AU2002100464B9 - Real time pre-paid call access system - Google Patents

Description

AUSTRALIA

Patents Act 1990 INNOVATION PATENT APPLICATION Invention Title: REAL TIME PRE-PAID CALL ACCESS SYSTEM The invention is described in the following statement: Our Ref: 026006 REAL TIME PRE-PAID CALL ACCESS SYSTEM The present invention relates to a real time pre-paid call access system and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to such a system adapted for access to timed phone calls and/or national, international, calls to mobiles.

BACKGROUND

Historically in many countries, a base provider local telephone company provides all telephony services to their subscribers. It really didn't matter what number was dialed, be it local, national long distance or even international, the one carrier handled everything.

Since the advent of competition within the telecommunications marketplace a number of competitors now provide some or all of the services previously available only from the base provider with the market for Long Distance being probably the most contested.

Most alternate providers of Long Distance services have largely relied upon the Preselection process to gather traffic from their Subscribers. Preselection is the process whereby a subscriber connected to a base provider, selects another carrier they prefer to carry their long distance calls. Typically the base provider is obligated under the regulatory regime to pass these long distance calls from their own network, to the competing network via a so-called interconnection arrangement.

At this point of interconnection not only is the actual call handed over to the preselected carrier but there are also signaling messages conforming to international standards that indicate to the preselected carrier the telephone number of the person making the call (A Party) as well as the number they dialed (B Party).

Most telephone services are still physically connected to a base provider's local exchanges but anyone who wishes to use a different long distance provider can have their line preselected to their carrier of choice. When they dial a National, International or Fixed To Mobile call, their local base provider exchange automatically hands the call to the preselected carrier for termination.

A commercial agreement for this long distance traffic exists between the end subscriber and the alternative provider. The fact that the base provider may be the local carrier for that subscriber and that the base provider charges the alternate provider a so-called interconnect fee for the use of their network, is transparent to the subscriber. The base provider receives this interconnection fee from the alternative provider for the use of their local exchange, interconnection facilities and the like but it is the alternative provider that rates and bills the long distance call to the end subscriber.

With the exception of this bill however, the operation and facilities available from alternative providers are near enough to identical to the service provided by the base provider. Indeed the fundamental difference between the carriers is related to the price of the call rather than feature or functional matters relating to the call.

The bill arrives either monthly or quarterly and the account is paid in arrears. The fundamental nature of the service is unchanged in that it is still a post-paid arrangement.

A problem with this arrangement is that call costs can rapidly mount, particularly in respect of timed calls, to the extent that the caller may feel as though they have no real control over the charging and certainly have no way of monitoring the charges sufficiently closely that they feel as though there is some control being exerted over the charges being incurred.

It is an object of the present invention to address or ameliorate one or more of the above mentioned disadvantages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION Accordingly, in one broad form of the invention there is provided a real time pre-paid call access system wherein a pre-paid call subscriber accesses a pre-paid system network which is associated with a pre-paid system database; said pre-paid system network maintaining a prepaid account for said subscriber as a pre-paid data record in said pre-paid system database; said subscriber enabled to make a call via said pre-paid system network while said pre-paid data record indicates funds are available to apply to the cost of said call; said subscriber preselected for said pre-paid system network on a designated line.

Preferably said call is a timed call.

Preferably said call is a national call, international call or call to a mobile.

Preferably said call is to a mobile or cellular telephone.

Preferably said call is initiated via a base provider network and which call is passed by said base provider network to said pre-paid system network on confirmation of a specified criterion.

Preferably said criterion comprises said call being a timed call.

Preferably said criterion is said call is a national call, international call or a call to a mobile.

Preferably said criterion is said call is to a mobile telephone.

Preferably said criterion includes a code string appearing in said call.

Preferably said code string comprises a PIN number.

Preferably said PIN number identifies a specified subscriber associated with a specified pre-paid data record.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS One embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein: Fig. 1 is a block, interconnected diagram of a real time pre-paid call access system in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 is an online application form screen suitable for use with an internet-enabled embodiment of the system of Fig. 1; Fig. 3 is a screen arrangement at account entry level for the Internet enabled system of Fig. 2 Fig. 4 is a call details summary screen in accordance with the internet-enabled embodiment of Fig. 2; Fig. 5 is a recharge history screen suitable for use with the Internet enabled embodiment of Fig. 2; Fig. 6 is a re-charge screen for use with the Internet enabled embodiment of Fig. 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS With initial reference to Fig. 1 and in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a call model 11 in a real time prepaid call access system 10 is implemented whereby a call from a subscribing caller A (12) is passed from the base provider network at base provider local exchange 13 into a pre-paid platform 14 whereby the subscriber 12 has a notional credit balance 15 in a realtime account 16 and funds are drawn down from that account 16, again in real time, during a call.

The detailed call flow can be as follows: The subscriber 12 (A Party) lifts their handset and dials a long distance number CLI(B) as per usual. At their local exchange 13 the preselected status of the line forces the call to be handed over from the base provider network to pre-paid network 17 facilities, either directly or via an intermediate point of interconnection.

