阅读说明：本技术 通信方法和通信系统 (Communication method and communication system ) 是由 马库斯·福斯特 于 2018-12-04 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及为用户的至少一个移动终端(MT)提供的通信方法,适用于建立经由至少一个移动通信网络(PLMN)到数据终端(DT)或到语音终端(ST)的数据连接或呼叫,和适用于与主办方的主办方服务器(HS)进行无线通信。在方法中,a)在主办方服务器(HS)和移动终端(MT)之间建立无线通信链路,标识数据(ID)经由无线通信链路从移动终端(MT)传输到主办方服务器(HS)；b)由主办方服务器(HS)创建凭证(VR),其中注册至少标识数据(ID)和时间段(t<Sub>VR</Sub>),和优选注册主办方服务器(HS)的标识符；c)凭证(VR)被传输到移动通信网络(PLMN)的运营商或传输到服务提供商(SP),其为移动终端(MT)准备收费明细表；及d)移动通信网络(PLMN)的运营商或服务提供商(SP)基于凭证(VR),将在凭证(VR)中指示的时间段(t<Sub>VR</Sub>)期间已注册的用于移动终端(MT)的数据连接或呼叫连接的通信费用,至少部分地记账到被分配给主办方服务器(HS)的标识符的账户。(The invention relates to a communication method provided for at least one Mobile Terminal (MT) of a user, suitable for establishing a data connection or call to a Data Terminal (DT) or to a voice terminal (ST) via at least one mobile communication network (PLMN), and for wireless communication with a Host Server (HS) of a host. In the method, a) a wireless communication link is established between the Host Server (HS) and the Mobile Terminal (MT), Identification Data (ID) is transmitted from the Mobile Terminal (MT) to the Host Server (HS) via the wireless communication link; b) creating a credential (VR) by a Host Server (HS), wherein at least an Identification Data (ID) and a time period (t) are registered VR ) And an identifier of a preferred registry Host Server (HS); c) credentials (VR) are transmitted to the mobileAn operator of the communication network (PLMN) or a transport to a Service Provider (SP) which prepares a charging schedule for the Mobile Terminal (MT); and d) the operator or Service Provider (SP) of the mobile communication network (PLMN) based on the credentials (VR) will indicate the time period (t) in the credentials (VR) VR ) Communication charges for data connections or call connections of Mobile Terminals (MT) registered therewith are billed at least partially to an account assigned to an identifier of the Host Server (HS).)

1. Communication method for at least one Mobile Terminal (MT) of a user, said communication method being suitable for establishing a data connection or a call connection to a Data Terminal (DT) or to a voice terminal (ST) via at least one mobile communication network (PLMN), and for wireless communication with a Host Server (HS) of a host, characterized in that

a) -establishing a wireless communication link between the Host Server (HS) and the Mobile Terminal (MT), Identification Data (ID) being transmitted from the Mobile Terminal (MT) to the Host Server (HS) via the wireless communication link;

b) the Host Server (HS) creates a credential (VR) in which at least the Identification Data (ID) and a time period (t) are registered_VR) And preferably registering an identifier of the Host Server (HS);

c) -the credentials (VR) are transmitted to an operator of the mobile communication network (PLMN) or to a Service Provider (SP), which operator or service provider prepares a charging schedule for the Mobile Terminal (MT); and

d) the operator of the mobile communication network (PLMN) or the Service Provider (SP) will use for the time period (t) indicated in the credentials (VR) based on the credentials (VR)_VR) -billing at least partially to the account assigned to the identifier of the Host Server (HS) the communication charges for the data connection or call connection of the Mobile Terminal (MT) registered therewith.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the stationary or mobile Host Server (HS) in which the host application (APP-H) is implemented and the Mobile Terminal (MT) in which the client application (APP-C) is implemented communicate over the application layer of the WLAN, mobile radio network, or transmit data via an optical interface.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the Identification Data (ID) transmitted to the Host Server (HS) comprises

a) An identifier (IMEI, IMSI) associated with a Mobile Terminal (MT) or a subscriber, and/or

b) Location data or/and host identifier, and/or

c) An identifier assigned to a Service Provider (SP), and/or

d) The time stamp is a time stamp of the time,

after verifying or registering the above-mentioned Identification Data (ID), a credential (VR) is created.

4. A method according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that a radio beacon (HB) is provided which transmits a radio Beacon Identification (BID) captured by the Mobile Terminal (MT), and/or the Mobile Terminal (MT) receives GPS signals, and the Mobile Terminal (MT) transmits the radio Beacon Identification (BID) and/or GPS data to the Host Server (HS), which Host Server (HS) uses the radio Beacon Identification (BID) and/or GPS data as location data, and the Host Server (HS) creates the credential (VR) if the location of the Mobile Terminal (MT) is within a predetermined service area of the host.

5. The method according to one of claims 1 to 4,

a) the Host Server (HS) transmits the credentials (VR) individually or in bulk to the operator of the mobile communication network (PLMN) or to the Service Provider (SP), or

b) The credentials (VR) are transmitted from the Host Server (HS) to the Mobile Terminal (MT) and from the Mobile Terminal (MT) to an operator of the mobile communication network (PLMN) or to the Service Provider (SP).

6. Method according to one of claims 1-5, characterized in that the Host Server (HS) issues the credentials (VR) after verifying the presence of an authorization stored electronically in the Mobile Terminal (MT), such as an electronic proof of purchase.

7. Method according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the Host Server (HS) issues the credential (VR) after repeatedly asking for the Identification Data (ID) and/or location data, preferably during the time period (t)_VR) And/or upon entering and leaving a room or service area allocated to the Host Server (HS).

