WO2001008432A1

WO2001008432A1 - Directory browsing method and means

Info

Publication number: WO2001008432A1
Application number: PCT/FI2000/000651
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mikko Väänänen
Original assignee: Vaeaenaenen Mikko
Priority date: 1999-07-22
Filing date: 2000-07-17
Publication date: 2001-02-01
Also published as: FI991635A; AU6284300A

Abstract

The invention relates to an electronic directory browsing method and means. In particular the invention relates to a method and means for browsing the telenetwork to find telephone directories and other associated contact information, like postal address, email address, Internet/URL address or the like. The invention also relates to a method and means for optimising a communications connection in a telenetwork. With the method and means for browsing directory information conforming with the invention the user is able to query, retrieve and access a variety of contact addresses, such as telephone directories, postal addresses, email addresses, Internet/URL addresses or the like from one control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) that is arranged to operate a subscriber terminal device (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 50000).

Description

Directory browsing method and means

The invention relates to an electronic directory browsing method and means In particular the invention relates to a method and means for browsing the telenetwork to find telephone directories and other associated contact information, like postal address, email address, Internet/URL address or the like The invention also relates to a method and means for optimising a communications connection

The prior art in finding telephone or postal directory information is through special telephone directory services, where human operators answer to telephone queries

Such services include the BT directory enquiries 192 in the UK and the 1 18 service in Finland Prior art in finding an URL or Internet address involves the use of a Search Engine, a program in the Internet that searches for Internet sites based on keywords and other means, and then lists the answers of the query to the user Such services include search engines like Yahoo com and Altavista com Similar but smaller search engines are also used within Internet sites and message stores to search for a specific email address

The prior art in methods for optimising a telecommunications connection involves a call set up method, where the call is set up based on parameters provided by a service information means This invention was invented by the inventor in 1995, is described in the patent document PCT FI97/00081, and is taken here as reference for prior art

The prior art has a multitude of disadvantages In many cases the user wishes to receive several types of contact information concerning a target person or an institution To get the URL address, telephone number and street address the user usually has to consult several directory services

Even getting simply the telephone number has several disadvantages The user has to call the directory enquiries service number, which is an expensive and time-consuming task The user has to also write the number down as the operator reads it, which means more nuisance and a possibility that the user may get it wrong If the user calls f om a digital mobile phone, the user may get the number as an SMS message (Short Message Service), but this SMS message has a long delivery time

Even after knowing the wanted directory, the user rarely knowns the wisest way to reach the desired directory In case of the directory being a telephone number, the user usually wants to use the cheapest operator, but rarely knows this In case the directory requires a data connection like an Internet address does, the user usually wants to access the directory through a connection which is both economical, fast and has a high bandwidth With the prior art this is virtually impossible to the user, and it is at best an extremely arduous task and far from being automatic

The purpose of the invention is to remove the aforementioned disadvantages With the method and means for browsing directory information conforming with the invention the user is able to query, retrieve and access a variety of contact addresses, such as postal addresses, email addresses, Internet/URL addresses or the like from one control means that is arranged to operate a subscriber terminal device

As an additional advantageous property of the invention the control means is also arranged to form a communications connection to any telenetwork directory automatically upon command of the user As an additional feature the control means may also optimise the communications connection according to price-, transfer speed, and/or bandwidth or the like requirements This makes it possible for the user to automatically use the fastest, cheapest or most reliable communications connection, or a communications connection that compromises between all or some of these advantages in accordance with the invention

The control means is also arranged to receive advertisements, which means that several commercial agents can get in touch with their customers, and users on the other hand pay a low price for the service, or have it for free

Most or all of the aforementioned advantages of the invention are preferably implemented with a special exemplary embodiment of the invention, in which a software program is used to provide means for controlling a subscriber terminal comprising a modem and a computer The user enters either a directory such as a telephone number, in which case the control means software program uses the modem to dial a number If the user enters an Internet or URL address, the control means software will automatically go to the site itself by connecting to an Internet Service provider, or open an existing Internet browser application If the user enters an email address, the control means software will automatically open an email messaging application and/or connect automatically to the email account of the user

Alternatively, the user may query a directory If the control means software is able to find a match to the directory enquiry from the memory of the computer, the control means software displays it If no match exists, it relays the query to a service information database means The service information database means is a telenetwork master search facility, in connection with directory search engine programs of teleoperators, postal service providers, Internet Service Providers, data storage servers and/or Internet Search Engines The service information database means searches its own databases, public DNS datastores (which store all domain names in the world), databases of Network Solutions Inc , or any other agent licensed to register domain names, and relays queries to search engines it judges to have a possibility of success in finding a match for the relevant query For example, if the direct ory enquiry concerns a telephone number in Japan, it may relay the query to the computerised telephone directories service of Japan The control means software has to be well interfaced with telephone directory searching programs used by teleoperators, such as the Telefinder- software