When the call arrives at the pre-paid system network 17 it is accompanied by data that unambiguously identifies the phone number CLI(A) of the A Party 12 and also the number CLI(B) that they dialed as a result of the interconnection method described above.

The account balance associated with CLI(A) is examined to determine if sufficient funds are available as stored in data record 18 of real time account 16 for completion of the call.

If there are sufficient funds available an announcement is made via pre-paid system responder to the caller 12 advising of their monetary balance and the maximum time available for the call based upon that balance (caller B19).

The call is then connected to the B Party.

In the event that insufficient funds are available for the completion of the call, an announcement is made by system responder 20 to the caller advising them of their low balance and inviting them to recharge their account.

If they elect not to recharge their account then the call is disconnected. If however they elect to recharge their account by depositing money into it, then their call is passed to the pre-paid system responder 20 where an operator (either human or automated) can perform a credit card transaction in real time to top-up their account.

The caller 12 can then continue with the call they do not have to hang up and dial again if they dial at the end of the call.

If during a call their real time balance 15 approaches the minimum allowed, a warning tone is played via system responder If during their call their real time balance reaches the minimum allowed the call is disconnected from the B party 19 and the caller 12 is offered the recharge options described above. Alternative payment options are also available at any other time including Credit Card transactions via the Web or live operator, Bpay, Direct Debit, and OTC via Aust Post.

Because the account of the A party is being checked during the call set-up process via an intelligent network, a number of other value added features are available: Security Coding the subscriber can register for a PIN and then is prompted during call set-up to prevent unauthorized users from accessing the account, if the customer opts for this when at home. This feature is always needed when away from home.

Multiple Accounts each user of the same telephone number in say a shared accommodation environment can have an individual account linked to a secure PIN 21.

Example 1 A specific system specification implemented for communication via Internet 22 will now be described and wherein the real time pre-paid call access system 10 is denoted as "Gotalk": System Features GOtalk Features Benefits Why Choose GOtalk GOtalk is an exciting new long distance service provider that is prepaid. Now you can enjoy the benefits of prepaying your national, international and calls to mobile.

With GOtalk you will have access to some of the lowest rates in the market.

With GOtalk you can enjoy the following benefits: You keep your same phone number Low rates No more long distance bills Recharge when it suits you Auto Top Up View your account details online Use GOtalk from any phone in Australia Tired of paying for someone else's calls Going overseas and want to call friends in Australia Low balance Alert Low talk time You keep your same phone number Your phone number does not change. You still remain with your current phone company for your line service and equipment. GOtalk looks after your international, national and calls to mobile.

28.N Nv. 2 02 21:57 Wallinston Du aM r No.890 P. A 11 Low rates With GOtalk, you will have access to some of the lowest rates in the market. Because we donrt send you any bills, we pass the savings on to you. With GOtalk, you get the same low rates 24 hours a day.

No more long distance bills Because GOtalk is a prepaid service, you wont have to worry about surprise long distance bills at the end of the month. You can recharge your account with as little as $10 now you can take control of your phone budget once and for all.

Recharge when it suits you easy and simple recharge options Recharge using your credit card by calling GOtalk Visit the recharge section in our website www.gotalk.com.au and use your credit card Go to Australia Post and pay with cash BPAY using a biller code and the account number (from the back of your card) You never need to run out. When your account goes below $5 we let you know so that you have the option to add more value to your account.

Auto Top Up You can register for our auto top up service.

Your account will be topped up automatically with a predetermined amount each month or if your balance reaches $5 or less. Top up your account with as little as $10 or as much as $100 at a time.

23.h ov. 2102 2!:57 Wallinsto. ummer No.L69 P. 12 View your account online Go to 'Account Details' on the navigational bar above and you will be able to view your account balance, your recharges and your call details.

Use GOtalk from any phone in Australia You can also make calls using GOtalk services whilst travelling or staying with friends. You can use your GOtalk service from any phone in Australia using your same prepaid account.

Just dial 1800gotalk, enter your registered phone number and four digit PIN and make a call.

Tired of paying for someone else's calls? Whether you are in a share house or you want to allocate a budget for your teenagers to use, using GOtalk will make sure everyone pays their own way. With GOtalk each person can have their own separate account by using a 4 digit security pin code you will never need to fight over a long distance bill again! Just register for a 'Multiple Account".

Going overseas and want to call friends in Australia? Whilst you are overseas you can still enjoy all the benefits of GOtalk's low rates and prepay as you go. Simply call our Customer Service to find out which of the 49 countries you can call from.

Low Balance Alert When your account goes below the next time you use the service you are alerted and given the option to automatically add value to your account.

Low Talk Time 'you will hear a 'beep' when you have seconds left for your call and again when you have seconds left.

