Title of Invention	"A METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CALL CONFERENCING IN AN INTERNET PROTOCOL (IP) COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK"
Abstract	A method for call conferencing in an Internet Protocol (IP) communications network, the method comprising: controlling a conference call with a server within the IP network; detecting an event associated with the conference call, the conference call associated with a plurality of participants within the IP network;generating at the server one or more instant message associated with the detected event, the one or more instant messages having Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) format; and communicating the one or more SIP instant messages from the server to one or more of the participants. Fig. 2

Title of Invention

"A METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CALL CONFERENCING IN AN INTERNET PROTOCOL (IP) COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK"

Abstract

A method for call conferencing in an Internet Protocol (IP) communications network, the method comprising: controlling a conference call with a server within the IP network; detecting an event associated with the conference call, the conference call associated with a plurality of participants within the IP network;generating at the server one or more instant message associated with the detected event, the one or more instant messages having Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) format; and communicating the one or more SIP instant messages from the server to one or more of the participants. Fig. 2

Full Text	The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for call conferencing in an internet protocol (IP) communications network. TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] This disclosure relates generally to conferencing systems and more specifically to an apparatus, method, and computer program for providing instant messages related to a conference call. BACKGROUND [0002] Audio and video conferencing systems are becoming more popular in the United States and around the world. In a conventional conferencing system, one participant communicates audio signals to other participants (often through a multipoint conferencing server or other unit) and receives audio signals from the other participants (indirectly through the server). The participants may also exchange video images allowing the participants to see one another. SUMMARY [0003] This disclosure provides an apparatus, method, and computer program for providing instant messages related to a conference call. [0004] In one aspect, a call conferencing apparatus, method, and computer program detect one or more events that are related to a conference call. The apparatus, method, and computer program then send one or more instant messages to one or more participants associated with the conference call . [0005] In a particular aspect, the one or more events could include a participant joining the conference call, a participant exiting the conference call, a participant failing to log into the conference call correctly, a participant transferring to another communication device during the conference call, a beginning of the conference call, and an end of the conference call. [0006] Other technical features may be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following figures, descriptions, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0007] For a more complete understanding of this disclosure and its advantages, reference is now made to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [OOO8] FIGURE 1 illustrates an example conferencing system according to one embodiment of this disclosure; [OOO9] FIGURE 2 illustrates an example media application server according to one embodiment of this disclosure; and [0010] FIGURE 3 illustrates an example method for providing instant messages related to a conference call according to one embodiment of this disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION [OOll] FIGURE 1 illustrates an example communication system IOC according to one embodiment of this disclosure. The system 100 shown in FIGURE 1 is for illustration only. Other embodiments of the system 100 may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure. ;0012j A problem with conventional conferencing systems is that the participants often cannot easily determine when different events occur. For example, conventional conferencing systems simply produce an audible >Nbeep" or other noise that alerts the other participants in a conference call that a new participant has joined. The other participants are then often forced to ask who joined the conference call. Similarly, conventional conferencing systems simply produce an audible beep when a participant leaves a conference call. To identify the participant who left, each remaining participant typically needs to say that he or she did not leave, and by process of elimination the participant who left is identified. This is typically inconvenient for the conference call participants. [0013] In the illustrated example, the system 100 includes one or more communication devices 102a-102d, a network 104, and a media application server ("MAS") 106. [0014] The communication devices 102a-102d represent devices used by users or subscribers during communication sessions. Communication sessions represent data conversions or conversations between devices or applications ever a network. For example, each communication device 102a-102d represents an input/output cevice that could include a microphone and a speaker to capture and play audio information. A communication device I02a~102d could also include a camera and a display to capture and present video information. A communication device 102a~102d could further represent a portable computing device for sending and receiving text or other messages. [0015] During a communication session, one or more of the devices 102 communicate with the MAS 106 over the network 104. As an example, a communication device 102 may transmit audio information to the MAS 106 and receive audio information from the MAS 106. Each communication device 102 may be constructed or configured from any suitable hardware, software, firmware, or combination thereof for transmitting or receiving audio, video, or other information. [0016] The system 100 shown in FIGURE 1 illustrates various embodiments of the communication devices 102. For example, the communication device 102a represents a wireless mobile station that communicates with the network 104 through a mobile switching center ("MSC") 108. The communication device 102b represents a wired Internet Protocol ("IP") telephone that communicates directly with the network 104. An example of a suitable device is an 12004 Internet Telephone, commercially available from Nortel Networks o-f Brampton, Ontario, Canada. The communication device 102c represents a personal computer, such as a desktop computer or a laptop computer. The communication device 102d represents a wireless device, such as a Blackberry or personal digital assistant. One or more of ':hese devices 102a-102d may include video functionality, such as when the communication device 102a includes a video camera or when the communication device 102c is coupled to a web camera 110. [0017] While this represents several embodiments of the communication devices 102, other or additional communication devices 102 may be utilized in the system 100 of FIGURE 1. By way of illustration in FIGURE 1, each of the communication devices I02a-102d is different. It will be understood, however, that the communication devices 102 in the system 100 may include or represent the same or similar type of device or other combination of communication devices. [0018] The network 104 is coupled to the communication devices 102, the MAS 106, and the mobile switching center 108. In this document, the term "couple" refers to any direct or indirect communication between two or more components, whether or not those components are in physical contact with each other. The network 104 facilitates communication between components of the system 100. For example, the network 104 may communicate Internet Packets ("IP"), frame relay frames, Asynchronous Transfer Mode ("ATM") cells, Ethernet, X.25, frame relay, or other suitable information protocols between network addresses or devices. The network 104 may include one or more local area networks ("LANs"), metropolitan area networks ("MANs"), wide area networks ("WANs"), all or portions of a global network such as the Internet, or any other communication system or systems at one or more locations. [0019] The media application server ("MAS") 106 is coupled to the network 104. The MAS 106 supports communication sessions between communication devices 102 in the system 100. For example, the MAS 106 may receive from one cr multiple communication devices 102 requests to establish 01 join a conference call. The MAS 106 may also transmit/receive audio or video information to/from each communication device 102 involved in the conference call. [0020] The MAS 106 may be constructed or configured using any hardware, software, firmware, or combination thereof fcr supporting communication sessions in the system 100. As an example, the MAS 106 could include one or more processors 112 that execute instructions and one or more memories 114 that store instructions and data used by the processors 112. The processor(s) 112 is generally understood to be a device that drives a general-purpose computer. It is noted, however, that other processor devices such as microcontrollers, Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), or Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) can be used as well and achieve the benefits and advantages described herein. An example MAS 106 is shown in FIGURE 2, which is described below and in co-pending U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 10/610,511 entitled "DISTRIBUTED CALL SERVER SUPPORTING COMMUNICATION SESSIONS IN A COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD," filed on June 30, 2003, and which is incorporated by reference herein. [0021] Communication session(s) established and managed by the MAS 106 can include additional communication devices other than the communication devices 102a-102d. For example, a communication device 102e is shown coupled to the network 104 through a public telephone network, such as a public switched telephone network ("PSTN") 116. The communication device 102e may include a conventional analog or digital telephone or some other type of communication device. Ir. embodiments where the PSTN 116 and the network 104 use different or incompatible protocols to communicate, a gateway 118 may be used that is coupled to the network 104 and the PSTN 116 to facilitate communication between the networks. The gateway 118 functions to translate between the different protocols used by the network 104 and the PSTN 116. Although one PSTN 116 is shown in FIGURE 1 coupled to the network 104, other or additional types of public or private networks may be coupled to the network 104. [C022] The communication devices 102 and tne MAS 106 could support suitable standards or protocols used to set up, maintain, and terminate communication sessions between end users. As examples, the communication devices 102 and the MAS 106 could communicate audio, video, or other information using the Realtime Transfer Protocol ("RTF") over User Datagram Protocol ("UDP"), the International Telecommunication Union - Telecommunications ("ITU-T") H.263 standard (video CODEC), the G.711 and G.729 audio CODEC standards, and other or additional standards or protocols. Other CODECS, such as Moving Picture Experts Group-4 ("MPEG-4"), Digital Video Express ("DIVX"), and Windows Media Video ("WMV"), can be supported by the MAS 106. In addition, signaling messages sent between the communication devices 102 and the MAS 106 may include or conform with the Session Initiation Protocol ("SIP"), which is an application layer protocol for the establishment, modification, and termination of conferencing and telephony sessions over IP-based networks. As will be appreciated, other or additional protocols and configurations may be used . [0023; In one aspect of operation, the MAS 106 includes one or more processes, such as software applications providing an activity, a function, or a systematic sequence of operations that produces a specified result, for handling conference calls. In this document, the phrase "conference call" refers to a communication session involving more than two participants. [0024] During a conference call, the MAS 106 generates and communicates one or more instant messages to various participants who use or have access to one or more communication devices 102. In this document, the phrase "instant message" refers to a message that is transmitted from a source to a destination for presentation at the destination at the time it is received by the destination. The instant messages sent to a participant in a conference call may be received and presented through one or more communication devices 102 associated with the participant. For example, the contents of an instant message could be presented to a participant by displaying the contents on a display screen of a communication device 102 or by playing an audio version of the contents through a speaker of the communication device 102. [0025] The instant messages sent to one or more participants in a conference call could contain any information related to the conference call. For example, a conference call is typically associated with a chairperson responsible for managing the conference call. The chairperson may or may not be the first participant to initiate or join a conference call. When the chairperson joins the conference call, the MAS 106 may communicate an instant message to the chairperson identifying the number of participants who have already joined the conference call. The instant message could also identify the names of the participants who have already joined the conference call. In addition, some of the participants who joined a conference call could also leave the conference call before the chairperson joins the call. The instant message sent to the chairperson could identify the number or names of the participants who have joined and left the conference call before the chairperson joined. [0026] As another example, when a new participant joins an existing conference call, an instant message identifying the new participant could be sent to one or more of the other participants already participating in the call. Similarly, when a participant leaves a conference call, an instant message identifying the exiting participant could be sent to one or more of the participants still participating in the call. In this way, one, some, or all of the participants in a conference call can easily identify who joins or leaves a conference call. As particular examples, the instant message identifying a new participant: or an ex-iting participant could be sent only to the chairperson or to all other participants. [0027] AS yet another example, before a conference call begins, tne MAS 106 may be informed who will be participating in the conference call. The chairperson or any other person could identify the participants who will participate in the call. When the conference call actually starts, such as when the chairperson joins the call, the MAS 106 could send to all of the identified participants an instant message indicating that the conference call has begun. Similarly, when the conference call ends, the MAS 106 could send to the chairperson or to all of the identified participants an instant message indicating that the conference call has ended. [0028] As still other examples, in some embodiments, a conference call may end automatically when a specified amount of time elapses after the chairperson leaves the conference call. In these embodiments, when the chairperson leaves the • conference call, the MAS 106 sends an instant message to the other participants indicating that the conference call is ending soon. Also, in some embodiments, a participant may attempt to join a conference call but fail to provide the proper access code. In these embodiments, when a participant provides an improper access code, the MAS 106 sends an instant message to the chairperson identifying the participant, the correct access code, and the incorrect access provided by the participant. The chairperson may then take any suitable action, such as sending an instant message to the participant identifying the correct access code. Further, in some embodiments, a participant in a conference call may transfer the call from one of the participant's communication devices 102 to another communication device 102. When this occurs, the MAS 106 sends an instant message to the chairperson indicating that the participant has transferred devices 102. In addition, in some embodiments, when the conference call ends, the MAS 106 sends to the participants an instant message containing a survey, such as a survey with predefined survey questions. The participants may respond with instant messages containing answers to the survey questions, and the MAS 106 tabulates the answers and sends an instant message with the survey results to the chairperson. [0029] This has described several examples of the instant messages that may be communicated to one or more participants before, during, or after a conference call. Instant messages containing other or additional contents could be sent at any suitable time to any or all of the participants without departing from the scope of this disclosure. [0030] In some embodiments, an instant message for a particular participant is sent to a specific communication device 102 associated with that participant. In other embodiments, an instant message for a particular participant is sent to some or all communication devices 102 associated with that participant. [0031] In particular embodiments, such as when the SIP protocol is used in the system 100, a communication device 102 registers with the MAS 106 and is associated with a participant. When an instant message is generated for a participant, the instant message is sent to all registered communication devices 102 for that participant. By communicating the instant message to all registered communication devices 102 for a participant, the participant may be more likely to receive the instant message on at least one device. [0032] Although FIGURE 1 illustrates one example of a communication system 100, various changes may be made to FIGURE 1. For example, varying jcommunication devices 102, networks 104, and servers 106 could be used in the system 100. Also, the functionality of MAS 106, described above as being implemented on a server, could be implemented on any other computing device, such as a desktop computer or a laptop computer. In addition, FIGURE 1 illustrates one operational environment in which the various features of the MAS 106 may be used. These features could be implemented in any other suitable operating environment. [0033] FIGURE 2 illustrates an example media application server 106 according to one embodiment of this disclosure. The MAS 106 illustrated in FIGURE 2 is for illustration Dnlv. Other embodiments of the MAS 106 could be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Also, while FIGURE 2 illustrates the MAS 106 operating in the system 100 of FIGURE 1, the MAS 106 may operate in other suitable systems. [0024] In the illustrated example, the MAS 106 includes a media conductor 202, a media controller 204, two media processors ("MPs") 206a-206b, and a content store 208. [0035] The media conductor 202 processes signaling messages received by the MAS 106. In some embodiments, the communication devices 102 communicate the signaling messages directly (or via a gateway, which serves as an entrance/exit into a communications network) to the MAS 106. In other embodiments, the communication devices 102 communicate signaling messages indirectly to the MAS 106, such as when a Session