After this the service information database inspects means all matches, and composes a list of the matches which it sends to terminal modem and computer The control means software then displays the matches Both the control means software and the service information database means may sort the matches in various user friendly ways

In one preferable embodiment logically clearly related matches are displayed together For example, if the directory enquiry is "Mr Jack Wasey, St Albans, UK", the control means software may display all the addresses of all Jack Wasey's in St Albans UK, together with their email addresses, possible URL-addresses and telephone numbers

In one very preferable embodiment the control means software at the subscriber terminal automatically connects to a certain search facility without consulting the service information database means For example, the query "Jack Wasey, telephone number, St Albans, UK" may initiate the control means software to retrieve the relevant phone numbers directly from the search facility of BT directory enquiries in the UK Naturally, in all cases it is possible that the query may be entered verbally, and/or by choosing restrictive options provided by the control means software Clearly, the control means software may consult the service information database means in some parts of the query, and other known search facilities directly in other parts of the query

Some of the aforementioned advantages of the invention are also preferably implemented with a special exemplary embodiment of the invention, in which the afore mentioned service information database means is in connection with service information facilities of the said service providers means, and is arranged to acquire service information from these facilities In addition to providing information concerning directories to the control means, the service information database means may transmit service information, such as bandwidth-, price-, transfer speed-, signal to noise ratio-, and/or quality information relating to communications connections This will help the control means form communications connections from the subscriber terminal automatically so that user preferences are taken into account For example, the control means is able to use the modem to dial the telephone number using the most inexpensive or reliable operator, connect to an Internet site through the cheapest or fastest Internet Service Provider, all according to set user preferences

In one very exemplary and preferable embodiment advertisements from third parties are transmitted to the control means software controlling the subscriber terminal devices These adverts may be associated with directory information, for example with phone numbers, and/or direct hyperlinks to the advertisers homepages on the Internet A method for browsing directory information in a communications system in accordance with the invention comprises a plurality of subscriber terminals, a plurality of control means, at least one service provider means, and at least one service information database means and telecommunications connections through which the communications connections are established and is characterised in that,

- at least one service information database means has communications access to at least one service provider means,

- at least one control means has communications access to at least one service information database means, and/or to at least one service provider means,

- at least one control means queries at least one service information database means and/or at least one service provider means for directory information,

- at least one service information database means and/or at least one service provider means answers the said query by arranging the relevant directory information for the control means.

An arrangement for browsing directory information in a communications system in accordance with the invention comprises a plurality of subscriber terminals, a plurality of control means, at least one service provider means, and at least one service information database means and telecommunications connections through which the communications connections are established and is characterised in that,

- at least one service information database means is arranged to have communications access to at least one service provider means,

- at least one control means is arranged to have communications access to at least one service information database means, and/or to at least one service provider means,

- at least one control means is arranged to query at least one service information database means and/or at least one service provider means for directory information,

- at least one service information database means and/or at least one service provider means is arranged to answer the said query by arranging the relevant directory information for the control means. A method for controlling the set up of a communications connection in a communications system in accordance with the invention comprises a plurality of subscriber terminals, a plurality of control means, at least one service provider means, and at least one service information database means and telecommunications connections through which the communications connections are established and is characterised in that,

- at least one service information database means is in communication connection with at least one service provider means and/or other service information database means and stores and/or relays service information, - at least one service provider means and/or at least one service information database means communicates service information to at least one subscriber terminal and/or to at least one control means,

- the control means uses all or some of the said service information in controlling the set up of the communications connection from the subscriber terminal.

An arrangement for controlling the set up of a communications connection in a communications system in accordance with the invention comprises a plurality of subscriber terminals, a plurality of control means, at least one service provider means, and at least one service information database means and telecommunications connections through which the communications connections are established and is characterised in that,

- at least one service information database means is arranged to be in communication with at least one service provider means and/or other service information database means and is arranged to store and/or relay service information, - at least one service provider means and/or at least one service information database means is arranged to communicate service information to at least one subscriber terminal and/or to at least one control means,

- the control means is arranged to use all or some of the said service information in controlling the set up of the communications connection from the subscriber terminal.

