Location Application Server for Emergency Location in Multimedia Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication networks lack an efficient method to obtain wireless end-user location information within multimedia networks for emergency services, especially in integrated wireless and terrestrial networks.
Innovation Solution
A multimedia network architecture is defined, incorporating a Location Application Server (LAS) and a Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) with an M1 interface, enabling the acquisition of end-user location information at session initiation or after initiation through the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) and H.323 protocols, facilitating communication between User Equipment (UE), Proxy-CSCF, Server-CSCF, and Emergency Centers (EC).
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a multimedia network architecture is implemented to integrate wireless and terrestrial networks, then network functionality and service capability are improved, but the complexity of obtaining location information for emergency services increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Location Application Server (LAS) as an intermediary component that mediates between the emergency service request and the location determination system. The LAS receives emergency requests from the multimedia network, extracts subscriber identifiers, queries the GMLC for location information, and returns the location data to the emergency service. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall system by centralizing the location acquisition logic and providing a standardized interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the location information acquisition process into distinct functional segments: (1) emergency request reception by the multimedia network, (2) subscriber identifier extraction by the LAS, (3) location query to the GMLC, and (4) location information delivery to the emergency service. This segmentation allows each component to focus on its specific function, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining integration across wireless and terrestrial networks.
2Loss of time
If location information is obtained at session initiation through SIP protocol, then emergency response time is improved, but the signaling overhead and network load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by obtaining the subscriber's location information at session initiation, before the emergency service is actually needed. The LAS queries the GMLC for location data during the SIP session setup phase, so that when an emergency occurs, the location information is already available and can be immediately provided to the emergency service, eliminating delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by having the LAS receive location information from the GMLC and then provide this information back to the emergency service through the SIP protocol. The location data is fed back into the emergency service workflow, enabling rapid response. This feedback mechanism ensures that the location information obtained during session initiation is effectively utilized when needed.
3Ease of operation
If a standardized interface (M1 interface) is defined between LAS and GMLC, then interoperability and ease of operation are improved, but the device complexity and implementation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent defines the M1 interface as a universal, standardized communication interface between the LAS and the GMLC that can handle various types of location queries and responses. This single standardized interface design allows different vendors' equipment to interoperate seamlessly, as long as they implement the M1 interface specifications. The interface supports multiple functions including location information request, response, and updates, reducing the need for multiple specialized interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a method and apparatus for obtaining end-user location information for emergency services within a multimedia network is presented. The multimedia network may include a network implementing the Session Initiation Protocol, H.323, etc. In one embodiment, a Location Application Server (LAS) in the multimedia network and an interface between the LAS and a gateway mobile location center (GMLC) is defined.