Internet telephone system, call connection controller, terminal association method used therein and its program

A PBX, when notified information of an originating manipulation such as dialing of a receiver's number from a keyboard connected with a PC, judges whether an origination request is from the PC or a first terminal. In a case of the request being from the PC, the PBX performs number analysis processing of the PC which is the originator. The PBX judges whether there is information about a terminal associating with the terminal requesting the origination, and when there is information for the terminal, performs to connect with the associating terminal, and processes the origination request to thereby connect with the counterpart terminal. When there is no information about the terminal, the PBX processes the origination request as usual to thereby connect with the counterpart terminal.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an Internet telephone system, a call connection controller, a terminal association method used therein, and its program. In particular, the present invention relates to a method of associating an existing extension telephone and a personal computer having an Internet telephone function.

2. Related Art

Conventionally, as a method of associating with this type of personal computer (hereinafter referred to as PC), there is one in which a voice input/output port and a MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) port, of a sound card installed in an extension slot of a PC, are connected with the main body of a handset (see, for example, the Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2000-115354 (pp.4-5, FIG. 1), hereinafter referred to as Patent Document 1).

The main body of the handset is equipped with a speaker and a hook switch and is capable of being connected with a sound card. In a case of the sound card being connected with the main body of the handset, the voice input/output port and the MIDI are connected with the speaker and the handset, and a voice input/output mode, corresponding to on-hook information from the hook switch or signals indicating the on-hook information, is used.

In another association method with a PC, IP (Internet Protocol) telephones as communication terminals and PCs corresponding to the respective IP telephones are interconnected over a LAN (Local Area Network), and with a control by the PC, an IP telephone corresponding to the PC is associated (see, for example, the Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2002-199026 (pp.9-10, FIG. 1), hereinafter referred to as Patent Document 2).

FIG. 1shows a call operation between terminals through a PBX (Private Branch Exchange) which is a typical call connection controller. InFIG. 1, a call between a first terminal91and a second terminal92, each of which is a radio mobile terminal, is made in such a manner that the terminals are connected with the PBX6via radio base stations81,82, and a voice path between the two terminals is defined by a connection switch (not shown) in the PBX6. In a case that the first terminal91and the second terminal92are fixed-line terminals, the first terminal91and the second terminal92are interconnected over a line of the PBX6.

FIG. 2shows an exemplary structure of a typical Internet telephone system. InFIG. 2, a PC7includes, a voice input/output unit71, a communication interface (I/F)72which transmits/receives Internet telephone information over an Internet line200such as a LAN, and a control software73for transmitting/receiving call control information between the PBX6.

Conventionally, when making a call using an Internet telephone, dialing the receiver's number from a keyboard74connected with the PC7, or activating an application such as a telephone book so as to perform an originating manipulation.

A call is realized by using a handset75connected with the voice input/output unit71. Voice information is transmitted/received with a use of the Internet line200such as a LAN via the handset75and the PC7. In a case that there are terminals accommodated in the PBX6, for example, the first terminal91and the second terminal92which may be radio mobile terminals such as PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) or fixed-line terminals, a user holds two devices, that is, the handset75and the terminal91. Further, extension numbers managed by the PBX6are assigned to the two devices, that is, the handset75and the terminal91, respectively, so that it may be troublesome for the user to manage terminal devices and telephone numbers.

Further, in the aforementioned Internet telephone system, voice information is to be transmitted/received over the Internet line200such as a LAN. Therefore, in addition to line equipment for the PBX constructed for one user, it is required to secure the Internet line200such as a LAN taking into account the transmission/reception of the voice information for the-handset.

Further, in the aforementioned Internet telephone system, when a voice connection is made between the PC7and the second terminal92, digital voice information from the PC7is converted into an IP packet at an IP converter61in the PBX6, and this packet data is transmitted to the second terminal92over the Internet line200.

In the conventional Internet telephone system described above, if the Internet telephone is one using a PC, there is a problem of lacking in secrecy since speaking contents are output from the speaker of the PC. In order to solve this problem, the technique described in the aforementioned Patent Document 1 improves the secrecy by connecting a handset with a hook switch. However, with the technique of Patent Document 1, the handset is connected with the PC by a wire, so that there is a problem that the movable range of the user using the handset is limited to the length of the cable connecting the handset with the PC.

Even in a case the handset is replaced with the one of a codeless type in order to improve the freedom of the movable range of the user, voice information is transmitted over the Internet line. Therefore, as the number of used IP telephones increases, it is necessary to secure enough bands in the Internet line200for coping with the increased number.

Further, in the conventional Internet telephone system, there is a problem that an Internet telephone using the PC cannot be used as a telephone when the power source of the PC is off.

