IMS Unallocated Identity Routing via Application Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) networks face challenges in handling SIP requests addressed to unallocated user identities, leading to simple '404 Not Found' responses, which prevent more intelligent service logic execution, such as forwarding requests to other operators or providing search services.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a mechanism within the IMS to determine if a SIP destination identity is unallocated by comparing it against unallocated identity data, and if so, routing the message to appropriate SIP application servers with specific service logic, allowing for more flexible handling of unallocated identities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the IMS network uses simple '404 Not Found' response for unallocated identities, then the network operation is simple and fast, but the service functionality is limited and cannot provide intelligent handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an Application Server as an intermediary component between the CSCF and unallocated identities. This server receives SIP requests for unallocated identities, performs intelligent processing (forwarding, search services, correction services), and returns appropriate responses. This mediator enables complex service functionality while maintaining the simplicity of the core IMS network operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the IMS network routes all SIP requests through application servers for unallocated identities, then intelligent service logic can be executed, but the network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the Application Server automatically detects when a SIP request targets an unallocated identity and independently handles the request using predefined service logic (forwarding, search, correction). This self-service approach enables intelligent handling without requiring complex centralized control or manual intervention, thus limiting the increase in network complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the IMS network implements comprehensive service logic for unallocated identities, then user experience is improved, but the processing time and system resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by implementing service logic only for unallocated identities, not for all SIP requests. The Application Server selectively processes requests based on whether the identity is allocated or unallocated, applying intelligent handling only where needed. This partial application of service logic improves user experience for unallocated identities while minimizing additional processing time and resource consumption for the overall network.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of handling SIP requests received by an IP Multimedia Subsystem network. The method comprises determining whether or not the SIP destination identity is within a range of identities owned by an operator of the network but is currently unallocated to a subscriber or service of the network and, if yes, routing the message to one or more SIP application servers within the network and implementing service logic at the application server(s) specific to a network owned but unallocated SIP identity.