Circuit switched cellulat network to internet calling

ES 2 425 441 T3

DESCRIPTION

Redirecting a call from a private IP network to a wireless communication network

Technical field of the invention

The invention relates to telephone systems and, more specifically, to a system and method for delivering a circuit-based wireless telephone call to a packet-based telephone call, including a telephone call based on a cable television system. In particular, it concerns a system and procedure for detecting the entry and exit of a mobile device within a domain of a packet network, in order to switch the delivery and origin of the call and to use a network a network switched by general purpose packages (Internet) to connect mobile telephone switching centers with their antennas.

Background of the invention

As telephone devices have become widespread, it is common for people to have multiple telephone numbers to locate them, such as home, office, mobile, and fax numbers. People who work in more than one location have even more numbers. Several companies have designed single number solutions to allow a single phone number to be used for all calls to one person, wherever they are. These solutions are called one-number “trunk loop” systems because they require the connection of multiple trunks within a single switching device. Two basic strategies are used to provide current single-number solutions.

The first approach is to provide a single "primary" number that is associated with an individual at a certain location and that allows the subscriber to manually "forward" all calls to any other number, one number after another. Typically, the primary number is associated with a mobile phone which is the default referral location, unless otherwise specified by the subscriber. However, this procedure requires direct actions by the subscriber upon arriving at a physical location, typically entering digit strings through the subscriber's mobile phone, or through a local non-mobile phone. It's hard to remember to make such a referral call; the digits to be entered are difficult to remember; And it is thankless to go through the complicated effort of informing the system of your current location and then not receiving any calls, so that people are not disturbed unless they are expecting an important call.

The other approach to obtaining a single telephone number (the identity within the telephone system) is based on a schedule defined by the subscriber, established according to the time of day and the day of the week. Subscribers route ("forward") incoming calls based on their intuition as to where they will be at a specific time. Call control logic directs the caller to the most likely physical location.

Both procedures require the assignment of telephone numbers to every possible location. Although, in the present system, each usable telephone typically has an associated number, establishing many telephones and giving each telephone a number is expensive, as each number typically incurs a minimal monthly charge. Furthermore, because each call occupies four trunk lines, to and from the subscriber's central office, before reaching a central office for the local telephone, these approaches require a lot of additional network capacity and are therefore very expensive for phone companies to implement.

A further limitation of the prior art single loop number systems is the inability to use such systems in roaming. In the prior art, established schedules that redirect traffic to frequently visited locations lose meaning over multiple time zones. Manual referral to circuit-based numbers reduces reliability and trunk efficiencies for both the mobile carrier providing the single number and the long-distance carrier. Service providers are reluctant to implement any of them, due to a high perceived infrastructure cost and / or financial risk due to delayed processing of charges incurred in foreign networks when forwarded calls are received from other networks.

It would be desirable to be able to detect the presence or absence of a mobile phone at a fixed location, in order to route a call between the wireless network and a location-based phone in a packet-switched network. A packet switched phone can be less expensive and more private than a standard mobile phone. Wireless telephone companies provide call delivery and generation using radio-based and circuit-switched signaling to an end-user device identified by a telephone number. Since a mobile phone identification number represents a single device, a subscriber must obtain additional phone numbers to identify fixed locations such as office and home.

Furthermore, cabling for a general-purpose packet-switched network, such as the Internet, is now ubiquitous, and additional IP (Internet Protocol) devices can be connected to this network without any additional cost for cabling. Since the cables are not used to their full capacity, discrete amounts can be put into them.

ES 2 425 441 T3 of additional traffic at no additional cost to maintain Internet service. IP phone devices that handle only a few calls at a time can be added in many places throughout the entire network, at no significant cost. If these devices are low-power radio antennas, they can easily service a few nearby cordless phones. Because they are low-powered, they are inexpensive and do not create any local opposition to the use of the land for placement. By contrast, traditional cell phone antennas are very expensive, connected to their base stations with dedicated and expensive wiring, and face considerable local opposition to the use of land for placement.

In the prior art, accessing the Internet using a 28.8, 33.6, or 56 kbps modem is referred to as voice band modem technology. Like voice band modems, cable modems modulate and demodulate data signals. However, cable modems incorporate more functionality suitable for high-speed services. From a user's perspective, a cable modem is capable of providing up to 30-40 Mbps of data on a 6 MHz cable channel. This is approximately 500 times faster than a 56 kbps modem.

In cable modem systems, data, from a user to the network, is sent under the control of a cable modem termination system, which is a cable headend end (CMTS) controller. A subscriber can continue to receive cable television service while simultaneously receiving data over the cable, to be delivered to a personal computer, and sending data over the cable with the help of a splitter, which splits the signal to continue over multiple cables.

Also in the prior art there is the ability to send and receive data with Internet services by dial-up connection, using the television as a viewer, such as Microsoft's Web-TV. However, it would be desirable, without subscriber interaction, a system to make or receive phone calls, using an application based on cable television, IP phones or 'Bluetooth or 802.11' devices, televisions that use drop-down menus. and one-button remote control inputs. Furthermore, it would be advantageous to be able to detect the presence or absence of a mobile phone near a device coupled with the global network, through a network connection of the cable television type, in order to route a call between the wireless network, or the public switched telephone network, and a cable-based IP (Internet Protocol) telephone connection, using the DOCSIS (Cable Data System Interface Specification) platform

Document WO 00/08880 discloses a method and system for routing an incoming call to a telephone number in the PBX network (Private Branch Exchange) from outside the PBX, based on a subscriber location that includes routing the call to a line switch that detects PBX triggers, generate a query to the SCP (Service Control Point) when detecting PBX triggers that request mobile registration status data for the PBX number. In addition, routing the call from the switch to a PBX switch for delivery to a PBX handset when the subscriber's mobile registration data indicates that the subscriber is not registered as wireless. In addition, generating a mobile query in the SCP for a wireless network HLR (Home Location Register) when the mobile registration status data indicates that the subscriber is registered as wireless, and requesting the mobile location of the current subscriber and the wireless routing destination number (WRDN). Also, communicate the WRDN from the HLR to the SCP, and generate messages to route the call to the wireless network. The call is routed to the WRDN.