In the technique described in the aforementioned Patent Document 2, although an association between the PC and the terminal is shown, it is so structured that call connection information from the call connection controller is received for a while at an application on the PC, and via a LAN with which the PC is connected, the PC and the existing terminal are associated. Therefore, when a call arrives, the PC and the terminal can be associated. However, if a call is originated from the terminal, origination information is not output from the terminal to the PC. Consequently, the PC and the terminal cannot be associated at the time of origination. This means that in a case of originating from the terminal, the terminal cannot be used as a handset of the PC.

In this case, since the voice information is transmitted/received via the PC and the LAN, if the number of PCs having the Internet telephone function increases, it is necessary to secure the enough bands of the LAN corresponding to the increase. Again, there is a problem that the terminal association at the time of origination cannot be realized if the power source of the PC is off.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an Internet telephone system, a call connection controller, a terminal association method used therein and its program, which are capable of solving the aforementioned problems, establishing associations between Internet telephones and existing extension terminals, and increasing a freedom of a place where a user can stay.

In order to achieve the object, an Internet telephone system according to the present invention comprises: an information processor having an Internet telephone function enabling to make a call to a counterpart terminal; and a call connection controller which connects with the information processor over an Internet line and accommodates a telephone terminal. The telephone terminal is used as an Internet handset. As a transmission path for voice data transmitted or received by the Internet handset, a line held by the call connection controller is used.

In the present invention, a telephone terminal is used as an Internet handset so that a call is made through an Internet telephone. As a transmission path of voice data transmitted or received by the Internet handset (telephone terminal), a line held by the call connection controller is used.

According to the present invention, a line of the call connection controller secured for the telephone terminal is used. Therefore, even when the number of information processors having the Internet telephone function (for example, PCs) increases, it is not required to increase the capacity of the Internet line and is able to suppress the running cost to a low level.

In a case that the Internet handset is a radio mobile terminal, an area where a user can move with the terminal is enlarged. Further, even in a case that the power source of the PC is off, information can be immediately exchanged since a call is made using the line held by the call connection controller.

In the present invention, the call connection controller is provided with a means for causing the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding to each other to share call control information at the time of making a call to the counterpart terminal, to thereby realize an association between the information processor and the telephone terminal.

The information processor and the telephone terminal can share call control information at the time of making a call to the counterpart terminal. Thereby, the same information can be shared by the telephone terminal to which a call is made and the information processor.

In this case, the call connection controller may be provided with a means for transferring a call reception request from the counterpart terminal, to each of the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding to each other, instead of the aforementioned structure.

Further, the call connection controller may be provided with a means for causing the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding to each other to share call control information at the time of making a call to the counterpart terminal, and a means for transferring a call reception request from the counterpart terminal, to each of the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding to each other.

It is preferable that the call connection controller according to the present invention connect with an information processor having an Internet telephone function enabling to make a call to the counterpart terminal, accommodate a telephone terminal, and include means for causing the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding to each other to share call control information at the time of making a call to the counterpart terminal.

The call connection controller of the present invention may connect with an information processor having an Internet telephone function enabling to make a call to a counterpart terminal, accommodate a telephone terminal, and include a means for transferring a call reception request from the counterpart terminal to each of the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding to each other.

Further, the call connection controller of the present invention may connect with an information processor having an Internet telephone function enabling to make a call to a counterpart terminal, accommodate a telephone terminal, and comprise: a means for causing the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding to each other to share call control information at a time of making a call to the counterpart terminal, and a means for transferring a call reception request from the counterpart terminal to each of the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding to each other.

A terminal association method according to the present invention comprises the steps of: accessing from an information processor having an Internet telephone function to a call connection controller so as to define a call path using an Internet line between a counterpart terminal; and causing the telephone terminal accommodated in the call connection controller and corresponding to the information processor, and the information processor, to share call control information at a time of making a call from the call connection controller to the counterpart terminal.

The terminal association method of the present invention may comprise the steps of: accessing from an information processor having an Internet telephone function to a call connection controller so as to define a call path using an Internet line between an counterpart terminal; and transferring a call reception request from the counterpart terminal, to the information processor and the telephone terminal accommodated in the call connection controller and corresponding to the information processor.

Further, the terminal association method of the present invention may comprise the steps of: accessing from an information processor having an Internet telephone function to a call connection controller so as to define a call path using an Internet line between an counterpart terminal; causing a telephone terminal accommodated in the call connection controller and corresponding to the information processor, and the information processor, to share call control information at a time of making a call from the call connection controller to the counterpart terminal, and transferring a call reception request from the counterpart terminal to the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding to each other.

