Systems and methods for enabling IP signaling in wireless networks

BACKGROUND

00011. Field of the Invention

0002This invention generally relates to wireless networks and to IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) networks.

00032. Description of Related Art

0004Current wireless networks support circuit-switched (CS) and packet-switched (PS) connections. In some wireless networks, both types of connections may exist contemporaneously and be available to mobile handsets or user endpoints (UEs). In other wireless networks, a mobile handset may have access to either a CS connection or a PS connection but not both at the same time. Moreover, even if a mobile handset has a PS connection, it may lose packet connectivity due to a policy implemented by a network operator (e.g., in a situation where the operator has a limited number of IP addresses that need to be shared amongst a large number of handsets). In this case, because the mobile handset is no longer assigned an IP address, it is not reachable by addressing schemes based on IP addresses, i.e., it is not IP-accessible. In such situations, IP-based user-to-user signaling schemes such as SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) may become inoperable because one or more user handsets are no longer IP accessible.

0005CS and PS networks will now be described in greater detail. In a CS network such as PLMN, users' network mobile handsets are connected to Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) through a radio access network. The BTS in turn are connected to a plurality of Base Station Servers (BSC) that in turn are connected to a network of Mobile Switching Centers (MSC). The MSC provide wireless services to the users' handsets, and are also inter-connected with the Public Switched Telephone network (PSTN). This arrangement makes it possible for voice traffic to be carried between mobile handsets and landline telephone sets. The MSC in a wireless network effectively behaves as a switch that supports the mobility and roaming functions of a user's handset.

0006When a user's handset requests a telephone call or a service, such as voice mail, a prepaid call, or a toll-free call, it generates a “call event” at the MSC. Each call event can potentially “trigger” one or more Trigger Detection Points (TDP) in the MSC. When a call event triggers a particular TDP, the MSC sends a pre-specified message to a Service Control Function (SCF). The message includes, for example, the phone numbers of the calling and called parties, and the nature of the service request. The SCF then “fields” the message, i.e., service logic within the SCF responds appropriately to the message. In WIN/CAMEL implementations, the MSC and SCF communicate using standards-based protocols such as Transaction Capabilities Application Part (TCAP) from the family of protocols commonly referred to as Signaling System 7 (SS7).

0007For example, consider a “call origination” call event that happens when a user makes a new call request at the MSC. This call event triggers a corresponding TDP, causing the MSC to send a message with event-related information to the SCF, e.g., the calling and called numbers. The SCF then processes the message, e.g., by querying an internal or external database to verify that the calling party is authorized to initiate telephone calls. The SCF then responds back to the MSC with a message that indicates whether the call is “allowed” or “denied.”

0008In a PS network, services are generally supported by IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS). The IMS architecture manages the network with several control functions, i.e., functional entities. The Breakout Gateway Control Function (BGCF) is an inter-working function that handles legacy circuit-switched traffic. A new function called the Media Gateway Control Function (MGCF) controls the Media Gateway (MGW). The Media Resource Function Processor (MRFP), which is controlled by the Media Resource Control Function (MRFC), performs media processing functions. An IMS session is controlled by a logical function called the Call State Control Function (CSCF). It is logically partitioned into three functional entities, the Proxy, Interrogating and Serving CSCFs. The Proxy Call State Control Function (P-CSCF) is the first contact point for a user's handset. The Interrogating CSCF (I-CSCF) is mainly the contact point within an operator's network for all IMS connections destined to a subscriber of that network operator, or a roaming subscriber currently located within that network operator's service area. The Serving CSCF (S-CSCF) actually handles the session states in the network. “Third party” application servers (AS) provide services to the mobile handset, such as voice mail, via the S-CSCF. The IMS controls packet services among the different functional entities with signaling protocols such as Session Initiation Protocol (SIP), which is an IP-based signaling protocol designed for multimedia communications.

0009When a mobile handset first powers on, logic residing in the handset initiates a “registration” procedure with the IMS core, first by requesting the radio access network to assign it an IP address. After it receives an IP address, the mobile handset attempts to register as an IP-enabled endpoint with the IMS core, by sending a “register” request to the P-CSCF. Assuming that the handset is registering from a visiting domain, the P-CSCF then uses a Domain Name Server (DNS) to search for the handset's home domain S-CSCF. Once the P-CSCF locates the S-CSCF for the mobile handset, it passes the “register” request to that S-CSCF. The S-CSCF contacts the Home Subscriber Subsystem (HSS), which looks up the mobile handset's profile. This profile contains assorted information about the user, and what services the handset is authorized to use. A logical function in the S-CSCF called the “registrar” then authenticates the mobile handset, e.g., verifies that the handset is legitimate.