In the following the invention will be described in greater detail with reference to exemplary embodiments in accordance with the accompanying drawings, in which Figure 1 presents an embodiment of the method for browsing directory information in a communications system in accordance with the invention as a flow chart

Figure 2 presents an embodiment of the method for browsing directory information in a communications system in accordance with the invention as a logical diagram

Figure 3 presents an embodiment of the method for browsing telenetwork directory information in a communications system m accordance with the invention as a logical diagram

Figure 4 presents an embodiment of the method for controlling the set up of a communications connection in accordance with the invention in a communications system as a flow chart, in the very special and exemplary case of the telenetwork directory being a telephone number

Figure 5 presents an exemplary preferable embodiment of the network of service providers means associated with a service information database means in accordance with the invention as a schematic diagram

Figure 6 presents an exemplary preferable embodiment of the network of service provider means, service information database means, control means and subscriber terminal in accordance with the invention as a schematic diagram presenting the network on a small scale

Figure 7 presents an exemplary preferable embodiment of the network of service provider means, service information database means, control means and subscπber terminals in accordance with the invention as a schematic diagram presenting the network on a small scale

Figure 8 presents an exemplary preferable embodiment of the network of service providers means, service information database means, control means and subscπber terminals in accordance with the invention as a schematic diagram presenting the network on a large scale.

Figure 9 presents a preferable exemplary embodiment of an arrangement featuring a preferable subscriber terminal and control means in accordance with the invention

Figure 10 presents a preferable exemplary embodiment of an arrangement featuring a preferable subscriber terminal and control means in accordance with the invention

Figure 1 1 presents a preferable exemplary embodiment of an arrangement featuring a preferable subscriber terminal and control means in accordance with the invention

Figure 12 presents a preferable embodiment of the control means in accordance with the invention.

In figure 1 the directory enquiry is inputted by the user in phase 100. In this embodiment, the control means next contacts the service information database means in phase 200, and the query of the user is forwarded to the service information database means. In phase 300 the service information database means matches the enquiry of the user with potential correct answers. The service information database means does this by searching its own files and databases and/or relaying the query to other service information database means and to service provider means. Once the service information database means has composed a list of potential matches to the query, it transmits the matching directories to the control means in phase 400 However, the said transmitting service information database means need not be the same as the service information database means receiving the query. The control means consequently displays matches to the query to the user in phase 500. The control means may display the matches independently or log the user automatically for instance to the homepage of the service information database means, where the matches are displayed. After having received the matches the user may contact the desired directory or other directory via the control means or otherwise in phase 600. In figure 2 the directory enquiry is inputted by the user in phase 100 If the directory enquiry is in the memory of the control means 160, phase 500 is entered and the control means displays matches of the query to the user If the directory enquiry is not in memory 150, the control means next contacts the service information database means in phase 200, and the query of the user is forwarded to the service information database means In phase 300 the service information database means matches the enquiry of the user with potential correct answers The service information database means does this by searching its own files and databases and/or relaying the query to other service information database means and/or to service provider means It requests prompt answers, eliminates ambiguity and connects logically related matches, like the postal and email address of the same person, answers which it has potentially received from different agents Once the service information database has composed a list of potential matches to the query, it transmits the matching directories to the control means in phase 400

Then the control means displays the list of matches of the query to the user in phase 500. If the desired match is a postal directory, the user may have to contact the postal directory through post 550 If the desired match is a telenetwork directory, such as a telephone number, email address, and/or Internet and/or URL address, the user may contact the chosen telenetwork directory via control means directly 600, or otherwise

Note Benne, it is exceedingly clear that in some embodiments the control means may consult the service information database means, despite having query matching entries in its memory

In figure 3 the embodiment 30 presents a special exemplary embodiment of how the phase 600 in figure 2 could be carried out In phase 1000 the user inputs a telenetwork directory. If the directory is a telephone number 2000, the control means dials the telephone number in phase 3000 After this, provided the call is answered, a connection is formed to a wanted telephone number in phase 5000 If the telenetwork directory is an email address, phase 2100, an email messaging program is automatically opened by the control means in phase 3100 In some embodiments, the control means also automatically logs the user to his email account at an Internet Service Provider in phase 3100 Following this the control means addresses the transmission automatically to the chosen email address in phase 4000

If the chosen telenetwork directory is an Internet / URL address, phase 2200, the control means automatically opens an Internet browser program in phase 3200 In some embodiments it also automatically connects and logs the user on to an Internet Service Provider, and connects automatically to the desired Internet site in phase 4000

If the telenetwork directory is an electronic address of any kind, phase 2300, the control means automatically opens a relevant communication application suitable to the type of electronic address in phase 3300 After this in some embodiments the control means addresses the transmission automatically to the chosen electronic address in phase 4000