8. Method according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the Host Server (HS) defines the time period (t) according to_VR)

a) Based on a time period related to the service provided, such as a time period retrieved from a management computer (VR); or

b) -according to the time period between the login of the Mobile Terminal (MT) preferably upon entering the room assigned to the Host Server (HS) and the logout of the Mobile Terminal (MT) preferably upon leaving the room assigned to the Host Server (HS); or

c) By considering a time of presence stored for a user of said Mobile Terminal (MT); or

d) -a period of time in which the location of the Mobile Terminal (MT) is located in the service area of the host.

9. Method according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the user of the Mobile Terminal (MT) downloads and implements the client application (APP-C) on his Mobile Terminal (MT), and after establishing a connection to the host application (APP-H) of the Host Server (HS), a first login is made at the Host Server (HS) by forwarding Identification Data (ID), such as an identifier (IMEI, IMSI) assigned to the Mobile Terminal (MT) or to the user, and the Host Server (HS) registers the user or the Mobile Terminal (MT), and a credential (VR) is issued only for the registered user or the registered Mobile Terminal (MT).

10. Method according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the Service Provider (SP) or the operator of the mobile communication network (PLMN) uses an application (APP-SP; APP-O) that allows to extract the credentials (VR) from messages received from Mobile Terminals (MT).

11. Method according to claim 10, characterized in that the Service Provider (SP) or the operator of the mobile communication network (PLMN) replaces the identity of the recipient of the bill for the communication charges, after receiving the credential (VR), for the time period (t) indicated in the credential (VR) with the identifier of the centralized Host Server (HSC) or the identifier of the Host Server (HS)_VR) Communication charges for data connection or call connection of the registered Mobile Terminal (MT) are used.

12. Method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the identifier (IMSIMT) assigned to the user of the Mobile Terminal (MT) is indicated in the credential (VR) for a period of time (tsim |)_VR) Is converted into an identifier (IMSIH) of the centralized Host Server (HSC) or an identifier of the Host Server (HS).

13. A communication system adapted to perform the communication method according to one of claims 1 to 12.

14. Communication system according to claim 13, characterized in that at least one Mobile Terminal (MT) of the user and at least one local Host Server (HS) are provided, said at least one Mobile Terminal (MT) being adapted to establish a data connection or a call connection to a Data Terminal (DT) or to a voice terminal (ST) via at least one mobile communication network (PLMN), and that a client application (APP-C) is implemented in said at least one Mobile Terminal (MT), a host application (APP-H) is implemented in said at least one local Host Server (HS), and that by means of said host application (APP-H)

a) -Identification Data (ID) is transmittable from said Mobile Terminal (MT) to said Host Server (HS) via said client application (APP-C);

b) capable of issuing a Voucher (VR) in which at least said Identification Data (ID) and a time period (t) are registered_VR) And preferably registering an identifier of the Host Server (HS);

c) the issued credentials (VR) may be transmitted to an operator of the mobile communication network (PLMN) or may be transmitted to a Service Provider (SP), which operator or Service Provider (SP) prepares charging profiles for the Mobile Terminal (MT); and

d) -the device of the operator of the mobile communication network (PLMN) or the device of the Service Provider (SP) is designed to be used for the time period (t) indicated in the credentials (VR) based on the credentials (VR)_VR) The charges for a data connection or a call connection of a Mobile Terminal (MT) registered therewith are at least partially billed to an account assigned to the identifier of the Host Server (HS).

15. Communication system according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that a WLAN beacon (HB), in particular a bluetooth beacon, is provided which emits a beacon identification detectable by the Mobile Terminal (MT), and/or that the Mobile Terminal (MT) is designed to receive GPS signals, and that the beacon identification and/or GPS data are transmittable from the mobile terminal (MS) to the Host Server (HS), wherein based on the beacon identification and/or the GPS data location data, location data for the Mobile Terminal (MT) can be determined, and a credential (VR) can be issued based on the determined location data.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a communication method and a communication system for providing a communication service to a user of a mobile terminal.

Background

Modern communication networks allow subscribers or users to establish call connections or data connections from their mobile terminals to other terminals connected directly or indirectly to the mobile radio network at any location via the mobile radio network, for example a mobile radio network operating according to the GSM standard or an extended standard related thereto.

The GSM system was originally designed for mobile voice telephony service according to the GSM information page made by the swiss federal communications agency BAKOM in berney in 2015 6. Later, the GSM standard was extended with new functionality, such as HSCSD (high speed circuit switched data), GPRS (general packet radio service) and EDGE (enhanced data rates for GSM evolution) or LTE (long term evolution).

EP2023674a1 describes a procedure for mobility management of mobile terminals in a mobile radio network, by means of which handover problems with mobile terminals carried in vehicles can be avoided. Therefore, the mobile terminal can be effectively used in a large amount in a vehicle without risk of interference. EP2631152a1 describes a method for locating mobile terminals in a mobile radio network and managing rail vehicles in a rail network.

In public buildings or places, mobile terminals can often be connected to the internet for free via a wireless network (WLAN wireless local area network).

Swiss federal communications agency BAKOM describes WLAN technologies and standards on the burlny paper by 3 months in 2017. Typically, the IEEE 802.11 standard is used. For the establishment of short-range and ad hoc networks, the bluetooth standard IEEE 802.15.1 is also usually implemented.

In public buildings and vehicles, visitors, guests and customers are generally authorized by a host (host) to use the communication service free of charge. The term "host" includes, for example, government organizations, public transportation system operators, commercial buildings, restaurants, sports facilities, or owners of integrated office buildings, and the like.

The operation of such WLAN networks has advantages and disadvantages for operators and users. The operator may use low-cost WLAN technology and low-cost internet access. After receiving the password, the user can use the WLAN service for free.