A program for executing the terminal association method according to the present invention is constructed as an electric signal for causing a computer of the call connection controller to execute the steps of: accessing from an information processor having an Internet telephone function to a call connection controller so as to define a call path using an Internet line between an counterpart terminal; and causing a telephone terminal accommodated in the call connection controller and corresponding to the information processor, and the information processor, to share call control information at a time of making a call from the call connection controller to the counterpart terminal.

The program for executing the terminal association method of the present invention may be constructed as an electric signal for causing a computer of the call connection controller to execute the steps of: accessing from an information processor having an Internet telephone function to a call connection controller so as to define a call path using an Internet line between an counterpart terminal; and transferring a call reception request from the counterpart terminal to the information processor and to a telephone terminal accommodated in the call connection controller and corresponding to the information processor.

Further, the program for executing the terminal association method of the present invention may be constructed as an electric signal for causing a computer of the call connection controller to execute the steps of: accessing from an information processor having an Internet telephone function to a call connection controller so as to define a call path using an Internet line between an counterpart terminal; causing a telephone terminal accommodated in the call connection controller and corresponding to the information processor, and the information processor, to share call control information at a time of making a call from the call connection controller to the counterpart terminal, and transferring a call reception request from the counterpart terminal to the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding to each other.

That is to say, the Internet telephone system of the present invention uses a terminal accommodated in a PBX (call connection controller), for example, a radio mobile terminal such as a local PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) or a fixed-line terminal, as a handset for the Internet telephone so as to utilize existing telephone equipment, succeed conventional call operation, and transmit/receive voice data using a line of the existing PBX, which makes it possible to construct an Internet telephone system which is not required to additionally secure a band for a voice in the Internet line.

An advantage of an Internet telephone of a personal Computer (PC) type lies in that an Internet telephone may be easily realized by adding a control software in the PC, for controlling communications. Further, by adding an application in the PC, it is possible to provide functions which are not provided in conventional extension terminals, for example, a function of specifying an originating user based on number information, a function of sharing a file in the PC, or the like.

The Internet telephone system of the present invention uses a radio mobile terminal or a fixed-line terminal accommodated in the conventional PBX, and informs the PC of call control information at the time of origination or reception. Thereby, applications of the Internet telephone constructed by the PC, for example, a function of specifying an originating user based on number information, a function of sharing a file in the PC, or the like, may be used, while keeping compatibility of the conventional call operation.

Further, in the Internet telephone system of the present invention, voice information is transmitted/received using line equipment for the PBX which has been already constructed by the user. Therefore, it is not required to secure a band necessary for transmitting/receiving voice information to the Internet line such as a LAN (Local Area Network).

That is to say, in the Internet telephone system of the present invention, a call reception request which arises at the time of arriving at the counterpart terminal is transferred to a PC and to a radio mobile terminal or a fixed-line terminal corresponding to each other, respectively, and a call reception request which arises at the time of making a call to the counterpart terminal is transferred to a PC and to a radio mobile terminal or a fixed-line terminal corresponding to each other, respectively, and informing the PC of call control information which arises at the time of making a call from a radio mobile terminal or a fixed-line terminal to the counterpart terminal. Thereby, applications of the Internet telephone constructed by the PC, for example, a function of specifying an originating user based on number information, a function of sharing a file in the PC, or the like, may be used, while keeping compatibility of the conventional call operation.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

As shown inFIGS. 3 and 9, an Internet telephone system according to the present invention includes, as the basic structure, information processors2,5each having an Internet telephone function enabling to make a call to a counterpart terminal41or42, and a call connection controller1which is connected with the information processors2,5over Internet lines100a,101aand accommodates a telephone terminal41or42. The Internet telephone system uses the telephone terminals as handsets (seeFIG. 1, reference numeral75), and uses lines100b,101bheld by the call connection controller1as transmission paths of voice data transmitted/received by the handsets.

Further, the call connection controller1includes, a means for causing the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding to each other to share call control information at the time of making a call to the counterpart terminal, or a means for transferring, to each of the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding to each other, a call reception request from the counterpart terminal. The call connection controller1may include both the means for causing the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding to each other to share call control information at the time of making a call to the counterpart terminal, and the means for transferring to each of the information processor and the telephone terminal corresponding each other, a call reception request from the counterpart terminal.

InFIGS. 8 and 11, an operational state, in which a call is made in the Internet telephone system of the present invention, is shown.

FIG. 3is a block diagram showing an exemplary structure of a call connection controller according to a first embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 3shows the structure of a case that a PBX (Private Branch Exchange)1is used as a call connection controller in the first embodiment of the present invention.

