CHART B


Type Call	Nature

“A”	Vendor with special offering
“B”	Buyer responding to special offering
“C”	Buyer with Request for Proposal (RFP)
“D”	Vendor responding to RFP
“E”	Vendor seeking appointment
“F”	Buyer seeking appointment

As indicated, calls of various types may involve some form of qualification or approval. For example, access to the system may be limited to qualified or registered entities. Also, certain limitations may be imposed on such entities. Of course, specific forms of limitations and qualifications may be implemented depending upon specific applications. Qualifications are generally performed by the qualification unit T[0091]28 (FIG. 4) utilizing information derived from a call correlated with reference data from the storage units T24 and T26. In that regard, the logic for the qualification unit T28 may be implemented in accordance with the flow diagram of FIG. 5 as will now be considered.

In the disclosed embodiment, exemplary qualifications for buyers and vendors are somewhat similar. Specifically, the tests for a calling vendor may be:[0092]

Is the calling station registered as a vendor (or buyer)?[0093]

Can the caller give a proper PIN number (Identification Number)?[0094]

Is the vendor qualified for the designated merchandise?[0095]

Is the vendor approved for an identified buyer or buyers?[0096]

The tests for calling a buyer may be quite similar. To consider the logic embodied in the qualification unit T[0097]28 (FIG. 4), reference will now be made somewhat concurrently to FIGS. 4 and 5. With the occurrence of an incoming call through the telephone interface structure T12 (FIG. 4), “D” channel signals are supplied through the circuit T20 to the control computer T16. As a result, the computer T16 addresses the buyer-vendor storage unit T24, using the call number of the originating terminal (ANI). Of course, in other applications DNIS signals may be similarly employed. The operation is illustrated by a block T40 (FIG. 5). Addressed by the calling number, the storage unit T24 (FIG. 4) supplies representative signals indicating: first, that the calling terminal does belong to a registered buyer or seller, whether the entity is a buyer or a seller, and the identification number (PIN) for the entity. The operation of consulting the storage unit T24 or an embodied look-up table is illustrated by a query block T42 in FIG. 5.

If the calling terminal number is not located, indicating an unregistered caller, the qualification unit T[0098]28 (FIG. 4) actuates the computer T16 for appropriate control. Specifically, the audio response unit T18 may be prompted to provide a termination message or the operator station T21 may be actuated for a human interface. Such alternatives are represented in FIG. 5 by the block T44.

For calls originating from a registered terminal, the qualification unit T[0099]28 (FIG. 4) stores the pertinent data, i.e., buyer or seller I.D. and reference PIN. The operation is illustrated in FIG. 5 by the block T46.

With the determination of a properly registered calling terminal, the computer T[0100]16 actuates the audio response unit T18 providing a verbal cue for an identification number (PIN). The operation is illustrated in FIG. 5 by the query block T48. If the caller enters keypad digital information indicating an invalid PIN, or makes no entry at all, the operation again proceeds to the block T44 for termination or transfer of the call as explained above. With the entry of a valid PIN, the operation proceeds to store the personal identification number as indicated by a block T50.

The qualification unit T[0101]28 (FIG. 4) next functions in cooperation with the computer T16 driving the audio response unit T18 to cue the caller for the type of call and the merchandise code, see blocks T52 and T54 (FIG. 5) representing such operations. Although such operations are not detailed in FIG. 5, it is to be understood that improper responses or the lack of a response will transfer the process to the function of block T44, as illustrated, to terminate or transfer the call. On the contrary, if appropriate information is received, the qualification unit T28 (FIG. 4) receives and stores the requested information. Consequently, the unit T28 contains: the caller's PIN number, the call type and the merchandise code. That data is then tested within the qualification unit T28, against reference data, in a process step as illustrated by the query block T56 in FIG. 5. The details of the test are treated in somewhat greater detail below; however, as illustrated in FIG. 5, if the tests are not successful, the process again proceeds to the termination block T44; otherwise, the process proceeds to a block T58 to implement the substantive communication of the call.

The final test of the call involves operation of the qualification unit T[0102]28 (FIG. 4) in conjunction with the storage unit T26. That is, for each buyer and vendor, the unit T26 stores merchandise codes and, in some instances, other special information.

In operation, typically, vendors may be denied access to certain information. For example, a vendor would not have access to the type calls: “A” (a special offering of another vendor), “D” (another vendor responding to an RFP) and so on. However, exceptions are possible and in that regard it is simply important to appreciate that special situations may be stored in the unit T[0103]26.