Summary of the invention

The invention is defined by the method of controlling telephone calls and a call routing system defined in independent claims 1 and 10.

In one aspect, the instant invention solves the aforementioned problems by monitoring the subscriber's current physical location, identifying a packet-based local telephone device, in which a call should end, if any, and routing the call, all before the call is terminated ("answered") by any device at any location, so that the caller does not incur connection charges unless the call is connected. In a preferred embodiment, it does so without direct subscriber actions, without a second phone number for any local packet phone device, regardless of the time of day or day of the week.

If the subscriber arrives at a location that has the invented system, the system can route calls for that subscriber directed to the mobile network, to a local packet telephone device with smaller charges. Similarly, if the subscriber leaves a location where the subscriber is associated with the local packet telephone device, he can route the call to the mobile network as an ordinary cellular telephone call to the subscriber. The subscriber can use his mobile phone to connect to the packet network with a local radio link with a low power local antenna, thereby reducing the use of existing powerful cellular antennas, which makes them available for use by others, and reduces the average cost of the system. Alternatively, the subscriber can use a packet-wired local telephone (IP phone) connected to the network, such as a computer with a microphone and speaker. This packet phone does not have a number on the public switched telephone network and does not incur a monthly charge from

ES 2 425 441 T3 a telephone switching company. It is not usable until you receive an identity by association with a mobile phone number.

In a preferred embodiment, the invention can be implemented using an existing mobile switching center (MSC). One aspect of the invention takes advantage of the ability of the MSC to process call handling instructions from an existing Service Control Point (SCP) and connect a call to an Internet Protocol Gateway (IP Gateway). Based on a previously configured subscriber profile, the system has the ability to route incoming calls to multiple devices attached to a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN). Outgoing calls acquire the calling party identity from the calling party's mobile phone, regardless of the device that originated the call.

Other options are also available, such as restricting phone calls to / from certain phone numbers, dialing a phone number using a tap on the called participant's name, viewing the location of a calling or called participant, receiving biographical information of a participant caller and receive a peculiar alert (ringing) in the voice of the calling participant.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is software implemented in a computer system that can be integrated into existing telephone communication systems for wireless phones, including cellular phones and PCS (Personal Communication Systems). In one aspect, the present invention is a system and method for communicating the location of a mobile device between the mobile switching center and the packet switched network. The protocols between the switch and the packet network define specific command and response codes that are communicated between the various components to allow specific activities to take place across a distributed network. Each of the command and response codes can include various parameters. In one embodiment, the instant invention uses additional commands, responses, and parameters within an existing protocol to signal between the switching system and the packet network, in order to effect call control to private computer network domains.

A technical advantage of a preferred embodiment of the invention is a system that can detect the presence or absence of a mobile device within a local packet network domain and immediately route the call to the current location of the subscriber without causing the voice is rerouted from the least cost path. The detection is preferably done by detecting on the IP antennas attached to the packet network that the mobile phone, which periodically broadcasts a burst containing an identification, is close to an IP antenna, so calls to the mobile phone they can be directed to the IP antenna over the general purpose packet network (Internet). Local IP antennas can receive and broadcast standard cellular telephone frequencies, or other radio frequencies such as the ISM (Industry, Science and Medicine) band, as some mobile phones now also operate on those frequencies. Local IP antennas are added to the IP network in locations that are frequented by mobile phone users. They can be configured to serve any mobile phone in the vicinity, or only designated mobile phones, as determined by the owner of the IP antenna. Local IP antennas are low-power and inexpensive. By placing many of them within a cell, a cellular phone service can greatly reduce its operating costs.

The foregoing has outlined somewhat generally the technical characteristics and advantages of aspects of the present invention, so that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that the specific conception and embodiments disclosed can be immediately used as a basis for modifying or designing other systems or structures to carry out the same purposes of any one of the many aspects of the present invention.

One embodiment of the invention is implemented with desktop computer software that can make the desktop computer integrated into existing telephone communication systems for wireless phones, including cell phones and PCS, and using existing television infrastructure. by cable. In one aspect, the present invention is a system and method for communicating the location of a mobile device between the client terminal adapter (CTA), which is a microprocessor-based device that couples to the cable modem and performs functions. telephony using the IP protocol, the MSC and the cable television network.

The protocols between the cable network and the switched network define specific command and response codes that are communicated between the various components to allow specific activities to take place over a distributed network. Each of the command and response codes can include various parameters. In one embodiment, the instantaneous invention uses additional intelligent call processing commands, responses, and parameters within an existing protocol, to signal between the switching system and the packet network, in order to control call-based networks. cable television.

In one aspect, the instant invention solves handover problems by determining the current mobile location of a subscriber within the mobile macro-network. Then using a privately controlled transceiver as a cell-site

The alternative ES 2 425 441 T3 determines when a mobile enters the communication range of the private transceiver, thereby causing the call in session to be transferred to the private domain. In a preferred embodiment, it does so with little direct action from the subscriber and without a second phone number for the associated private domain device.

If the subscriber arrives at a location that has the invented system, the system can redirect calls from the public domain mobile network 'in session' for that subscriber to a private domain cell site, with lower charges. Similarly, if the subscriber leaves a location where the subscriber is connected on a call with the private transceiver, he can hand over the in-session call to the public network as an ordinary mobile phone call. This private domain device does not have a number on the public switched telephone network and does not incur any monthly charges from a telephone switching company. It is not usable until it is given an identity and authorization, at the time of subscription, when it is correlated with a mobile identity number. The system takes advantage of the MSC's ability to process mobile-assisted handover instructions for in-session calls, and to re-route a call to a Mobile Internet Gateway (MIG) that converts circuit signals into Internet packets.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is the implementation of software that can be integrated into existing telephone communication systems for wireless phones, including cell phones and PCS, and into existing Internet infrastructure. In one aspect, the present invention is a system and method for communicating the location of a mobile phone between the access point and the mobile switching center, via a packet network such as the Internet. The protocols between the mobile network and the public switched telephone network define specific command and response codes that are communicated between the various components to allow specific activities to take place across a distributed network. Each of the command and response codes can include various parameters. In one embodiment, the instant invention uses existing command and response codes, as well as additional intelligent call processing commands, responses, and parameters, within an existing protocol, to signal between the switching system and the packet network, to in order to carry out the handover and control of calls to and from the private transceiver over the Internet and public mobile telephone networks.