A disadvantage is that the operator or provider of the communication service has to ensure that the user has access to the WLAN during the entire stay and in the entire rest room. In large rooms or room facilities and building complexes (in particular in rail trains), the operators therefore have to carry out correspondingly complicated installation and maintenance work. From the user's point of view, this typically does not capture the quality of the connection that the user has become accustomed to from his own service provider. The data transmission rate may be too low or the network coverage may be insufficient. The data transmission rate generally decreases with the number of mobile terminals connected to the WLAN.

Therefore, the user must rely on operator or host solutions, which are usually optimized in terms of cost rather than quality. The occurrence of technical problems is not satisfactory for both parties. The host must expect to receive error messages and complaints that affect the entire service package. Users requiring communication services may not be able to efficiently conduct their work and business transactions.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention is therefore based on the object of creating an improved communication method and an improved communication system.

The present communication method and communication system should allow a host to grant a guest or user free or discounted access to a communication service by a mobile terminal without the above-mentioned drawbacks. During operation of the communication system, the host should not encounter technical problems and error messages. Users should be able to use communication services without restrictions on the quality to which they are accustomed and regardless of the number of other active mobile terminals. During operation of the communication system, the host should not encounter technical consultation and error messages.

The communication system of the invention should have a simple structure and should be implemented without effort. Complicated installation should be avoided. Furthermore, improvements should be proposed that can be advantageously considered when revising the common communication system and its protocols.

This object is solved by a communication method and a communication system having the features defined in claims 1 and 13. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are indicated in the further claims.

The communication method is provided for at least one mobile terminal of a user, the communication method being adapted for establishing a data connection or a call connection to a data terminal or to a voice terminal via at least one mobile communication network, and for wireless communication with a host server of a host. Although the use of the communication system of the present invention is explained below using one mobile terminal as an example, the communication system may be used by any number of different types of mobile terminals, such as smart phones, tablets, laptops, etc.

For example, the mobile terminals of passengers on a railway train, the mobile terminals of tourists to restaurants, trade fairs, office buildings, sporting events or public buildings can use the communication system of the present invention without limitation.

According to the present invention, there is provided,

a) establishing a wireless communication link between the host server and the mobile terminal via which the identification data is to be transmitted from the mobile terminal to the host server;

b) the host server creating a credential, registering in the credential at least identification data and a time period, and an identifier of a preferred registered host server;

c) the credentials are transmitted to an operator of the mobile communication network or to a service provider, said operator or service provider preparing a charging schedule for the mobile terminal; and

d) an operator or service provider of the mobile communication network at least partially debits an account assigned to the identifier of the host server with a communication charge for a data connection or a call connection of the registered mobile terminal during a time period indicated in the credentials based on the credentials.

The communication system of the invention thus allows the host to provide communication service access for any user of the mobile terminal, such as guests, in particular passengers, business partners, customers, staff or visitors, free or at a lower cost. The communication charges are borne in whole or in part by the host, and the host negotiates favorable conditions with the service provider.

The user may continue to use the communication services of their provider with the cost borne by the host. In various configurations of the present invention, the hardware cost of the host is low. In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the installation of the wireless network can be dispensed with completely. But rather installs a radio beacon that only emits the identifier without two-way communication with the mobile terminal. Thus, the host can install the required number of radio beacons in its building, area or vehicle at the lowest cost, with no further hardware expenditure thereafter.

The user can log on to the host without difficulty and can then communicate via his mobile terminal as usual, with the charges being borne by the host. The login with identification data transmission is initiated by the user or preferably automatically, so that no effort is required by the user. Only one-time installation of an application or application (software application) is required, which exchanges data with the application installed in the host server. The short communication between the application in the mobile terminal and the application in the host server may be via any wireless communication network, WLAN or public mobile radio network.

A user may download an application from the host's internet page, for example via a mobile radio network, and install the application on his mobile terminal. He can then communicate with the host server via the installed application. Preferably, the user registers with the host upon first contact and transmits his identification data (such as the IMSI) to the host. When using communication services at a later time, the host may control the management of users who benefit from the offers it provides. This process is particularly easy if the user is already using other applications or applications of the host and has entered the user's identification data for them.

The invention, which can be implemented in various advantageous embodiments, has many other advantages.

By implementing applications provided by the host in the mobile terminal, extended data exchange between the host and the user may be performed, which may be used for secure creation of credentials or for other purposes.

The host may expose current offers and information about the application. Passengers on a railroad train may be provided with current travel information, such as expected delays, or offers, such as meal car offers or offers from destination service providers. In department stores, special activities may be transmitted to applications. In a sports arena, current athletic performance and background information about traffic feasible solutions may be transmitted after the event is over.

Interaction between the host and the user may be encouraged, thereby increasing customer loyalty. For example, the application may be used to register purchases that may be considered in the voucher distribution or time period calculation, while the mobile terminal may be used free of charge. The operator of the transportation network may distribute the extended credentials to regular users of the transportation service.

The application installed in the mobile terminal according to the invention may advantageously exchange data with other applications that are used to issue credentials or provide additional benefits to the user. In a preferred embodiment, the electronic ticket is coupled with an application according to the invention installed in the mobile terminal. This means that the credential is issued to the passenger or his mobile terminal only after the host server has checked the passenger's right to ride. Thus, passengers are encouraged to have their travel rights electronically checked during the journey in order to obtain free access to the communication services. Thus, the presentation of the electronic ticket is no longer an obligation but a desirable process. This will facilitate the inspection process of the railway operator.

Preferably, the application implemented in the mobile terminal may also have access to parameters in the mobile terminal that can be used to establish a connection with the mobile radio network. For example, the required connection quality (QoS) may be set to a host-specified value. Thus, the host may limit its cost.