Returning to the routine situation, as indicated above, each buyer and vendor is associated with stored merchandise data. In that regard, merchandise codes not only facilitate and expedite selective communication but additionally, charges and billing data (for storage in the memory T[0104]30) may be based on active merchandise codes for a subscriber.

Pursuing a specific example, assume a caller, identified as a vendor and otherwise qualified is pursuing the presentation of a special offering. Further assume that the calling vendor is associated only with hair products (Chart A, code 472000). However, assume that the caller identifies the “merchandise of interest” to be a water resistant sun skin product, code 471234. Thus, the identified merchandise code does not coincide with the caller's registered merchandise code. In such a case, the processing is halted with the consequence that the call is either terminated or transferred to an operator. At this stage, likely operation would involve referring the call to an operator. Thus, the qualification unit T[0105]28 concludes the test by assuring that the entity being represented by a call is authorized for access with respect to the identified codes.

Pursuing the example of a vendor with a special offering, i.e., call type “A”. The caller may represent a vendor entity dealing in distressed merchandise holding a considerable volume of hair shampoo packaged for women, i.e., merchandise code “472147”. With the merchandise codes stored, the control computer T[0106]16 actuates the video file server T34 along with the audio response unit T18 to receive from storage a video presentation of the merchandise, that is, the hair shampoo. Typically, the vendor will have organized the presentation prior to making the telephone call so that the merchandise can be variously demonstrated and various information provided, including pricing etc. Thus, an effective record of the video presentation is stored in the file server T34 essentially in the form of a sales presentation for the hair shampoo, that is, product code “472147”. Note that the video presentation also may be stored at the vendor's facility for access.

With the completion of the video record, the control computer T[0107]16 actuates the storage unit T26 to isolate all buyers associated with the product code “472147” identifying hair shampoo. With the list of buyers identified and a video presentation recorded, the subsequent operations involve communicating the video presentation to the select group of buyers. In accordance with the disclosed embodiment, the identified buyer group is notified of the availability of the demonstration. Alternatively, buyers may be informed of the merchandise by different techniques, including inquiry probes.

Informed of the vendor data, in the form of a data relating to merchandise, qualified buyers may establish communication (call “B”) through the telephone interface structure T[0108]12 (FIG. 4) to receive the stored video presentation from the file server T34. Various specific arrangements may be involved. For example, the central traffic system (FIGS. 1 and 2) may maintain a record or log of all the buyers accessing the video file server, which may be provided to the vendor, upon request. A record of the time (provided by the clock) spent by each buyer in viewing a video presentation may also be maintained.

A specific buyer may terminate the video after viewing it for only a few minutes, while another buyer may view the entire video presentation. The vendor may request such information to determine buyers' reactions to the special offering, for marketing or other reasons.[0109]

In some situations, it may be particularly advantageous for buyers to receive early notice of a special offering by a vendor. Accordingly, it may be desirable to implement a rotational order scheme or a random operation for determining the sequence in notifying buyers. Specifically, a random number generator may be incorporated in the control computer T[0110]16 for ordering the list of buyers for notification.

Notices to buyers or vendors also may vary considerably, depending upon individual programming considerations. In some situations, vendors may provide a special list of buyers or alternatively, exclude specific buyers. All buyers and vendors are provided with a list of participating members of the network, at registration. Periodic updates of new members may be circulated from time to time.[0111]

In accordance with the disclosed embodiment, the control computer T[0112]16 simply actuates the auto dialer T14 to establish telephonic communication with buyers after which the audio response unit T18 notifies the buyer. Alternatives involve the utilization of facsimile or the like capability or various forms of electronic mail may be incorporated for utilization. In any event, the select group of buyers is notified that the presentation on a hair shampoo packaged for women is accessible by interfacing through the telephone structure T12. Responding buyers (call type “B”) are qualified as described above, then coupled to the video file server T34 to receive the video presentation. Thereafter, interested buyers may directly contact the vendor, typically for further video communication. Thus, the foundation for a transaction is completed rapidly and effectively with substantial communication of the goods involved and related considerations.