A technical advantage of a preferred embodiment of the invention is a system and procedure that can detect the cell-site group identification, or 'inference' signature of the cell-sites surrounding the private transceiver, as well as the supporting cell-site. to the location of the private transceiver. The system detects the presence of the mobile device within range of the private transceiver. It registers the mobile device and immediately re-routes the call to the subscriber's access point without losing the voice channel. Detection and registration are preferably done when the subscriber's mobile phone sends a radio signal to the access point transceiver. Using the ISM band of frequencies or any other suitable band, public or private, the mobile phone periodically broadcasts a burst containing its identification. When the mobile phone is in the vicinity of the coverage area of ​​an access point's transceiver, the access point detects the burst and forwards information from the phone to the mobile network, so that mobile calls in session can be handed over to the IP / MAC addresses of the access point over the IP network. Moving the in-session mobile call to the private domain will also reduce mobile broadcast time charges and reduce mobile network traffic at no significant cost.

Another aspect of the preferred embodiment of the invention is a system that can detect the departure of a mobile phone from the coverage area of ​​the access point transceiver and cancel the device and re-route the call immediately, through the mobile network. public, to the current mobile location of the subscriber, without causing the interruption of the voice channel. The detection is preferably made when the access point of the subscriber's private domain has determined that the mobile phone has moved out of the coverage area of ​​the transceiver, so that a call in session should be transferred to the mobile phone through the public network.

The present system can filter, without subscriber interaction, a caller before routing the call to the endpoint, thereby reducing inefficiencies associated with routing the call to the endpoint, and avoiding distractions caused by unwanted ringing at the endpoint. final point. For calls that pass filtering, the system can display information about the caller, including the subject of the current call, the history of previous calls with the same caller, and a biography of the caller. The system may further enable a web based caller filtering system, which is controlled by the subscriber using an Internet Protocol (IP) in conjunction with a web browser based graphical user interface (GUI).

In one aspect, the instant invention examines the identity of the calling party, determines if the caller is authorized to complete a call to the dialed number, and appropriately routes the caller, all while the call is taking place and without direct action from the subscriber, and before to route voice traffic to the called party's location. In one embodiment, the invention can be implemented using an existing mobile switching center (MSC). One aspect of the invention takes advantage of the ability of the MSC to process call management instructions from a Service Control Point (SCP) and, based on a pre-configured subscriber filtering profile, the invention has the ability to route unwanted incoming calls to an alternate answering location, such as voicemail, a recorded announcement, or an alternate number. Also, using a graphical interface

ES 2 425 441 T3 user interface (GUI) based on the Internet Protocol (IP) and a pre-established subscriber profile, the invention has the ability to provide the subscriber with additional information about the caller, such as the photograph of the calling participant , the caller's history and the current call subject. The present invention may additionally provide other value-added service options, such as displaying the location of a calling party, receiving biographical information from the calling party, and receiving alerts (rings) peculiar to the voice of the calling party. .

One embodiment of the invention is implemented with software in a computer system that can be integrated into existing telephone communication systems for wireless phones, including cell phones and PCS, and using existing Internet infrastructure. In one aspect, the present invention is a system and method for communicating the status of a call between the switching systems, the SCP, and the IP network. The protocols between the IP network, the switching systems, and the SCP define specific command and response codes that are communicated between the various components to allow specific activities to take place across a distributed network. Each of the command and response codes can include various parameters. In one embodiment, the instant invention uses commands, responses, and additional intelligent command processing parameters, within an existing protocol, to signal between the switching system, the SCP, and the packet network, to perform the network-based services of the control of filtering, closed user groups, history and biographical information of the caller.

A technical advantage provided by the invention is a system that can filter a caller prior to call delivery, so that an unwanted call can be re-routed immediately, preserving network resources by redirecting the call from its normal path. . Call filtering criteria may be based on the caller's name and / or number, the location of the subscribers (office or home), the availability of the calling party's Identifier and / or other information. Call screening criteria can be inclusive or exclusive, which means that only certain defined participants or groups can, or cannot, pass the screening on any given date and / or time of day. Another advantage of the invention is that the subscriber receives additional information about the calling party, thereby improving communication and reducing the amount of time required for the call.

The subscriber, or a systems administrator, through the use of a standard Internet connection and a graphical interface (such as that provided by a conventional Internet browser), can establish and maintain various filter profiles that define attributes of filtering, criteria and / or caller profiles, as well as associated call routing options.

The foregoing has outlined somewhat generally the technical characteristics and advantages of aspects of the present invention, so that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of aspects of the invention will be described hereinafter, which form the subject of the claims of the invention. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that the specific conception and embodiments disclosed can be immediately used as a basis for modifying or designing other systems or structures to carry out the same purposes of any one of the many aspects of the present invention.

Brief description of the drawings

For a more complete understanding of an embodiment of the present invention and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptions, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGURE 1 shows the addition of new Internet Protocol cellular telephone antennas among the existing high-power cellular telephone antennas, with dedicated cabling;

FIGURE 2 is a block diagram of a call routing system employing one aspect of the present invention;

FIGURE 3 is a flow chart illustrating subscriber registration within a private domain in an illustrative example of the present invention;

FIGURE 4 is a flow chart illustrating call termination in an illustrative example of the present invention;

FIGURE 5 is a flow chart illustrating call origination in an illustrative example of the present invention; FIGURE 6 is a block diagram of a call routing system using cable television;

FIGURE 7 is a flow chart illustrating handover of calls at sign-up within a private domain in an illustrative example of the present invention;

FIGURE 8 is a flow chart illustrating handover of calls on the private domain downstream in an illustrative example of the present invention;

FIGURE 9 is a flow chart illustrating call filtering and calling party biographical data extraction within a private domain in an illustrative example of the present invention.

