Domain Selection Function for Seamless Call Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current solutions for IMS-related call control, such as I1 and I2 reference points, require significant development on user devices and Mobile Switching Center technology, and are not attractive due to the evolving nature of the problem, especially in LTE networks where direct communication to the IMS domain is less common.

Innovation Solution

A domain selection function is invoked as the first IMS application server in the initial filter criteria to enable or disable IMS processing, allowing seamless call control without requiring significant development on user devices or legacy circuit-switched core elements, and can be applied to both wireline and wireless applications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If I1 or I2 reference points are implemented to enable IMS-related call control, then call control capability is improved, but device complexity and investment cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecall control capabilityVSAvoiddevelopment requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (domain selection function and conditional routing) between the user device and the IMS network. Instead of requiring direct I1/I2 reference point implementations, the system uses a domain selection function that determines whether to route calls through IMS or alternative paths based on network conditions, thereby enabling call control without direct IMS integration at the device level

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of call control routing by introducing conditional routing based on domain selection. Rather than fixed I1/I2 reference point connections, the system dynamically selects routing parameters (IMS path vs. alternative path) based on network availability and registration status, reducing the need for complex device-side IMS implementation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If IMS processing is always enabled for all calls, then IMS service quality is improved, but network resource consumption increases when IMS is not available

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIMS service qualityVSAvoidnetwork resource consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic domain selection that adjusts IMS processing based on real-time network conditions. The domain selection function evaluates whether the user device is registered on an IMS-capable network and dynamically enables or disables IMS processing accordingly. This dynamic adaptation prevents unnecessary network resource consumption when IMS is unavailable while maintaining high service quality when IMS is available

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the domain selection function continuously monitors network registration status and IMS availability. Based on this feedback, the system adjusts its behavior by selecting appropriate routing paths, thereby optimizing network resource usage while maintaining service quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If direct communication to IMS domain is required, then call control precision is improved, but adaptability to roaming networks deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecall control precisionVSAvoidroaming capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal call control mechanism that can operate in multiple domains (IMS and non-IMS). The domain selection function and conditional routing enable the system to adapt to different network types and roaming scenarios while maintaining consistent call control precision. This multi-functional approach allows seamless operation whether the device is on home network or roaming on foreign networks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9137839B2Control domain change based on network registration condition
Publication Date: 2015.09.15 AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I L P
  • US9137839B2 patent drawing
  • US9137839B2 patent drawing
  • US9137839B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Aspects describe a separate domain selection function that is utilized as the first function in a communication path for a communication that is to be connected to a user device registered in a first network or a second network. If a result of the domain selection function indicates call control should be maintained by first network (e.g., user device is registered with first network or a network with which first network has a control relationship), call control of the communication remains with first network. If the result of the domain selection function indicates the user device is registered with second network, call control is suspended by the first network, which allows the communication to bypass the first network.