Another possibility involves type “C” calls, whereby a buyer distributes a request for proposal. e. g.seeks data relating to merchandise and an invitation to purchase. Again, various communications may be provided to a single select group or sub-group of vendors based on buyer data, e.g. merchandise codes. For example, to consider another specific form of communication in accordance herewith, after qualification, a buyer might use video communication to notify vendors with a graphic such as one illustrated in FIG. 8 showing an exemplary buyer request form providing specific information of the merchandise. Blank forms may be stored in a forms directory (e.g. menu-driven) or the like on each buyer's terminal. Thus, when making a request for proposals, a buyer may simply access a blank form and enter the specific information. Essentially, a merchandise code number “472361” is supplied, indicating the specific product as also identified in the graphic. After the notice has been sent selectively to vendors, a message as represented in FIG. 9 may be transmitted to the buyer from the central traffic control system TIS. Note that a check digit may be supplied. Likewise, vendors may access blank forms, similar to the exemplary buyer request forms, to indicate special offerings.[0113]

Following receipt of a request for proposal, or invitation for offer, interested vendors may submit a video presentation as described above. Accordingly video presentations (video transcriptions) of vendor data are communicated and further communication may result in the consummation of a transaction as explained above.[0114]

In view of the above descriptions and explanations, another disclosed embodiment is depicted in FIG. 10 and will now be considered. To some extent, components previously identified and described may bear similar reference identification; however, generally components of the traffic control system S[0115]10 (FIG. 10, dashed line block) and the inquiry systems or terminals B10 (bottom) are distinctly identified.

For purposes of explanation, an exemplary merchandising application again will be presented; however, again it is to be understood that the system may be employed in a multitude of applications. Essentially, such applications involve users at user terminals, (e.g. buyers) and responding sites (e.g. vendors) with video data being supplied to user terminals, for example, to result in a transaction.[0116]

Although the responder location sites or terminals L[0117]1-Ln (FIG. 10, top) as previously described are collectively represented, it is to be understood that such sites may well incorporate various disclosed aspects of the inquiry terminals. However, as explained above, the responder location terminals L1-Ln store video presentation data and are individually coupled to a dial-up public telephone system TS which is in turn coupled to the traffic control system S10 through analog and digital channels A and D, as explained above. The dial-up public telephone system TS also is variously connected to inquiry terminals B10 as described below in substantial detail. Accordingly, the system of FIG. 10 affords a capability of serving an inquiring user, e.g. at a buyer terminal, and a responder site, e.g. a vendor terminal, as described in detail above.

The inquiry terminals B[0118]10 (FIG. 10, bottom) are illustrated in a variety of forms for communication accommodated by the public telephone system TS and the traffic control system S10. Note that each of the exemplary terminal configurations may be present in varying numbers as indicated by the interconnecting horizontal dashed lines. Also note that both mobile wireless and direct terminals are accommodated. However, in accordance herewith, and as described in detail above, ultimate communications(direct or indirect) of the inquiry terminals B10 typically involve communications with individual of the responder or vendor terminals L1-Ln.

A first exemplary form of inquiry terminal is represented by the terminal Va (FIG. 10, bottom left). A wireless coupling (dashed line B[0119]12a) is indicated between the terminal Va and the traffic control system S10, specifically to a wireless mobile network S12. For example, a European Patent Application EPO 782 364 A2 filed Dec. 23, 1996 and published Jul. 2, 1997 discloses wireless video telephone terminals with a central control station interfacing a telephone network. The application is incorporated by reference herein.

In FIG. 10, the terminal Va, a form of mobile wireless video phone, communicates with the wireless mobile network S[0120]12 (dashed line B12a) which network for example incorporates central equipment as a base station, and which operates with other components to enable wireless mobile telephone terminals to roam through different areas or cells. Note that the wireless mobile network S12 may be remote and distinct from the traffic control S10. In such a case, communication may be with the system S10 through the public telephone system TS. Thus, from various locations, mobile instruments as the terminal Va, can communicate through the mobile network S12 (or an alternate) and the dial-up public telephone system TS (line S13) in order to communicate with other telephone terminals including the terminals L1-Ln.

The wireless mobile network S[0121]12 may incorporate a form of switching system sometimes termed a “mobile switching center” for communication with the public telephone system TS or directly with a computer system S14. Basic aspects of structures for the wireless mobile platform S12 are well known; and in that regard, such mobile communications are treated in detail in a book entitledMobile_—Telecommunications Network,by Michael D. Gallagher and Randal A. Snyder, McGraw-Hill, 1997, ISBN 0-07-063314-2, incorporated by reference herein.