Initiation Protocol ("SIP") application server 210 (that received a request from a communication device 102) sends the signaling messages to the media conductor 202 on behalf of the communication device 102. The communication devices 102 may communicate directly with the SIP application server 210 or indirectly through a gateway, such as gateway 118. The media conductor 202 processes the signaling messages and communicates the processed messages to the media controller 204. As particular examples, the media conductor 202 may implement SIP call control, parameter encoding, and media event package functionality. [0036] The media controller 204 manages the operation of the MAS 106 to provide services to the communication devices 102. For example, the media controller 204 may receive processed SIP requests from the media conductor 202, where the requests involve conference or other calls. The controller 204 may 'then select the media processor 206 to handle each of the calls, support audio/video capability negotiations, enforce licenses controlling how the MAS 106 can be used, and control negotiations based on the licenses. The negotiations could include identifying the CODEC or CODECs to be used to encode and decode audio or video information during a call. [0037] The media processors 206a-206b handle the exchange of audio or video information between communication devices 102 involved in a conference or other call. For example, a media processor 206 could receive audio and video information from one communication device 102 involved in a call, process the information as needed, and forward the information to at least one other communication device 102 involved in the call. The audio and video information may be received through one or more ports 212, which couple the media processors 206 to the network 104. The ports 212 may represent any suitable structure operable to facilitate communication between the MAS 106 and the network 104. In some embodiments, each of the media processors 206 represents a software application for specific media processing, such as interactive voice response ("IVR") media or conference media, which is executed on the MAS 106 hardware platform via the operating system. [0038] In this example embodiment, each media processor 206 provides different functionality in the MAS 106. For example, ir. some embodiments, the media processor 206a provides IVR functionality in the MAS 106. As particular examples, tne media processor 206a supports a voice mail function that can record and play messages or an autoattendant function that provides a menu and directs callers to particular destinations based on their selections. The media processor 206b provides conferencing functionality in the MAS 106, such as by facilitating the exchange of audio and video information between communication devices 102. [0039] The content store 208 provides access to content used by the various components of the system 100. For example, in some embodiments, the content store 208 provides access to stored voice mail messages and access codes used to initiate or join conference calls. The content store 208 also provides access to any other or additional information. In other embodiments, the content store 208 is replaced by a conventional database or other data storage facility. [0040] A Java 2 Enterprise Edition TJ2EE") platform 214 is coupled to the MAS 106. The J2EE platform 214 allows the MAS 106 to retrieve information used to provide subscriber services in the system 100. For example, the J2EE platform 214 may provide audio announcements used by the IVR media processor 206a. The J2EE platform 214 represents one possible apparatus used to provide audio or other information to the MAS 106. Any other or additional device or apparatus may be used to provide the information to the MAS 106. [0041] In a particular embodiment, various components of the MAS 106 represent software processes executed by the processor 112 of the MAS 106. While the components 202-208 have been described as being executed by a MAS 106, the software processes could be executed by other computing devices such as a desktop computer. In other embodiments, the various components of the MAS 106 may be implemented in other ways, such as in hardware. [0042] In the illustrated example, the conference media processor 206b implements the conferencing functionality described above. For example, the media conductor 202 receives signaling messages indicating that two or more communication devices 102 wish to engage in a conference call. The controller 204 receives the requests and causes the conference media processor 206b to establish the conference call. The conference media processor 206b then receives audio or video information from each communication device 102 and forwards the information to the other communication devices 102. [0043] During a conference call, the MAS 106 generates and communicates one or more instant messages to one or more of the participants. In a particular embodiment, the media controller 204 generates the instant messages. The instant messages are then converted into SI? format by the media conductor 202, which communicates the instant messages to one or more communication devices 102. The instant messages may be sent directly to the communication devices 102 by the media conductor 202 or indirectly through the SIP application server 210. [0044] Although FIGURE 2 illustrates one example of a media application server 106, various changes may be made to FIGURE 2. For example, any number of media processors 206 could be used in the MAS 106. Also, the functional divisions shown in FIGURE 2 are for illustration only. Various components can be combined or omitted or additional components can be added according to particular functional designations or needs. In addition, while the components 202-208 have been described as being executed by a server, the components 202-208 may be executed by other hardware platforms, such as a desktop computer or a laptop computer. [0045] FIGURE 3 illustrates an example method 300 for providing instant messages related to a conference call according to one embodiment of this disclosure. For ease of explanation, the method 300 is described with respect to the MAS 106 of FIGURE 2 operating in the system 100 of FIGURE 1. The method 300 may also be used by other suitable devices or in any other suitable system. [0046] The MAS 106 detects a participant joining or initiating a conference call at step 302. This may include, for example, the media conductor 202 receiving one or more signaling messages, such as SIP messages, from a communication device 102. This may also include the media controller 204 determining that the signaling messages indicate a conference call is desired. [0047] The MAS 106 determines whether the participant joining or initiating the conference call is the chairperson of the call at step 304. This may include, for example, the MAS 106 determining whether, based on registration information provided by the participant's communication device 102, the participant is the chairperson of the conference call. The chairperson may be identified based on any suitable criteria. For example, the participant may enter a code identifying the participant as the chairperson. A participant could also be identified ahead of time as the chairperson of a conference call. [0048] If the participant is the chairperson, the MAS 106 sends the chairperson an instant message identifying the number and names of any other participants who have already joined the conference call at step 306. This may include, foi example, the media controller 204 generating the instant message and the media conductor 202 converting the instant message into SIP format. As part of the instant message, the MAS 106 may or may not identify the names and number of participants who joined and then exited the conference call. In various embodiments, the instant message could identify only the number of participants who have joined, on^y the names of participants who have joined, cr both. Other information could also be included, such as the telephone number or location of each participant. The number and names may or may not include the chairperson. By sending this instant message, the chairperson can easily identify the status of the conference (such as who is there and whether everybody has joined) without needing to ask each participant to identify himself or herself. [0049] The MAS 106 also sends an instant message to all participants who should be involved in the conference call indicating chat the conference call has started at step 308. This may include, for example, the MAS 106 sending an instant message to each participant in a list of participants for the conference call. This may or may not include the MAS 106 sending the instant message to the chairperson. In this example, the MAS 106 determines that the conference call has "begun" when the chairperson joins the call. In other embodiments, other or additional criteria could be used to determine when a conference call officially begins, such as when a specified number of participants have joined. [00501 Whether or not the new participant is the chairperson, the MAS 106 sends an instant message identifying the new participant to one or more other participants at step 310. This may include, for example, the MAS 1C6 sending an 'instant message identifying the new participant to the chairperson only (if the new participant is not the chairperson) or to all other participants who nave already joined the conference call. In this way, at least one of the participants already in the conference call can easily identify the new participant. [0051] At some point during the conference call, the MAS 106 detects a participant leaving the conference call at step 312. This may include, for example, the media conductor 202 detecting a signaling message from a communication device 102 terminating a link to the MAS 106. When the MAS 106 detects this event, the MAS 106 sends an instant message to one or more of the other participants