Detailed description

Figure 1 shows 3 existing high power cellular antennas 11, all connected by dedicated lines to a single Mobile Signaling Center 12. Many local low power IP antennas 13 have been added within the same geographic region as the existing antennas 11 . Each of the IP antennas is coupled to an IP interface 14 that is coupled to the general purpose packet switched network, Internet 105, through a router 16. The IP interfaces 14 may have Ethernet connections to a router or connections to a standard cable modem or DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) connections, or any other type of connection to the Internet. The Mobile Signaling Center 12 is also coupled to the Internet via an IP Gateway 111. When the signaling center 12 receives a message from an IP antenna that an identified subscriber mobile phone is in good communication with the IP antenna, the signaling center changes the connection path with the phone to stop using the high-power antenna and switch to the use of the local IP antenna, using conventional switching decision algorithms. This reduces the load on the high power antenna.

Alternatively, IP antennas can use radio frequencies other than standard cellular frequencies, as described below. In this case, the IP Gateway 111 is preferably directly coupled to the Mobile Switching Center 109, as shown with a dotted line in Figure 1, and is described in more detail below.

Figure 2 is an illustrative example of a communication system using local IP antennas called "access points" 102, operating on frequencies other than standard cellular frequencies. A mobile telephone subscriber unit 101 is in wireless communication with an access point 102 (a low power two-way wireless communications device, preferably radio, alternatively ultrasound or other electromagnetic frequencies such as infrared), preferably using the radio band. Industry, Science and Medicine (ISM) frequencies, or any other suitable band. Preferably, the access point uses a single communication process with the mobile phone, both to detect the proximity of the mobile phone and to manage voice communications. Alternatively, the system can use GPS (Global Location Satellite) information, both from the access point and from the mobile phone, to determine when they are close to each other. The access point 102 is connected to a computer network 103 which is typically a local private Internet protocol Ethernet network, but can be any packet switched computer network. The network 103 is also connected to a router 104 that allows the network 103 to communicate with the Internet network 105 or any other packet-switched network.

In Figure 2, a Mobile Internet Gateway (MIG) 114 is added to the existing elements of the telephone system, which consist of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) 110, the Mobile Switching Centers (MSC) 109, the Mobile Signaling Network 107 and Origin Location Registers (HLR) 108. The Mobile Internet Gateway consists of two components, a service control point 106 and an IP gateway 111.

A service control point (SCP) 106 is a redundant pair of processors that perform call delivery and handover services. The design and function of the SCP are similar to those of existing service control points, such as: a number translation device, such as 1-800 dialing; a prepaid calling platform; or a short message system. In general, SCPs withdraw the call control logic from the MSC and the HLR to a separate (and supposedly smarter) element. Unlike previous SCPs, which simply assist the MSC to complete a session, the invented SCP 106, which is part of the Mobile Internet Gateway (MIG) 114, is a peer of the MSC and takes full control over the call. . The MIG becomes the final office switch (class 5) and the mobile network is a simple tandem switch (class 4). The SCP 106 includes a database with information about all subscribers comprising an identification of the access point 102 with which the subscriber's mobile unit was last connected as its "visited" switch (as opposed to its "home" switch). origin"). A single access point may be indicated as the last visited switch for any number of subscriber units. The SCP 106 is connected to the Internet network 105 in such a way as to allow messages and data to be exchanged with the router 104.

The SCP 106 is also connected to a mobile signaling network 107, which may be an existing Signaling System Seven (SS7) network using ANSI-41 or a Global System Mobility (GSM) network, or any other network of signage for mobile communication devices. A conventional home location register (HLR) 108 and a conventional mobile switching center (MSC) 109 are also connected to the mobile signaling network 107, allowing the HLR 108 and MSC 109 to exchange data with the SCP 106. The HLR 108 includes a database comprising information about the subscriber units that are assigned to the MSC 109 as its paging switch.

ES 2 425 441 T3 origin. Typical implementations of an HLR combine subscriber profiles from wide geographic locations, for example, a company has a single HLR for the entire west coast of the United States. The HLR contains the subscriber registration profile for call delivery purposes, but does not contain billing information. HLRs are independent from MSCs, user groups and companies but are not shared by competitors. In contrast, invented MIG, however, can be divided and shared by competitors. The MIG contains a subscriber profile regarding the use of the IP antenna system, and maintains billing data.

Within the Mobile Internet Gateway 114, a conventional IP gateway 111 is connected to the SCP 106 via Ethernet (or any other packet-based method), which allows the gateway 111 to exchange data with the SCP 106. The gateway 111 is also connected to an ISUP (Integrated Services User Part) signaling network system. ISUP is the computer program application layer on top of SS7 that typical wireline headquarters use today. The ISUP application allows the gateway 111 to transmit circuit-based telephone calls to or from the MSC 109. The ISUP system can be located close to the MSC or close to the IP gateway. The gateway 111 is also connected to a conventional IP signaling network (not shown) that allows the gateway 111 to exchange packet-based telephone calls with the Internet network 105, over known protocols such as H.323, SIP or MGCP.

Subscriber unit 101 is in radio communication with MSC 109, by conventional mobile phone methods. When the subscriber unit 101 is powered on and attempts to log into the MSC 109, the MSC will obtain the current configuration data for the subscriber unit 101 from the HLR 106, in a conventional manner. Configuration data includes call restrictions, call forwarding activity, a message waiting indicator, authorizations, and more. The configuration data for the subscriber unit 101 extracted from the HLR is stored in a conventional visitor location register (VLR) (not shown), which is a database located at the MSC 109. The data in the VLR is a subset of the data in the HLR. Once the MSC 109 has the configuration data for the subscriber unit 101 stored in a VLR, then the MSC 109 can connect the subscriber unit 101 with the called parties, via the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) 110 , by means of existing cellular radio antennas 11, controlled by the MSC, with conventional procedures. Furthermore, the MSC 109 can route the incoming calls from the PSTN 110 to the subscriber unit 101, via another MSC that may be closer to the subscriber unit, in a conventional manner.

