Single number communication systems and services that integrate wired and wireless telephone communication systems

摘要

A one-number communications service system for a subscriber that allows completion of calls to designated wireless or wireline communications terminals through the use of a single assigned telephone number. The system includes a local wireline switch that is coupleable to a wireline terminal, and a wireless switch that is coupleable to a wireless terminal. A switched telephone network is coupled between the switches to thereby define a combined switching arrangement for directing and completing a call to and from the terminals upon receiving routing instructions. A data signaling network is coupled to the combined switching arrangement for controlling switching operations when the call is made. A database management system is coupled to the data signaling network and accessible to the switches. The database management system includes a telephone number assigned for use by the subscriber and routing instructions assigned to the telephone number for allowing access to the terminals. The wireline switch includes a mechanism for sending a request message requesting routing instructions from the database management system for completing the call to the telephone number. Lastly, the database management system includes a mechanism for sending a response message to the wireline switch containing the routing instructions for completing the call to at least one of the terminals.