eCall Gateway for CS to IMS Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile communication networks face challenges in accurately and efficiently transmitting in-band data information during eCall-related voice calls, especially when converting circuit-switched (CS) calls to packet-switched (PS) based IMS calls, due to the complexity of handling in-band modem data and the lack of standardized indications, which increases operational and capital expenditures.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an eCall-gateway functionality with an IMS interface, comprising a payload and signaling interface part, allows for the extraction and separate transportation of in-band data information using the signaling interface, while voice part data is transported via the payload interface, enabling seamless conversion of CS eCalls to PS-based IMS networks and reducing the need for costly CS connections to PSAPs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If in-band data information is transmitted during CS eCall conversion to IMS, then emergency data transmission is achieved, but transmission accuracy deteriorates due to lack of standardized indication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (specific indication signaling) between the CS call handling entity and the IMS network to properly identify and handle in-band data. This intermediary signaling ensures that the data is recognized and transmitted accurately without requiring complex custom handling procedures at each node.
2Adaptability or versatility
If CS eCall conversion to PS-based IMS is implemented, then network modernization is achieved, but cost increases due to complex handling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the CS call handling entity universal by equipping it with both traditional CS call handling capabilities and eCall-specific in-band data extraction functionality. This multi-functionality allows the same entity to handle both regular calls and emergency calls with data transmission, eliminating the need for separate specialized infrastructure and reducing deployment costs.
3Reliability
If in-band data is extracted and separated for IMS transmission, then data transmission reliability is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the eCall data stream into distinct components: voice data and in-band emergency data. The CS call handling entity separates these components, routing voice data through the payload interface and in-band data through the signaling interface to the IMS network. This segmentation ensures reliable transmission of critical emergency information while maintaining standard voice call processing.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for handling an eCall-related voice call by a mobile communication network, wherein the mobile communication network comprises at least one CS-call (circuit switched call) handling entity, wherein the CS-call handling entity receives the eCall-related voice call, especially from a vehicle, the eCall-related voice call comprising voice part data and in-band data information, wherein the CS-call handling entity comprises an eCall-gateway functionality and an IMS interface (IP Multimedia System interface), the IMS interface comprising a payload interface part and a signaling interface part, wherein upon an eCall-related voice call, incoming at the CS-call handling entity, the method comprises the following steps: -- in a first step, the eCall-related voice call is received by the CS-call handling entity, -- in a second step, the CS eCall emergency call type of the eCall-related voice call is detected, -- in a third step, subsequent to the second step, the in-band data information of the eCall-related voice call is extracted by the eCall-gateway functionality, -- in a fourth step, subsequent to the third step, the data of the eCall-related voice call are provided to the IMS interface, wherein the in-band data information is transported using the signaling interface part and the voice part data are transported using the payload interface part.