The PBX1includes, a call controller11, an existing (base station) accommodating I/F (interface)17for connecting a radio base station31or the like, and a LAN (Local Area Network) accommodating IF18for connecting a personal computer (PC) over an Internet line100such as a LAN.

The call controller11includes, a connection controller12, an originator information analyzing unit13, a receiver information analyzing unit14, a database15, and a recording medium16. The connection controller12performs a call connection based on connection information notified from the originator information analyzing unit13and the receiver information analyzing unit14.

The originator information analyzing unit13performs processing to obtain, from the database15, number information notified from the originating terminal. The receiver information analyzing unit14performs processing to obtain, from the database15, receiver information. The database15stores terminal association information described later. The recording medium16is a medium such as a memory for storing a program (a program executable on a computer) for controlling the PBX1.

The existing (base station) accommodating IF17is an interface accommodating radio mobile terminals as well as existing fixed-line terminals through a radio base station31. The LAN accommodating IF18is an interface for transmitting/receiving information to/from an Internet telephone function of a PC2connected with the Internet line100asuch as a LAN. Here, radio mobile terminal (terminals41,42shown inFIGS. 8 and 9) and fixed-line terminals and the like serve as telephone terminals corresponding to the PCs2as information processors. These are terminals which have already been established and accommodated in the PBX1.

As shown inFIG. 4, the database15, according to the first embodiment of the present invention, has a table15a for searching for associate PCs2based on terminal numbers assigned to the terminals (including fixed-line terminals)41,42. Further, the database15according to the first embodiment of the present invention has, in addition to the table15ashown inFIG. 4, a table15bfor searching for the terminal numbers of the terminals (including fixed-line terminals)41,42based on the PCs2.

InFIG. 6, the Internet telephone system according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes, the PBX1, the PC2, radio base stations31,32connected with the PBX1, and a first terminal41and a second terminal42which are radio mobile terminals or fixed-line terminals, accommodated in the PBX1. The PBX1is formed of a computer, and with the computer executing a program in the recording medium16, various controls of the PBX1are realized.

The PC2has a voice input/output unit21, a communication interface (I/F)22for transmitting/receiving internet telephone information over an Internet line100such as a LAN, and a control software23for controlling communications necessary for transmitting/receiving control information between the PBX (call connection controller)1. The PC2has an Internet telephone function which enables to make a call to a counterpart terminal over the Internet line100asuch as a LAN. Although the Internet telephone function provided to the PC is a general purpose one which is currently provided, it is not limited to one currently provided, since the Internet telephone function provided is not to be altered.

When making a call using the PC2, an originating manipulation is made by dialing the receiver's number using a keyboard24connected with the PC2, or by activating an application such as a telephone book. In the PBX1, information about the PC2and information about the first terminal41associating with the PC2have been registered beforehand in the database15so as to be corresponded one to one. When the PBX1receives an origination request from the PC2, the PBX1performs a call connection request to the second terminal42, and at the same time, establishes a call path between the first terminal41and the second terminal42by using a line held by the PBX1.

FIG. 7is a flowchart showing an operation of making a call using the PC2inFIG. 6. Referring toFIGS. 3 to 7, the operation of the Internet telephone system according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. It should be noted that processing shown in FIG.7is realized by a computer of the PBX1executing a program in the recording medium16. The program in the recording medium16is one in which the processing order inFIG. 7is written in the programming language. The computer reads out the program and outputs it as an electric signal, based on which the function of the PBX1is realized.

When making a call with a use of the PC2, information is output to the PBX1by dialing the receiver's number using a keyboard24connected with the PC2, or by performing originating manipulation by activating an application such as a telephone book on the PC2. Upon receipt of the information from the PC2, the PBX1starts processing by activating the originating manipulation (step S1inFIG. 7).

The PBX1judges the origination request. The judgment of the origination request is performed to judge whether the origination request is from the PC2or from the first terminal41which is in the corresponding relationship with the PC2(step S2inFIG. 7). If the result of the judgment shows that the request is from the PC2, the PBX1performs number analysis processing of the PC2, which is the originator (step S3inFIG. 7). The number analysis processing is performed using a number which can specify the PC2, identification information such as one used for transmitting/receiving control information between the PBX1, or data of IP (Internet Protocol) address. As for the case that the origination request is from the first terminal41, processing described later is executed.

The PBX1, when performed the number analysis processing of the PC2, searches for information about associating first terminal41, for example, the unique extension (terminal number) of the terminal, among pieces of information which have been registered beforehand in the database15of the PBX1, based on the number from which the PC2can be specified (in the present embodiment, IP address) (step S4inFIG. 7).

