Hybrid Network Online Charging Volume Aggregation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing online charging systems are limited to single physical access technologies, making them ineffective for hybrid access networks that combine multiple access technologies like LTE and DSL, which require flexible data path management and accurate data volume tracking across different access methods.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that enable charging of packet-switched data transfer by using a central charging unit to sum data volumes from multiple paths with different access technologies, allowing for independent counting and management of each path's data volume, and implementing a mechanism to assign data blocks based on available bandwidth and usage patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single physical access technology is used for online charging, then the charging system is simple and standardized, but it cannot support hybrid access networks that combine multiple access technologies
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system is segmented into multiple independent charging units, each responsible for a specific access technology (e.g., DSL charging unit, LTE charging unit). Each unit independently tracks and charges data volume for its assigned access technology, allowing the system to support hybrid access networks while maintaining the simplicity and standardization of individual charging units.
2Measurement precision
If data volume is tracked separately for each access technology, then accurate charging is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides data volume tracking into separate counting units, with each unit dedicated to a specific access technology. This segmentation ensures accurate measurement for each technology while keeping individual tracking units simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple independent charging units are merged into a unified charging system through a common control mechanism. The control unit coordinates the segmented charging units, aggregating their individual data volume measurements to provide comprehensive charging for hybrid access networks while maintaining the simplicity of each component.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a centralized charging mechanism is implemented for hybrid networks, then flexible data path management is achieved, but the system becomes more complex to implement
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized charging mechanism is segmented into modular charging units, each handling a specific access technology. This modular approach allows flexible data path management across hybrid networks while simplifying implementation, as each module can be independently configured and deployed according to existing standards for its specific access technology.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for enabling a charging of packet switched data transfer between an authorized customer and a network. The method includes transferring a total data volume via at least a first data path and a second data path between an equipment related to the authorized customer and a hybrid access aggregation point (HAAP) as an access to the network. Each of the at least a first data path and a second data bath use a different access technology for transferring its respective part of the total data volume. The total data volume is determined as a sum of the respective parts of the total data volume transferred in both the first path and the second path. The total data volume is used by a central charging unit for a charging.