0010The S-CSCF also loads Service Point Triggers (SPT) from the handset's profile. The SPT define the appropriate action for the S-CSCF to take when the handset or an AS requests a transaction. For example, if the handset requests voice mail service, the SPT triggers the S-CSCF to provide the addresses of the voice mail AS for the handset. So long as the handset is powered on, the SPT for that handset are loaded into the S-CSCF, so a service request fires the appropriate trigger in the S-CSCF. The SPT are analogous to the above-described TDP in the CS network. The SPT and TDP both trigger an appropriate response from a controlling server, e.g., the MSC or S-CSCF. However, the TDP are more generally applicable to call requests and call related events such as dialed number, etc., and are not particular to the user's profile. The SPT are specific to the mobile handset, and are stored in the user's profile in the HSS and loaded into the S-CSCF when the handset registers.

0011If an entity wishes to engage in a transaction with the mobile handset, e.g., to send a message to the handset, the entity utilizes an AS to send a request for the transaction to the S-CSCF. This triggers an SPT in the S-CSCF, which recognizes the request as pertaining to a registered handset and sends the appropriate information to the handset. Other ASs may not know which S-CSCF to contact in order to engage in a transaction with a particular handset. In this case, the AS interrogate a Subscriber Location Function (SLF), which provides information about a handset's S-CSCF to the AS, which then contacts that S-CSCF as described above. If the handset wishes to request a service, it sends the request to the S-CSCF, e.g., using a SIP invite. This triggers an SPT in the S-CSCF, which then directs the service request to a particular Application Server (AS), which then provides the service to the handset. For example, if the user wants to initiate an IMS call, it sends a SIP invite message to the S-CSCF, which may then contact the AS responsible for IMS calls, called the Back-to-Back User Agent (B2BUA), which initiates the IMS call flow.

SUMMARY

0012The present invention provides systems and methods for enabling IP signaling in wireless networks. The systems and methods allow IP-based signaling schemes to function in mobile wireless environments without interruption, even if one or more mobile handsets become IP-inaccessible.

0013Under one aspect, a method of transmitting an IP-based message from an initiator to a receiver lacking an IP address via a packet-switched (PS) network capable of communicating IP-based messages, a circuit-switched (CS) network capable of communicating non-IP-based messages, and a serving node in communication with the PS network and the CS network, includes: generating an IP-based message at the initiator, the IP-based message intended for receipt by the receiver; transmitting the IP-based message from the initiator to the serving node via the PS network; responsive to the IP-based message, the serving node generating a trigger message, the trigger message including a non-IP-based message including instructions for the receiver to initiate a connection to the PS network; transmitting the trigger message from the serving node to the receiver via the CS network; responsive to the trigger message, the receiver initiating a connection to the PS network; and receiving at the receiver the IP-based message.

0014Some embodiments include one or more of the following features. The trigger message includes instructions for the receiver to pull the IP-based message from the serving node via the PS network after initiating a connection to the PS network. The trigger message includes the IP-based message. The trigger message includes instructions for the receiver to request the initiator to send any subsequent IP-based messages via the PS network. The initiator includes a network entity. The receiver includes a mobile handset. The initiator includes a mobile handset. The receiver includes a second mobile handset. The trigger message includes an SMS message. The serving node transmits the trigger message to the receiver via a Short Messaging Service Center (SMSC) in the CS network. The serving node obtains location information about the receiver from a Home Location Register (HLR) and then transmits the trigger message to the receiver via the CS network. The serving node transmits the trigger message to the receiver via a Home Location Register (HLR) in the CS network. The trigger message includes a Push Access Protocol (PAP) message. The serving node transmits the trigger message to the receiver via a Push Proxy Gateway (PPG) in the CS network. The PPG transmits the trigger message to the receiver via WAP Push technology. The trigger message includes an Unstructured Supplementary Services Data (USSD) message. The serving node transmits the trigger message to a Home Location Register (HLR) in the CS network using MAP/TCAP/SS7 protocol. The HLR delivers the trigger message to the receiver using “mobile terminated” call flow procedures.