The subscriber unit 101 is also in radio communication with the SCP 106, via the IP antennas. The antennas can be cellular frequency antennas that are low-power additions to the cellular network, or they can use other frequencies that the mobile phone can use. In Figure 1, the IP antenna is an access point 102 that operates by procedures defined by ISM band technologies, such as Bluetooth and 802.11. When the subscriber unit 101 is powered on and attempts to log into the SCP 106 via the access point, the SCP will obtain current configuration data for the subscriber unit 101 from the HLR 106, in a conventional manner. Configuration data includes call restrictions, call forwarding activity, a message waiting indicator, authorizations, and more. The configuration data for the subscriber unit 101 is stored in another visitor location register (VLR) (not shown), which is a database located in the SCP 106, created for use by the invented system. Once the SCP 106 has the configuration data for the subscriber unit 101 stored in a VLR, then the SCP 106 can connect the subscriber unit 101 with the called parties, via the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) 110 , by means of radio antennas of the ISM band controlled by the SCP 106, with conventional procedures. Furthermore, the SCP 106 can route incoming calls from the PSTN 110 to the subscriber unit 101, via another SCP that may be closer to the subscriber unit, in a conventional manner.

Call Transfer to IP Telephony by Mobile Phone

In a preferred embodiment, when the subscriber approaches the access point, calls to and from the subscriber are connected to the mobile phone via the access point and packet-based telephony. Subscriber unit 101 is in low power radio communication with access point 102. When subscriber unit 101 attempts to log in at access point 102, the access point sends login data, including the mobile identifier number and electronic serial number for subscriber unit 101, to an SCP 106 via network 103, router 104, and Internet 105. Like the MSC, as discussed above, SCP 106 stores current configuration data in the additional visitor location record (VLR) (not shown) discussed above.

As discussed above, the data in the additional VLR is similar to the VLR data of an MSC (restrictions, MWI [Mobile Network Initiative], etc.) but also contains the IP address of the access point to which the mobile is associated. An analogy is the cell site and the sector that currently serves a subscriber in the macro-network. This system replaces the MSC, which uses radio location addressing, with a substitute switch that uses IP addressing. The additional VLR also contains enhanced features that, by previous design, were associated with prototypical SCPs, features not supported by the HLR (and later VLRs), such as call history, closed user groups, call filtering. and prepaid calls.

ES 2 425 441 T3

Once the subscriber SCP 106 has received the current configuration data for the subscriber unit 101 from the HLR, then the SCP 106 can connect the subscriber unit 101 with the called parties, via the low power radio, to the access point, and then by packet-based procedures, through the private network 103, to the IP gateway 111, and then, by circuit-based procedures, to the PSTN 110. Furthermore, SCP 106 may instruct the MSC to route incoming calls from MSC 109 to subscriber unit 101, using circuit-based procedures, to IP gateway 111, and then, using packet-based procedures over the Internet and the private network, up to the access point, which is in low-power radio communications with the subscriber unit.

By this process, the use of expensive cellular antennas is greatly reduced, the subscriber may incur reduced connection time charges for the use of the mobile phone, and, if the IP gateway 111 is local to the MSC, the subscriber does not. you will incur no long distance phone charges.

Call Transfer to IP Telephony Using a Local IP Phone

In another embodiment of the invention, calls to and from the subscriber are transferred to a local packet-based (IP) phone when the subscriber approaches the access point or initiates an action on the packet phone. Although any type of packet phone can be used, the preferred embodiment employs a desktop computer system 112 with a microphone and speaker connected to the Internet. In one embodiment, the desktop system 112 is in radio communication with the access point 102. Alternatively, the desktop system 112 is directly connected to a router, such as router 104, via a network connection (preferably Ethernet) for communication between the desktop system and the access point, or the SCP 106. By any of these communication procedures, an IP address (or an IP address and sub-MAC address) for the desktop system, or other packet phone, is communicated to the SCP, either directly by the packet phone. , or indirectly by the access point.

The subscriber logs into their SCP, either by simply approaching the access point with their subscriber unit turned on, or by taking action on the desktop system or other packet phone. When the subscriber registers in the SCP 106, the IP address of the desktop system 112, or of another packet telephone, is included in the configuration data sent to the SCP for storage in a VLR in the SCP associated with the access point, or to the packet phone. Once the SCP 106 has the configuration data for the desktop system 112, then the SCP 106 can connect the desktop system 112 with the called parties, via the IP Gateway 111 and the PSTN 110. In addition, the SCP 106 can route incoming calls from MSC 109 to desktop system 112, via Gateway 111.

By this alternative process, resources are made available in the expensive cellular system, the subscriber may incur reduced airtime charges for the use of the mobile phone, and, if the IP gateway 111 is local to the MSC, the subscriber will not incur any. long distance telephone charge. Also, because the packet phone does not have a number in a phone system, there is no monthly charge to maintain a line to the phone.

Implementation with existing systems and protocols

In one embodiment of the present invention, a conventional SCP is modified to include software with adequate capabilities to provide the call delivery services described above, between the mobile network and a packet network. The software module that manages the call delivery functionality in the SCP 106 is referred to herein as a service locator module. This functionality can be installed in an existing equipment of wireless telephony services of the SCP, or it can be included in autonomous computers specially prepared for this purpose. The service locator module can work in conjunction with existing telephone switching systems, including multiple existing MSCs and HLRs in various geographic locations, to provide relevant functionality over a wide area in a cost efficient manner. MSC 109 communicates with wireless subscriber units 101 that are within geographic range of the MSC at the time a call is made to or from the unit. Any local packet telephone or access point can be re-selected, no matter how or where the access point or telephone is connected to the packet switched network, because there is no geographical limitation on such networks. Each of the pre-existing HLRs, such as 108, and the modified SCPs, such as 106, contains a database for each subscriber, with each subscriber being pre-assigned to a specific HLR and a specific SCP.

Mobile telephone communications between these various systems may take place through communications protocols defined in section 41 of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI-41) and section 721 (Integrated Services User Part), and section of Global Systems Mobility (GSM) of the European Telephone Standards Institute (ETSI). Low-power radio communications to and from access points can take place using the 802.11 (b) section of the Institute of Electronic and Electrical Engineers (IEEE), or Bluetooth. Network communications can take place using Force Request for Observations 120.

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Internet Engineering Tasks (IETF) (TCP / IP).