The control means may comprise an Internet browser, an email messaging program, a modem dialler, FTP-applications (File Transfer Protocol) and/or any other communication and/or network applications Alternatively in some embodiments the control means may also or only comprise the means for automatically opening separately existing aforementioned applications on the subscriber terminal or on some database accessible to the subscriber terminal, like the service information database means

In figure 4 the telenetwork directory is a telephone number, phase 2000 In this special embodiment the control means uses an optimisation algorithm to determine the right communications connection to the desired telephone number The optimisation algorithm may optimise the connection on the basis of bandwidth-, price-, transfer speed-, signal to noise ratio-, and/or quality information, but preferably on the basis of price, though In some embodiments the control means chooses the cheapest carrier for the communications connection If the correct choice of an operator requires modification of the phone number, for instance the addition of a prefix, the inputted telephone number is modified in phase 2200 After this the control means dials the modified telephone number in phase 2300, and forms the connection to the wanted telephone directory.

It is clear if the telenetwork directory is an email address, an Internet and/or URL address, or any other electronic address, the same optimisation principles in accordance with the invention may be applied in choosing the Internet Service Provider and/or carrier according to user preferences. In some embodiments in accordance with the invention the control means simply logs on to different email accounts and Internet Service Providers in phases 2200 and 2300, according to aforementioned user preferences.

In figure 5. the service information database means 10000 is arranged to query, relay queries, retrieve and/or receive information from the service provider means 11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000. The service information database means 10000 is arranged to query, relay queries, retrieve and/or receive address information 13100 from at least one postal service provider 13000, email directory information 14100 from at least one Internet Service Provider 14000, data storage server index information 15100 from at least one data storage server 15000, telephone directory information 11200 from at least one teleoperator 1 1000, and/or Internet / URL address information 12100 from at least one Internet search engine 12000.

Additionally in this embodiment the service information database means 10000 is arranged to query, relay queries, retrieve and/or receive service information, like tariff information 11000 and/or connection speed information 12200 from at least one teleoperator 11000 and at least one Internet search engine 12000, respectively. Naturally it is clear that in various embodiments the service information database means 10000 are arranged to query, relay queries, retrieve and/or receive any service information, like bandwidth-, price-, transfer speed-, signal to noise ratio-, and/or quality information relating to a communications connection and/or advertisements from third parties from any or all of the service providers 11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000. In figure 6. all or some of the service providers 20000, 20001, 20002 may preferably be teleoperators, Internet Search engines, postal service providers, Internet Service providers and/or data storage servers. The control means 30010 is integrated to and/or in connection with the subscriber terminal 30000. The control means 30010 and/or subscriber terminal 30000 are arranged to be in connection with the service information database means 10000 and/or at least one service provider 20000, 20001, 20002 means. The service information database means 10000 is also in connection with at least one service provider 20000, 20001, 20002 means.

Both the service information database 10000 means and/or at least one service provider means 20000, 20001, 20002 are arranged to communicate service information, like bandwidth-, price-, transfer speed-, signal to noise ratio-, and/or quality information relating to a communications connection and/or advertisements from third parties, to the control means 30010 and/or subscriber terminal 30000. The control means 30010 may then control the formation of the communications connection from the subscriber terminal 30000, and choose a service provider means

20000, 20001, 20002 on the basis of the provided service information. The control means 30010 may also be arranged to query service information from the service information database 10000 means and/or at least one service provider 20000, 20001, 20002 means.

In several preferable embodiments the control means 30010 is arranged to query service information from the service information database 10000 means and/or at least one service provider means 20000, 20001, 20002. The service information database 10000 means and/or at least one service provider means 20000, 20001, 20002 are arranged to answer the directory enquiries. In some embodiments the control means 30010 is preferably arranged to query service information from the service information database 10000 means, which is arranged to search a match for the directory enquiry from its own files and databases, and communicate the matching answers to the control means 30010, and/or relay the query to at least one service provider means 20000,

20001, 20002, which are arranged to answer the directory enquiry to the service information database means 10000 and/or directly to the control means 30010. Both the service information database means 10000 and/or the control means 30010 are arranged to arrange the matches to the query in a logical and user friendly manner. In some preferable embodiments this may include arranging the matches in order of relevance, rank, chronology, spatial proximity of the destination directory, or any other relevant criterion. Clearly logically connected matches, like the email address and the telephone number of the same person or institution are arranged together in preferable embodiments.