A repeated interrogation (interrogation) of the identification data is preferably performed, preferably at the beginning and end of a time period during which access to the communication service is provided free of charge. This query or check can be advantageous when entering and leaving the space allocated to the host server, for example when entering a railway train and when leaving the railway train after reaching the destination. When a wireless beacon is used, its identification may be periodically transmitted to the host server. The identities of the radio beacons may also be switched in a manner known to the host server so that a different identity may be transmitted to the host server for each inquiry. In this way, it is ensured that the user actually uses the services of the host and/or is present in the service area of the host during the time period in which he/she receives free access to the communication services.

Thus, the time period during which free access to the communication service is authorized may advantageously be defined in terms of the time period between the login of the mobile terminal, preferably upon entering the room assigned to the host server, and the logoff of the mobile terminal, preferably upon leaving the room assigned to the host server.

Alternatively, the time period for which access to the communication service is provided free of charge may be defined according to the time period of the service used by the user. The time period may be obtained, for example, from an electronic calendar or a set of regulations relating to the opening time of a building. If a guest of the hotel has booked a few days of accommodation, access for the communication service for this period may be taken over accordingly. The host server of the carrier, bus or rail company may retrieve the time period from the electronic timetable or retrieve the time period from the timetable computer, taking into account delays if necessary.

The time period may also be defined by considering a stored time of existence for the user of the mobile terminal. The employer may incur communication charges for the time period during which the employee is working.

The communication system includes a host server and registered mobile terminals which have access to a mobile radio network. The host server can satisfy all the needs of the host. Larger companies with several locations or transport companies with vehicles preferably use at least one host server in each location and each vehicle, which at least one host server communicates with a central host server. The central host server may control, monitor and protect the coordination of credential issuance. The issued credentials or corresponding reports may be transmitted from the host server to the service provider directly or via a central host server. It should be noted that different service providers are typically assigned to the mobile terminal. The host will contract with the service provider and negotiate a premium price for high traffic.

Preferably, the central host server transmits the list of reference numbers to the host server and the service provider or network operator at short intervals. These lists are individually assigned to each voucher at the time of issuance and checked by the service provider or network operator at the time of bill settlement. In this way, the security of the communication system can be ensured. If, for example, the host server is stolen, no new reference number will be transmitted to it and the assigned reference number will be declared invalid. However, a credential with an invalid reference number arriving at the service provider can be used to identify a person who has stolen the host server.

Also, the host server, or if necessary a central host server, may monitor the radio beacons. If the radio beacon is stolen, its identification is declared invalid.

The handling of the credentials by the service provider or the network operator can be done with relatively simple measures. The only prerequisite is that the service provider or network operator has to integrate the inventive procedure into its procedure, in particular into the charging (billing) process. Basically, the billing address must be exchanged. In addition, a check may be made and an acknowledgement sent.

Charging and accounting (accounting) in GSM Mobile radio networks is described in [4] (Michel Mouly, Marie-bernadiete paute, The GSM System for Mobile Communications, Cell & Sys Verlag, 1992, chapters 9.1.2, pages 572 to 577). International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) is described as the basis for charging for communication services.

In the charging center, charging information is collected in a user's home network and then delivered to a service provider having a billing center that charges a subscriber or user for communication.

By the transmission of the credentials, the service provider or the network operator is authorized by the host to change the charging address such that, at least in the charging process, the identifier, e.g. the IMSI of the user, is replaced by the identifier of the host or the IMSI.

Thus, the service provider or network operator needs credentials and a confirmation from the host to confirm the validity of the credentials. The credential itself may contain an acknowledgement of the host so that the host cannot later reject the credential. The credentials are preferably signed or encoded using the host's private key and decoded by the service provider using the public key. The security of the process can be protected in a simple way by using a Public Key infrastructure (see [6], EP1263164B1 or https:// de. wikipedia. org/wiki/Public-Key-Infrastruktur).

The credentials may be transmitted by the host to the service provider or network operator directly, or via the beneficiary user or his mobile terminal. Since confirmation of the host or a suitably secure credential is required and the period of free access to the communication service is fixed, it is preferred that the credential is transmitted by the host directly to the service provider or network operator. Since communication charges are usually charged by the service provider, the handling of the credentials can most easily be done directly by the service provider. This process can be handled between the host and the service provider according to a simple protocol that defines the type and content of communication between the host and the service provider and is independent of the network protocol. Different service providers may also use different protocols for this purpose.

Peripheral intervention in the charging centre is the simplest option if the credentials are processed within the mobile radio network. Also, it is preferable that the credentials are transferred directly by the host. The transfer of credentials by a user or mobile terminal may be accommodated by extensions to the mobile radio network protocol. For example, the handover or authentication of the credentials may be performed at the time of registration of the mobile terminal in the mobile radio network. In [4] (chapter 1.3.1.7, page 71, security function), authentication of a user to prevent access by an unregistered third party is described. In the context of extended authentication, the credential may be presented and subsequently checked. From the network operator's point of view this can be done without risk, since he can be relieved of responsibility for invalid credentials according to the contract. Once the credentials are accepted, the identifier of the host may be used in the charging and billing processes for the network instead of using the identifier of the user.

Drawings

The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings. Thereby showing: #

Fig. 1 is a communication system according to the invention with a cellular mobile radio network PLMN covering a geographical area in which a railway train TH is traveling with passengers using mobile terminals MT, each of said mobile terminals MT being provided with a voucher VR by a host server HS of a railway operator, which voucher VR will be taken into account by the network operator or service provider when charging a communication fee;

fig. 2a shows, for example, the communication system according to fig. 1, in which the credentials VR are transmitted from the host server HS directly to the service provider SP and, if necessary, to a charging center CHC of the network operator.

Fig. 2b is a procedure for issuing a voucher VR and charging a communication fee for a communication service used by the mobile terminal MT in the communication system shown in fig. 2 a.