identifying the participant who left at step 314. This may include, for example, the MAS 106 sending an instant message identifying the exiting participant to the chairperson only or to all other participants who are still in the conference call. In this way, at least one of the participants in the conference call can easily identify the participant who left. [0052] Eventually, the MAS 106 detects an end to the conference call at step 316. This may include, for example, the MAS 106 determining that the chairperson or all participants have exited the conference call. The MAS 106 then sends an instant message to one or more of the participants indicating that the conference call has ended at step 318 , This may include, for example, the MAS 106 sending an instant message to the chairperson only, to all participants who joined the conference call, or to all participant5 who were expected to participate in the [0053] Although FIGURE 3 illustrates one example of a method 300 for providing instant messages related to a conference call, various changes may be made to FIGURE 3. For example, FIGURE 3 illustrates the MAS 106 generating instant messages in response to detecting five different events (chairperson joins, conference begins, another participant joins, participant leaves, conference ends). The MAS 1C 6 could send instant messages when other or additional events are detected (conference ending soon, participant provided incorrect pass code, etc.). Also, while steps 306-310, 314, 318 show a single instant message being sent oy the MAS 106, the MAS 106 could send multiple instant messages containing the described content during each step. Further, the order of events shown in FIGURE 3 is for illustration only. The MAS 106 could detect the events in a different order, such as when a participant leaves the conference call before the chairperson joins. Moreover, an instant message could be sent to one, some, or all of the communication devices 102 associated with a participant who should receive the message. In addition, the MAS 106 may "send" an instant message in different ways depending on the communication device 102 that will receive the message. As a particular example, a text message could be sent to communication devices 102 having a display, while an audio version of the text could be sent to communication devices 102 that lack a display. [0054] It may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words and phrases that have been used within this patent Document. The terms "include" and "comprise," as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without limitation. The term "or" is inclusive, meaning and/or. The phrases "'associated with" and "associated therewith," as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have, have a property of, or the like. [0055] While this disclosure has described certain embodiments and generally associated methods, alterations and permutations of these embodiments and methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the above description of example embodiments does not define or constrain this disclosure. Other changes, substitutions, and alterations are also possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, as defined by the following claims. We Claim: 1. A method for call conferencing in an Internet Protocol (IP) communications network(104), the method comprising: controlling a conference call with a server(106) within the IP network; detecting an event(302, 312, 316) associated with a conference call, the conference call associated with a plurality of participants (102) within the IP network; generating (306, 308,310, 314, 318) at the server one or more instant message associated with the detected event, the one or more instant messages having Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) format; and communicating the one or more SIP instant messages from the server to one or more of the participants associated with a plurality of communication devices. 2. The method as claimed in claim 1 ,wherein: the event(304) comprises a chairperson of the conference call joining(302) the conference call; and the one or more SIP instant messages(306) identify at least one of a number of participants who have joined the conference call and a name of each participant who has joined the conference call. 3. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the one or more SIP instant messages identify at least one of a number of participants who have joined and exited the conference call and a name of each participant who has joined and exited the conference call. 4. The method as claimed in claim 1 ,wherein: the event comprises one of the participants at least a one of joining(302) the conference call and exiting(312) the conference call; and the one or more SIP instant messages(310, 314) identify a name of the participant who has at least a one of joined the conference call and exited the conference call. 5. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1 ,wherein: the one or more SIP messages transmitted to the one or more participants via a SIP application server(210) external to the server. 6. The method as claimed in claim 1,wherein: the event comprises one of a beginning and an end (316) of the conference call; and the one or more SIP instant messages(318) identify that the conference call has one of begun and ended. 7. The method as claimed in claim 1,wherein: the event comprises one of the participants failing to provide a correct pass code when attempting to join the conference call; and the one or more SIP instant messages are communicated to a chairperson and identify the participant, an incorrect pass code provided by the participant, and the correct pass code. 8. The method as claimed in claim 1 ,wherein: the event comprises a chairperson of the conference call exiting the conference call; and the one or more SIP instant messages indicate that the conference call will end after a specified amount of time. 9. The method as claimed in claim 1,wherein: the event comprises one of the participants transferring the conference call from one communication device to another communication device; and the one or more SIP instant messages indicate that the participant transferred communication devices and is transmitted to the chairperson. 10. The method as claimed in claim 1,wherein: the event comprises an end to the conference call; the one or more SIP instant messages comprise a survey; and further comprising: receiving one or more responses from one or more of the participants containing answers to the survey; tabulating the answers; and communicating one or more instant messages containing the tabulated answers to a chairperson of the conference call. 11. An apparatus (106) for call conferencing in an Internet Protocol (IP) , comprising: one or more ports(212) operable to receive at least one channel of a plurality of channels for a communication session, the at least one channel having information from at least two of a plurality of conference call participants(102); and one or more processors(206) collectively operable to: detect an event associated with the conference call, the conference call associated with the plurality of participants within the IP network; generate at the apparatus one or more instant messages associated with the detected event, the one or more instant messages having Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) format; and communicate the one or more SIP instant messages to one or more of the participants. 12. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11,wherein: the event comprises a chairperson of the conference call joining the conference call; and the one or more SIP instant messages identify at least one of a number of participants who have joined the conference call and a name of each participant who has joined the conference call. 13. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein: the event comprises one of the participants joining the conference call and exiting the conference call; and the one or more SIP instant messages identify a name of the participant who has at least joined the conference call and exited the conference call. 14. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein: the one or more SIP messages are transmitted to the one or more participants via a SIP application server(210) external to the server. 15. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11,wherein: the event comprises one of a beginning and an end of the conference call; and the one or more instant messages identify that the conference call has one of begun and ended. 16. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11,wherein: the event comprises one of the participants failing to provide a correct pass code when attempting to join the conference call; and the one or more instant messages are communicated to a chairperson and identify the participant, an incorrect pass code provided by the participant, and the correct pass code . 17. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11,wherein: the event comprises a chairperson of the conference call exiting the conference call; and the one or more SIP instant messages indicate that the conference call will end after a specified amount of time . 18. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein: the event comprises one of the participants transferring the conference call from one communication device to another communication device; and the one or more SIP instant messages indicate that the participant transferred communication devices and is transmitted to the chairperson. 19. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein: the event comprises an end to the conference call; the one or more SIP instant messages comprise a survey; and the one or more processors are further collectively operable to: receive one or more responses from one or more of the participants containing answers to the survey; tabulate the answers; and communicate one or more instant messages containing the tabulated answers to a chairperson of the conference call.