Each of the communication protocols defines a series of commands, responses, and related data, which are exchanged between telecommunications devices, in which the commands and responses may include the related data. The form of this communication can be broadly divided into commands (requests between devices to perform a function), responses (responses to the command, indicating that the requested function is complete) and parameters (data that can be transported within a command or a response, and that indicate specific operations or activations). Operations are functions that can be performed, while activations represent status indicators that initiate operations. MSCs, HLRs, conventional service control points, IP gateways, and ANSI-41, GSM, and TCP / IP standards are well known to those of ordinary skill in the telecommunication industry, and their global characteristics are not widely understood. described here further. However, the following detailed descriptions will define how the illustrative example of the present invention interacts with these existing systems, to provide the desired results, using the specific commands, responses, parameters, operations and activations of ANSI-41, GSM, ISUP, TCP. / IP, 802.11 (b) and Bluetooth to communicate with the MSC and the HLR.

Call from the PSTN to a subscriber

When a call is initiated, from a number on the PSTN 110, to the subscriber unit 101, the MSC 109 instructs the HLR 108 to provide routing instructions. As part of the call setup, the HLR 108 determines that the subscriber unit 101 is associated with pager services at the SCP 106. Consequently, the HLR 108 instructs the SCP 106 to provide routing instructions. SCP 106 determines that subscriber unit 101 is currently registered in an IP domain and returns routing information to HLR 108. HLR 108 returns routing information to MSC 109. MSC 109 establishes the call to the gateway 111. The SCP 106 instructs the gateway 111 to route the call through the networks 105 and 103 and, through the router 104, to the subscriber unit 101, through the access point 102, or to the desktop system 112, or to another telephone by packages.

It will be understood in the example illustrated herein that, although many of the triggers, detection points, operations, and messages described herein are currently part of existing protocol standards, other triggers, detection points, operations, and messages may be added to the standards at a later time. Additionally, several of the triggers and detection points described herein may be optional features that can be used in a standards-compliant system.

To properly interact with the illustrative locator service module in the exemplary system described herein, the HLR 108 requires two basic capabilities that existing HLR systems already offer:

1. Support a trigger to send ANSI 41 Routing Request messages, or Provide GSM Map Roaming Number messages, to SCP 106, and

2. Support a parameter in the profile for the subscriber unit 101 that indicates subscription to pager services.

To successfully interact with the illustrative locator service module in the exemplary system described herein, MSC 109 requires the basic capability to allow MSC 109 to recognize the MIG as a peer on the network. From the MSC perspective, the MIG is simply a border switch. The MSC is not required to have specialized messages.

The following descriptions pertain to preferred embodiments using specific parameters that are currently available in known telephone network systems. These parameters and their identifying names are known to those of ordinary skill in the art and, therefore, are not provided herein with detailed descriptions.

Subscriber registration

Enrollment occurs when a subscriber turns on their wireless phone and establishes a communication link with the closest access point 102. The access point identifies and authenticates the proprietary cordless phone. Authentication is performed using a similar technique used in early wireless networks. The process compares the reported MIN (Mobile Identification Number) and ESN (Equipment Serial Number) with recorded data. If they match, the authentication requirement is satisfied. The access point also configures the appropriate operational data that can be used during the session.

As can be seen in Figure 3, subscriber registration 201 begins when the wireless phone is turned on in step 202 and sends its unique identification to all access points within its range in step 203. Alternatively, the wireless phone already active enters within the radio coverage area of ​​the access point,

ES 2 425 441 T3 activating the registration process. Based on the unique address, the access point determines which SCP is associated with that specific telephone in step 204 and sends the registration notification to that SCP in step 205. The registration message specifies the Mobile Identification Number ( MIN), the IP address of the current location of the mobile and the address of the

Media Access Control (MAC), which is a means of additionally identifying a unique computer that shares the same IP address.

To avoid the problem of multiple access points providing conflicting information for a single subscriber to the SCP, the access point also sends data indicating the signal strength received from the subscriber unit, and the SCP chooses the access point that receives the strongest signal. The SCP then instructs the other access point to cease service to the subscriber.

The SCP extracts the subscriber profile database, for the identified wireless telephone, from the subscriber's HLR in step 206, thereby obtaining information on the subscriber's capabilities and allowed activities. Given the capabilities of the private domain server and the characteristics in the subscriber's profile, the SCP stores this information in its Visitor Location Record (VLR), which is a temporary subscriber database, created only during this session. At this point, Enrollment is complete and no other related activity takes place, until a call is attempted to or from the subscriber.

Call termination

The first stage in the call termination process is for the anchor MSC, which serves the subscriber's wireless phone, to establish a connection with the Gateway, which serves the private domain.

As shown in Figure 4, the Call Delivery process 301 begins when the anchor MSC sends an ANSI 41 Location Request message to the HLR in step 302, with an acttype parameter indicating an incoming call (or a GSM Map Routing Information Send message). The HLR consults the subscriber's profile and determines that the subscriber's solserv trigger is equipped so that incoming calls are routed through a specific SCP. The HLR launches a Route Request message to the SCP, in step 303, which contains the MIN, an operation code indicating an incoming call and the identification of the calling party.

If the SCP determines, by checking its database, that the subscriber is active within an IP domain, and the subscriber profile indicates that the subscriber accepts incoming calls from the calling party, it assigns a temporary local directory number (tldn) associated with the serving gateway and responds to the Route Request message in step 304. If the SCP determines that the subscriber is not active within an IP domain, or if the subscriber profile indicates that the subscriber does not accept incoming calls from the calling party, the SCP responds to the Route Request message, with a codeacc parameter indicating 'continue processing'.

Steps 305 and 306 follow procedures that are known to those of ordinary skill in the art and, therefore, a detailed description is not included here. The procedures establish a call between the MSC and the gateway 111.

Once the first leg of the call has been established to the gateway, the gateway sends a message to the SCP in step 307 that includes the tldn associated with the call. In step 308, the SCP indexes the tldn for the assigned subscriber profile, extracts the IP and MAC addresses for the access point, and returns the addresses to the gateway.