Based on the search result, the PBX1judges whether there is information about a terminal associating with the PC2(step S5inFIG. 7). If there is no information about the associating terminal, that is, information corresponding to the first terminal41associating with the PC2, the PBX1continues processing for connecting with the counterpart terminal (the second terminal42) using the Internet line100a. Since there is no terminal equivalent to the first terminal41in the PC2, the user starts speaking, when the receiver replies, to the second terminal42, which is the counterpart terminal, over the Internet line100aby using a handset of the PC2(step S9inFIG. 7). This handset corresponds to the general purpose handset75shown inFIG. 1, and is connected with the voice input/output unit21of the PC2.

If there is information about an associating terminal, the PBX1starts monitoring the state of the first terminal41corresponding to the extension searched (step S6inFIG. 7). The PBX1, when detects the originating manipulation by the first terminal41(step S7inFIG. 7), continues processing for connecting with the receiver's number input from the keyboard24of the PC2by using a line held by the PBX1. When the receiver replies, the user starts speaking, using the first terminal41, to the second terminal42, which is the counterpart terminal, over a line held by the PBX1(step S9inFIG. 7).

When the originating manipulation from the first terminal41is not detected (step S7inFIG. 7) and a monitoring timeout is detected (step S8inFIG. 7), the PBX1determines the first terminal41is not in the state of being able to originate. Then, the PBX1continues processing for connecting with the receiver's number input from the keyboard24of the PC2by using the Internet line100a. When the receiver replies, the user starts speaking, using a handset connected with the voice input/output unit21of the PC2, over the Internet line100a(step S9inFIG. 7).

FIG. 8is a diagram showing an operation of making a call using the first terminal41inFIG. 6. Referring toFIGS. 6 and 8, an operation of making a call using the first terminal41will be explained.

Processing shown inFIG. 8is realized by a computer of the PBX1executing a program in the recording medium16.

A connection to the second terminal42is performed by manipulating a dial board (not shown) of the first terminal41and inputting the terminal number given to the second terminal42which is the receiving terminal, or activating the initializing application installed in the first terminal41. In this case, in the conventional connection mode, if an origination manipulation is performed from the first terminal41, the PBX1performs processing for connecting the first terminal41and the second terminal42which is the requested connecting counterpart, by using the line100bin itself (PBX1). However, the conventional PBX, when detecting an origination from the first terminal41, does not perform processing for connecting the PC2and the second terminal42using the Internet line100a. In other words, the conventional PBX1does not perform processing using the first terminal41as a substitute for the handset of the PC2.

In contrast, the present invention causes the PBX1to perform processing using the first terminal41as a substitute for the handset of the PC2. In other words, the PBX1has information about the first terminal41and the corresponding (associating) PC2beforehand by registering one to one (seeFIGS. 4 and 5). The call controller11of the PBX1, upon receipt of an origination request from the first terminal41, requests a call connection to the second terminal42using the line100bheld by the PBX1, to thereby establish a call path between the first terminal41and the second terminal42using the line100bof the PBX1, and at the same time, to establish a connection between the second terminal42and the PC2over the Internet line100a. Thereby, the first terminal41is used as a substitute for the handset of the PC2. Therefore, voice data from the user is transmitted to the second terminal42from the first terminal41which is the substitute for the hand set over the line of the PBX1. On the other hand, voice data from the counterpart user is transmitted to the first terminal41which is the substitute for the handset over the line100bof the PBX1.

Here, the lines of the PBX1include the Internet line100a, in addition to the line100bfor connecting terminals as radio mobile bodies and fixed-line terminals.

FIG. 9is a flowchart showing an operation of making a call using the first terminal41inFIG. 8as a handset. Referring toFIGS. 3 to 5,8and9, an operation of making a call using the first terminal41will be explained. It should be noted that the processing operation shown inFIG. 9is realized by a computer of the PBX1executing a program in the recording medium16.

When making a call using the first terminal41as a handset, manipulating a dial board of the first terminal41so as to input the terminal number of the second terminal42, or activating an origination application installed in the terminal41, to thereby perform a connecting manipulation to the second terminal42. The PBX1, upon receipt of the information from the first terminal41, activates the originating manipulation to start processing (step S11inFIG. 9).

The PBX1judges whether the origination request is from the first terminal41or the PC2(step S12inFIG. 9). If it is from the first terminal41, the PBX1performs number analysis processing of the first terminal41(step S13inFIG. 9). It should be noted that if the origination request is from the PC2, the processing inFIG. 7described above is performed.