0015Under another aspect, a system for transmitting an IP-based message from an initiator to a receiver lacking an IP address via a packet-switched (PS) network capable of communicating IP-based messages and a circuit-switched (CS) network capable of communicating non-IP-based messages, includes: a serving node in communication with the PS network and the CS network, the serving node including logic to: receive the IP-based message from the initiator over the PS network; generate a trigger message responsive to the IP-based message, the trigger message including a non-IP-based message including instructions for the receiver to initiate a connection to the PS network; and transmit the trigger message to the receiver via the CS network, and the receiver including logic to initiate a connection to the PS network and to receive the IP-based message responsive to the trigger message.

0016Some embodiments include one or more of the following features. The trigger message includes instructions for the receiver logic to pull the IP-based message from the serving node via the PS network after initiating the connection to the PS network. The trigger message includes the IP-based message. The trigger message includes instructions for the receiver logic to request the initiator to send any subsequent IP-based messages via the PS network. The initiator includes a network entity. The receiver includes a mobile handset. The initiator includes a mobile handset. The receiver includes a second mobile handset. The trigger message includes an SMS message. The CS network includes a Short Messaging Service Center (SMSC), and the serving node includes logic to transmit the trigger message to the receiver via the SMSC. The CS network includes a Home Location Register (HLR), and the serving node includes logic to obtain location information about the receiver from the HLR. The CS network includes a Home Location Register (HLR), and the serving node includes logic to transmit the trigger message to the receiver via the HLR. The trigger message includes a Push Access Protocol (PAP) message. The CS network includes a Push Proxy Gateway (PPG), and the serving node includes logic to transmit the trigger message to the receiver via the PPG. The PPG transmits the trigger message to the receiver via WAP Push technology. The trigger message includes an Unstructured Supplementary Services Data (USSD) message. The CS network includes a Home Location Register (HLR), and the serving node includes logic to transmit the trigger message to the receiver via the HLR using MAP/TCAP/SS7 protocol. The HLR delivers the trigger message to the receiver using “mobile terminated” call flow procedures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

0017In the drawing:

0018<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrates a GSM/GPRS packet-switched network architecture;

0019<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> illustrates a CDMA circuit-switched network architecture;

0020<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> illustrates a scheme using standard SMS to communicate with a mobile handset lacking an IP address;

0021<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> illustrates a scheme using WAP Push to communicate with a mobile handset lacking an IP address;

0022<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> illustrates a scheme using direct SMS to communicate with a mobile handset lacking an IP address; and

0023<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> illustrates a scheme using USSD delivery to communicate with a mobile handset lacking an IP address.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

0024The present invention provides systems and methods for enabling IP signaling in wireless networks. The systems and methods allow IP-based signaling schemes to function in mobile wireless environments without interruption, even if one or more mobile handsets become IP-inaccessible. As mentioned above, in some circumstances a network operator may disconnect a mobile handset from a packet-switched (PS) network by withdrawing its IP address. For example, if a first mobile handset registers to the IMS network, thus obtaining an IP address, but then does not use its IMS connection for a specified period of time, the network may withdraw its IP address and assign that address to a second mobile handset. In this case, the first handset is disconnected from the IMS network, and thus no longer IP accessible until it re-registers to the IMS network. When a handset loses its IP address and is disconnected from the IMS network, it can no longer participate in IP-based services. The present invention provides systems and methods that allow another entity, such as another handset or a network entity, to send an IP-based message to a handset that lacks an IP address, in effect “waking up” the handset and causing it to initiate its own request for an IP address, so that it can receive the IP-based message.

0025Uses of IP Signaling in Mobile Services

0026As an example of an IP service that would benefit from user-to-user (handset-to-handset) IP signaling, consider the case in which party A wishes to place a voice call to party B, and to transmit a photograph as part of “call alerting.” It is expected that party B will receive the call alert (indicated by “ringing”) and the photograph synchronously, e.g., party B may use the photograph to identify the calling party. In order to transmit the image to party B, party A's handset needs to establish a packet connection to party B's handset and negotiate resources and capabilities. However, if party B's handset is disconnected from the IMS network, party A's handset cannot send the photograph to party B's handset. Further details on this kind of interaction may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/504,896, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

0027As an example of an IP service that would benefit from network-to-user (network-to-handset) IP signaling, consider the case in which a network server wishes to transmit a multimedia object to a mobile handset. In order to begin transmitting the object, the server needs to know the capabilities of the handset. If the handset is not IP accessible, the network server may not reach the handset to begin resource negotiation or to transmit the object.