Again, note that while in FIG. 10, the wireless mobile network S[0122]12 is shown in the traffic control system S10 it is to be understood that the network S12 may be operated separately from the system S10. As indicated in the above-cited book, the wireless mobile network S12 can be configured in accordance with a wide variety of possibilities and also may constitute a number of interrelated structures distributed over a large area.

While only a single inquiry terminal Va is shown in FIG. 10, it is to be understood that the wireless mobile network S[0123]12 is configured to accommodate a multitude of such wireless terminals, through wireless couplings B12a, through B12n. Specifically, through the wireless coupling B12a, communication is provided from mobile wireless terminal Va to the wireless mobile network S12, and then to the computer system S14. As indicated above, the network S12 and the computer S14 function as a wireless platform and communicate with the public telephone system TS, for example to communicate with the responder locations L1-Ln.

Next, consider the representative terminal Vw, with a connection B[0124]18awhich is somewhat similar to that of the terminals V1-Vn of FIG. 2. However, the telephone terminal Vw takes the form of a mobile device B14 operative with a desktop computer B16 functioning through the telephonic connection B18 to the telephone system TS. Thus, the terminal Vw may communicate through the public telephone system TS with the computer system S14 using the paths A and D as explained above. Furthermore, communication may be established from the terminal Vw, to communicate with responders, e.g. vendors represented at the terminals L1-Ln. A form of system for interconnection between a desktop computer B16 and a mobile device B14 is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,272,545, Flanagin et al., entitled “System and Method for Interaction Between One or More Desktop Computers and One or More Mobile Devices,” issued Aug. 7, 2001 and incorporated by reference herein.

The exemplary inquiry terminal Vx also is a wireless structure, however, functioning through a wireless link indicated by a dashed line B[0125]20afor communication with an on-line computer service B22. Accordingly, the terminal Vx communicates through the service B22 and the public telephone system TS with the computer system S14. In that regard, an Internet protocol video phone adapter is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,201,562, Lor, entitled“Internet Protocol Video Phone Adapter for High Bandwidth Data Access,”issued Mar. 13, 2001 and incorporated by reference herein.

The exemplary terminal Vy may take a form similar to the terminals described with respect to FIG. 2 and is connected to the dial-up public telephone system TS in a similar manner. Thus, the system of FIG. 10 incorporates the traffic control system S[0126]10, capable of serving various forms of buyer terminals, as exemplified, in varying numbers.

Turning now to the traffic control system S[0127]10, generally, communication is afforded from the terminals B10 and the responder sites or terminals L1-Ln through the mobile network S12 and/or the telephone system TS. In that regard, the wireless mobile network platform S12, along with the computer system S14, interface the wireless buyer terminals to impose control and accomplish communication. Other terminals communicate with the computer system S14 through the telephone system TS.

The detailed operation of the computer system S[0128]14 is treated below; however, preliminarily consider other component elements of the traffic control system S10. Several components of the traffic control system S10 may take a form similar to elements in the traffic control system TIS of FIG. 2. However, in that regard, different identification symbols are employed. The traffic control system S10 includes a clock S18, (left central) an operator station S20, a printer, VCR, etc. S22, an audio response unit S24, a caller test unit S26, (left) an auto dialer S28 and a D-channel signal processor S30, all of which may take a form similar to such elements of the same name appearing in FIG. 2.

Additionally, the traffic control system S[0129]10 separately illustrates a network interface S32, (upper right) a voice recognition unit S34 and a memory S36. The network interface unit S32 functions in cooperation with the public telephone system TS and may incorporate various well-known structures as a telephonic format switch. The voice recognition unit S34 functions in cooperation with the computer system S14 to accommodate voice-recognition operation at the terminals B10. The memory S36 provides control and programming data for the system S14 and additionally stores significant data as in assigned cells relating to individual buyer and vendor terminals, somewhat as treated above.

Extensive responder data is stored, either at the responder location terminals L[0130]1-Ln, at the traffic control system S10, or at both (see FIG. 6). For example, pursuing the merchandising example, for a respondent who is a vendor, the vendor data would include data relating to merchandise as for example: video transcriptions for display of merchandise, or services, designations (as codes), price schedules, and group classifications, etc. Vendor data also may include identification data, as for example: PIN data, telephone number data, name data, personal data and so on. Additional stored vendor data may include format data, buyer data and transaction data as mentioned above.