In step 309, the gateway sends a call setup message to the access point (or desktop system or other packet phone) that includes the calling party's identification, the calling party's biography, and the calling party's call history. . The access point (or desktop system or other packet phone) rings according to the identification of the calling party. The subscriber answers and the access point responds to the gateway's call setup message in step 310. The gateway starts a call timer and sends a response message to the MSC in step 311. Upon receiving the response message, the MSC connects the speech path in step 312 and processing continues as normal for a connected call.

When the called party hangs up, the gateway detects this in step 313 and sends a disconnect message to the MSC. The MSC disconnects the call legs of the calling and called parties in step 314. Alternatively, the MSC detects when the calling party hangs up and sends a disconnect message to the gateway. In this case, the gateway disconnects the call legs of the calling and called participants.

Call origin

Figure 5 shows that the Call Origination process 401 involves a series of communications between the access point (or desktop system or other packet phone), the gateway, the SCP, and the MSC. In one embodiment, the call delivery procedure can be performed as SCP-resident software. Alternatively, the call delivery procedure may be a function performed at the MSC. The process begins when the point

ES 2 425 441 T3 access (or desktop system or other packet phone) generates a call origin signal, with the digits dialed, or the name dialed, in step 401.

Gateway 111 determines that the subscriber has a source trigger enabled and sends a source request command to SCP 106 at step 402. The acttype parameter indicates why the message was sent, identifying the type of trigger that initiated the message. The dialgts parameter indicates the phone number or name dialed by the subscriber.

SCP 106 performs a database query in step 403, using the content of the marcadgts parameter as the key. Step 403 results in a translated phone number that can be routed over the PSTN. SCP 106 responds to the originating request from gateway 111 with the translated number. In step 404, Gateway 111 seizes an outgoing trunk that is associated with MSC 109 and, using ISUP signaling, requests MSC 109 to dial the translated digits. Alternatively, Gateway 111 captures an outgoing trunk that is associated with PSTN 110 and, using the same signaling techniques, dials the translated digits.

In step 405, the MSC 109 analyzes the dialed digits, determines the least cost path, seizes a trunk to the PSTN 110 and, using ISUP signaling, requests the PSTN to connect with the called party. In an alternative embodiment, step 405 is eliminated.

Step 406 is the alert (ringing) at the called device and the resulting response signal is propagated through steps 408, 408, and 409. Billing records begin at MSC 109 during step 407 and, at the Gateway. 111, at step 408, and continue during the call. Call dismantling processes are known to experts in the industry, and are not repeated.

Implementation with cable television

As shown in Figure 6, the 602 Client Terminal Adapter can be connected to a 603 cable modem, which is responsible for data ingress and egress, using the Cable Data System Interface Specification (DOCSIS), to / from the Internet Protocol (IP) network 105. The cable modem 603 implements standard QoS mechanisms from the underlying DOCSIS platform. Classify packages and apply specific queues or schedules based on the classification results. The cable 603 modem is routed to the IP network 105 via the existing Coaxial Fiber Hybrid, or Coaxial Cable (last mile) 605, and the Cable Modem Termination System, CMTS (Headend End) 606. The platform The existing CMTS 606 allows the cable modem 603 to then communicate with the IP network 105.

Although any type of packet (IP) phone can be used, in this embodiment the subscriber is in low power radio communication with the CTA 602 and with a desktop system 604 that is directly connected to the cable 605 and a television 614. This allows the CTA to communicate, via the CMTS media transport router connections and the IP network, with the SCP 106. An alternative embodiment employs a desktop computer 604 with a microphone and speaker, or an IP phone connected to the CTA. Another alternative embodiment employs a desktop computer 604 that is in communication with the subscriber via a combined wireless telephone / television remote control, using Infrared or a combination of Infrared and low power radio. By any of these communication methods, the IP addresses and MAC sub-addresses for the CTA 602 and Cable Modem 603 are communicated to the SCP by the client terminal adapter.

Likewise, CTA 602 will provide technology that simplifies access, through the television, to the indications and controls, auditory and visual, for the telephone, such as:

(1) automatic mute of the television when a call comes in or a call is made, to avoid conflict with a phone call, (2) indication of the caller's identifier or the history of the call, or the caller, on the television, ( 3) selection of the ringtone and the volume of the telephone, by means of the remote handheld display, or the telephone with status display, (4) answer ring tone played on the TV speaker and an answer ring indication on the TV, (5) drop-down menus displayed on the TV (picture-in-picture style) to control the phone, including performing calls to a number or destination or person selected from an address book list.

Additionally, the CTA 602 will provide limited auditory and visual prompts and controls, such as ringing, answering ringing tone, and message waiting indicator light, for use when the television is off, or while recording television shows. . Alternatively, the function for recording shows, such as with a

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VCR (Video Cassette Recorder), can be left unaffected by the circuit that adds audio and video outputs, related to the telephone, destined for the subscriber. Then the recording function is not affected. This can be achieved by using a channel tuner on the VCR to select the program to be recorded, as is conventional, and by routing the VCR output that allows monitoring of the program being recorded to the desktop computer, rather than the television. . The desktop computer then interleaves the audio and video phone signals with each other before the signals are sent to the television.

Mobile assisted handover

Figure 7 shows the subscriber registration process. Using the established characteristics of the mobile phone system, the subscriber's mobile phone regularly detects the cell site group identification, or 'inference' rubric of the cell sites surrounding the mobile phone. This process informs the mobile phone of this information for the cell site that normally supports the subscriber's access point. At step 701, the mobile phone perpetually tracks a private wireless radio device, such as 'Bluetooth' or '802.11', using a Private System Identification (PSID) protocol, or any other means to detect and identify the wireless device. private, by which the access point periodically announces its identification. The mobile phone is programmed to respond only to an access point with a designated ID. If the identification is correct, the mobile phone establishes a communication link with the Access Point. In step 702, the Access Point identifies and authenticates the specific wireless telephone to ensure that the telephone is one with which the access point is authorized to connect. In step 703, the telephone indicates to the access point its mobile identification number (MIN) and the Electronic Serial Number (ESN), as well as, if there is a call in progress, the headquarters and server cell sector. A processor within the access point, or a processor in a computer with which the access point is connected, compares the reported MIN and ESN with the recorded data stored in the access point. If they match, the authentication requirement is satisfied. The access point also configures the appropriate operational data that can be used during the session after the handover. In step 704, the access point informs the SCP of all the data required for a handover of the call, including the IP address, the MIN, and the ESN.