Figure 7 illustrates that more than one set of control means 3001 1 , 30010 and subscriber terminals 30000, 30001 can be arranged to be served in ways outlined in the explanation of embodiments 60 associated with figure 6 by the same service information database 10000 means and/or at least one service provider means 20000, 20001, 20002. Some or all service provider means 20000, 20001, 20002 are arranged to be in connection with both control means 30011, 30010 and subscriber terminals 30000, 30001.

Figure 8 illustrates that more than one set of networks as outlined in association with figure 7 and embodiments 70 may be arranged to form an aggregate network 80 in accordance with the invention. The service information database means 10000, 10001 are arranged to communicate service information and/or directory information amongst each other, and service provider means 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005 in some preferable embodiments. In one preferable embodiment some districts of control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013), service provider means (20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) and subscriber terminals (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003) are delegated to specific service information database means 10000, 10001. In some preferable embodiments these districts are geographical, but it is possible and in accordance with the invention to define these districts in other ways as well.

In figure 9 the subscriber terminal is either a modem 40000 or a modem and a computer 45000. The control means 30010 is preferably a software program, operating under the operating system of the computer, or with the modem 40000 as an integrated system. In some preferable embodiments the operating system of the modem and the computer is a Microsoft Windows, Microsoft NT and/or MS-DOS operating system, or a Unix, Linux and/or OS/2 operating system, in which case the computer is preferably a PC (Personal computer). In some preferable embodiments the computer is of another type, like Apple Macintosh or the like, in which case the program operates under the operating system of that computer. In one very preferable embodiment the control means 30010 software program is coded in Assembler, and forms the operating system of the said computer and/or subscriber terminal.

In one preferable embodiment electronic directories like email addresses and/or Internet and/or URL addresses are accessed by the modem and/or the computer. However, in some preferable embodiments a telephone 50000 is connected to the subscriber terminal 40000, 45000. In this case the modem is preferably used to dial a number for the telephone 50000, and then leave the line open thus forming a communications connection. However, in the very special embodiment of using a callback operator as the service provider means, the modem or modem and computer is arranged to dial the telephone number of the call-back operator. After this the callback operator answers and the modem 40000 or the modem and the computer 45000 hangs up. Consequently the modem 40000 or the modem and the computer 45000 either gives the line to the telephone 50000, in which case the user dials the wanted telephone directory to the call-back operator once it calls back and after the user has answered the call and hears the dial tone from the call-back operator.

Alternatively in some embodiments the modem 40000 or the modem and the computer 45000 hangs up but does not hand the line to the telephone yet. Instead the modem 40000 or the modem and the computer 45000 wait for the call back operator to call back and answer this call with the destination telephone directory of the user. In this preferable embodiment the user may use the economical offers of call back operators without having to suffer the nuisance of making several phone calls and remembering several telephone numbers, because the whole process is automatic and the telephone numbers may be stored in the memory of the modem 40000 or the modem and the computer 45000. In figure 10 the embodiments 91 differ from the embodiments 90 only in that the voice is recorded and reproduced from the telephone connection with a microphone 51000 and loudspeakers 52000, which are in connection with subscriber terminals 40000, 45000, and/or preferably integrated with subscriber terminals 40000, 45000 in some embodiments. The succesfull implementation of this embodiment requires voice support from the modem 40000 or the modem and the computer 45000. This subscriber terminal 40000, 45000 may also operate with call-back operators as outlined in association with embodiments 90 and figure 9 in some preferable embodiments.

In figure 11 the subscriber terminal device is a mobile station 47000 or a modem and a mobile station 49000. The control means 30010 is preferably a software program operated by the operating system of the mobile station 47000 or a modem and a mobile station 49000. In some preferable embodiments the said operating system is Sybase, and/or Microsoft Windows CE or the like. In some preferable embodiments the mobile station 47000 or the integrated modem with the mobile station 49000 and/or the mobile station 49000 are communications systems adaptable to GSM- (Global System for Mobile Communications) , NMT-, CDMA- (Code Division Multiple Access), UMTS- (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), WCDMA- (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access), Iridium-, Inmarsat- and/or a Teldesic communications systems. In some preferable embodiments the mobile station of the subscriber terminal 47000, 49000 is GSM-, NMT-, CDMA-, UMTS-, WCDMA-, Iridium-, Inmarsat- and/or a Teldesic mobile station. This subscriber terminal 47000, 49000 may also operate with call-back operators as outlined in association with embodiments 90 and figure 9 in some preferable embodiments. All or some of the communications connections in sone further embodiments in accordance with the invention are realised with WAP-protocol (Wireless Application Protocol).