0028Conditions Under which Handsets May not be IP-Accessible

0029<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> depicts components in a GSM/GPRS packet-switched (PS) network, and their communication pathways to an IP network, e.g., the Internet <b>120</b>, and to handset <b>110</b>. The GSM/GPRS network includes one or more Base Station Servers (BSC) <b>150</b>, which are in communication with handset <b>110</b>, Serving Gateway Support Node (SGSN) <b>140</b>, and GPRS Gateway Support Node (GGSN) <b>130</b>, which is in communication with Internet <b>120</b>. GGSN <b>130</b> and SGSN <b>140</b> work collaboratively to assign an IP address from Internet <b>120</b> to mobile handset <b>110</b>. Specifically, GGSN <b>130</b> communicates with Internet <b>120</b>, and allocates IP addresses for user handsets, e.g., handset <b>110</b>. SGSN <b>140</b> communicates with GGSN <b>130</b> and with base station server (BSC) <b>150</b> to provide a wireless connection between handset <b>110</b> and Internet <b>120</b>. When this is accomplished, it is said that mobile handset <b>110</b> has a Packet Data Protocol (PDP) context.

0030Most network operators implement a policy that de-establishes the PDP context of a mobile handset when it is not used. Such de-commissioning is typically implemented within a time period of a few minutes. When the handset loses its PDP context, it does not have an IP address assigned to it and is not reachable by IP-based addressing schemes. At some time in the future, the handset may initiate a data request, causing a new PDP context to be established for this handset, including obtaining a new IP address to the handset. In other words, if a handset lacking an IP address requests an IP connection, then it can initiate that connection, but if another entity requests an IP connection with a handset lacking an IP address, the entity cannot itself establish that connection. It is possible for a network operator to assign a “static” IP address to a mobile handset, so that it will remain connected to the IP network, but this is atypical because IP addresses are a valuable resource in short supply.

0031<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> depicts components in a CDMA circuit-switched (CS) network, and their communication pathways to an IP network, e.g., Internet <b>220</b>, and to mobile handset <b>210</b>. The CDMA network includes one or more Base Station Servers (BSC) <b>250</b>, which are in communication with handset <b>210</b>, and Packet Data Serving Node (PDSN) <b>240</b>, which is in communication with Internet <b>220</b>. A Point-to-Point protocol (PPP) session exists between the mobile handset <b>210</b> and PDSN <b>240</b>. PDSN <b>240</b> acts as a connection point between BSC <b>250</b> and an IP network, e.g., Internet <b>220</b>, by assigning handset <b>210</b> an IP address from Internet <b>220</b> and providing access to the Internet <b>220</b>. As practitioners skilled in the art know, the PPP session may be maintained even if the handset goes “dormant,” so the handset will remain IP-accessible. An incoming packet for a dormant mobile handset then waits at the packet control function (PCF) upon a “mobile origination” message from the handset in response to overhead messages generated collaboratively by the PCF and the BSC. However, network operators in such networks typically choose to de-allocate IP addresses and tear down the PPP session in order to conserve IP addresses, if the mobile handset does not use its PPP session for a specified period of time. If the mobile handset <b>210</b> does not have a PPP session, other entities cannot contact it via the IP network.

0032Even if a mobile handset is not IP-accessible, e.g., because the GSM/GPRS or CDMA network has de-allocated its IP address, it still has a connection to the circuit-switched (CS) network; as described above, the CS connection can be used to initiate and receive voice calls, SMS and other circuit-switched services.

0033Systems and Methods for Initiating IP Connectivity to Handsets Lacking IP Addresses

0034As illustrated by the embodiments described below, if a mobile handset lacks an IP address and so cannot be directly contacted by another entity, the handset's existing CS connection can be exploited to cause the handset to initiate its own connection to the PS network. Specifically, a specified message, or “trigger,” is sent to the handset via the CS network, instructing logic residing on the handset to initiate a connection to the PS network.

0035One system that can facilitate this interaction is the Service Delivery Platform (SDP) described in detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/504,896. Descriptions of other systems and/or components may be found in the incorporated patent references, given below. Briefly, the SDP includes a Serving Node (SN) that communicates with both the CS voice network and the packet-switched IMS network. The SDP also includes a Personal Agent (PA), which is a piece of service logic that resides in the mobile handset(s). The PA and the SN can send messages to each other, e.g., regarding services the user would like to use, the local network environment of the handset, or instructions the SN would like the PA to execute on the handset. Thus, the SDP has one “eye” on the CS voice network and another “eye” on the IMS network.

0036In the embodiments described herein, the SN sends a trigger over the CS voice network that instructs the PA to request an IP address for the handset, and thus connect to the PS IMS network.

