Charging Trigger Function for Data Exposure Billing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Telecommunication network operators lack a method to generate revenue for data access based on the amount and sensitivity of exposed data, and there is no standard way to support a charging model for data exposure to external entities.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a Charging Trigger Function (CTF) or Charging Enablement Function (CEF) based architecture to report data access and consumption by authorized third-party entities, allowing for the generation of charging records and billing information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If data is exposed to external entities without a charging model, then data accessibility and external entity benefits are improved, but the network operator loses revenue opportunities and cannot account for data consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Charging Trigger Function (CTF) and Charging Enablement Function (CEF) as intermediary components between the data exposure system and the billing system. These intermediaries capture data access events, generate charging records, and enable the network operator to monetize data exposure while maintaining seamless access for external entities. The CTF/CEF acts as a mediator that translates data access operations into billable events without disrupting the data flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where data access events are continuously monitored and reported back to the charging system. The CTF receives notifications about data access requests and provides feedback in the form of charging data records (CDRs) that detail the amount and type of data accessed. This feedback loop enables real-time accounting and billing based on actual data consumption by external entities.
2Loss of energy
If a charging model for data exposure is implemented, then revenue generation capability is improved, but system complexity increases due to additional reporting and billing infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the CTF and CEF to perform multiple functions within a single architectural framework. The CTF not only generates charging records but also manages data access authorization and coordinates with the CEF for billing operations. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be separate complex systems into integrated components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive charging capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes data access configuration and charging rules in advance through preliminary setup procedures. The network operator pre-configures the CTF with charging parameters, data type classifications, and access policies before external entities begin accessing data. This preliminary configuration reduces runtime complexity and enables automated charging without requiring complex real-time decision-making systems.
3Measurement precision
If detailed data access reporting is implemented, then billing accuracy is improved, but information processing overhead and reporting complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data access reporting process into distinct, manageable components. The CTF generates standardized charging data records that divide data access information into specific fields such as data type, volume, time stamp, and external entity identifier. This segmentation transforms complex raw access data into structured, easily processable units that can be efficiently aggregated and billed, reducing reporting complexity while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms detailed data access information into standardized charging parameters through parameter changes. Instead of reporting raw data access logs, the system converts access events into normalized parameters such as data volume (in MB/GB), data category (structured/unstructured), and access frequency. This parameter transformation simplifies the reporting structure while preserving the precision needed for accurate billing calculations.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, methods, and systems are disclosed for data exposure to an authorized entity and data exposure notification. One apparatus includes a transceiver that receives a data access request from an authorized entity and a processor that provides the authorized entity with access to requested data. Via the transceiver, the processor sends an event notification for the data access request to a first entity function, where the event notification indicates an amount of data provided and/or a type of data provided.