Home Location Register Subscriber Number Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cellular networks incur additional costs for subscribers when calls are routed to another network using unlicensed radio access networks, as the same IMSI is used for identification, leading to higher tariffs for both the calling and called parties, which reduces the appeal of these networks.
Innovation Solution
A mobile communications network with a separate dialled number for unlicensed radio access networks, where the home location register distinguishes between standard and unlicensed network connections, allowing for different billing procedures and call handling based on the dialled number, ensuring lower tariffs by terminating calls when the mobile station is not connected to the unlicensed network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the same IMSI is used to identify mobile stations in both conventional and unlicensed radio access networks, then seamless mobile services are provided, but additional costs are incurred for subscribers when calls are routed to another network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the identification system by introducing a separate identifier (access network specific identifier) distinct from the universal IMSI. This allows the network to differentiate between calls originating from conventional and unlicensed radio access networks, enabling separate billing arrangements where calls within the unlicensed network can be terminated locally without incurring additional routing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary identifier that acts as a bridge between the mobile station and the network routing system. This intermediate identifier enables the network to recognize when a mobile station is accessed via an unlicensed radio access network and route the call appropriately, allowing local termination and avoiding the cost penalties associated with external network routing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If calls to mobile stations via unlicensed radio access networks are routed through conventional networks, then universal connectivity is maintained, but call handling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the call handling process by creating distinct routing paths based on the access network identifier. Calls are segmented into two categories: those originating from conventional networks that require full routing through the core network, and those from unlicensed networks that can be terminated locally. This segmentation simplifies call handling by providing clear, differentiated pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different call handling mechanisms in different network zones. In unlicensed radio access network zones, calls can be terminated locally with simplified handling, while in conventional network zones, full routing procedures are maintained. This localized approach reduces overall system complexity while preserving universal connectivity.
3Loss of energy
If separate billing procedures are implemented for unlicensed radio access networks, then subscriber costs are reduced, but network infrastructure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the billing system by introducing a separate identifier for unlicensed radio access networks. This segmentation enables the billing system to automatically distinguish between calls originating from different network types and apply appropriate billing rates. The identifier acts as a key that triggers the correct billing procedure, reducing subscriber costs for unlicensed network calls while maintaining standard billing for conventional networks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service billing by enabling the network system to automatically determine the appropriate billing procedure based on the access network identifier. The system self-identifies the network type and automatically applies the correct billing rate without requiring manual intervention or complex configuration, thereby reducing infrastructure complexity while enabling separate billing procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile communications network in which a home location register stores two dialed numbers for a mobile station, a first number for use in a licensed radio access network and a second number for use only in an unlicensed radio access network. The core network discontinues connection of a call to the mobile station when the call uses the second dialed number and the mobile station is not located in the unlicensed radio access network. The core network may route the discontinued call to voice mail or to another number.