Fig. 3a is a communication system of the invention located in a building HH where a credential VR is transmitted from a host server HS to a mobile terminal MT and from there to a service provider SP or a charging centre CHC of a network operator;

fig. 3b is a procedure for issuing a voucher VR and charging a communication fee for a communication service used by the mobile terminal MT in the communication system shown in fig. 3 a.

Fig. 4a is a communication system such as shown in one of the above figures, in which a radio beacon HB is provided by means of which the location of a mobile terminal MT logged into a host server HS can be determined; and

fig. 4b is a procedure for issuing a voucher VR and charging a communication fee for a communication service used by the mobile terminal MT in the communication system shown in fig. 4 a.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows a part of a cellular mobile radio network PLMN of the invention having several location areas LA1, …, LA8, …, each location area having at least one cell LA_X-Z_Y. In the illustrated section, several traffic routes (particularly, a railway route) are running, and a railway train TH carrying many passengers on the railway route is traveling. Fig. 1 also shows the individual elements of the mobile radio network PLMN, namely the mobile switching centre MSC, the home location register HLR, the visitor location register VLR, the transmitting and receiving stations BTS and the associated control unit BSC and the charging centre CHC.

Charging information for the delivered communication services or so-called charging tickets are collected in a charging center CHC and charged by the relevant service provider SP, which has a charging center for charging the subscribers or users, typically, for communication charges (see [4], page 575).

Fig. 1 also shows that the railway operator uses at least one host server HS within the railway train TH which communicates wirelessly with the mobile terminals MT of passengers and provides them with credentials VR which allow the mobile terminals MT to use free communication services. These credentials VR are transmitted directly or indirectly via the mobile terminal MT from the host server HS to an instance of the mobile network PLMN, preferably a charging centre CHC, or to a service provider SP. The railway operator or host is then charged a fee for registering and allocating to the passenger or user, for example, his International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI), and this fee is preferably recorded in the central host server HSC.

The positioning of the mobile terminal MS is particularly important for the host server HS. The positioning may be automatically generated by the configuration of the communication system. If the host server is integrated into a local area network and exchanges data with the mobile terminal MT, the mobile terminal must be in the area of the local area network. However, if the host server HS exchanges data with the mobile terminal MT via the mobile radio network, measures for determining the position of the mobile terminal MT are preferably taken. For this purpose, the communication system of fig. 4a uses radio beacons which periodically transmit the identifier received by the mobile terminal MT and allow the host server HS to assign the location of the mobile terminal MT to the respective radio beacon. Thus, the host server HS and the mobile terminal MT may be located in different locations.

Fig. 1 shows that the processing of the voucher VR can be done at different locations within the whole processing chain by replacing the IMSI of the user, which is typically used for billing purposes, with the identifier of the railway operator. This identifier is then used to charge the railway operator for the accrued communication fee. The identifier of the railway operator may also be an international mobile subscriber identity IMSI (IMSI-H), which is handled in the same way as any other IMSI in the handling chain. Thus, the change can be implemented in the communication system with minimal effort. The transmission of credentials may be done in different ways and via different media.

The process of issuing and using vouchers includes four basic steps (see also fig. 2b, fig. 3b or fig. 4 b):

a) a wireless communication link is established between the host server HS and the mobile terminal MT, via which wireless communication link the identification data ID is transmitted from the mobile terminal MT to the host server HS.

b) After evaluation and/or verification of the identification data ID, the host server HS creates a credential VR in which at least the identification data ID of the mobile terminal MT and a time period t for determining the validity of the credential VR are registered_VR. Preferably, the host server HS is also recordedAn identifier.

c) The created credentials VR will be transmitted directly or indirectly to the operator of the mobile communication network PLMN or to a service provider SP which creates a charging schedule for the mobile terminal MT.

d) Finally, the operator or service provider SP of the mobile communication network PLMN charges an account assigned to the identifier of the host server HS at least partly for the time period t indicated in the credential VR_VRThe cost of the data connection or call connection of the mobile terminal MT registered in the meantime.

This process is explained in detail below with reference to different examples.

Fig. 2a shows the communication system of fig. 1 in a first preferred embodiment, in which the credentials VR are transmitted from the host server HS directly to the service provider SP, possibly to a charging centre CHC of the network operator.

Fig. 2a shows a mobile radio network PLM with EDGE architecture described in [5] "Bernhard walk, Mobilfunknetze and ihre Protokolle, Band 1, b.g. teubner Verlag, Stuttgart 2000, chapters 3.17, pages 339 to 341", document [5 ]. The EDGE (enhanced data rates for GSM evolution) architecture largely corresponds to the GPRS architecture, but uses different modulation schemes to achieve higher data rates. The GSM packet data service GPRS (general packet radio service) is described in [5] pages 294 to 321. The network translation function is described in the following pages 322 to 325. Interfaces and reference points in GPRS are described on page 304 in [5 ]. The known GSM network architecture (see above) is extended by three network elements for packet data services. A Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN) serves as an interface to external networks (IP network/internet). A Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN) is used for functional support of the mobile terminal MT. All data related to GPRS are stored in the GPRS register GR, which is a subset of the GSM-HLR. Via the radio interface Um, the mobile terminal MT can access a mobile radio network. The actual data traffic in GPRS is handled via the SGSN, while the MSC is used for signaling only.

The communication system of the invention further comprises a host server HS and a software application, an application or application APP-H implemented in the host server HS and an application APP-C installed in the mobile terminal MT. For receiving and using the credentials VR, the application APP-SP is implemented at the service provider SP, preferably at a charging centre. If the credential VR is received by the network operator and used, for example, in the charging center CHC, the application APP-CHC is provided at the charging center CHC.