0037Causing an otherwise IP-inaccessible handset to initiate its own connection to the IP network can be useful in at least the following cases: <ul id="ul0001" list-style="none"><li id="ul0001-0001" num="0000"><ul id="ul0002" list-style="none"><li id="ul0002-0001" num="0038">1. User-to-user (handset-to-handset) signaling, in which one party (the “initiator”) is IP-accessible and the other party (the “receiver”) is not IP-accessible.</li><li id="ul0002-0002" num="0039">2. Network-to-user (network-to-handset) signaling, in which the network (the “initiator”) is IP-accessible and the other party (the “receiver”) is not IP-accessible.</li></ul></li></ul>

0040In most embodiments, the initiator is typically aware of, or can obtain, the receiver's phone number (e.g., MSISDN or IMSI), so that it can send a trigger to the receiver's handset via the CS network.

0041Sending Trigger by Standard SMS

0042In some embodiments, the initiator sends a trigger message to the receiver via Short Message Service (SMS). <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> illustrates a scheme using standard SMS to communicate with a receiver lacking an IP address.

0043The scheme illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> includes an initiator's mobile handset (“initiator”) <b>310</b>, a receiver's mobile handset (“receiver”) <b>320</b>, which lacks an IP address, and SN <b>330</b>. Personal Agent (PA) service logic resides on the initiator <b>310</b> and receiver <b>320</b>, and allows them to communicate with SN <b>330</b> via the existing network. However, because receiver <b>320</b> lacks an IP address, SN <b>330</b> cannot at first communicate with receiver <b>320</b> via the PS network. The scheme also includes Gateway SMSC <b>340</b>, HLR <b>350</b>, MSC Network <b>360</b>, Terminating MSC <b>380</b>, and Radio Access Network <b>370</b>, which at first is in CS but not PS communication with receiver <b>320</b>. SN <b>330</b> is in communication with Gateway SMSC <b>340</b>, and may communicate with receiver <b>320</b> via Gateway SMSC <b>340</b>, HLR <b>350</b>, MSC Network <b>360</b>, Terminating MSC <b>380</b>, and Radio Access Network <b>370</b>. Note that although initiator <b>310</b> and receiver <b>320</b> are illustrated here as handsets, other kinds of entities, such as network entities, can act as initiators or receivers.

0044In operation, first initiator <b>310</b> constructs an IP-based message, e.g., a multimedia message, that it wishes to send to receiver <b>320</b>. However, because receiver <b>320</b> lacks an IP address, it cannot receive the message by the typical PS network route. Instead, initiator <b>310</b> sends the IP-based message to SN <b>330</b> via a PS connection. SN <b>330</b> is aware that receiver <b>320</b> lacks an IP address. Systems and methods for communication between mobile handsets and an SN, and logical components of an SN, are described in greater detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/504,896.

0045Logic in SN <b>330</b> then processes the incoming IP-based message, and constructs a trigger that, when sent to the receiver, will instruct the receiver to initiate a connection to the PS network. Here, the trigger is in the form of an SMS message. The trigger may also include other instructions, as described in greater detail below.

0046SN <b>330</b> then transmits the trigger to receiver <b>320</b> via a Short Messaging Service Center (SMSC), based on the receiver's phone number. Specifically, SN <b>330</b> sends the trigger to Gateway SMSC <b>340</b>, which with information received from the Home Location Register (HLR) <b>350</b> routes the trigger to the MSC network <b>360</b>. MSC network <b>360</b> then transmits the trigger, in the form of the SMS message, to the Terminating MSC <b>380</b>, from whence it is sent via Radio Access Network (RAN) <b>370</b>, to receiver <b>320</b>. Note that the SMSC, HLR, and MSC are all components of the CS network, and the RAN transmits the trigger to receiver <b>320</b> via a CS connection.

0047Receiver <b>320</b> receives the trigger, and PA logic residing in receiver <b>320</b> interprets the trigger. In response, the PA logic activates the receiver's IP connectivity logic and instructs it to initiate an IP connectivity request.