Full Text

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for call conferencing in an internet protocol (IP) communications network.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This disclosure relates generally to conferencing
systems and more specifically to an apparatus, method, and
computer program for providing instant messages related to
a conference call.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Audio and video conferencing systems are becoming
more popular in the United States and around the world. In
a conventional conferencing system, one participant
communicates audio signals to other participants (often
through a multipoint conferencing server or other unit) and
receives audio signals from the other participants
(indirectly through the server). The participants may also
exchange video images allowing the participants to see one
another.
SUMMARY
[0003] This disclosure provides an apparatus, method,
and computer program for providing instant messages related
to a conference call.
[0004] In one aspect, a call conferencing apparatus,
method, and computer program detect one or more events that
are related to a conference call. The apparatus, method,
and computer program then send one or more instant messages
to one or more participants associated with the conference
call .
[0005] In a particular aspect, the one or more events
could include a participant joining the conference call, a
participant exiting the conference call, a participant
failing to log into the conference call correctly, a
participant transferring to another communication device
during the conference call, a beginning of the conference
call, and an end of the conference call.
[0006] Other technical features may be readily apparent
to one skilled in the art from the following figures,
descriptions, and claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] For a more complete understanding of this
disclosure and its advantages, reference is now made to the
following description, taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[OOO8] FIGURE 1 illustrates an example conferencing
system according to one embodiment of this disclosure;
[OOO9] FIGURE 2 illustrates an example media application
server according to one embodiment of this disclosure; and
[0010] FIGURE 3 illustrates an example method for
providing instant messages related to a conference call
according to one embodiment of this disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[OOll] FIGURE 1 illustrates an example communication
system IOC according to one embodiment of this disclosure.
The system 100 shown in FIGURE 1 is for illustration only.
Other embodiments of the system 100 may be used without
departing from the scope of this disclosure.
;0012j A problem with conventional conferencing systems
is that the participants often cannot easily determine when
different events occur. For example, conventional
conferencing systems simply produce an audible >Nbeep" or
other noise that alerts the other participants in a
conference call that a new participant has joined. The
other participants are then often forced to ask who joined
the conference call. Similarly, conventional conferencing
systems simply produce an audible beep when a participant
leaves a conference call. To identify the participant who
left, each remaining participant typically needs to say
that he or she did not leave, and by process of elimination
the participant who left is identified. This is typically
inconvenient for the conference call participants.
[0013] In the illustrated example, the system 100
includes one or more communication devices 102a-102d, a
network 104, and a media application server ("MAS") 106.
[0014] The communication devices 102a-102d represent
devices used by users or subscribers during communication
sessions. Communication sessions represent data
conversions or conversations between devices or
applications ever a network. For example, each
communication device 102a-102d represents an input/output
cevice that could include a microphone and a speaker to
capture and play audio information. A communication device
I02a~102d could also include a camera and a display to
capture and present video information. A communication
device 102a~102d could further represent a portable
computing device for sending and receiving text or other
messages.
[0015] During a communication session, one or more of
the devices 102 communicate with the MAS 106 over the
network 104. As an example, a communication device 102 may
transmit audio information to the MAS 106 and receive audio
information from the MAS 106. Each communication device
102 may be constructed or configured from any suitable
hardware, software, firmware, or combination thereof for
transmitting or receiving audio, video, or other
information.
[0016] The system 100 shown in FIGURE 1 illustrates
various embodiments of the communication devices 102. For
example, the communication device 102a represents a
wireless mobile station that communicates with the network
104 through a mobile switching center ("MSC") 108. The
communication device 102b represents a wired Internet
Protocol ("IP") telephone that communicates directly with
the network 104. An example of a suitable device is an
12004 Internet Telephone, commercially available from
Nortel Networks o-f Brampton, Ontario, Canada. The
communication device 102c represents a personal computer,
such as a desktop computer or a laptop computer. The
communication device 102d represents a wireless device,
such as a Blackberry or personal digital assistant. One or
more of ':hese devices 102a-102d may include video
functionality, such as when the communication device 102a
includes a video camera or when the communication device
102c is coupled to a web camera 110.
[0017] While this represents several embodiments of the
communication devices 102, other or additional
communication devices 102 may be utilized in the system 100
of FIGURE 1. By way of illustration in FIGURE 1, each of
the communication devices I02a-102d is different. It will
be understood, however, that the communication devices 102
in the system 100 may include or represent the same or
similar type of device or other combination of
communication devices.
[0018] The network 104 is coupled to the communication
devices 102, the MAS 106, and the mobile switching center
108. In this document, the term "couple" refers to any
direct or indirect communication between two or more
components, whether or not those components are in physical
contact with each other. The network 104 facilitates
communication between components of the system 100. For
example, the network 104 may communicate Internet Packets
("IP"), frame relay frames, Asynchronous Transfer Mode
("ATM") cells, Ethernet, X.25, frame relay, or other
suitable information protocols between network addresses or
devices. The network 104 may include one or more local
area networks ("LANs"), metropolitan area networks
("MANs"), wide area networks ("WANs"), all or portions of a
global network such as the Internet, or any other
communication system or systems at one or more locations.
[0019] The media application server ("MAS") 106 is
coupled to the network 104. The MAS 106 supports
communication sessions between communication devices 102 in
the system 100. For example, the MAS 106 may receive from
one cr multiple communication devices 102 requests to
establish 01 join a conference call. The MAS 106 may also
transmit/receive audio or video information to/from each
communication device 102 involved in the conference call.
[0020] The MAS 106 may be constructed or configured
using any hardware, software, firmware, or combination
thereof fcr supporting communication sessions in the system
100. As an example, the MAS 106 could include one or more
processors 112 that execute instructions and one or more
memories 114 that store instructions and data used by the
processors 112. The processor(s) 112 is generally
understood to be a device that drives a general-purpose
computer. It is noted, however, that other processor devices
such as microcontrollers, Field Programmable Gate Arrays
(FPGAs), or Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs)
can be used as well and achieve the benefits and advantages
described herein. An example MAS 106 is shown in FIGURE 2,
which is described below and in co-pending U.S. Patent
Application Serial No. 10/610,511 entitled "DISTRIBUTED
CALL SERVER SUPPORTING COMMUNICATION SESSIONS IN A
COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD," filed on June 30, 2003,
and which is incorporated by reference herein.
[0021] Communication session(s) established and managed
by the MAS 106 can include additional communication devices
other than the communication devices 102a-102d. For
example, a communication device 102e is shown coupled to
the network 104 through a public telephone network, such as
a public switched telephone network ("PSTN") 116. The
communication device 102e may include a conventional analog
or digital telephone or some other type of communication
device. Ir. embodiments where the PSTN 116 and the network
104 use different or incompatible protocols to communicate,
a gateway 118 may be used that is coupled to the network
104 and the PSTN 116 to facilitate communication between
the networks. The gateway 118 functions to translate
between the different protocols used by the network 104 and
the PSTN 116. Although one PSTN 116 is shown in FIGURE 1
coupled to the network 104, other or additional types of
public or private networks may be coupled to the network
104.
[C022] The communication devices 102 and tne MAS 106
could support suitable standards or protocols used to set
up, maintain, and terminate communication sessions between
end users. As examples, the communication devices 102 and
the MAS 106 could communicate audio, video, or other
information using the Realtime Transfer Protocol ("RTF")
over User Datagram Protocol ("UDP"), the International
Telecommunication Union - Telecommunications ("ITU-T")
H.263 standard (video CODEC), the G.711 and G.729 audio
CODEC standards, and other or additional standards or
protocols. Other CODECS, such as Moving Picture Experts
Group-4 ("MPEG-4"), Digital Video Express ("DIVX"), and
Windows Media Video ("WMV"), can be supported by the MAS
106. In addition, signaling messages sent between the
communication devices 102 and the MAS 106 may include or
conform with the Session Initiation Protocol ("SIP"), which
is an application layer protocol for the establishment,
modification, and termination of conferencing and telephony
sessions over IP-based networks. As will be appreciated,
other or additional protocols and configurations may be
used .
[0023; In one aspect of operation, the MAS 106 includes