The PBX1, after performing the number analysis processing of the first terminal41, searches for information about an associating PC2among pieces of information registered in the PBX1beforehand such as identification information for use in transmitting/receiving control information between the PBX1, or an IP address (in the present embodiment, IP address), based on a number, with which the first terminal41can be specified, such as identification information for use in transmitting/receiving control information between the PBX1(in the present embodiment, an extension (terminal number)) (step S14inFIG. 9).

The PBX1judges from the search result whether there is information about the associating PC (step S15inFIG. 9). If there is no information about the associating PC, the PBX1continues processing for connecting with the second terminal42via the line100bof the PBX1. When the counterpart replies, the user starts speaking with a use of the first terminal41over the line100bof the PBX1(step S19inFIG. 9).

If there is information about the associating PC, the PBX1informs the PC2of origination information indicating that the first terminal41is in the state of being able to originate and is performing an origination to the second terminal42and the like, based on information about the PC2obtained from the aforementioned search, for example, identification information for use in transmitting/receiving the control information between the PBX1(in this embodiment, IP address) (step S16inFIG. 9).

The PBX1, when an ACK (acknowledgement) to the origination information is replied from the PC2(step S17inFIG. 9), determines that the PC2acknowledges a state change in the first terminal41. This state of the first terminal41means that the first terminal41is used as a substitute for the handset of the PC2. Further, the PBX1when receives the ACK signal from the PC2, establishes a connection between the PC2and the second terminal42using the Internet line100a. When the counterpart replies, the user uses the first terminal41and starts speaking using the line of the PBX1(step S19inFIG. 9).

The PBX1, when an ACK to the origination information is not replied (step S17inFIG. 9) and a monitoring timeout is detected (step S18inFIG. 9), determines that the PC2does not acknowledge a state change in the first terminal41by a reason of the power being off, or the like. Then, the PBX1continues processing for connecting the first terminal41and the second terminal42using the line100bof the PBX1. When the counterpart replies, the user uses the first terminal41so as to start speaking over the line100bof the PBX1(step S19inFIG. 9).

FIG. 10is a flowchart showing an operation when a call to a user having the PC2and the first terminal41inFIG. 6arrives. Referring toFIGS. 3 to 6and10, an operation, when a call to the user having the PC2and the first terminal41arrive, will be explained. This processing is realized by a computer of the PBX1executing a program in the recording medium16.

The PBX1, following an originating manipulation from the user having the second terminal42(originating manipulation same as shown inFIG. 5), establishes a call path and starts arrival manipulation at the time of arrival at the user having the PC2and the first terminal41(step S21inFIG. 10).

Following the arrival manipulation, the PBX1, based on the number that the second terminal42dials, reads out, from the database15, registration information indicating whether the terminal with the number associates with the PC2(associating terminal information) (step S22inFIG. 10).

The PBX1judges from the search result whether there is information about the associating PC2(step S23inFIG. 10). If there is no information about the associating PC2, the PBX1continues processing for connecting with the second terminal42using the line100bof the PBX1. The user uses the first terminal41so as to start speaking over the line100bof the PBX1(step S26inFIG. 10).

If there is information about the associating PC2, the PBX1informs the first terminal41over the line100b, and the PC2over the Internet line100a, respectively, that a call connection is requested (step S24inFIG. 10). The user confirms an inbound call by the first terminal41and inputs a reply to the inbound call using the keyboard to the PC2. This leads to the state of replying to the inbound call. The PBX1, at the stage that the user having the terminal acknowledging the inbound call is in the state of replying to the inbound call (step S25inFIG. 10), establishes a call path between the PC2and the second terminal42using the Internet line100a, and continues processing for connecting the PC2and the second terminal42. The user uses the first terminal41so as to start speaking using the line100bof the PBX1(step S26inFIG. 10). In this case, since the PBX1is informed of information about the second terminal42which is the originator, from the PC2, it is possible to provide a function of specifying the originating user based on, for example, the number information, or the like.

In this way, the present embodiment, by automatically associating two terminals using the line held by the PBX1at the time of activating origination processing or inbound processing by referring to associating terminal information which has been registered in the database15of the PBX1, executes an Internet telephone function using the line of the PBX1, and uses the terminals41,42associating with the PC as handsets. Further, the terminals41,42used as handsets are extension terminals held by the PBX1.

Conventionally, in order to establish a call by handsets, it is necessary to assign numbers to the handsets for connecting with an Internet line.

In contrast, in the present invention, the terminals41,42used as handsets are extension terminals held by the PBX1, as described above, and the connection between the terminals41,42is established using the line100bof the PBX1, so that it is not required to additionally assign numbers to the terminals41,42for connecting with the Internet line100a. Accordingly, the PBX1can manage the terminals41,42only by the numbers given to the terminals41,42.