Figure 12 presents a preferable software embodiment of the user interface of the control means. The user may tick either the query field 130 and/or connect 131 field, and the tick with a mouse or other means is arranged to indicate whether the control means ought to connect to a directory in the entry field 140, or whether the user wishes to query directory information with an entry in the entry field 140. A directory enquiry or connection to a directory is arranged to be initiated by clicking the field 120 with a mouse or by other means. In this case the program uses the terminal device, like a mobile station 47000 or a modem and a mobile station 49000 or the modem 40000 or the modem and the computer 45000 or the like, to dial a telephone connection or to form a communications connection to an electronic address. The several special embodiments concerning contacting Internet/URL addresses, email addresses and/or other electronic addresses are discussed in association with figure 3 and embodiments 30. In one special case a preferable embodiment of the software control means is arranged to open a suitable communications application stored on the subscriber terminal, or on some database accessible to the subscriber terminal, like the service information database means, for contacting the relevant electronic directory. In some preferable embodiments these communications applications are integrated into the code of the control means software.

In some preferable embodiments the user may indicate the type of directory in question by ticking all or some of the fields 132, 133, 134, 135. In some preferable embodiments the user is arranged with a possibility to store directories in address books 160, 162, 162, 163, depending on which type of directory address is in question.

In some preferable embodiments third parties are given the chance to advertise to the user in the panel 141. Directory information related to advertisers may be communicated on the panel 141, and additionally Internet links can be be programmed from the advert to the advertisers homepages in some preferable embodiments. The adverts and their hyperlinks may be updated along with other service information distributed to the control means by the service information database means (10000, 10001) and/or service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005). In some further embodiments users are arranged with the opportunity to indicate which adverts they prefer. This embodiment is especially preferable in the embodiment in which the control means is a downloadable freeware software arranged to be disseminated over the Internet. In some preferable embodiments matches to the queries are displayed in panel 142. In some preferable embodiments the user is arranged with the possibility to form a communications connection directly to an electronic directory (170, 171, 172) simply by clicking on the directory entry with a computer mouse or by other means.

The "File"-, "Settings"- and "Info"- menus 111, 112, 113 typically comprise program tools characteristic to the operating system. For example in one preferable embodiment the settings- menu 112 comprises means for adjusting the communications port of the subscriber terminal in connection with the telecommunications network 60000.

In some preferable embodiments the operating system of the subscriber terminal is a Microsoft Windows, Microsoft NT and/or MS-DOS operating system, Microsoft CE, Sybase and/or a Unix and/or OS/2 operating system, in which case the computer is preferably a PC (Personal computer). In some preferable embodiments the computer is of another type, like Apple Macintosh or the like, in which case the control means program operates under the operating system of that computer. In one very preferable embodiment the control means software program is coded in Assembler, and forms the operating system of the said computer and/or subscriber terminal.

The invention has been described above with several embodiments and substantial industrial, logistical and economical advantages related to the invention have been demonstrated. With the method and means for browsing directory information conforming with the invention the user is able to query, retrieve and access a variety of contact addresses, such as postal addresses, email addresses, lnternet/URL addresses or the like from one control means (30010, 30011 , 30012, 30013) that is arranged to operate a subscriber terminal device (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 50000).

A further advantageous property of the invention is that the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) is also arranged to form a communications connection to any telenetwork directory automatically upon command of the user. A further advantageous property of the invention is that the control means may also be arranged to optimise the communications connection according to price-, transfer speed, and/or bandwidth or the like requirements. This makes it possible for the user to automatically use the fastest, cheapest or most reliable communications connection, or a communications connection that compromises between all or some of these advantages according to user preferences and in accordance with the invention.

The invention has been explained above with reference to the aforementioned embodiments. However, it is clear that the invention is not only restricted to these embodiments, but comprises all possible embodiments within the spirit and scope of the inventive thought and the following patent claims.

Claims

Patent claims

1. A method for browsing directory information in a communications system comprising a plurality of subscriber terminals (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000), a plurality of control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) , at least one service provider means, (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) and at least one service information database means (10000, 10001 ) and telecommunications connections through which the communications connections are established, characterised in that,

- at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) has communications access to at least one service provider means, (1 1000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005),

- at least one control means (30010, 3001 1, 30012, 30013) has communications access to at least one service information database means ( 10000, 10001 ), and/or to at least one service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001,

20002, 20003, 20004, 20005),

- at least one control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) queries at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) and/or at least one service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005), for directory information,

- at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) and/or at least one service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002,

20003, 20004, 20005), answers the said query by arranging the relevant directory information for the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013).

