Showing papers on "Communications system published in 1996"

Worldwide patient location and data telemetry system for implantable medical devices

Abstract: A system for communicating with a medical device (10) implanted in an ambulatory patient and for locating the patient in order to selectively monitor device function, alter device operating parameters and modes and provide emergency assistance to and communications with a patient (10). The implanted device (10) includes a telemetry transceiver for communicating data and operating instructions between the implanted device and an external patient communications control device (20) that is either worn by or located in proximity of the patient within the implanted device transceiving range. The control device preferably includes a communication link with a remote medical support network (50), a global positioning satellite (80) receiver for receiving positioning data identifying the global position of the control device, and a patient activated link for permitting patient initiated personal communication with the medical support network (50). A system controller (24) in the control device (20) controls data and voice communications for selectively transmitting patient initiated personal communications and global positioning data to the medical support network (50), and for receiving and initiating re-programming of the implanted device operating modes and parameters in response to instructions received from the medical support network (50). The communications link between the medical support network and the patient communications control device may comprise a worldwide satellite network, hard-wired telephone network, a cellular telephone network (82) or other personal communications system.

System for distributing electronic information to a targeted group of users

Abstract: A communications system having a first server and a first client connected to the first server through a first network, wherein the first server selectively sends a set of InfoBites to the first client based on a filter. A method for distributing information for the above communications system, including the steps of deriving a set of InfoBites, filtering the set of InfoBites based on the filter into a filtered set of InfoBites, and, transmitting the filtered set of InfoBites to the first client.

Wireless gaming method

Abstract: A method for seamlessly transmitting application specific messages over cellular radio system control channels and switches, for use in wireless gaming and wagering, including the steps of: transmitting application specific messaging bits, configured to appear as origination data packets having from eight to thirty-two digit fields, utilizing control channels, remote feature control request features, and IS-41 protocols. The messaging bits are transmitted over cellular control channels, for example, an AMPS, D-AMPS and TACS FSK modulated reverse control channel (RECC) 10 Kbps 48 word BCH hamming coded control channel. The messaging bits are then applied to communicate with, identify, monitor, and locate the application specific system, such as a wagering game, board game or other application specific system, thereby allowing for an integrated application specific two-way communications system. The application specific system may comprise card games, board games, video games, wagering games, and the like.

Interactive multimedia system

Abstract: An interactive multimedia audio/video communications system uses a lower data rate, non-deterministic graphics/command network having a plurality of desktop viewing stations and a network server. A separate, higher data rate, deterministic audio/video network is coupled to the plurality of desktop viewing stations using appropriate resources, such as an audio/video routing switcher and a professional disk recorder. A database contains a telephone directory so that when a user at one of the plurality of stations desires to communicate with another station, the user selects a telephone number and the server from the database determines the appropriate resources required to complete the connection. The server configures the necessary hardware via the graphics/command network to route the audio/video signals over the audio/video network from one station to the other. For conferences a quad splitter is used to combine up to four video signals into a singled composited video signal for display at the user's station. For communications with stations that exist on another node, the server communicates with the server at the other node and a codec farm is used to transfer the audio/video signals from the audio/video network of one system to the other. Thus the graphics/command network is left free for normal graphics operations once the audio/video communications has been established.

Communication system for communicating with tags

Abstract: A communication system for identifying, locating, tracking and communicating for other purposes with large numbers of tags in a time and energy efficient manner. The tags are associated with items located in a communication region that is interrogated by an interrogator on a one-to-many basis using broadcast commands, on a one-to-one basis using directed commands or on a combination basis using both methods. Identification occurs through organized transmission and reception of signals between the tags and the interrogator. A batch collection protocol uses a combined one-to-many and one-to-one communication system that effectively resolves communication contentions. The batch collection protocol employs a plurality of collection periods which communicate with large or unknown numbers of portable tags.

System and method for a directory service supporting a hybrid communication system architecture

Abstract: Telephone calls, data and other multimedia information is routed through a hybrid network which includes transfer of information across the internet utilizing telephony routing information and internet protocol address information. A media order entry captures complete user profile information for a user. This profile information is utilized by the system throughout the media experience for routing, billing, monitoring, reporting and other media control functions. Users can manage more aspects of a network than previously possible, and control network activities from a central site. A directory service that supports a hybrid communication system architecture is provided for routing traffic over the hybrid network and the internet.