one or more processes, such as software applications
providing an activity, a function, or a systematic sequence
of operations that produces a specified result, for
handling conference calls. In this document, the phrase
"conference call" refers to a communication session
involving more than two participants.
[0024] During a conference call, the MAS 106 generates
and communicates one or more instant messages to various
participants who use or have access to one or more
communication devices 102. In this document, the phrase
"instant message" refers to a message that is transmitted
from a source to a destination for presentation at the
destination at the time it is received by the destination.
The instant messages sent to a participant in a conference
call may be received and presented through one or more
communication devices 102 associated with the participant.
For example, the contents of an instant message could be
presented to a participant by displaying the contents on a
display screen of a communication device 102 or by playing
an audio version of the contents through a speaker of the
communication device 102.
[0025] The instant messages sent to one or more
participants in a conference call could contain any
information related to the conference call. For example, a
conference call is typically associated with a chairperson
responsible for managing the conference call. The
chairperson may or may not be the first participant to
initiate or join a conference call. When the chairperson
joins the conference call, the MAS 106 may communicate an
instant message to the chairperson identifying the number
of participants who have already joined the conference
call. The instant message could also identify the names of
the participants who have already joined the conference
call. In addition, some of the participants who joined a
conference call could also leave the conference call before
the chairperson joins the call. The instant message sent
to the chairperson could identify the number or names of
the participants who have joined and left the conference
call before the chairperson joined.
[0026] As another example, when a new participant joins
an existing conference call, an instant message identifying
the new participant could be sent to one or more of the
other participants already participating in the call.
Similarly, when a participant leaves a conference call, an
instant message identifying the exiting participant could
be sent to one or more of the participants still
participating in the call. In this way, one, some, or all
of the participants in a conference call can easily
identify who joins or leaves a conference call. As
particular examples, the instant message identifying a new
participant: or an ex-iting participant could be sent only to
the chairperson or to all other participants.
[0027] AS yet another example, before a conference call
begins, tne MAS 106 may be informed who will be
participating in the conference call. The chairperson or
any other person could identify the participants who will
participate in the call. When the conference call actually
starts, such as when the chairperson joins the call, the
MAS 106 could send to all of the identified participants an
instant message indicating that the conference call has
begun. Similarly, when the conference call ends, the MAS
106 could send to the chairperson or to all of the
identified participants an instant message indicating that
the conference call has ended.
[0028] As still other examples, in some embodiments, a
conference call may end automatically when a specified
amount of time elapses after the chairperson leaves the
conference call. In these embodiments, when the
chairperson leaves the • conference call, the MAS 106 sends
an instant message to the other participants indicating
that the conference call is ending soon. Also, in some
embodiments, a participant may attempt to join a conference
call but fail to provide the proper access code. In these
embodiments, when a participant provides an improper access
code, the MAS 106 sends an instant message to the
chairperson identifying the participant, the correct access
code, and the incorrect access provided by the participant.
The chairperson may then take any suitable action, such as
sending an instant message to the participant identifying
the correct access code. Further, in some embodiments, a
participant in a conference call may transfer the call from
one of the participant's communication devices 102 to
another communication device 102. When this occurs, the
MAS 106 sends an instant message to the chairperson
indicating that the participant has transferred devices
102. In addition, in some embodiments, when the conference
call ends, the MAS 106 sends to the participants an instant
message containing a survey, such as a survey with predefined
survey questions. The participants may respond
with instant messages containing answers to the survey
questions, and the MAS 106 tabulates the answers and sends
an instant message with the survey results to the
chairperson.
[0029] This has described several examples of the
instant messages that may be communicated to one or more
participants before, during, or after a conference call.
Instant messages containing other or additional contents
could be sent at any suitable time to any or all of the
participants without departing from the scope of this
disclosure.
[0030] In some embodiments, an instant message for a
particular participant is sent to a specific communication
device 102 associated with that participant. In other
embodiments, an instant message for a particular
participant is sent to some or all communication devices
102 associated with that participant.
[0031] In particular embodiments, such as when the SIP
protocol is used in the system 100, a communication device
102 registers with the MAS 106 and is associated with a
participant. When an instant message is generated for a
participant, the instant message is sent to all registered
communication devices 102 for that participant. By
communicating the instant message to all registered
communication devices 102 for a participant, the
participant may be more likely to receive the instant
message on at least one device.
[0032] Although FIGURE 1 illustrates one example of a
communication system 100, various changes may be made to
FIGURE 1. For example, varying jcommunication devices 102,
networks 104, and servers 106 could be used in the system
100. Also, the functionality of MAS 106, described above
as being implemented on a server, could be implemented on
any other computing device, such as a desktop computer or a
laptop computer. In addition, FIGURE 1 illustrates one
operational environment in which the various features of
the MAS 106 may be used. These features could be
implemented in any other suitable operating environment.
[0033] FIGURE 2 illustrates an example media application
server 106 according to one embodiment of this disclosure.
The MAS 106 illustrated in FIGURE 2 is for illustration
Dnlv. Other embodiments of the MAS 106 could be used
without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Also,
while FIGURE 2 illustrates the MAS 106 operating in the
system 100 of FIGURE 1, the MAS 106 may operate in other
suitable systems.
[0024] In the illustrated example, the MAS 106 includes
a media conductor 202, a media controller 204, two media
processors ("MPs") 206a-206b, and a content store 208.
[0035] The media conductor 202 processes signaling
messages received by the MAS 106. In some embodiments, the
communication devices 102 communicate the signaling
messages directly (or via a gateway, which serves as an
entrance/exit into a communications network) to the MAS
106. In other embodiments, the communication devices 102
communicate signaling messages indirectly to the MAS 106,
such as when a Session Initiation Protocol ("SIP")
application server 210 (that received a request from a
communication device 102) sends the signaling messages to
the media conductor 202 on behalf of the communication
device 102. The communication devices 102 may communicate
directly with the SIP application server 210 or indirectly
through a gateway, such as gateway 118. The media
conductor 202 processes the signaling messages and
communicates the processed messages to the media controller
204. As particular examples, the media conductor 202 may
implement SIP call control, parameter encoding, and media
event package functionality.
[0036] The media controller 204 manages the operation of
the MAS 106 to provide services to the communication
devices 102. For example, the media controller 204 may
receive processed SIP requests from the media conductor
202, where the requests involve conference or other calls.
The controller 204 may 'then select the media processor 206
to handle each of the calls, support audio/video capability
negotiations, enforce licenses controlling how the MAS 106
can be used, and control negotiations based on the
licenses. The negotiations could include identifying the
CODEC or CODECs to be used to encode and decode audio or
video information during a call.
[0037] The media processors 206a-206b handle the
exchange of audio or video information between
communication devices 102 involved in a conference or other
call. For example, a media processor 206 could receive
audio and video information from one communication device
102 involved in a call, process the information as needed,
and forward the information to at least one other
communication device 102 involved in the call. The audio
and video information may be received through one or more
ports 212, which couple the media processors 206 to the
network 104. The ports 212 may represent any suitable
structure operable to facilitate communication between the
MAS 106 and the network 104. In some embodiments, each of
the media processors 206 represents a software application
for specific media processing, such as interactive voice
response ("IVR") media or conference media, which is
executed on the MAS 106 hardware platform via the operating
system.
[0038] In this example embodiment, each media processor
206 provides different functionality in the MAS 106. For
example, ir. some embodiments, the media processor 206a
provides IVR functionality in the MAS 106. As particular
examples, tne media processor 206a supports a voice mail
function that can record and play messages or an autoattendant
function that provides a menu and directs callers
to particular destinations based on their selections. The
media processor 206b provides conferencing functionality in
the MAS 106, such as by facilitating the exchange of audio
and video information between communication devices 102.