To complete a comprehensive understanding of the system as depicted in FIG. 10, reference also will now be made to the flow diagram of FIG. 11 with respect to various operations definitive of the central computer system S[0131]14 and the cooperating elements of the control system S10.

Initially, assume the presence of an inquiring user, e.g. a buyer (person) at the terminal Va, with a desire to pursue a possible communication with an unknown vendor accessible through one of the sites or locations L[0132]1-Ln. To initiate the process, the terminal Va is actuated as indicated by a block W1 (FIG. 11—upper left). Upon activation, the terminal Va (FIG. 10) establishes communication with the wireless mobile network S12 through the radio channel represented by the dashed line B12a. As part of the communication, the terminal Va transmits certain initial inquiry data to the wireless mobile network S12, specifically, identification data is transmitted, e.g. the identifying MIN number that characteristically is used in wireless communication. The operation is represented in FIG. 11 by the block W2.

Upon receiving the identification information for the terminal Va, the wireless mobile network S[0133]12 addresses a memory, e.g. the memory S36 through the computer system S14 to obtain reference data on the terminal Va. These operational steps are represented in FIG. 11 by the blocks W4 and W6.

The central computer system S[0134]14 may store or address the memory S36 regarding the terminal Va in relation to a wide variety of stored data. For example, the basic data stored for buyers (see FIG. 7) may include the following:

(1) additional identification, e.g. name, electronic address, group, merchandise data, identification data, and so on.[0135]

(2) anti-fraud information[0136]

(3) qualification criteria[0137]

(4) specific limitations and/or enablements[0138]

(5) individuals persons ID, e.g. name, credit data, etc.[0139]

(6) addresses[0140]

With various basic data available, the caller at the terminal Va may be cued for qualification data as indicated by the block W[0142]8. For example, the caller may be cued for further inquiry data, for example, a personal identification number (PIN) or for speech (as for a voice print) or for codes or various other anti-fraud or identification confirmation criteria.

Receiving the cue, the caller actuates the terminal Va, as by keypad entries to provide response data. The wireless network S[0143]12 supplies the data which is processed by the computer system S14 with the test unit S26 to accomplish a test as represented by a block W10 in FIG. 11. As suggested above, if implemented, the tests may take a multitude of forms regarding the buyer qualification and/or the qualification of the calling terminal. The test results are illustrated by the query block W11. If the test results are negative (“NO”) the call is terminated as indicated by the block W12. Conversely, a positive result (“YES”) advances the process to the next stage of operation, recognizing that the call is accepted.

If the illustrative call from the terminal Va is approved or accepted without qualification, the computer system S[0144]14 sets up the appropriate communication formats to proceed based on stored data or circumstances. For example, if the caller (active user) is communicating by speech, the voice recognition unit S34 (FIG. 10) is actuated. Also, depending on the video format indicated by the basic data, the system performs the requisite format switch operations. These steps are illustrated by the block W14. Thus, compatible communication, for an active user including video, may proceed.

With communication established, the ARU S[0145]24 (FIG. 11) is actuated to prompt the user at terminal Va through the network S12 to provide direction. Recognizing the multitude of possible applications for systems in accordance herewith, the direction, or area of interest data, for an inquiry may vary to a considerable extent. For example, such subject matter data for a merchandising application involving goods or services, may specify a type of merchandise or an area of interest for goods or services. In a dating service or employment agency application, the direction or routing data for an inquiry may take the form of personal characteristics, and so on. In any event, the step is illustrated in FIG. 11 by the block W16 and in that regard, as an example, types of merchandise may be specified as explained above.

So prompted, the user normally enters the subject matter data (selection data) which is received and stored as indicated by the block W[0146]18. Thus, representative routing data is available to the computer system S14. The inquiry selection data, stored in the memory S36, is processed with reference vendor data as preliminarily indicated by the block W20.

If an online communication between an inquiry terminal (Va-Vy) and a respondent terminal (L[0147]1-Ln) is to be established, the central computer system S14 may further refine the stored data as indicated by the processing of a block W24. In accordance with a controlling algorithm, the data may be variously processed to locate one or more responder sites, e.g. vendor sites or a sequence of sites. The step is illustrated in FIG. 11 by a block W24.