The MT mobile terminal may be used by passengers in restaurants on a railway train TH or at a station. Thus, the user's rest room may be mobile or stationary. Thus, the host server HS (stationary or mobile) is located in the host or in the room unit HE of the railway operator. The mobile terminal MT located in the room unit HE can contact and communicate wirelessly with the host server HS via the applications APP-C and APP-H (e.g. via WLAN or bluetooth).

It has already been mentioned at the outset that the procedure for locating a mobile terminal in a mobile radio network is known from EP2631152a 1.

It is known that railway operators have provided mobile terminals MT with applications or application programs for retrieving schedules and purchasing tickets. The application APP-C of the invention is therefore preferably an add-on module to such known applications. To purchase tickets, users have registered with the railway operator. Thus, the identification data of the subscriber is registered in the home location register HLR of the mobile radio network PLMN as well as in the database of the railway operator. For the following example, it is preferred to use the identity (i.e. IMSI) that has been registered at the home location register HLR. Alternatively, an identity registered with the railway operator may be used.

The host server HS may be mobile or stationary, and may be centralized or decentralized. Additionally, several host servers may be provided, for example in a building or a railroad train, which operate individually according to the procedure of the invention.

The host server may be integrated, for example, in a control device that may be used by a railroad train attendant to check tickets. When the ticket is checked, the identification data may be read from the mobile terminal and the voucher may be created. By ticket control, distribution of free use of communication services can be performed at the same time. This provides particular advantages for the railway operator and passengers without additional effort.

During communication between the host server HS and the mobile terminal MT, a valid identity is retrieved and included in the credential VR. Additionally, a time period t is determined in which the credential VR is valid_VR. The above description is for determining this time period t_VRThe method of (1).

In the above embodiment, the HS host server has learned: the MT mobile terminal is located in the railway car and thus has the right to receive free communication services. If the host server does not know the location of the mobile terminal MT, which may be located in a non-centralized location, the location of the mobile terminal MT is determined, for example, according to the procedure described below. Positioning within the mobile radio network is also feasible if it is sufficiently accurate.

The created credentials VR or the created list of credentials VR are preferably signed by the railway operator using the private key of the public key infrastructure (see fig. 2 b). The service provider SP or the charging centre CHC may then determine whether the credential VR is valid by decoding the credential VR using the private key.

In this example, the voucher VR is transmitted to a charging center CHC of the mobile radio network PLMN or preferably to a charging center of the service provider SP. A confirmation copy of the credentials VR is transmitted to the mobile terminal MT and stored there. Thus, the user may later check for the time period t_VRIn fact no charges are made. In the charging center CHC or the charging center of the service provider SP for a period of time t_VRThe billing address of the registered communication charges registered for the mobile terminal MT will be changed to the account of the host or the railway operator.

Figure 2a shows that the corresponding bill < bill HSC > is transmitted to the central host server HSC. The optional central host server HSC preferably manages the distribution, transfer and charging of credentials VR. The credentials VR issued by the host server HS may be transmitted to the central host server HSC. The central host server HSC then collects all the credentials VR and transmits them in an orderly manner and optionally signed with a private key to the service provider SP and, if appropriate, to the charging center CHC of the mobile radio network PLMN.

To verify the transmitted credentials VR, the central host server HSC preferably issues a serial number VRr, which the host server HS enters VRr into each credential VR separately. Therefore, these serial numbers VRr are also transmitted to the central host server HSC or service provider SP and the central host server HSC or service provider SP can check whether the credentials VR are valid. The communication between the central host server HSC and the host server HS and the service provider SP can be done via any communication network, via the mobile phone network GSM/GSM-R or via the internet.

After receiving the credentials VR or the corresponding confirmation VR, the user of the mobile terminal MT can use the communication services of the communication network PLMN and establish a data connection or a voice connection to the third party DT, ST.

The corresponding charging TT is transferred from the switching centre (G) MSC to the charging centre CHC and is transmitted by the charging centre CHC to the service provider SP or directly to the central host server HSC together with the invoice < charging SP >. In the charging centre CHC or the service provider SP the charging address is changed as described above. The service provider SP then sends the invoice < billing HSC > to the central host server HSC.

Fig. 2b shows a procedure for issuing a voucher VR and charging a communication fee for a communication service used by the mobile terminal MT in the communication system shown in fig. 2 a.

Optionally, the central host server HSC will first transmit the serial number VRr for the credential VR to the host server HS and to the service provider SP for authentication.

Subsequently, the mobile terminal MT registers with the host server HS, for example according to the bluetooth protocol or via a mobile radio network. Data are then transmitted from the mobile terminal MT to the host server HS, the identification data ID preferably comprising the IMSI, optionally the IMEI and the identification of the service provider used. In addition, authorization for the presence such as an electronic ticket < eTicket > may be queried. In addition, location data may be transmitted or determined.

After verifying the data and rights, for a time period t_VRA voucher VR is issued, which VR is preferably signed with a private PKI key and then transmitted to the service provider SP. Time period t_VRBy electronic tickets<eTicket>Determining, the electronic ticket<eTicket>Showing the passenger is heading from zurich to geneva. From the timetable or timetable computer FPR, the travel time is determined to be 15:03 to 17:45 pm. Therefore, the passenger can use the communication service for free during the trip. The travel time can be checked, for example, by the host server HS or the central host server HSC, in order to adjust the credential VR accordingly in the case of a delay.

Subsequently, the communication charge is reported via the phone bill < TT > to the charging center, which in turn charges the service provider SP the communication charge via the bill < charging SP >, checks the charge and the voucher VR, preferably decoded via the public PKI key, and sends the bill < bill HSC > to the host server HS, optionally to the central host server HSC.

Registration of the mobile terminal MT in the mobile radio network PLMN and establishment and termination of connections are performed in accordance with the protocols of the mobile radio network.