[0039] The content store 208 provides access to content
used by the various components of the system 100. For
example, in some embodiments, the content store 208
provides access to stored voice mail messages and access
codes used to initiate or join conference calls. The
content store 208 also provides access to any other or
additional information. In other embodiments, the content
store 208 is replaced by a conventional database or other
data storage facility.
[0040] A Java 2 Enterprise Edition TJ2EE") platform 214
is coupled to the MAS 106. The J2EE platform 214 allows
the MAS 106 to retrieve information used to provide
subscriber services in the system 100. For example, the
J2EE platform 214 may provide audio announcements used by
the IVR media processor 206a. The J2EE platform 214
represents one possible apparatus used to provide audio or
other information to the MAS 106. Any other or additional
device or apparatus may be used to provide the information
to the MAS 106.
[0041] In a particular embodiment, various components of
the MAS 106 represent software processes executed by the
processor 112 of the MAS 106. While the components 202-208
have been described as being executed by a MAS 106, the
software processes could be executed by other computing
devices such as a desktop computer. In other embodiments,
the various components of the MAS 106 may be implemented in
other ways, such as in hardware.
[0042] In the illustrated example, the conference media
processor 206b implements the conferencing functionality
described above. For example, the media conductor 202
receives signaling messages indicating that two or more
communication devices 102 wish to engage in a conference
call. The controller 204 receives the requests and causes
the conference media processor 206b to establish the
conference call. The conference media processor 206b then
receives audio or video information from each communication
device 102 and forwards the information to the other
communication devices 102.
[0043] During a conference call, the MAS 106 generates
and communicates one or more instant messages to one or
more of the participants. In a particular embodiment, the
media controller 204 generates the instant messages. The
instant messages are then converted into SI? format by the
media conductor 202, which communicates the instant
messages to one or more communication devices 102. The
instant messages may be sent directly to the communication
devices 102 by the media conductor 202 or indirectly
through the SIP application server 210.
[0044] Although FIGURE 2 illustrates one example of a
media application server 106, various changes may be made
to FIGURE 2. For example, any number of media processors
206 could be used in the MAS 106. Also, the functional
divisions shown in FIGURE 2 are for illustration only.
Various components can be combined or omitted or additional
components can be added according to particular functional
designations or needs. In addition, while the components
202-208 have been described as being executed by a server,
the components 202-208 may be executed by other hardware
platforms, such as a desktop computer or a laptop computer. [0045] FIGURE 3 illustrates an example method 300 for
providing instant messages related to a conference call
according to one embodiment of this disclosure. For ease
of explanation, the method 300 is described with respect to
the MAS 106 of FIGURE 2 operating in the system 100 of
FIGURE 1. The method 300 may also be used by other suitable
devices or in any other suitable system.
[0046] The MAS 106 detects a participant joining or
initiating a conference call at step 302. This may
include, for example, the media conductor 202 receiving one
or more signaling messages, such as SIP messages, from a
communication device 102. This may also include the media
controller 204 determining that the signaling messages
indicate a conference call is desired.
[0047] The MAS 106 determines whether the participant
joining or initiating the conference call is the
chairperson of the call at step 304. This may include, for
example, the MAS 106 determining whether, based on
registration information provided by the participant's
communication device 102, the participant is the
chairperson of the conference call. The chairperson may be
identified based on any suitable criteria. For example,
the participant may enter a code identifying the
participant as the chairperson. A participant could also
be identified ahead of time as the chairperson of a
conference call.
[0048] If the participant is the chairperson, the MAS
106 sends the chairperson an instant message identifying
the number and names of any other participants who have
already joined the conference call at step 306. This may
include, foi example, the media controller 204 generating
the instant message and the media conductor 202 converting
the instant message into SIP format. As part of the
instant message, the MAS 106 may or may not identify the
names and number of participants who joined and then exited
the conference call. In various embodiments, the instant
message could identify only the number of participants who
have joined, on^y the names of participants who have
joined, cr both. Other information could also be included,
such as the telephone number or location of each
participant. The number and names may or may not include
the chairperson. By sending this instant message, the
chairperson can easily identify the status of the
conference (such as who is there and whether everybody has
joined) without needing to ask each participant to identify
himself or herself.
[0049] The MAS 106 also sends an instant message to all
participants who should be involved in the conference call
indicating chat the conference call has started at step
308. This may include, for example, the MAS 106 sending an
instant message to each participant in a list of
participants for the conference call. This may or may not
include the MAS 106 sending the instant message to the
chairperson. In this example, the MAS 106 determines that
the conference call has "begun" when the chairperson joins
the call. In other embodiments, other or additional
criteria could be used to determine when a conference call
officially begins, such as when a specified number of
participants have joined.
[00501 Whether or not the new participant is the
chairperson, the MAS 106 sends an instant message
identifying the new participant to one or more other
participants at step 310. This may include, for example,
the MAS 1C6 sending an 'instant message identifying the new
participant to the chairperson only (if the new participant
is not the chairperson) or to all other participants who
nave already joined the conference call. In this way, at
least one of the participants already in the conference
call can easily identify the new participant.
[0051] At some point during the conference call, the MAS
106 detects a participant leaving the conference call at
step 312. This may include, for example, the media
conductor 202 detecting a signaling message from a
communication device 102 terminating a link to the MAS 106.
When the MAS 106 detects this event, the MAS 106 sends an
instant message to one or more of the other participants
identifying the participant who left at step 314. This may
include, for example, the MAS 106 sending an instant
message identifying the exiting participant to the
chairperson only or to all other participants who are still
in the conference call. In this way, at least one of the
participants in the conference call can easily identify the
participant who left.
[0052] Eventually, the MAS 106 detects an end to the
conference call at step 316. This may include, for
example, the MAS 106 determining that the chairperson or
all participants have exited the conference call. The MAS
106 then sends an instant message to one or more of the
participants indicating that the conference call has ended
at step 318 , This may include, for example, the MAS 106
sending an instant message to the chairperson only, to all
participants who joined the conference call, or to all
participant5 who were expected to participate in the
[0053] Although FIGURE 3 illustrates one example of a
method 300 for providing instant messages related to a
conference call, various changes may be made to FIGURE 3.
For example, FIGURE 3 illustrates the MAS 106 generating
instant messages in response to detecting five different
events (chairperson joins, conference begins, another
participant joins, participant leaves, conference ends).
The MAS 1C 6 could send instant messages when other or
additional events are detected (conference ending soon,
participant provided incorrect pass code, etc.). Also,
while steps 306-310, 314, 318 show a single instant message
being sent oy the MAS 106, the MAS 106 could send multiple
instant messages containing the described content during
each step. Further, the order of events shown in FIGURE 3
is for illustration only. The MAS 106 could detect the
events in a different order, such as when a participant
leaves the conference call before the chairperson joins.
Moreover, an instant message could be sent to one, some, or
all of the communication devices 102 associated with a
participant who should receive the message. In addition,
the MAS 106 may "send" an instant message in different ways
depending on the communication device 102 that will receive
the message. As a particular example, a text message could
be sent to communication devices 102 having a display,
while an audio version of the text could be sent to
communication devices 102 that lack a display.
[0054] It may be advantageous to set forth definitions
of certain words and phrases that have been used within
this patent Document. The terms "include" and "comprise,"
as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without
limitation. The term "or" is inclusive, meaning and/or.
The phrases "'associated with" and "associated therewith,"
as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be
included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained
within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be
communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose,
be proximate to, be bound to or with, have, have a property
of, or the like.
[0055] While this disclosure has described certain
embodiments and generally associated methods, alterations
and permutations of these embodiments and methods will be
apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the
above description of example embodiments does not define or
constrain this disclosure. Other changes, substitutions,
and alterations are also possible without departing from
the spirit and scope of this disclosure, as defined by the
following claims.