To consider the processing of the received inquiry data (subject matter data) in greater detail, the course of action, may, for example, be to select a responder site, e.g. responder terminal L[0148]1 for an active inquiring user. As indicated, the type of subject matter data provided by an inquiring user is processed to select one or more responder sites. The subject matter data is part of the inquiry data received and specifies the area of interest or type of communication that is sought with a respondent site. Essentially, as illustrated by the block24 (FIG. 11) the computer system S14 (FIG. 10) processes the inquiry subject matter data in relation to stored reference respondent data to select a respondent site or terminal. Generally, the selection is based on types of subject matter, expressed for example as an area of interest. As explained above, in a merchandising application a buyer user might specify “skin cream cleansing” as the area of interest or type of subject matter data for communication. The central computer system S14 would then process such inquiry data with stored respondent data to select at least one respondent site, e.g. vendor site L1. Of course, any of a variety of coincidence or comparison algorithms might be employed to make the selection as indicated by the block W24 (FIG. 11). With the vendor site L1 selected for example, the inquiring caller or user terminal, for example terminal Va, is placed in communication with the vendor terminal L1. Specifically, with the responder terminal selected, the computer system S14 actuates the auto dialer S28 to provide dial-up signals through the network interface S32 to accomplish a connection through the public telephone system TS, ultimately with the select vendor terminal L1. The operational step is illustrated in FIG. 11 by a block W26.

With the connection established, the active buyer terminal Va is bridged through the traffic control system S[0149]10 and the dial-up public telephone system TS to the select vendor terminal L1 as illustrated by the block W28. Thereafter, video communication exchanges may occur as represented by the block W30 which may or may not result in the consummation of a transaction. Accordingly, the query block W32 represents the possibilities. If no transaction is consummated, the process is terminated as indicated by a block W34. Alternatively, if a transaction is consummated it is recorded and commanded as indicated by the block W36.

As indicated above and as illustrated in FIG. 10, the inquiry terminals B[0150]10 also may include terminals as exemplified by an inquiry terminal Vw comprising a mobile device B14 and a desktop computer B16. The mobile device B14 essentially controls the desktop computer B16 to function through a line B18 and the telephone system TS to interface the central computer system S14. Note that the mobile device B14 may be operated somewhat as explained above with respect to the operation of the wireless terminal Va.

An exemplary terminal Vx also is wireless and communicates directly with an on-line service B[0151]22 in accordance herewith. Note that the buyer terminal Vx may take a video form of a handheld unit utilizing the principles of mobile wireless communication to accomplish the requisite communication with the on-line computer service V22. Accordingly, acting through the “Internet”, the system attains the process steps to potentially accomplish a transaction as described above. In that regard, as indicated, the steps may be few or involve considerable detail; however, the steps could include:

(1) receiving and obtaining identification data from an inquiry terminal[0152]

(2) utilizing identification data, fetching basic data for a terminal[0153]

(3) qualifying a communication as with respect to an inquiry terminal or with regard to anti-fraud[0154]

(4) setting communication formats as with respect to video and DTMF versus voice[0155]

(5) obtaining routing or selection data[0156]

(6) processing selection data, as in combination with reference data to select a respondent.[0157]

(7) coupling an inquiry terminal to a respondent terminal for video communication.[0158]

The inquiry terminal Vy also may take a form as illustrated with respect to FIG. 2. Thus, it may be seen that in the composite system of FIG. 11, various different types of terminals are represented and may be employed in varying numbers. As suggested, hybrids and deviations of such terminals are contemplated.[0159]

In view of the above description, it will be apparent that numerous operating formats, programs and layouts may be accomplished using a wide variety of videophone equipment in cooperation with computing and telephone apparatus. As indicated above, the disclosed embodiments afford some exemplary arrangements; however, the scope hereof should not be so confined, rather the scope hereof should be in accordance with the claims as set forth below.[0160]

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A traffic control system for enabling communication exchanges between at least one inquiring user at an inquiring user terminal and at least one responder site with video data relating to subject matter for communication, the traffic control system for use with a public telephone system to enable communication exchanges between terminals and sites at remote locations, related to the possibility of consummating a communication, the traffic control system comprising:

an interface for communications through the public telephone system involving a user and a responding site and for receiving inquiry data from a user at an active inquiring user terminal including identification data and type of subject matter data for communication relating to an area of interest;

memory storage to receive and store responder data including data relating to different subject matter for communication relating to areas of interest; and

a processor to control, manage and interconnect with remote inquiring user terminals and responder sites, and to selectively provide video data for display by an active inquiring user terminal in accordance with types of subject matter for communication relating to an area of interest as communicated from an inquiring user terminal pursuant to a possible communication.

