Dynamic Control Message Routing via Classification Rules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network infrastructures, such as those using the SIP protocol and IMS, face inefficiencies in routing control messages as they require all messages to pass through a central S-CSCF entity, creating bottlenecks and inefficiencies in processing, as well as limitations in dynamically routing messages through necessary interconnection entities based on real-time communication needs.
Innovation Solution
A method for managing classification rules that allows control message packets to be routed dynamically based on service information and filtering criteria, enabling the selection of specific paths through the network by embedding routing parameters directly into the packets, such as using the Network Service Header (NSH), allowing entities along the path to route messages step-by-step without needing to pass through a single central entity repeatedly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If all control messages are routed through a central S-CSCF entity, then routing decisions can be centralized and consistent, but processing bottlenecks occur and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized routing function by distributing routing capabilities to multiple network entities. Each entity (S-CSCF, I-CSCF, IBCF) can independently make routing decisions based on classification rules, eliminating the single-point bottleneck while maintaining consistent routing through rule-based decision making.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic routing where the path of control messages adapts based on real-time conditions. Classification rules enable flexible routing decisions that can change depending on message characteristics, network state, and service requirements, allowing the system to optimize performance dynamically rather than following fixed centralized paths.
2Adaptability or versatility
If classification rules are configured on all S-CSCF entities, then routing flexibility improves, but configuration and maintenance complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal classification rule format that can be applied across different network entities (S-CSCF, I-CSCF, IBCF). This standardized rule structure allows the same routing logic to function universally across multiple device types, reducing the need for entity-specific configurations and simplifying maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces classification rules as intermediary objects that mediate between centralized policy decisions and distributed routing execution. These rules act as portable configuration artifacts that can be generated centrally and deployed to multiple entities, reducing the complexity of direct configuration management while maintaining routing flexibility.
3Reliability
If messages must pass through S-CSCF for filtering criteria evaluation, then centralized service policy enforcement is achieved, but routing bottlenecks and delays occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary routing classification at the earliest possible point in the message path. By evaluating classification rules at I-CSCF or IBCF entities before messages reach S-CSCF, the system determines the appropriate routing path in advance, reducing the time messages spend in the network while ensuring policy compliance is maintained through rule-based decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables messages to skip unnecessary intermediate stops at S-CSCF by using classification rules to identify direct routing paths. When rules indicate that a message can be handled by other entities (I-CSCF, IBCF, or application servers), the message rushes through the network without being forced through the S-CSCF bottleneck, reducing delay while maintaining policy enforcement.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple interconnection entities are used for different processing tasks, then service specialization improves, but routing complexity and coordination difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns specific classification rules to different network entities based on their specialized functions. Each entity (I-CSCF for interconnection, IBCF for border control, application servers for specific services) has tailored rules that leverage their local capabilities, allowing specialized processing without requiring complex centralized coordination for each message type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the routing decision-making process by distributing different classification rules to different specialized entities. This segmentation allows each entity to independently handle messages requiring its specific processing capabilities without requiring complex inter-entity coordination, as each entity autonomously applies its assigned rules to determine local routing actions.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for managing a rule for classifying a packet of a control message relating to a communications service designed to be used by a terminal (1) of a user, said rule relating to the routing of said packet in a communications infrastructure (5) providing said service, the method being implemented in a control entity (60) of said infrastructure. The invention further relates to a method for routing the control message packet in the communications infrastructure (5), the method being implemented in a routing device (20, 40).