Fig. 3a shows the inventive communication system of fig. 1 installed in a building HH, in which a credential VR is transmitted from a host server HS to a mobile terminal MT and from there to a service provider SP or a charging centre CHC of a network operator. The transmission is performed sequentially according to a defined protocol. Preferably, the credentials VR are integrated into messages exchanged during registration of the mobile terminal MT with the mobile radio network PLMN or during connection establishment. In this case, the certificate VR is extracted from the message of the mobile terminal MT on the network side and used. For this purpose, the architecture of the mobile radio network PLMN preferably has an application APP-CHC, which results in a change of the charging address in the charging center CHC. Alternatively, the credentials VR are transmitted from the mobile terminal MT to the service provider SP in which the application APP-SP is implemented. In the mobile terminal MT, for each protocol stack, the protocol stack of the WLAN and the GSM protocol stack, an application APP-C or APP-Cn is provided, which allows communication via the respective communication network WLAN, PLMN.

The GPRS protocol stack is shown on page 308 of page 5. Thus, the application APP-Cn will be implemented in the application layer of the mobile terminal, while the application APP-C will be implemented in the additional application layer of the SGSN.

The credentials VR may also be transmitted from the mobile terminal MT to the service provider SP or the charging centre CHC in other ways. For example, they are transmitted by email or short message.

Fig. 3a also shows that the host unit HE is intended to be installed in a building HH, such as an office building, a public building or an official building. Thus, the present invention is generally applicable to any mobile or stationary host unit HE. That is, the embodiments of the communication system shown in fig. 2a, 3a and 4a may optionally be used in buildings, transportation vehicles or public places. The invention is particularly advantageous for use in mobile host units HE where free WLAN access often provides insufficient quality or requires complex installation.

Fig. 3b shows a procedure for issuing a voucher VR and charging a communication fee for a communication service used by the mobile terminal MT in the communication system shown in fig. 3 a.

A WLAN or mobile radio network is used to exchange data between the mobile terminal MT and the host server HS. Time period t for credential VR_VRIs selected according to the booking duration of the hotel room, which can be read from a computer RS located e.g. at the hotel front desk. Checking e.g. hotel reservations<Electronic receipt>And authorization, the credentials VR are created and transmitted to the mobile terminal MT and from there to the mobile radio network PLMN. The time period t is selected according to the booking from 25.1.2018 to 30.1.2018_VR. Thus, the user can use the communication service of his service provider SP for free during the period of time he subscribes to. The corresponding fee would be charged to the hotel operator.

The voucher VR is preferably signed with the private PKI key of the hotel. However, if the user is only a temporary guest in a hotel, the location of the mobile terminal MT may be determined by the measures described below with reference to fig. 4 a. The example of fig. 3a shows that the position data does not have to be determined in every case, for example if the host server HS can determine the authorization in other ways, for example based on a subscription in a hotel. However, in this case, the registration of the mobile terminal MT is advantageous, so that the credentials VR can be created by taking into account the subscription and the registration of the mobile terminal MT.

In the embodiment of the communication system of fig. 3a, the credentials VR will be transmitted to the network operator, optionally to the charging centre CHC. The credentials VR will be extracted by the responsibility instance (G) MSC or SGSN in which the Application (APP) -CHC is implemented. As a result, the billing address has been changed during the creation of the phone bill < TT > or later at the charging center CHC. Preferably, the subscriber's IMSI-MT is replaced with the host's IMSI-H. The invoice < change SP > with the changed charging address will be sent to the service provider SP or directly to the host server HS. As mentioned, the credentials VR may also be processed by the service provider SP.

As shown in fig. 2a and 4a, the voucher VR can also be transmitted directly from the host server HS of the hotel to the service provider SP. Time period t_VRMay be determined by booking, or by the time of presence of the user in the hotel by means of a radio beacon, as described with reference to figure 4 a.

Fig. 4a shows a particularly advantageous embodiment of the communication system of the invention, which can be implemented without difficulty, for example in a building HH, a railway train TH, or even on public land. In this case, the host server HS communicates with the mobile terminal MT on the application layer of the installed applications APP-C and APP-H via the mobile radio network PLMN.

Thus, the host server HS may be installed anywhere, for example at the rail operator headquarters. It is further shown that the user may be a visitor to building HH or a passenger in the railroad train TH. The following describes that after installation of the application APP-C, the user preferably registers with the host server HS. Subsequently, the application for free use of the communication service is sent to the host server HS via the APP-C application. The host server again checks whether the user is entitled to receive the free communication service. This can be done by proving the authorization of e-tickets, for example, or by proving the location of the mobile terminal MT in the hosting area, i.e. in the building HH or in the railway train TH.

The determination of the location may be omitted if the mobile terminal MT holds an electronic ticket or other authorization. If no other authorization is present, the location of the mobile terminal MT is determined in the building HH or in the railway train TH. This can be done by determining and transmitting GPS data, or by checking the transmitting and receiving station BTS to which the mobile terminal MT is registered_MTTo complete. Particularly advantageously, i.e. simple and accurate, the location of the mobile terminal MT can be determined by means of radio beacons HB installed by the host in its service area, for example in a building HH or a railway train TH. The radio beacon, for example a bluetooth or WLAN radio beacon, continuously or periodically broadcasts an identity or identifier BID which is captured by the mobile terminal MT and transmitted to the host server HS. The radio beacon HB is for example battery powered and can autonomously perform its services for a long period of time without maintenance. The radio beacon HB may be mounted on a ceiling or wall and hardly visible. Thus, retrofitting of a building or railroad train can be accomplished with minimal effort and low cost.