2. A traffic control system according toclaim 1 wherein the subject matter for communication involves goods or services.

3. A traffic control system according toclaim 2 wherein a user may accomplish a commercial transaction for goods or services.

4. A traffic control system according toclaim 2 wherein the inquiry data includes an indication of the amount that a buyer is willing to pay for a good or service.

5. A traffic control system according toclaim 4 wherein the amount that a buyer is willing to pay is expressed as a maximum amount.

6. A traffic control system according toclaim 1 wherein the subject matter for communication relates to persons.

7. A traffic control system according toclaim 6 wherein the subject matter relates to areas of interest expressed in a dating service.

8. A traffic control system according toclaim 1 wherein the processor further interconnects an active inquiring user terminal to receive video data from another responder site.

9. A traffic control system according toclaim 1 wherein the video data is dynamic.

10. A traffic control system according toclaim 1 wherein the video data is high resolution still image video.

11. A traffic control system according toclaim 1 wherein the processor affords access to the memory storage by an user utilizing a dial-up telephone instrument.

12. A traffic control system according toclaim 11 wherein access involves using a caller paid telephone line.

13. A traffic control system according toclaim 1 wherein the inquiry data includes a check digit.

14. A traffic control system according toclaim 1 wherein said responder data includes video data and text data for display by an active inquiring user terminal.

15. A traffic control system according toclaim 1 wherein the inquiry data includes billing data for a user.

16. A traffic control system according toclaim 1 wherein the interface communicates with a personal computer at a user terminal.

17. A traffic control system according toclaim 1 wherein the interface provides a user relating to multiple choices for selection to comprise inquiry data.

18. A traffic control system according toclaim 1 further including a wireless mobile network for receiving inquiry data from mobile terminals.

19. A traffic control system according toclaim 1 further including a voice recognition unit for receiving inquiry data expressed by voice.

20. A process of traffic control for enabling communication exchanges between at least one inquiring user at an inquiring user terminal and at least one responder site with video data relating to subject matter for communication, the communication exchanges involving a public telephone system and comprising the steps of:

interfacing user terminals and responder sites through the public telephone system to receive inquiry data from a user at an active inquiring user terminal including identification data and type of subject matter data for communication relating to area of interest;

receiving and storing responder data including data relating to different subject matter relating to areas of interest; and

processing inquiry data and responder data in response to an inquiry from an active inquiring user terminal to selectively provide video data from responder data to an active inquiring user terminal in accordance with inquiry data received relating to area of interest.

21. A process according toclaim 20 wherein the subject matter for communication involves goods or services.

22. A process according toclaim 21 wherein a user may accomplish a commercial transaction for goods or services.

23. A process according toclaim 21 wherein the inquiry data includes an indication of the amount that a buyer is willing to pay for goods or services.

24. A process according toclaim 23 wherein the amount that a buyer is willing to pay for goods or services is expressed as a maximum amount.

25. A process according toclaim 20 wherein the subject matter for communication relates to persons.

26. A process according toclaim 25 wherein the subject matter for communication relates to areas of interest expressed in a dating service.

27. A process according toclaim 20 wherein an active inquiring terminal user is further interconnected to receive video data from another responder site.

28. A process according toclaim 1 wherein at least part of the inquiry data is communicated by electronic mail.

29. A process according toclaim 1 wherein the video data is dynamic.

30. A process according toclaim 1 wherein the video data is high resolution still image video.

31. A process according toclaim 1 wherein access to stored responder data is provided to a user using a dial-up telephone instrument.

32. A process according toclaim 31 wherein access by the user involves using a caller paid telephone line.

33. A process according toclaim 20 wherein the inquiry data includes a check digit.

34. A process according toclaim 20 wherein said responder data includes video data and text data for display at an active inquiring user terminal.

35. A process according toclaim 20 wherein the inquiry data includes billing data for a user.

36. A process according toclaim 20 wherein the Interfacing step includes interfacing a personal computer as a user terminal.

37. A process according toclaim 20 wherein the interfacing step includes providing a user at an active user inquiry terminal with multiple choices in the selection of inquiry data.