0048Once receiver <b>320</b> is connected to the PS network (the components of which are not shown), it can receive the initial IP-based message, e.g., the multimedia message, in one of at least two ways. For example, the SMS message-based trigger that SN <b>330</b> generates may contain the actual intended IP-based message from initiator <b>310</b>. SMS messages are typically constrained to a size limitation of 160 octets, so if the IP-based message plus the instruction for the receiver to initiate IP connectivity fits within this constraint, it can be efficient to simply include the IP-based message within the trigger. Or, if the IP-based message plus the instruction for the receiver to initiate IP connectivity does not fit within this constraint, SN <b>330</b> instead “holds” the IP-based message, and includes in the trigger an instruction for the receiver <b>320</b> to subsequently request or “pull” the IP-based message from SN <b>330</b>. The trigger may also include an instruction for receiver <b>320</b> to then request the initiator <b>310</b> to transmit any subsequent messages via the typical PS network route.

0049Note that SMS message delivery may be subject to store-and-forward delays, and delays in transmission through the MSC network. So in certain circumstances where rapid communication is desired, embodiments based on SMS messaging may be less practical than other embodiments described below.

0050Sending Trigger by WAP Push

0051In other embodiments, the initiator sends a trigger message to the receiver via Wireless Access Protocol (WAP) Push. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> illustrates a scheme using WAP Push to communicate with a receiver lacking an IP address. In WAP Push, a WAP server uses a plug-in in conjunction with the HLR to locate and send information to a handset.

0052Similarly to the scheme illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the scheme illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> includes initiator <b>410</b>, receiver <b>420</b>, and SN <b>430</b>. Personal Agent (PA) service logic resides on the initiator <b>410</b> and receiver <b>420</b>, and allows them to communicate with SN <b>430</b> via the existing network. However, because receiver <b>420</b> lacks an IP address, SN <b>430</b> cannot at first communicate with receiver <b>420</b> via the PS network. The scheme also includes Push Proxy Gateway <b>440</b>, HLR <b>350</b>, MSC Network <b>460</b>, and Radio Access Network <b>470</b>, which at first is in CS but not PS communication with receiver <b>420</b>. SN <b>430</b> is in communication with Push Proxy Gateway <b>440</b>, and may communicate with receiver <b>420</b> via Push Proxy Gateway <b>440</b>, HLR <b>450</b>, MSC Network <b>460</b>, and Radio Access Network <b>470</b>.

0053In operation, as before, first initiator <b>410</b> constructs an IP-based message, e.g., a multimedia message, that it wishes to send to receiver <b>420</b>. However, receiver <b>420</b> lacks an IP address. Initiator <b>410</b> transmits the IP-based message to SN <b>430</b> via a PS connection. SN <b>430</b> is aware that receiver <b>420</b> does not have an IP address.

0054Next, logic residing in SN <b>430</b> processes the incoming IP-based message, and constructs a trigger that, when sent to receiver <b>420</b>, will instruct the receiver to initiate an IP connection. Here, the trigger is in the form of a Push Access Protocol (PAP) message. The trigger may contain other instructions in addition to the IP-connectivity instructions, as described below.

0055SN <b>430</b> then transmits the trigger to receiver <b>420</b> via WAP Push. Specifically, SN <b>430</b> transmits the trigger to Push Proxy Gateway (PPG) <b>440</b>, which then delivers the trigger to receiver <b>420</b> via WAP Push technology. Note that the PPG, HLR, and MSC are all components of the CS network, and the RAN transmits the trigger to receiver <b>420</b> via a CS connection.

0056Receiver <b>420</b> receives the trigger, and PA logic residing in receiver <b>420</b> interprets the trigger. In response, the PA logic activates the receiver's IP connectivity logic and instructs it to initiate an IP connectivity request.

0057Once receiver <b>420</b> is connected to the PS network (the components of which are not shown), it can receive the initial IP-based message, e.g., the multimedia message, in one of at least two ways. For example, the PAP-based trigger that SN <b>430</b> generates may contain the actual intended IP-based message from initiator <b>410</b>. PAP messages can be larger than SMS messages, but still limited in size, typically to 1400 characters. Thus, if the IP-based message plus the instruction for the receiver to initiate IP connectivity fits within this constraint, it can be efficient to simply include the IP-based message within the trigger. Or, if the IP-based message plus the instruction for the receiver to initiate IP connectivity does not fit within this constraint, SN <b>430</b> instead “holds” the IP-based message, and includes in the trigger an instruction for the receiver <b>420</b> to subsequently request or “pull” the IP-based message from SN <b>430</b>. The trigger may also include an instruction for receiver <b>420</b> to then request the initiator <b>410</b> to transmit any subsequent messages via the typical PS network route.

0058Note that in certain circumstances, WAP Push uses SMS delivery technology, and thus may be subject to afore-mentioned delays.