Code division multiple access (CDMA) communication system

Abstract: A subscriber unit for use in a multiple access spread-spectrum communication system includes a spread spectrum radio interface, responsive to a rate function signal from a base station, and first and second despreaders. The base station assigns the rate function spread-spectrum message channels and the first despreader recovers and modifies an information signal one of the spread spectrum message channels. The information channel mode is then modified for processing by the second despreader, with the second despreader supporting a different information signal rate. The subscriber unit has a capability of communicating with a dynamically changing a transmission rate of an information signal which includes multiple spread spectrum message channels. The system includes a closed loop power control system for maintaining a minimum system transmit power level for a radio carrier station and the subscriber units, and system capacity management for maintaining a maximum number of active subscriber units for improved system performance.

Communications system for transferring information between memories according to processes transferred with the information

Abstract: An automated communications system operates to transfer data, metadata and methods from a provider computer to a consumer computer through a communications network. The transferred information controls the communications relationship, including responses by the consumer computer, updating of information, and processes for future communications. Information which changes in the provider computer is automatically updated in the consumer computer through the communications system in order to maintain continuity of the relationship. Transfer of metadata and methods permits intelligent processing of information by the consumer computer and combined control by the provider and consumer of the types and content of information subsequently transferred. Object oriented processing is used for storage and transfer of information. Method servers provide specialized data, metadata, and methods to providers and consumers to automate many common communications services and transactions useful to both providers and consumers.

Coexisting communication systems

Abstract: An integrated communication system supporting multiple TDMA or TDD communication protocols, and includes means for selectively communicating according to either protocol. Each protocol defines time frames and/or time slots of a different duration (901, 911), from which is derived a composite time frame (925) having a predefined timing structure. A first base station unit (104) communicates in a first set of time slots of the composite time frame according to a first TDMA or TDD protocol, and a second base station unit (104) (which may be collocated with the first base station unit) communicates in a second set of time slots of the composite time frame according to a second TDMA or TDD protocol. Coordinating electronics (such as a GPS receiver in one or both base station units) are provided so as to prevent collisions between communications occurring between each base station unit and its respective users. In a particular embodiment, a first protocol is GSM protocol, and a second protocol is a TDD protocol utilizing spread spectrum techniques. The TDD protocol is structured so that each time slot is twice the duration of a GSM time slot, and each time frame is four times the duration of a GSM time frame. The system may comprise a number of 'stacked' base stations in a single cell, each operating over a different frequency or using different spreading codes.

Apparatus and method for combining high bandwidth and low bandwidth data transfer

Abstract: Data communications apparatus and methods employing a bidirectional low bandwidth channel and a unidirectional high bandwidth channel. A PC is coupled to an information source by a communications system which provides both a bidirectional low bandwidth channel between the PC and the information source and a high bandwidth channel in which the information source is the source and the PC is the sink. A component of the communications system termed the director responds to a message received in the low bandwidth channel by switching the information being sent from the information source to the PC to the high or low bandwidth channel as specified in the message. The message may come either from the PC or the information source. A graphical user interface at the PC provides the user with "buttons" to specify the bandwidth. The apparatus and methods may be advantageously employed to provide telecommuting services.

CDMA for wireless personal communications

Abstract: From the Publisher: Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) is a hot topic. Until now, it has only been used in satellite and military systems, but engineers are starting to recognize certain advantages it has over FDMA and TDMA for use in cellular radio. This book provides the first comprehensive analysis of the theory and practical applications of CDMA. Authored by a recognized expert in the field, it fills a gap in current literature by explaining the use of CDMA in different environments, presenting CDMA as a multiple access protocol for wireless indoor, outdoor, and land mobile satellite communication systems. This is cutting-edge information for all those involved in the future of wireless personal communications. It enables engineers, researchers and students to: ? Compare wired (cable) and wireless network systems ? Understand multiple access protocols ? Learn hybrid CDMA ? Apply CDMA to various mobile systems ? Investigate multiple access schemes for future wireless communication systems You'll gain a complete overview of CDMA, as well as useful solutions to the general problems of wireless communications as they relate to CDMA protocol, and recommended techniques to enhance the performance of a CDMA-based wireless personal communication system. Because the author recognizes that CDMA will have to be implemented in phases, he also addresses the practicalities of the coexistence of CDMA and TDMA. Complete with 180 illustrations, 400 equations, practical examples, and appendices.

