Dynamic Roaming Policy Configuration via Secure Server Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile wireless communication networks face challenges in dynamically managing and updating roaming agreements between network operators, leading to inconsistencies and inefficiencies in roaming service configurations.
Innovation Solution
A method involving communication between a home roaming configuration server and a visited roaming configuration server to issue and execute configuration commands securely, enabling dynamic configuration of roaming policies and charging rules, facilitating adaptive roaming arrangements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If roaming agreements are manually configured into network roaming service provider management nodes, then the configuration is stable and reliable, but the system lacks flexibility and cannot adapt to dynamic changes in roaming terms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic configuration by enabling roaming terms to be updated in real-time through automated systems. The PCRF (Policy and Charging Rules Function) dynamically adjusts roaming policies based on current agreements, allowing the system to adapt to changing roaming arrangements without manual reconfiguration. This transforms the static manual configuration process into a dynamic automated system that can respond to changing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary configuration management system that acts as a mediator between roaming agreements and network management nodes. This intermediary automatically translates and propagates roaming term changes to the appropriate PCRF nodes, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining system reliability. The intermediary handles the complexity of coordination and synchronization across multiple network operators.
2Productivity
If roaming configuration updates are performed manually across partner networks, then system complexity is reduced, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring automated rule propagation mechanisms and establishing predefined workflows for roaming configuration updates. When a roaming agreement changes, the system automatically initiates the configuration update process across all partner networks without requiring manual intervention at each step. This preliminary setup enables rapid configuration propagation while maintaining system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by implementing real-time automated configuration propagation across partner networks. Once a roaming agreement is updated, the changes are continuously and automatically propagated to all relevant PCRF nodes without interruption or manual intervention. This continuous automated process eliminates delays and ensures all networks have current roaming configurations simultaneously.
3Loss of time
If automated systems are used for roaming policy configuration, then configuration speed and adaptability improve, but system complexity and security requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the automated configuration system into distinct functional modules: agreement management, rule generation, configuration propagation, and validation. Each module handles a specific aspect of the configuration process, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automation benefits. The PCRF is similarly segmented into separate functions for policy management and charging rules, allowing independent updates and reducing interdependencies.
Data Source
AI summary
A method carried out by communications between a home roaming configuration server and a visited roaming configuration server is described that facilitates configuring roaming handling by the visited operator wireless data network for home operator user equipment affiliated with the home operator mobile wireless data network. The home roaming configuration server issues, via a secure transmission path connecting the home operator network and the visited operator network, a configuration command specifying a configuration command affecting handling of roaming operation of user equipment of the home operator by the visited operator. The visited roaming configuration server executes the configuration command to render a new roaming configuration for the visited operator wireless data network handling of roaming wireless data network service usage by the home operator user equipment. The visited roaming configuration server, via the secure transmission path, acknowledges the new roaming configuration for the visited operator wireless data network.