0059Sending Trigger by SMS Direct

0060Certain embodiments that reduce or eliminate the store-and-forward delays that the above-described embodiments may be susceptible to are illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>. These embodiments use SMS-based triggers, but obviate the need for one or more of the network components described above.

0061<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> depicts a scheme using SMS Direct to communicate with a receiver lacking an IP address. Like in the schemes described above, the scheme illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> includes initiator <b>510</b>, receiver <b>520</b>, and SN <b>530</b>. Personal Agent (PA) service logic resides on the initiator <b>510</b> and receiver <b>520</b>, and allows them to communicate with SN <b>530</b> via the existing network. However, because receiver <b>520</b> lacks an IP address, SN <b>530</b> cannot at first communicate with receiver <b>520</b> via the PS network. The scheme also includes Terminating MSC <b>540</b>, MSC Network <b>560</b>, HLR <b>580</b> and Radio Access Network, <b>570</b>, which at first is in CS but not PS communication with receiver <b>520</b>.

0062In operation, first initiator <b>510</b> constructs an IP-based message intended for receiver <b>520</b>, and transmits the message to SN <b>530</b>. SN <b>530</b> is aware that receiver <b>520</b> lacks an IP address. Logic in SN <b>530</b> then processes the incoming IP-based message, and constructs a trigger that, when sent to the receiver, will instruct the receiver to initiate an IP connection. Here, the trigger is in the form of an SMS message. As mentioned above, the trigger can also include other instructions or information.

0063SN <b>530</b> then inquires from the HLR routing information for the receiver (handset). This, for example, can be done by using MAP commands such as PRN (Provide Routing Name information). The HLR response identifies the Terminating MSC that is capable of transmitting the trigger to the receiver. SN <b>530</b> transmits the trigger to receiver <b>520</b> via MSC <b>540</b> based on the receiver's phone number. Here, Gateway MSC <b>540</b> includes internal routing logic that locates receiver <b>520</b> in real time, so that the trigger need not be first transmitted to a SMSC that then locates the receiver and routes it through the MSC network (which may include multiple hops and internal queues) as in the embodiment illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>. This obviates at least some of the delays associated with conventional SMS delivery. After finding receiver <b>520</b>, MSC <b>540</b> then transmits the trigger to receiver <b>520</b>.

0064In response to the trigger, PA logic residing in receiver <b>520</b> activates the receiver's IP connectivity logic and instructs it to initiate an IP connectivity request. As for the SMS-based embodiment illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the trigger may also include the original IP-based message or instructions for the receiver <b>520</b> to “pull” the message from SN <b>530</b> over the PS network.

0065Sending Trigger by USSD

0066<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> illustrates another scheme that reduces or eliminates the store-and-forward delays to which other embodiments may be susceptible. Instead of using SMS- or WAP push-based methods, the scheme shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> uses Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) Delivery. In USSD delivery, an SMSC is not present in the processing path, which can improve the delivery time of a message. USSD delivery is typically associated with real-time services such as instant messaging in GSM/GPRS networks.

0067<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> depicts a scheme using USSD to communicate with a receiver lacking an IP address. Like in the schemes described above, the scheme illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> includes initiator <b>610</b>, receiver <b>620</b>, and SN <b>630</b>. Personal Agent (PA) logic resides on initiator <b>610</b> and receiver <b>620</b>, and allows them to communicate with SN <b>630</b> via the existing network. However, because receiver <b>620</b> lacks an IP address, SN <b>630</b> cannot at first communicate with receiver <b>620</b> via the PS network. Here, SN <b>630</b> is modified with a USSD Server. A USSD server is service logic that pushes information to a handset via a set of services provided by the HLR. These services are typically contained in a module called the USSD plug and is typically integrated into the HLR. The scheme also includes HLR <b>750</b>, MSC Network <b>760</b>, and Radio Access Network <b>770</b>, which at first is in CS but not PS communication with receiver <b>720</b>. HLR is modified with a USSD Plug. SN <b>730</b> is in communication with HLR <b>750</b>, and may communicate with receiver <b>720</b> via HLR <b>750</b>, MSC Network <b>760</b>, and Radio Access Network <b>770</b>.

0068In operation, first, initiator <b>710</b> constructs an IP-based message intended for receiver <b>720</b>, and transmits the message to SN <b>730</b>. SN <b>730</b> is aware that receiver <b>720</b> lacks an IP address. Logic in SN <b>730</b> then processes the incoming IP-based message, and constructs a trigger that, when sent to the receiver, will instruct the receiver to initiate an IP connection. This trigger is in the form of a USSD message. The trigger can also include other instructions or information.