Wireless packet data distributed communications system

Abstract: A two-way satellite communications system includes an Earth station communicating with a plurality of remote terminals using a network access protocol that facilitates low power consumption by the terminals. The Earth station generates forward link TDM packet data transmissions on one or more satellite channels, and detects, despreads and decodes multiple concurrent return link slotted CDMA packet transmissions on one or more satellite channels. It communicates through a wired connection with a packet processing center which ultimately both delivers return link packet data to end-customers and receives forward link packet data from end-customers. The remote terminals receive, process and act upon forward link TDM transmissions on one or more satellite channels, and generate slotted spread spectrum CDMA transmissions on the return link on one or more satellite channels. The remote terminals communicate with a local digital data source and/or sink, digitize one or more local analog sensor signals, enter into a sleep mode to minimize the terminal's power consumption, and access the satellite communications network in accordance with the system network access protocol.

Random access communications channel for data services

Abstract: In a digital communication system for communicating digital information (100), the digital communication system having a forward link (120) and a reverse link (130), a system and method for communicating a data packet. The system comprises a communicating transceiver (202), from among a number of digital transceivers (102), for sending the data packet on a random access channel (208) over the reverse link and for receiving the digital information from the forward link. The system also comprises a base station (108) for receiving the data packet on the random access channel (208) from the reverse link (130) and for sending the digital information over the forward link (120). The digital transceivers (102) share the random access channel (208). The digital transceivers (102) have a bandwidth demand. The system (100) may also include a dedicated channel (214) for communicating the data packet between the communicating transceiver (202) and the base station (108) and a processor (212) for switching from the random access channel (208) to the dedicated channel (214) when the bandwidth demand exceeds a first threshold, and for switching from the dedicated channel (214) to the random access channel (208) when the bandwidth demand drops below a second threshold. The system is well suited for use in CDMA applications.

Communications system using a central controller to control at least one network and agent system

Abstract: A communications system and method for automatically making telephone routing decisions with "global authority" based upon information gathered in real time from the entire communications system and global optimization criteria. The present invention permits unified central control and management for the entire system.

Communication system and methods utilizing a reactively controlled directive array

Abstract: A reactively controlled directive antenna array that has a single central monopole or dipole as a radiating element excited directly by a feed system. A plurality of parasitic elements surround the radiating element and through changing the state of the parasitic impedance causing the antenna to be in an omni directional or beam pointing mode according to whether the parasitic elements are open circuited or short circuited. A computer modem and memory including stored programs control the antenna array in an omnidirectional or directive mode to locate, identify and communicate with nodes in a wireless communication network. A stored table is created in the memory indicating the antenna direction for communicating with each node in the network. Using the stored table, the computer initiates a communication sequence with a selected node, the sequence having the advantages of improved signal sensitivity and angular discrimination for wireless communication systems.

Combined GPS positioning system and communications system utilizing shared circuitry

Abstract: A combined GPS and communication system having shared circuitry. The combined system includes an antenna for receiving data representative of GPS signals, a frequency converter coupled to the antenna, a frequency synthesizer coupled to the frequency converter, an analog to digital converter coupled to the frequency converter and a processor coupled to the frequency converter. The processor processes the data representative of GPS signals to determine a pseudorange based on the data representative of GPS signals. The integrated communication receiver includes a shared component which is at least one of the antenna, the frequency converter, the frequency synthesizer and the analog to digital converter. Typically, in certain embodiments the processor also demodulates communication signals received as well as controls the modulation of data to be transmitted as a communication signal through a communication link.

Credit card operated computer on-line service communication system

Abstract: A computer network communication system collects messages from multiple electronic sources comprising network service providers and presents them to a system user in a common format that is selectable by the user. The system receives charge account information from the user and thereby recoups costs associated with providing the computer network communication access. Charge account and associated identification information for a user are stored at a central control site, along with a user's preferred display settings. The central control site is connected to an interconnected computer network and to multiple remote sites comprising computer terminals that communicate with the central control site over the computer network. The remote user sites also are capable of direct communication with network service providers independently of the central control site over conventional telephone line connections.

Ultrasound transdermal communication system and method

Abstract: A system for communicating through the skin of a patient, the system including an internal communication device implanted inside the body of a patient and an external communication device. The external communication device includes an external transmitter which transmits a carrier signal into the body of the patient during communication from the internal communication device to the external communication device. The internal communication device includes an internal modulator which modulates the carrier signal with information by selectively reflecting the carrier signal or not reflecting the carrier signal. The external communication device demodulates the carrier signal by detecting when the carrier signal is reflected and when the carrier signal is not reflected through the skin of the patient. When the reflected carrier signal is detected, it is interpreted as data of a first state, and when the reelected carrier signal is not detected, it is interpreted as data of a second state. Accordingly, the internal communication device consumes relatively little power because the carrier signal used to carry the information is derived from the external communication device. Further, transfer of data is also very efficient because the period needed to modulate information of either the first state or the second state onto the carrier signal is the same. In one embodiment, the carrier signal operates in the ultrasound frequency range.