The SCP extracts the subscriber profile database for the identified wireless telephone from the subscriber's HLR (not shown in Figure 7), thereby obtaining information on the capabilities and allowed activities of the subscriber and the access point. Given the capabilities of the private domain server and the characteristics established in the subscriber's profile, the SCP stores this information in its Visitor Location Record (VLR) (not shown in Figure 7), which is a temporary subscriber database. , created only during this session. At this point, the discharge is complete and is waiting for the call handover attempt.

As shown in Figure 7, the first stage in the transfer of call in session in the registration process is that, as the mobile enters the coverage area of ​​the cell office for the private domain, the mobile initiates the registration using the polling request processes, step 701, authentication, step 702, and association, step 703, with the access point. In addition to the information described above, delivered to the access point in step 703, the association message contains an identification of the anchor MSC, which serves the subscriber's wireless phone, so that the MSC can be instructed to establish a connection. with a MIG, which connects to the private domain.

The Call Handover process begins when the Access Point sends a Registration Notification, step 704, to the SCP, indicating, among other things, the serving MSC, and that a call in progress will be handed over to the private domain. The SCP sends a Resource Capture message, step 705, to the MIG, requesting a temporary local directory number (TLDN). The MIG sends the TLDN to the SCP with the resource capture acknowledgment (Ack), step 706. The SCP sends a Connect Resource message to the server MSC, step 707, identifying the call by its MIN, the CellHome Sector, and the TLDN associated with the MIG. The MSC returns an acknowledgment, step 716, and configures the leg of the conference call to the MIG, using the TLDN, step 708. Upon receiving the incoming call in the TLDN, the MIG issues a query to the SCP, step 709 , which includes the TLDN. The SCP returns the IP address of the access point, step 710. The MIG routes the call to the access point, step 711, and the access point alerts (signals) the handover. The subscriber's phone answers the call, step 712, and the MIG cuts the path to the phone through the speech path. The MIG then sends a Connection Complete message to the SCP containing the TLDN, step 713. The SCP then sends the serving MSC a Specialized Resource Function (SRF) directive, step 714, which includes the MIN and an Action Code (acccode) indicating 'discard first leg'. The MSC drops the call leg to the cell-site and responds with the response to the SRF directive, step 715.

Figure 8 illustrates that the process for handing over the communication link, from an access point to the mobile macro-network, involves a series of communications between the access point, the MIG, the SCP and the MSC.

The subscriber has a call in progress that originated in the private domain and wants to continue the call in the mobile domain. The subscriber launches a Redirection Request to the Access Point, step 801. The Access Point sends a Handover request to the SCP containing the new destination MIN and the MSCID currently in service. The SCP sends a Transfer Request to the MIG containing the IP address of the current call and the Mobile Identifier, stage

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803. The MIG acknowledges the handover request, step 816. The MIG seizes an outgoing trunk and dials the mobile number, step 804. The call arrives at the mobile's serving (anchor) MSC. The MSC sends a Location Request to the HLR, step 805. The HLR has previously set trigger points in the MIN profile, which instruct the HLR to launch a Service Request message to the SCP, step 806. The Service Request contains the MIN and the Identifier of the calling party. The SCP verifies the activity status of the subscriber and determines that the mobile is the destination device (no longer the access point) and that it should be called by the public mobile network instead of the packet network. The SCP returns the Mobile Identifier and an Operation Code (op code) to the HLR, step 807. The op code is forwarded by the HLR to the MSC, step 808, and indicates that the MSC should page the mobile using its own radios. The MSC pages and sends an alert to the mobile, step 809. The subscriber answers, step 810, and the MSC cuts the path to the MIG through the speech path, step 811. The MIG connects the original outgoing circuit with the new outgoing circuit , completing the journey between the mobile and the other participant. The MIG sends a Handover Complete message to the SCP, step 812, and the SCP returns the acknowledgment, step 813. The SCP sends a handover response message to the access point, step 814, and the access point launches a Mobile request response, step 815, ending the calling session.

Call filtering

As shown in Figure 9, when a call is initiated from a number in the PSTN, step 901, using an ISUP application, indicating the Calling Participant Identification (CPID), the serving MSC launches a Location Request, which includes the CPID, to the HLR, requesting routing instructions, step 902. Consequently, the HLR submits a Route Request, step 903, instructing the SCP to provide routing instructions. In step 904, the SCP applies restrictions indicated by a predetermined call screening profile, some of which may be based on the location of the subscriber; the date and / or time of day; and / or the name and / or number of the calling party. If the SCP determines that the profile indicates that the subscriber does not accept incoming calls (does not pass the filtering) from the calling participant, the SCP responds to the Route Request message, responding with an acccode parameter, step 905, indicating, in based on reason code, 'continue processing' to alternate number, recorded announcements or voicemail.

As shown in Figure 9, when a call is initiated from a number on the PSTN, step 901, using an ISUP application, indicating a Calling Participant Identification (CPID), the serving MSC launches a Location Request, which includes the CPID, to the HLR, requesting routing instructions, step 902. Consequently, the HLR submits a Route Request, step 903, instructing the SCP to provide routing instructions. At step 904, the SCP applies predetermined call screening restrictions, some of which may be based on the subscriber's location, time of day, and the name and / or number of the calling party. If the SCP determines, by verifying its database, that the subscriber accepts incoming calls (passes filtering) from the calling party, assigns a temporary local directory number (TLDN) associated with the serving gateway and responds to the Route Request message at step 907. The HLR returns the routing information to the MSC, step 908. The MSC configures the call leg to the MIG using the TLDN, step 909. Upon receiving the incoming call in the TLDN, the MIG launches a query to the SCP for the caller's biographical data and call history, step 910. The SCP responds with the requested data, step 911. The MIG sends the requested biographical information to the IP address of the client, step 912. The subscriber answers the call and the MIG then sends a connection creation message to the MSC, step 913. As taught by the above design, upon receipt of the response message, the MSC connects the speech path, and call processing continues in the normal way for a connected call.