0069SN <b>730</b> then transmits the trigger to HLR <b>750</b>, using MAP/TCAP/SS7 protocol, based on the receiver's phone number. HLR <b>750</b> then determines the location of receiver <b>720</b>, and uses the USSD Plug to forward the trigger using “mobile terminated call flow procedures.” This involves forwarding the trigger to MSC network <b>760</b>, which then transmits the trigger via Radio Access Network <b>770</b>, to receiver <b>720</b>. Note that these “mobile terminated call flow procedures” are carried by the SS7 network in real time.

0070In response to the trigger, PA logic residing in receiver <b>720</b> activates the receiver's IP connectivity logic and instructs it to initiate an IP connectivity request. The trigger may also include the original IP-based message or instructions for the receiver <b>720</b> to “pull” the message from SN <b>730</b> over the PS network.

0071Embodiments of the present invention build on techniques, systems and methods disclosed in earlier filed applications, referred to herein as the “incorporated patent references,” including but not limited to the following references, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference: <ul id="ul0003" list-style="none"><li id="ul0003-0001" num="0000"><ul id="ul0004" list-style="none"><li id="ul0004-0001" num="0072">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/166,470, filed Jun. 24, 2005, entitled System and Method to Provide Dynamic Call Models for Users in an IMS Network;</li><li id="ul0004-0002" num="0073">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/166,407, filed Jun. 24, 2005, entitled Method and System for Provisioning IMS Networks with Virtual Service Organizations Having Distinct Service Logic;</li><li id="ul0004-0003" num="0074">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/166,456, filed Jun. 24, 2005, entitled Method of Avoiding or Minimizing Cost of Stateful Connections Between Application Servers and S-CSCF Nodes in an IMS Network with Multiple Domains;</li><li id="ul0004-0004" num="0075">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/166,406, filed Jun. 24, 2005, entitled Mediation System and Method for Hybrid Network Including an IMS Network;</li><li id="ul0004-0005" num="0076">U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/735,112, filed Nov. 9, 2005, entitled System and Method to Allow Interruption of Unicast Data Service Utilizing a Class B Handset or a Dual Mode Handset (DMH) to Inform it of a Circuit-Based Incoming Call, so the Handset Can Accept the Call if the User Desires;</li><li id="ul0004-0006" num="0077">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/283,038, filed Nov. 18, 2005, entitled System and Method of Interworking Non-IMS and IMS Networks to Create New Services Utilizing Both Networks;</li><li id="ul0004-0007" num="0078">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/283,042, filed Nov. 18, 2005, entitled System and Method to Mediate Delivery of Legacy, Non-IMS Services into an IMS Network;</li><li id="ul0004-0008" num="0079">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/282,924, filed Nov. 18, 2005, entitled IMS Networks with A VS Sessions with Multiple Access Networks;</li><li id="ul0004-0009" num="0080">U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/776,137, filed Feb. 23, 2006, entitled Enabling Combinational Services in Networks that Do Not Support Multiple Radio Access Bearers;</li><li id="ul0004-0010" num="0081">U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/779,954, filed Mar. 7, 2006, entitled Using Telephony Interface for Invoking Data Services in Wireless Communication Networks;</li><li id="ul0004-0011" num="0082">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/370,793, filed Mar. 8, 2006, entitled Digital Home Networks Having a Control Point Located on a Wide Area Network;</li><li id="ul0004-0012" num="0083">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/370,594, filed Mar. 8, 2006, entitled Associated Device Discovery in IMS Networks;</li><li id="ul0004-0013" num="0084">U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/800,688, filed May 16, 2006, entitled System and Method for Supporting Combinational Services Without Simultaneous Packet and Circuit Connections;</li><li id="ul0004-0014" num="0085">U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/809,029, filed May 26, 2006, entitled System and Method for Supporting Combinational Services Without Simultaneous Packet and Circuit Connections; and</li><li id="ul0004-0015" num="0086">U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/504,896, filed Aug. 16, 2006, entitled System and Method for Enabling Combinational Services in Wireless Networks by Using a Service Delivery Platform.</li></ul></li></ul>

0087The present techniques, however, are not limited to systems and methods disclosed in the incorporated patent references. Thus, while reference to such systems and applications may be helpful, it is not believed necessary to understand the present embodiments or inventions.

0088It will be further appreciated that the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but rather is defined by the appended claims, and that these claims will encompass modifications of and improvements to what has been described.