Methods and apparatus for providing communications to telecommunications terminals

Abstract: In methods an apparatus for providing communications to a telecommunications terminal, a request for a page of data is received at a data service node, the request specifying at least one particular terminal. A terminal status request is sent from the data service node to a communications system which serves the particular terminal, the terminal status request specifying the particular terminal. The data service node receives from the communications system a terminal status message containing information indicating a current status of the particular terminal. The data service node sends to the data terminal a page of data indicating the current status of the particular terminal. The page of data comprises a communications request icon when the particular terminal is in a state in which it can receive communications. Upon selection of the communications request icon at the data terminal, the data service node receives a communications request specifying another telecommunications terminal, and sends to the communication system a communications origination request to originate communications between the paricular terminal and the other terminal. The particular terminal may be a mobile voice terminal having a display and being served by a wireless communications system. The page of data may include both a voice call request icon for initiating a voice call to the particular terminal, and a short message request icon for sending a short message to be displayed at the paricular terminal.

Bridge/router architecture for high performance scalable networking

Abstract: A high performance scalable networking bridge/router system is based on a backbone communication medium and message passing process which interconnects a plurality of input/output modules. The input/output modules vary in complexity from a simple network interface device having no switching or routing resources on board, to a fully functional bridge/router system. Also, in between these two extremes input/output modules which support distributed protocol processing are supported. A central internetworking engine includes a shared memory resource coupled to the backbone. The architecture includes a physical layer communication system for transferring control messages and data packets across the backbone, a logical layer interprocessor messaging system which operates over the physical layer across the backbone for communication between intelligent input/out modules, and between such modules in the central internetworking engine, and distributed protocol modules which are supported on intelligent input/output modules, and communicate using the logical interprocessor messaging system with the central internetworking resources.

Enchanced time difference localization system

Abstract: A method and apparatus for locating a mobile radio communications transceiver in a cellular-telephone or cellular-like communications system use a simplified system for passive monitoring of the signals emitted by the transceiver. Two receiving base stations can determine the timing of signal arrivals from the remote transceiver. This timing information is then combined with collateral, position-sensitive information to determine the likely location of the transceiver. The present invention has particular applicability to roadway transportation in that it facilitates enhanced emergency services and roadside assistance in response to calls for assistance, and it permits the passive monitoring of traffic flow.

Message communications system

Abstract: A messaging system (10) is provided that comprises an RF transmission system (12). The RF transmission system (12) comprises an RF control system (14) which receives message traffic from a messaging gateway system (20). The messaging gateway system (20) receives messages in a variety of protocols from remote messaging system (30). The messaging gateway system (20) translates the messages received from remote messaging system (30) and constructs messages to be delivered to subscriber devices (28) through the RF transmission system (12). A subscriber device (28) can issue commands that are transmitted to the remote messaging system (30) or to remote system controller (32) controlling a remote-controlled system (34).

Enhanced uplink modulated backscatter system

Abstract: A Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) duplex radio communication system uses an Interrogator to generate a first radio signal by modulating a first information signal onto a radio carrier signal which is sent to at least one remote Tag of the system. The remote Tag receives and modulates a second information signal onto a second radio carrier signal to form a second modulated signal which is transmitted, in a time-slotted manner, back to the Interrogator. The remote Tag selects, or is instructed, how many times it should repetitively transmit the second modulated signal; and selects, or is instructed, over how many of the time slots following receipt of the first radio signal the remote Tag should repetitively transmit the second modulated signal. Other embodiments use Modulated Backscatter to transmit the second modulated signal, and use homodyne detection to demodulate the second modulated signal. A Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA) duplex radio communication system embodiment utilizes multiple subcarrier frequencies and another embodiment combines the FDMA and the TDMA methods. A Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) embodiment utilizes multiple spreading codes and another embodiment combines the CDMA and the TDMA methods.

Method and apparatus for communication system access

Abstract: A method and apparatus for accessing a communication system relies on the use of varying access probabilities for subscribers or messages of varying priority. A serving infrastructure entity (110) determines access probabilities in response to known system parameters like the current rate of access attempts for each priority class of user/message. Values representative of these access probabilities are then transmitted to the subscriber unit(s) (105), for example by use of a system broadcast channel or control channels. These values are then used by the subscriber units in determining when to access an uplink channel. A temporal and/or proportional priority distribution approach is preferably used in determining the access values. As a result of this contention-based prioritization, an expedited access is achieved by higher priority units/traffic, thus increasing their throughput.