We Claim:
1. A method for call conferencing in an Internet Protocol (IP) communications
network(104), the method comprising:
controlling a conference call with a server(106) within the IP network;
detecting an event(302, 312, 316) associated with a conference call, the conference call
associated with a plurality of participants (102) within the IP network;
generating (306, 308,310, 314, 318) at the server one or more instant message associated
with the detected event, the one or more instant messages having Session Initiation
Protocol (SIP) format; and
communicating the one or more SIP instant messages from the server to one or more of
the participants associated with a plurality of communication devices.
2. The method as claimed in claim 1 ,wherein:
the event(304) comprises a chairperson of the conference call joining(302) the conference call; and
the one or more SIP instant messages(306) identify at least one of a number of participants who have joined the conference call and a name of each participant who has joined the conference call.
3. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the one or more SIP instant messages identify at least one of a number of participants who have joined and exited the conference call and a name of each participant who has joined and exited the conference call.
4. The method as claimed in claim 1 ,wherein:
the event comprises one of the participants at least a one of joining(302) the conference call and exiting(312) the conference call; and

the one or more SIP instant messages(310, 314) identify a name of the participant who
has at least a one of joined the conference call and exited the conference call. 5. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1 ,wherein:
the one or more SIP messages transmitted to the one or more participants via a SIP
application server(210) external to the server. 6. The method as claimed in claim 1,wherein:
the event comprises one of a beginning and an end (316) of the conference call; and
the one or more SIP instant messages(318) identify that the conference call has one of
begun and ended.
7. The method as claimed in claim 1,wherein:
the event comprises one of the participants failing to provide a correct pass code when attempting to join the conference call; and
the one or more SIP instant messages are communicated to a chairperson and identify the participant, an incorrect pass code provided by the participant, and the correct pass code.
8. The method as claimed in claim 1 ,wherein:
the event comprises a chairperson of the conference call exiting the conference call; and the one or more SIP instant messages indicate that the conference call will end after a specified amount of time.
9. The method as claimed in claim 1,wherein:
the event comprises one of the participants transferring the conference call from one communication device to another communication device; and
the one or more SIP instant messages indicate that the participant transferred communication devices and is transmitted to the chairperson.

10. The method as claimed in claim 1,wherein:
the event comprises an end to the conference call;
the one or more SIP instant messages comprise a survey; and
further comprising:
receiving one or more responses from one or more of the participants containing answers
to the survey;
tabulating the answers; and
communicating one or more instant messages containing the tabulated answers to a
chairperson of the conference call.
11. An apparatus (106) for call conferencing in an Internet Protocol (IP) , comprising:
one or more ports(212) operable to receive at least one channel of a plurality of channels
for a communication session, the at least one channel having information from at least
two of a plurality of conference call participants(102); and
one or more processors(206) collectively operable to:
detect an event associated with the conference call, the conference call associated with
the plurality of participants within the IP network;
generate at the apparatus one or more instant messages associated with the detected
event, the one or more instant messages having Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) format;
and
communicate the one or more SIP instant messages to one or more of the participants.
12. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11,wherein:
the event comprises a chairperson of the conference call joining the conference call; and
the one or more SIP instant messages identify at least one of a number of participants who have joined the conference call and a name of each participant who has joined the conference call.
13. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein:
the event comprises one of the participants joining the conference call and exiting the conference call; and
the one or more SIP instant messages identify a name of the participant who has at least joined the conference call and exited the conference call.
14. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein:
the one or more SIP messages are transmitted to the one or more participants via a SIP application server(210) external to the server.
15. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11,wherein:
the event comprises one of a beginning and an end of the conference call; and
the one or more instant messages identify that the conference call has one of begun and
ended.
16. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11,wherein:
the event comprises one of the participants failing to provide a correct pass code when attempting to join the conference call; and
the one or more instant messages are communicated to a chairperson and identify the participant, an incorrect pass code provided by the participant, and the correct pass code .
17. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11,wherein:
the event comprises a chairperson of the conference call exiting the conference call; and
the one or more SIP instant messages indicate that the conference call will end after a specified amount of time .
18. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein:
the event comprises one of the participants transferring the conference call from one communication device to another communication device; and
the one or more SIP instant messages indicate that the participant transferred communication devices and is transmitted to the chairperson.
19. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein:
the event comprises an end to the conference call;
the one or more SIP instant messages comprise a survey; and
the one or more processors are further collectively operable to:
receive one or more responses from one or more of the participants containing answers to
the survey;
tabulate the answers;
and communicate one or more instant messages containing the tabulated answers to a chairperson of the conference call.

Documents:

1786-delnp-2006-(Complete)-Specification-Granted.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-Abstract (09-11-2009).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-abstract.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-Claims (09-11-2009).pdf

1786-DELNP-2006-Claims-(22-02-2012).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-Claims-(29-12-2011).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-claims.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-correspondece-others.pdf

1786-DELNP-2006-Correspondence Others-(22-02-2012).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-Correspondence Others-(29-12-2011).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-Correspondence-Others (11-11-2009).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-Correspondence-Others (20-11-2009).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-correspondence-others-1.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-Description (Complete) (09-11-2009).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-description (complete).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-Drawings (09-11-2009).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-drawings.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-Form-1 (09-11-2009).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-form-1.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-form-18.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-Form-2 (09-11-2009).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-form-2.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-Form-3 (09-11-2009).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-form-3.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-form-5.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-GPA (09-11-2009).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-gpa.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-pct-101.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-pct-210.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-pct-220.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-pct-237.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-pct-304.pdf

1786-delnp-2006-Petition-137 (09-11-2009).pdf

1786-delnp-2006-Petition-138 (09-11-2009).pdf

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Patent Number

251248

Indian Patent Application Number

1786/DELNP/2006

PG Journal Number

10/2012

Publication Date

09-Mar-2012

Grant Date

02-Mar-2012

Date of Filing

03-Apr-2006

Name of Patentee

NORTEL NETWORKS LIMITED

Applicant Address

2351 BOULEVARD ALFRED-NOBEL, ST. LAURENT, QUEBEC H4S 2A9, CANADA,

Inventors:

#	Inventor's Name	Inventor's Address
1	F. RANDALL MURRAY, II	212 PRISM LANE, MCKINNEY, TX 75070, USA,

PCT International Classification Number

H04M 3/56

PCT International Application Number

PCT/IB2004/003131

PCT International Filing date

2004-09-28

PCT Conventions:

#	PCT Application Number	Date of Convention	Priority Country
1	10/675,121	2003-09-30	U.S.A.