Further, it has been required to connect the handset with the Internet line such as a LAN conventionally. Therefore it is impossible to make a call in such a state that the handset is separated from the PC, so that the range in which the handset can be used is limited.

In contrast, in the present invention, the terminals41,42corresponding to the-conventional handsets are not required to be connected to the PC with cables in a case that the terminals41,42are radio mobile bodies included in the PBX1. Consequently, these terminals can be used as handsets even in a place away from the installment position of the PC, so that the users have no restriction in places where they use the handsets (terminals).

Further, when, for example, originating manipulation is performed based on the telephone book information stored in the PC2and then the user moves to a place away from the installment position of the PC while carrying the terminal used as a handset, or when the user performs an operation carrying the terminal in a place away from the installment position of the PC2, an inbound call is received at both the PC2and the radio mobile terminal used as a handset (terminals41,42), so that the user do not miss an opportunity of receiving the inbound call.

Further, in the present invention, by using the terminal accommodated in the PBX1, for example a radio mobile terminal such as a local PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) or a fixed-line terminal, voice information is transmitted/received over the line100bheld by the PBX1. Therefore, it is not necessary to reinforce bands of the Internet line100asuch as a LAN.

Conventionally, when constructing an Internet telephone, it is necessary to secure bands for transmitting/receiving voice information in an Internet line such as a LAN. In a case that the user equipment cannot secure bands enough for transmitting/receiving voice, the user equipment is required to be updated for constructing the Internet telephone. As such, there is a problem that the capital investment of the user increases. However, the present embodiment can solve this problem.

Although a case that the PC2and the PBX1are provided is described above, the present embodiment can be realized with an information processor (such as a workstation, server or the like) having an Internet telephone function, and is not limited to the PC2. Further, the call connection controller is not limited to the PBX1. It is also possible to connect with extension terminals over the Internet line100asuch as a LAN included in the lines of the PBX.

FIG. 11is a block diagram showing the structure of an Internet telephone system according to another embodiment of the present invention. InFIG. 11, the Internet telephone system according to another embodiment of the present invention has the similar structure as the Internet telephone system according to the first embodiment of the present invention shown inFIG. 6, except that a PC5corresponding to the second terminal42is provided. The same components are indicated by the same reference numerals, and the operations of the same components are similar to that in the first embodiment of the present invention.

The PC5includes, as same as the PC2shown inFIG. 6, a voice input/output unit51, a communication interface (I/F)52for transmitting/receiving Internet telephone information over an Internet line101asuch as a LAN, and a control software53for controlling communications necessary for transmitting/receiving control information between a connection controller such as the PBX1. A PC6has an Internet telephone function which enables to speak to the counterpart terminal over the Internet line101asuch as a LAN.

FIG. 12is a sequence chart showing an operation when making a call using the PC2inFIG. 11.FIG. 13is a sequence chart showing an operation when making a call using the first terminal41inFIG. 11. Referring toFIGS. 11 to 13, an operation performed at the PC5and the second terminal42, corresponding to each other, responding to an origination from the PC2or the first terminal41inFIG. 11, will be explained. This processing is realized by a computer of the PBX1executing a program in the recording medium16.

A user having the PC2and the first terminal41, when originating a call, uses a keyboard24connected with the PC2or manipulates a dial board of the first terminal41to thereby make a call to the second terminal42(a1inFIG. 12, b1inFIG. 13).

The PBX1stores information about the second terminal42and information about the PC5associating with the second terminal42by corresponding to each other. When receiving an origination request from the PC2or the first terminal41(a2inFIG. 12, b2inFIG. 13), the PBX1replies a request receipt to the PC2or the first terminal41(a3inFIG. 12, b3inFIG. 13).

Then, the originating side of the PBX1searches the database15and judges whether there is information about an associating terminal (a4inFIG. 12, b4inFIG. 13). If it is the origination request from the PC2, the origination side of the PBX1judges that there is information about associating terminal, and starts monitoring the state of the corresponding first terminal41. The PBX1, when detecting the origination request from the first terminal41(a5inFIG. 12), transmits a receipt request to the inbound side of the PBX1(a6inFIG. 12).

In the case that the origination request is from the first terminal41, when the origination side of the PBX1judges there is information about associating terminal, informs the corresponding PC1of the origination information (request indication) (b5inFIG. 13), and transmits a receipt request to the inbound side of the PBX1(b6inFIG. 13).

The inbound side of the PBX1searches the database15, and judges whether there is information about the associating terminal (a7inFIG. 12, b7inFIG. 13). When judging there is information about the associating terminal, the inbound side of the PBX1informs both of the corresponding second terminal42and the PC2that the first terminal41is requesting a call connection (incoming request) over the lines101a,101bof the PBX1(a8and a9inFIG. 12, b8and b9inFIG. 13).