Satellite repeater diversity resource management system

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for improving and optimizing the delivery of path diversity in a satellite repeater-based communication system, thereby conserving both FDM channels and satellite power utilization. The reception of communications is improved, when one or more orbiting satellite repeater (12) transmitters is blocked or severely faded, by recognizing the need for satellite path diversity on a real-time or near real-time basis. A user terminal (13) is thus enabled to receive sufficient signal strength to avoid having an ongoing call automatically terminated. The system optimizes satellite path diversity applied to (a) classes (types) of user terminals and/or (b) to individual user terminals as a function of location and also a local RF propagation environment of the user terminal. In addition, the invention teaches a consideration of the satellite resources that are available at any given point in time, and may restrict or limit the availability of satellite path diversity, thereby increasing overall system capacity.

Cellular communication system with dynamically modified data transmission parameters

Abstract: An apparatus and process for improving the performance of a cellular communication system using direct sequence spread spectrum techniques. The apparatus and process enable dynamic modification of communication system parameters including PN code length, chipping rate and modulation technique for transmission of a data packet. Modification is based on proximity of the transmitter and receiver, transmitter and receiver capabilities, and other factors. The system evaluates tradeoffs between data transmission speed and communication range to improve system performance.

Short-range magnetic communication system

Abstract: A system and method communicate signals between a portable unit and a communications system. The portable device communicates with a base unit using inductive coupling. The base unit is further connected to a wider communication system such as a telephone network. Multiple, orthogonally arranged transducers are used in the base unit to provide a more complete magnetic field and to prevent mutual inductance nulls which are otherwise present in a magnetic field. The use of short-range inductive coupling minimizes the power requirements and limits interference with other sources. The inductive coupling may also be used to recharge a battery in the portable device.

Method and apparatus for using full spectrum transmitted power in a spread spectrum communication system for tracking individual recipient phase time and energy

Abstract: Method and apparatus for tracking the frequency and phase of signals in spread spectrum communication systems that makes more efficient use of available carrier frequency and phase information by utilizing a substantial portion or all of the energy occupying the frequency spectrum of a received carrier signal, including energy from communication signals intended for other system users. Multiple spread spectrum communication signals (182) are input in parallel to data receivers (126 A'-N') where they are despread using preselected despreading codes at an adjustable phase angle and decoded over multiple orthogonal codes active within the communication system. Multiple decoded signals are then combined (188) to form a single phase detection signal which is used by at least one tracking loop (184) to track frequency and phase of the carrier signal for the received communication signals. The tracking loop (184) generates a timing signal which is used to adjust the phase angle (186) used during despreading. In further embodiments, the communication signals are despread using appropriate PN codes and separated into in-phase (I) and quadrature channels (Q) (214) where data symbols are processed by fast Hadamard transformers (218, 220) to generate corresponding data bits. The data is formed into pairwise products between the channels (224), and summed over multiple or all active subscriber orthogonal codes (226). This sum indicates a degree to which the estimated phase differs from the actual phase of received communication signals and is used to adjust the phase of application for the PN codes (230).

Indoor radio communication system

Abstract: A master station master antenna having a high directivity in an upper direction, a slave station and a slave antenna having a high directivity in the high direction are arranged on a floor of a room, and furniture is arranged on the floor between the master antenna and the slave antenna. Also, a master reflecting mirror is arranged on a ceiling of the room placed just above the master antenna, and a slave reflecting mirror is arranged on the ceiling placed just above the slave antenna. When an electric wave having a data signal is radiated from the master station, the electric wave radiated in the upper direction passes through a first transmission route and is reflected by the master reflecting mirror toward a horizontal direction. Thereafter, the electric wave passes through a second transmission route near the ceiling and is again reflected by the slave reflecting mirror toward the lower direction. Thereafter, the electric wave passes through a third transmission route and is received by the slave antenna because the slave antenna has a high directivity to receive the electric wave transmitted from the upper direction. Therefore, the data signal can be reliably detected by the slave station without being interrupted by the furniture.

Communication system including diversity antenna queuing

Abstract: A wireless communications system comprising a first transponder having a plurality of selectable antennas, and having a stack including locations holding data representing antennas, the stack defining an order in which antennas will be used to attempt communication; a second transponder configured to communicate with the first transponder, wherein the first transponder uses an antenna defined by data in one location of the stack for communication with the second transponder, and, if successful communication with the second transponder is not established, the transponder uses an antenna defined by data in another if location of the stack.