User Guide for Example 1 Instruction for the user 12 for use of the system via the screens illustrated in Figs 2 through to 6 can be as follows: Calling From Home 1i. Dial number you wish to call.

2. Listen to your account balance and available talk time Note: for national calls, dial area code phone number Note: also for international calls, dial country code area code phone number Calling When Away From Home You can use GOtalk from any phone in Australia using your same prepaid account. You just follow these simple steps: 1. Dial 1800 468 255 (that is, 1800gotalk) 2. Select option 4 3. Enter your 10 digit phone number 02 9770 1234) your 4 digit security pin code followed by 3. Listen to your current balance* 4. Dial the number you wish to call followed by Listen to the talk time available Access From Oveaseas Whilst you are overseas you can still enjoy the benefits of 28. ov. 201 21 :58 Wallinston Dumner No.4690 P. 6 14 GOtalk's low rates and prepay as you go. Simply call customer service to find out which of the 49 countrys you can call from Recharge when it suits you Add value to your account 24 hours, 7 days a week by using any of our simple and convenient recharge methods listed below: 1. On the Gotalk website (www.gotalk.com.au) in the 'Account Details' section using your credit card 2. Over the Phone Call 1800 GOtalk (1800 468 255) and follow the voice prompts to recharge your account with your credit card. This facility is available 24 hours day, every day of the year. Alternatively our customer service team will talk you through it all.

3. Australia Post Take your personalised GOtalk card to any Australia Post and pay over the counter. Call credits are normally available by 10am the next working day.

4. BPAY Your BPAY biller code will be provided and the Customer Reference Number is your account number (from the back of the GOtalk card) Call credits are available within 24 hours.

Auto Top Up You can register for our Auto Top Up service. Your account will be topped up automatically with a pre-determined amount each month or if your account balance reaches $5 or less. Top up your account with as little as $10 or as much as $100 at a time.

Low Balance Alert When your account goes below the next time you use the service you are alerted and given the option to automatically add value to your account.

Low Talk Time You will hear a 'beep' when you have 60 seconds left for your call and again when you have 30 seconds left.

Customer Service Our GOtalk team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Simply call 1800 GOtalk (1800 468 255) if you would like to change your 4 digit security pin code, add more value to your account or to ask about our latest offers.

View Account Details Online Go to Account Details to view your account balances, your recharges and your call details Multiple User (Shared Household) 1. Dial the number you wish to call.

2. Enter the 4 digit security pin code followed by 3. Listen to your account balance and talk time available.

Printable Version To download a printable version please click here *This feature is optional and can be turned off by calling Customer Services.

28.No 2302 2: 58 allinalo Duner N34590 D. 7 16 GOtalk Online Services Welcome to Gotalk Online Services. Please click on the links below to go to the relevant section.

Your Account Details Your registered telephone number (07) 5593 0631 Your personal account number 360006333 Your current account balance $41.68 GOtalk Reaharge Options Welcome to the Recharge section. We offer you the convenience of recharging your GOtalk Account 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can recharge as little as $10 or as much as $100 at a time.

There are several simple and convenient options available to you: Using a Credit Card (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) You can recharge our account by entering your credit card details via our secure site please click here. This should take no longer than a couple of minutes. Recharge as little as $10 or as much as $100.

OR

You can call our Customer Service 1800 GOtalk (1800 468 255) with your credit card details and ask for additional value to be added to your account.

Pay with Cash at Australia Post If you prefer to pay with cash, you simply take your GOtalk card*(that has a barcode on the back) to Australia Post and they will add the value to your account. Call credits will normally be available by 8pm the same evening.

BPAY

With the biller code and your 10 digit account number, you can call your phone banking provider or visit your internet banking provider at their website to add value to your account. Call credits will be available overnight.

Auto Top Up You can register for our Auto Top Up service by calling Customer Service. Your account will be topped up automatically with a pre-determined amount each month with as little as $10 or as much as $100 at a time or if your balance reaches $5 or less.

The above describes only some embodiments of the present invention and modifications, obvious to those skilled in the art, can be made thereto without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Claims (4)

1. A real time pre-paid call access system wherein a pre- paid call subscriber accesses a pre-paid system network which is associated with a pre-paid system database; said pre-paid system network maintaining a pre-paid account for said subscriber as a pre-paid data record in said pre-paid system database; said subscriber enabled to make a call via said pre-paid system network while said pre-paid data record JO indicates funds are available to apply to the cost of said call; said subscriber preselected for said pre- paid system network on a designated line.

2. The system of Claim 1 wherein said call is a timed call.

3. The system of Claim 1 or Claim 2 wherein said call is a national call, international call or call to a mobile.

4. The system of any previous claim wherein said call is initiated via a base provider network and which call is passed by said base provider network to said pre- paid system network on confirmation of a specified criterion. The system of Claim 5 wherein said criterion comprises said call being a timed call. 19 DATED: 7 June 2002 GOTALK AUSTRALIA PTY L=) by their Patent Attorneys: WALLINGTON-DUNMR