Algorithms (eg, multi-layer sensor field-forward or back-propagation type or hop-field networks) are used to calculate prices and / or evaluate and compare bids. Means may be provided by a human operator to allow manual intervention to invalidate or arbitrate negotiations. For this purpose, means may be provided to automatically access a particular person (eg, an adviser or arbitrator). Such additional functionality may be provided as a plug-in module for attachment to a personal computer or telephone device. It is clear that the present invention is applicable to the supply of all types of communication services such as general telephone services (POTS), multimedia services, video telephones, fax and digital message communications. Similarly, the present invention can also be applied, for example, to provide services via communications such as demand-based video, entertainment services and the like. Further, the present invention can be applied to other resource allocation or service supply domains. For example, a power grid running a computer polls multiple competing generators running a computer and provides real-time price and duration of power supplied from the generators selected through the grid as described in the previous embodiment. Adjust with. Private communication networks are used to signal and negotiate prices as an alternative to public networks, or instead signals are superimposed as modulation of the power supply grid, which therefore acts as a communication network. The present invention is therefore not limited to the aforementioned examples, but extends to all modifications, modifications and improvements within the technical scope of the present invention. Based on a "neural network" algorithm (eg, a multi-layer sensor field forward network or a backward propagation type or Hopfield network), prices are calculated and / or bids are evaluated and compared. Means may be provided by a human operator to allow manual intervention to invalidate or arbitrate negotiations. For this purpose, means may be provided to automatically access a particular person (eg, an adviser or arbitrator). Such additional functionality may be provided as a plug-in module for attachment to a personal computer or telephone device. It is clear that the present invention is applicable to the supply of all types of communication services such as general telephone services (POTS), multimedia services, video telephones, fax and digital message communications. Similarly, the present invention can also be applied, for example, to provide services via communications such as demand-based video, entertainment services and the like. Further, the present invention can be applied to other resource allocation or service supply domains. For example, a power grid running a computer polls multiple competing generators running a computer and provides real-time price and duration of power supplied from the generators selected through the grid as described in the previous embodiment. Adjust with. Private communication networks are used to signal and negotiate prices as an alternative to public networks, or instead signals are superimposed as modulation of the power supply grid, which therefore acts as a communication network. The present invention is therefore not limited to the aforementioned examples, but extends to all modifications, modifications and improvements within the technical scope of the present invention. Based on a "neural network" algorithm (eg, a multi-layer sensor field forward network or a backward propagation type or Hopfield network), prices are calculated and / or bids are evaluated and compared. Means may be provided by a human operator to allow manual intervention to invalidate or arbitrate negotiations. For this purpose, means may be provided to automatically access a particular person (eg, an adviser or arbitrator). Such additional functionality may be provided as a plug-in module for attachment to a personal computer or telephone device. It is clear that the present invention is applicable to the supply of all types of communication services such as general telephone services (POTS), multimedia services, video telephones, fax and digital message communications. Similarly, the present invention can also be applied, for example, to provide services via communications such as demand-based video, entertainment services and the like. Further, the present invention can be applied to other resource allocation or service supply domains. For example, a power grid running a computer polls multiple competing generators running a computer and provides real-time price and duration of power supplied from the generators selected through the grid as described in the previous embodiment. Adjust with. Private communication networks are used to signal and negotiate prices as an alternative to public networks, or instead signals are superimposed as modulation of the power supply grid, which therefore acts as a communication network. The present invention is therefore not limited to the aforementioned examples, but extends to all modifications, modifications and improvements within the technical scope of the present invention. Means may be provided to automatically access a person (eg, an adviser or arbitrator). Such additional functionality may be provided as a plug-in module for attachment to a personal computer or telephone device. It is clear that the present invention is applicable to the supply of all types of communication services such as general telephone services (POTS), multimedia services, video telephones, fax and digital message communications. Similarly, the present invention can also be applied, for example, to provide services via communications such as demand-based video, entertainment services and the like. Further, the present invention can be applied to other resource allocation or service supply domains. For example, a power grid running a computer polls multiple competing generators running a computer and provides real-time price and duration of power supplied from the generators selected through the grid as described in the previous embodiment. Adjust with. Private communication networks are used to signal and negotiate prices as an alternative to public networks, or instead signals are superimposed as modulation of the power supply grid, which therefore acts as a communication network. The present invention is therefore not limited to the aforementioned examples, but extends to all modifications, modifications and improvements within the technical scope of the present invention. Means may be provided to automatically access a person (eg, an adviser or arbitrator). Such additional functionality may be provided as a plug-in module for attachment to a personal computer or telephone device. It is clear that the present invention is applicable to the supply of all types of communication services such as general telephone services (POTS), multimedia services, video telephones, fax and digital message communications. Similarly, the present invention can also be applied, for example, to provide services via communications such as demand-based video, entertainment services and the like. Further, the present invention can be applied to other resource allocation or service supply domains. For example, a power grid running a computer polls multiple competing generators running a computer and provides real-time price and duration of power supplied from the generators selected through the grid as described in the previous embodiment. Adjust with. Private communication networks are used to signal and negotiate prices as an alternative to public networks, or instead signals are superimposed as modulation of the power supply grid, which therefore acts as a communication network. The present invention is therefore not limited to the aforementioned examples, but extends to all modifications, modifications and improvements within the technical scope of the present invention. Polls multiple competing generators to operate and adjusts the price and duration of power supplied from the generators selected through the grid as described in the previous embodiment in real time. Private communication networks are used to signal and negotiate prices as an alternative to public networks, or instead signals are superimposed as modulation of the power supply grid, which therefore acts as a communication network. The present invention is therefore not limited to the aforementioned examples, but extends to all modifications, modifications and improvements within the technical scope of the present invention. Polls multiple competing generators to operate and adjusts the price and duration of power supplied from the generators selected through the grid as described in the previous embodiment in real time. Private communication networks are used to signal and negotiate prices as an alternative to public networks, or instead signals are superimposed as modulation of the power supply grid, which therefore acts as a communication network. The present invention is therefore not limited to the aforementioned examples, but extends to all modifications, modifications and improvements within the technical scope of the present invention.