The host server HS has access to a register in which the identity BID of the radio beacon HB is recorded. Preferably, the identity BID of the radio beacon is selected according to the vehicle serial number of the vehicle in which the radio beacon HB is installed. Thus, the mobile terminal MT transmits together with the radio beacon identity BID the vehicle identity which is already known to the host server or can be determined from the railway rolling stock inventory of the railway operator. The host server, for example periodically, contacts the server of the railway network managing the railway rolling stock of the railway network and checks the presence of the radio beacon, and preferably the location of the corresponding railway vehicle, with the reported identity BID.

Particularly advantageous is positioning via GPS data. From EP1862593a 2a method and a device are known which allow the position of a railway vehicle to be determined with an accuracy of 1 m. Thus, the route traveled in the railway network can be accurately determined online and/or stored in a database and retrieved again. Thus, the GPS data transmitted by the mobile terminal may be associated with currently recorded or registered GPS data of a route of travel of the railway network to determine whether the mobile terminal MT has moved along such a route. Using the current trip data or timetable, it is also possible to check the correspondence between the displacement of the mobile terminal MT and the railway train HT. In this way, the determination can be made with minimal program effort, no hardware cost, and with certainty whether the user is using the services of the host and is entitled to use the communication services free of charge.

Thus, according to the invention, the mobile terminal MT transmits satellite data or GPS data once or preferably several times to the host server HS, and the host server HS compares these GPS data of the mobile terminal MT with:

a) currently determined train position data, and/or

b) The registered location data of the railway network,

to determine whether the user of the mobile terminal MT is on a railway train HT moving along the route of the railway network.

For example, it may be determined whether the mobile terminal MT actually moves in the local area and moves with an almost constant offset from the railway train HT currently running on the railway network.

It is easier to allocate a route for current use if the user enters the destination of his own journey on his application APP-C and informs the host server HS accordingly. The starting point can then be determined by GPS data. The origin and destination of the journey and the current time are therefore known to the host server HS. In this way it can be verified that the user is not only travelling on the route in question, but is also using the services of the host and not of the competitor. For example, if two railway operators X, Y offer transportation from a to B at different times, the journey from a to B may be determined based on the time data of the journey and the corresponding schedule data, and service provider X or Y may also be determined. According to the method of the invention, the means of transport or travel route and/or service provider used by the user can be determined. The application APP-C of the mobile terminal MT, which continues to run in the background after registration, can transmit GPS data according to a specified scheme or at the request of the host server HS so that the determination of sufficient GPS data is ensured. If the location of the mobile terminal is stationary in the service area of the service provider for a certain period of time, the location can be accurately determined by means of GPS data. Accordingly, an MT mobile terminal, which has verified the corresponding mobile or stationary position based on GPS data and thus its corresponding authorization, may be authorized to use the communication service free of charge.

By using GPS data, the use of radio beacons can be avoided.

Fig. 4b shows a procedure for issuing a voucher VR and charging a communication fee for a communication service that can be used by the mobile terminal MT for free during a stay in the communication system shown in fig. 4 a.

The mobile terminal MT and the host server HS are shown with diagonal arrows communicating with each other via a mobile radio network PLMN. Via the mobile radio network PLMN the mobile terminal MT registers with the host server HS. For this purpose, the IMSI, IMEI and the identifier responsible for the service provider SP are preferably transmitted.

In the host's building HH or railway train TH, a plurality of radio beacons HB are preferably installed, which cover the entire room and periodically signal their identifiers BID. The mobile terminal MT receives this identifier BID or alternatively a GPS signal and transmits its identification data ID together with the identifier BID, the radio beacon and/or the GPS data to the host server HS.

The host server HS verifies the position of the mobile terminal MT, preferably a plurality of times, on the basis of the transmitted identifier BID of the radio beacon HB or by means of GPS data and generates a stay period t in the specified area_VRIs transmitted to the service provider SP and preferably in the form of a copy to the mobile terminal MT. The time period t can be determined again according to one of the measures described above_VR. For example, a time period t after no identifier BID of the radio beacon HB has been transmitted from the mobile terminal MT for a certain time, e.g. a few minutes_VRAnd (6) ending. Additionally, pre-run and/or post-run or tolerance ranges may be provided.

The registration of the mobile terminal MT is illustrated, wherein the transmission of the identifier BID takes place at 15:03 and the transmission of the identifier BID of the radio beacon HB ends at 17: 45. In this example, the user is traveling from zurich to geneva at this time, as described in the example of fig. 2 a. Thus, authorization of the user can be made based on the presence of the user in the railway train HT by processing the signal of the radio beacon HB, optionally by taking the timetable into account or by checking an electronic ticket from zurich to geneva.

The installation of the battery-equipped radio beacon HB is particularly easy. Alternatively, the radio beacon HB may be connected to a power supply network, which may preferably be switched on or off. The radio beacon HB is preferably switched off if the railway train is parked on a side track and not in use. However, if the radio beacon HB is not turned off, the host server HS may determine from the planning of the railway rolling stock that the corresponding railway train TH is not in service, and that the BID of its radio beacon HB does not indicate that free communication service is allowed to be received. In other preferred embodiments, the radio beacon HB is preferably programmable via a wireless interface, so that the BID identifier can be optionally changed. It is also advantageous to use a smart radio beacon HB, which is equipped with sensors and can transmit different BID codes depending on the presence of the sensor signal. For example. If no optical or acoustic signal is perceived for a longer period of time, the radio beacon will enter a sleep mode. The presence of an optical or acoustic signal is checked at intervals and the wireless beacon is reset to an active state. This saves energy and saves battery power.

The collected toll tickets TT for the communication services used by the user on the journey from zurich to geneva are then evaluated in the toll centre CHC and charged to the service provider SP which in turn charges the host server HS for the communication services used by the mobile terminal MT by taking into account the credentials VR.