38. A process according toclaim 1 wherein the interfacing step includes interfacing mobile wireless inquiring user terminals.

39. A process according toclaim 1 wherein the interfacing step includes voice recognition operations for the users.

40. A traffic control system for establishing selective communication exchanges between a plurality of inquiry user terminals and a plurality of responder sites with video data relating to select subject matter for communication, the traffic control system for use with a public telephone system, the traffic control system comprising:

an interface to the public telephone system for receiving inquiry data from a user at an active user terminal including subject matter data with an indication for an area of interest;

a memory storage to receive and store subject matter data for the responder sites indicating area of interest; and

a processor coupled to the memory storage and the interface and including site location logic for identifying responder sites related to areas of interest as expressed in inquiry data from individual inquiring user terminals to selectively interconnect inquiring user terminals and relevant responder sites on the basis of subject matter data to thereby provide video data relative to the expressed inquiry data.

41. A system according toclaim 40 wherein the interface includes a wireless mobile station for video communication with remote wireless terminals.

42. A system according toclaim 41 wherein the interface includes a voice recognition unit for communicating with the remote terminals.

43. A system according toclaim 41 wherein said subject matter data comprises merchandise data.

44. A traffic control system according toclaim 40 wherein said interface includes dial-up capability to dial-up a vendor terminal through said public telephone system controlled by said processor in accordance with said location logic.

45. A traffic control system according toclaim 40 wherein said at least one responder site stores text data relating to merchandise and wherein said text data is selectively supplied to an active inquiry user terminal for display.

46. A traffic control system according toclaim 40 wherein said inquiry data includes identification data.

47. A traffic control system according toclaim 46 wherein said identification data comprises a check digit.

48. A traffic control system according toclaim 46 wherein said identification data comprises a buyer e-mail address.

49. A traffic control system according toclaim 46 wherein said identification data is stored by said processor for billing purposes related to a transaction.

50. A traffic control system according toclaim 40 wherein said video data includes include dynamic video representations.

51. A traffic control system according toclaim 40 wherein said inquiry data is from a prospective buyer includes an indication of the maximum amount that a buyer is willing to pay in a transaction.

52. A traffic control system according toclaim 40 wherein said interface includes an on line computer service.

53. A traffic control system according toclaim 40 further including an operator terminal.

54. A process of traffic control involving a plurality of inquiring user terminals with video display capability and a plurality of responder sites associated with defined subject matter, and further involving a public telephone system, the process of traffic control for the possible consummation of video communication between an inquiring user terminal and a select responder site, and comprising the steps of:

storing video recordings relating to defined subject matter for responder sites and subject matter classifications relating to area of interest;

receiving inquiry data from an active inquiring user terminal including defined subject matter indications relating to an areas of interest; and

processing inquiry data from the active inquiring user terminal to selectively establish communication with a select responder site to provide video recordings to the active user terminal relating to defined subject matter for display at the active inquiry terminal responsive to inquiry data received from the active inquiry user terminal.

55. A process of traffic control according toclaim 54 further including a step of receiving inquiry data including identification of an active inquiring user terminal.

56. A process according toclaim 54 wherein said process step to selectively establish communication includes dialing up a responder site through a public telephone system.

57. A process according toclaim 54 including a further step of receiving identification data from an active inquiring user terminal for billing purposes related to a communication.

58. A process according toclaim 54 wherein said inquiry data relates to merchandise and further includes the maximum amount that user is willing to pay in a transaction.

59. A process according toclaim 54 wherein said step of receiving inquiry data includes communication through an on line computer service.

60. One or more processor readable storage devices embodying processor readable code, said processor readable code for programming a process capacity that performs a method of selectively establishing video communication between an inquiry telephone terminal from which communication of a desired subject matter is desired and one or more select respondent terminals for providing video data relating to certain subject matter, the method comprising the steps of:

receiving inquiry data from an inquiry telephone terminal indicating subject matter for a desired communication, as an expressed area of interest;

accessing storage capacity to provide respondent reference data relating to subject matters of desired communications: and

determining one or more select respondent terminals based on the inquiry data from an inquiry telephone terminal and the respondent reference data to provide select video communication.

61. One or more storage devices in accordance withclaim 60 wherein subject matter for a desired communication is directed to the merchandising of products or services.

62. One or more storage devices in accordance withclaim 60 further including a step of coupling an inquiry terminal to a select respondent terminal for select video communication.