IMS Call Management Server Reducing Roaming Charges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current call management solutions in IMS networks are limited, particularly in roaming scenarios, as they either require device-based applications that maintain connections, leading to roaming charges and delayed responses, or rely on call-forwarding that is slow and configuration-dependent, lacking per-call management capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A network-based call management system that integrates a server and device client using IMS architecture, allowing users to manage incoming calls by deciding actions such as rejecting, forwarding, or playing announcements without prior device configuration, using HTTP or web service interfaces to communicate user decisions and release calls accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If device-based solutions are used to manage incoming calls, then users can control call handling options, but the device must maintain connection to the caller which causes roaming charges and delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a call management server as an intermediary between the calling device and the called device. The server receives call notifications, presents handling options to the called user, and executes actions without requiring the called device to maintain an active connection to the caller. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by enabling user control while eliminating connection maintenance requirements that cause roaming charges and delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical connection-based call handling mechanism with a notification-based system. Instead of maintaining an active call connection for interaction, the system uses asynchronous notifications to convey call information and options to the called user, who then makes decisions through a user interface. This substitution eliminates the need for continuous connection while preserving user control capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If call-forwarding solutions are used, then calls can be forwarded to third-party services, but response times are slower and configuration is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring call management options and rules on the call management server. When a call arrives, the server already has the necessary handling logic ready and can execute it immediately without requiring real-time configuration or slow forwarding processes. This allows flexible call handling while minimizing response time through pre-prepared action templates.
3Extent of automation
If pre-defined call management configuration is used, then network operators can control call handling, but all calls are treated uniformly without per-call customization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamics by allowing call management behavior to change based on specific call characteristics, calling party identity, and user preferences. Instead of static pre-defined configurations, the system dynamically selects and executes appropriate handling actions based on real-time call context. This enables both automation through server-based control and adaptability through context-aware decision making.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and system for managing calls in an IMS network (11), comprising a server (10) and a device client communicated through an IP interface (18) used for notifying, from the device client to the server (10), a decision selected by a user (16) for managing an incoming call in a destination device (22) where the device client runs. The server (10) is where the network logic resides, interfacing with the IMS network (11) via ISC interface (12) and with the device client via a Web Service or HTTP interface. The device client is where the user's decision logic resides as it comprises a user interface that provides the user (16) with a set of available decisions for managing the incoming calls. The server (10), once notified on the decision selected by the user (16), releases the destination device (22) from the call and takes an action based on said decision.