2. A method for controlling the set up of a communications connection in a communications system comprising a plurality of subscriber terminals (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000), a plurality of control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) , at least one service provider means, (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) and at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) and telecommunications connections through which the communications connections are established, characterised in that,

- at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) is in communication connection with at least one service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) and/or other service information database means (10000, 10001) and stores and/or relays service information,

- at least one service provider means, (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) and/or at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) communicates said service information to at least one subscriber terminal (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000), and/or to at least one control means (30010, 3001 1, 30012, 30013),

- the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) uses all or some of the said service information in controlling the set up of the communications connection from the subscriber terminal (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000).

3. A method for browsing directory information and controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1 and , characterised in that,

- at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) is in communication connection with at least one service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000,

15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) and/or other service information database means (10000, 10001) and stores and/or relays service information,

- at least one service provider means, (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) and/or at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) communicates said service information to at least one subscriber terminal (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000), and/or to at least one control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013),

4. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) relays the query to at least one service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005).

5. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that at least one control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) directs the said query directly to at least one service provider means (1 1000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005).

6. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1,2 and/or 3, characterised in that all or some of the telecommunications connections are Internet connections.

7. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1,2 and/or 3, characterised in that, control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) displays the relevant directories matching the query to the user.

8. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that, the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) is used to establish a communications connection to a relevant directory.

9. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and or 3, characterised in that both control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) and/or service information database means (10000, 10001) may store directory information.

10. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3 and/or 4, characterised in that service provider means (1 1000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) answers the query to the service information database means (10000, 10001) and/or directly to the control means (30010, 3001 1, 30012, 30013).

1 1. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that,

- at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) gathers service information from the service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000,

20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005),

- at least one service information database means (10000. 10001) communicates the said information to the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013).

- control means (30010, 3001 1, 30012, 30013) uses the said information to set up a communications connection to a directory.

12. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that the said directory information comprises telephone number-, postal address-, email address, and or Internet and/or URL address information.

13. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that, the said service information is transmitted to the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013 ) by the service information database means ( 10000, 10001 ) and/or control means (30010, 3001 1, 30012, 30013) retrieves the said service information from the service information database means (10000, 10001).

14. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that, the said directory information is transmitted to the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) by the service information database means (10000, 10001) and/or control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) retrieves the said information from the service information database means (10000, 10001).

15. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that the service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) is a teleoperator (11000), Internet Search Engine (12000), postal service provider (13000), Internet Service Provider (14000) and/or data storage server (15000).

16. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that the service information database means (10000, 10001) is a telenetwork master search facility, in connection with directory search engine programs of teleoperators (1 1000), postal service providers (13000), Internet Service Providers (14000) data storage servers (15000) and or Internet Search Engines (12000), and/or in connection with service information facilities of the said service providers (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005).

17. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3 and/or 16, characterised in that the said service information comprises bandwidth-, price-, transfer speed-, signal to noise ratio-, and/or quality information relating to a communications connection and/or advertisements from third parties.

18. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that the service information database means (10000, 10001) and/or control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) matches at least two different types of addresses matching the same directory enquiry.

19. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that service information database means (10000, 10001), control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013), and or service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) rank matches to a query in order of relevance, chronology, spatial proximity and/or alphabetical order.

20. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that, - the subscriber terminal (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000), is a modem (40000) or a modem in a computer (45000),

- the control means (30010, 3001 1, 30012. 30013) is a software program operating the said modem (40000) or the said modem and computer (45000).

21. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that,

- the subscriber terminal device (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000), is a mobile station (47000) or a modem and a mobile station (49000),

- the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) is a software operating the said mobile station (47000) or the said modem and mobile station (49000).

22. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3, 20 and/or 21, characterised in that, - the said modem is on the same line as a telephone (50000) and/or mobile station (47000),

- the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) uses the said modem to dial a number for the telephone (50000) and/or mobile station (47000).

23. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3, 20 and/or 21, characterised in that, - the said modem features voice support,

- the said subscriber terminal (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000), is in connection with a microphone and/or loudspeakers.

24. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a commumcations connection as claimed in claim 1, 2 and/or 3, characterised in that,

- the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) sets up the communications connection,

-the said communications connection optimises the bandwidth-, price-, transfer speed-, signal to noise ratio- and/or quality of the said communications connection according to user preferences.

25. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3, 20 and/or 21, characterised in that,

- the control means (30010, 3001 1, 30012, 30013) sets up the commumcations connection,

-the said communications connection optimises the bandwidth-, price-, transfer speed-, signal to noise ratio- and/or quality of the said communications connection according to user preferences by modifying the directory information inputted by the user.

26. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3, 20, 21 and/or 25, characterised in that, -the said directory information is a telephone number,

- the said telephone number is modified by adding and/or deleting a prefix number.

27. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3, 20 and/or 21 , characterised in that,

- the control means converts alphabets to numbers and/or numbers to alphabets.

28. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3, 20 and/or 21, characterised in that,

- the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) comprises an Internet browser, an email messaging program, an FTP-program, fax messaging program and/or a voice mail program and/or comprises means for automatically opening said software applications.

29. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3, 20 and/or 21, characterised in that the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) opens automatically any predefined software applications.

30. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3 and or 21, characterised in that all or some of the said communications connections are established with WAP- protocol.

31. A method for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3 and/or 21, characterised in that the said mobile station is a GSM-, NMT-, CDMA-, UMTS-, WCDMA-, Iridium-, Inmarsat- and/or a Teldesic mobile station.

32. An arrangement for browsing directory information in a communications system comprising a plurality of subscriber terminals (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000,

45000, 47000, 49000, 50000), a plurality of control means (30010, 3001 1, 30012, 30013) , at least one service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005), and at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) and telecommunications connections through which the commumcations connections are established, characterised in that, - at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) is arranged to have communications access to at least one service provider means, (1 1000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005),

- at least one control means (30010, 3001 1, 30012, 30013) is arranged to have communications access to at least one service information database means (10000, 10001), and/or to at least one service provider means (1 1000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005),

- at least one control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) is arranged to query at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) and/or at least one service provider means (1 1000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) for directory information,

- at least one service information database means ( 10000. 10001 ) and/or at least one service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) is arranged to answer the said query by arranging the relevant directory information for the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013).

33. An arrangement for controlling the set up of a communications connection in a communications system comprising a plurality of subscriber terminals (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000), a plurality of control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) , at least one service provider means, (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) and at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) and telecommunications connections through which the communications connections are established, characterised in that, - at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) is arranged to be in communication with at least one service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) and/or other service information database means (10000, 10001) and is arranged to store and/or relay service information, - at least one service provider means, (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) and or at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) is arranged to communicate said service information to at least one subscriber terminal (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000), and/or to at least one control means (30010, 3001 1, 30012, 30013),

- the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) is arranged to use all or some of the said service information in controlling the set up of the communications connection from the subscriber terminal (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000).

34. An arrangement for browsing directory information and controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 32 and , characterised in that, - at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) is in communication connection with at least one service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) and/or other service information database means (10000, 10001) and stores and/or relays service information,

- at least one service provider means, (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) and/or at least one service information database means (10000, 10001) communicates service information to at least one subscriber terminal (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000) and/or to at least one control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013),

- the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) uses all or some of the said service information in controlling the set up of the communications connection from the subscriber (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000).

35. An arrangement for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 32, 33 and/or 34, characterised in that the subscriber terminal (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000) may comprise at least one modem, at least one modem in connection with a computer, at least one modem in connection with a mobile station, at least one mobile station, at least one modem in connection with a telephone and/or at least one voice modem in connection with a microphone and/or loudspeakers.

36. An arrangement for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 32, 33 and/or 34, characterised in that the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) is a software program arranged to control the set up of the communications connection from the subscriber terminal device (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000, 49000, 50000), and/or arranged to provide directory and other information to the user concerning the said communications connection.

37. An arrangement for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 32, 33 and/or 34, characterised in that the service information database means (10000, 10001) is a telenetwork master search facility arranged to be in connection with directory search engine programs of teleoperators (11000), Internet Search Engines (12000), postal service providers (13000), Internet Service Providers (14000) and/or data storage servers (15000).

38. An arrangement for browsing directory information and/or controlling the set up of a communications connection as claimed in claim 32, 33 and/or 34, characterised in that the service provider means (11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005) is arranged to be a teleoperator (11000), Internet Search Engine (12000), postal service provider (13000), Internet Service Provider (14000) and/or data storage server (15000).

39. A method and arrangement in accordance with any of the preceding claims, characterised in that,

- the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) is a software application,

- the said control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) forms the operating system of at least one subscriber terminal (30000, 30001, 30002, 30003, 40000, 45000, 47000,

49000, 50000).

40. A method and arrangement in accordance with any of the preceding claims, characterised in that, - the control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) is a software application, - the said control means (30010, 30011, 30012, 30013) is arranged to be operated by one, some, or all of the Microsoft Windows, Microsoft NT and/or MS-DOS , Microsoft CE, Sybase, Unix, Linux, Apple Macintosh and/or OS/2 operating systems.