Hosted PBX Message Routing via Intermediary Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems lack efficient methods for routing messages over the Internet according to custom routing rules, particularly in hosted private branch exchange (PBX) systems, which hinder seamless integration of Internet and non-Internet based communication services.
Innovation Solution
A hosted PBX system with a message management server that stores subscriber identifying information and distribution rules, enabling messages to be routed over the Internet based on custom departmental or user-specific routing rules, allowing integration of various communication devices and services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional communication systems are used, then device compatibility is maintained, but message routing flexibility and integration capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a message management server as an intermediary component that sits between traditional communication devices and the routing infrastructure. This server handles the complexity of custom routing rules, distribution lists, and protocol translation internally, while presenting a simple interface to end devices. The intermediary absorbs the complexity rather than requiring it to be distributed across multiple devices, thus improving adaptability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The message management server is designed as a universal platform that can handle multiple communication protocols (Internet-based and non-Internet-based), various message types, and different routing scenarios through a single system component. This multi-functional design allows the system to adapt to diverse communication needs without requiring separate specialized devices for each function, thereby improving versatility while controlling complexity through consolidation.
2Productivity
If custom routing rules are implemented, then message distribution efficiency is improved, but system configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service configuration through automated distribution list management and rule-based routing. Once initial routing rules are established, the system automatically applies them to incoming messages without requiring manual intervention for each message or frequent reconfiguration. The server autonomously manages distribution lists, matches messages against routing rules, and routes messages accordingly, thereby maintaining high distribution efficiency while reducing ongoing configuration complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary configuration of distribution lists and routing rules that are established in advance and stored in the message management server. These pre-configured rules are then automatically applied to incoming messages, eliminating the need for real-time decision-making or complex runtime configuration. This preliminary action approach allows efficient message distribution through automated rule application while keeping configuration complexity manageable through upfront setup rather than ongoing complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If Internet-based message routing is added, then service integration capability is enhanced, but system reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The message management server incorporates error handling, retry logic, and fallback mechanisms that are built in advance to cushion against potential failures in Internet-based routing. If Internet-based message delivery fails, the system has pre-configured alternative routing paths or notification mechanisms to ensure message delivery. This beforehand cushioning allows the system to integrate Internet-based services with enhanced versatility while maintaining reliability through prepared contingency measures.
Data Source
AI summary
A hosted private branch exchange (PBX) system is provided that includes: non-transitory storage that includes subscriber identifying information that identifies a subscriber to a message routing service; non-transitory storage that includes distribution rules information associated with the identified subscriber; and a message management server configured to receive a message sent over the Internet to the identified subscriber and to send the message over the Internet to one or more devices according to the distribution rules associated with the identified subscriber.