The inbound side of the PBX1, at a stage that the user recognizing the inbound call manipulates so as to cause the second terminal42to be in the state of replying to the inbound call (a10inFIG. 12, b10inFIG. 13), sends back replies to the origination side of the PBX1and the first terminal41in order (a11and a12inFIG. 12, b11and b12inFIG. 13). Thereby, the PBX1establishes a call path between the second terminal42and the first terminal41using the line101bheld by it. The user uses the first terminal41to make a call with the second terminal42over the line101bof the PBX1(a13inFIG. 12, b13inFIG. 13).

In this case, the PBX1sends back replies to the PC2and the PC5, respectively (a14and a15inFIG. 12, b14and b15inFIG. 13). Therefore, on the display of the PCs2,5, information about the corresponding second terminal42or first terminal41, which is transmitted over the Internet lines100aand101aof the PBX1, is displayed (a16and a17inFIG. 12, b16and b17inFIG. 13).

With the aforementioned operation, the PBX1connects the PC2associating with the first terminal41and the PC5associating with the second terminal42over the Internet lines100a,101bsuch as LANs.

In this way, in the present embodiment, numbers for specifying radio mobile terminals (the first terminal41, the second terminal42) which are used as handsets by the both who are communicating each other, such as extensions, and numbers for specifying both PCs2,5associating with the terminals, such as IP addresses, are managed by the PBX1. Thereby, in addition to the effect obtained from the aforementioned embodiment of the present invention, another effect that the PCs2,5shown inFIG. 11can share the same information in the calling state.

Conventionally, extension terminals for performing voice call and PCs are formed independent to each other. As such, when performing a file exchange, it is necessary to take such measures as activating a mailing software so as to attach a file to a mail in which the address is designated, or using an FTP (File Transfer Protocol) function so as to perform a file transfer to the counterpart IP address, or the like.

In contrast, in the present embodiment, information can be shared between the PCs2,5easily over the Internet lines100a,101a, as described above.

In the present embodiment, an association between the first terminal41and the PC2, and an association between the second terminal42and the PC5are set respectively in the originating manipulation, as described above. The purpose of this associating processing is to cause the connecting counterpart's number, the speaking period, the state of speaking, or the like to be displayed on the PCs2,5even when radio mobile terminals are used for calling. Of course, in a case of originating a call from the Internet telephone function of the PCs2,5, the connecting counterpart's number, speaking period, the state of speaking, or the like are to be displayed on the PCs2,5.

In the inbound operation, an association between the first terminal41and the PC2, and an association between the second terminal42and the PC5are set respectively, as same as aforementioned. The purpose of this associating processing is to cause the connecting counterpart's number, the speaking period, the state of speaking, or the like to be displayed on the PCs2,5, even when a call is arrived at radio mobile terminals. Of course, even in a case that a call is arrived at the Internet telephone function of the PCs2,5, the connecting counterpart's number, speaking period, the state of speaking, or the like are to be displayed on the PCs2,5.

In the inbound operation, it is possible to know information about a PC of the receiver, for example, an IP address, by reading out information about the associating terminal from the database15. In the calling state, since it is possible to know IP addresses of the PCs of both the originator and the receiver, the counterpart can be specified by inquiring of the PBX1about the counterpart of the call, without manually inputting the counterpart information from the PC. This effect can be applied to a video conference (television conference) or the like.

FIG. 14is a flowchart showing an exemplary operation of a video conference application which is operable on the PCs2,5. Referring toFIG. 14, an operation of a video conference application will be described. This processing is realized by a computer of the PBX1executing a program in the recording medium16.

Conventionally, in the PCs2,5, when a video conference application is activated, it is necessary to manually input information for specifying the counterpart such as IP address or the like of the counterpart with which the video conference is to be performed.

In contrast, in the present invention, if there is an association (step S31inFIG. 14), an inquiry is made from the Internet telephone function of the PCs2,5to the PBX1about the counterpart with which the communication is performed, over the lines (100a,101a) of the PBX1(step S32inFIG. 14). If the corresponding terminals41,42exist, the PBX1automatically perform a connection between the terminals (41,42) using the lines (100b,101b) of the PBX1(step S34inFIG. 14). Accordingly, there is no need to perform a procedure of manually inputting information for specifying the counterpart such as an IP address of the counterpart shown by the dotted line inFIG. 14(step S33inFIG. 14), so that the connecting operation by the user is simplified and eased.

As described above, the present invention has an effect that Internet telephone functions and existing extension terminals can be associated to thereby increase a freedom in a place where the user stays.