Least Cost Routing SIM Card for International Call Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
International mobile telephony costs remain high, and existing methods for reducing these costs often involve complex installations, lost time, and require bank accounts for international money transfers, limiting accessibility and convenience.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for least cost routing of mobile telephone calls between the US and international destinations using SIM cards with embedded applications that convert international calls to local calls, combined with an integrated money transfer service allowing fund transfers without bank accounts, using prepaid vouchers and multiple payment interfaces like IVR, SMS, or mobile apps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional international call routing is used, then call connectivity is achieved, but call costs remain exceedingly expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the international call into multiple local call legs by introducing intermediate landing points in both origin and destination countries. Each leg is routed through local networks rather than direct international trunks, transforming one expensive international call into several cheaper local calls that connect through controlled intermediary points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary systems including access layer hardware, call control application servers, and mobile apps that act as mediators between caller and callee. These intermediaries coordinate call setup, routing decisions, and connection management to enable cost-effective local routing while maintaining international connectivity.
2Ease of manufacture
If access layer hardware is installed to reduce call costs, then call costs decrease, but device complexity and installation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The access layer hardware is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a local landing point for international calls, provides call control capabilities, and interfaces with mobile applications. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated hardware for each function, simplifying overall system complexity despite the added capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables users to self-configure and activate cost-saving call routing through mobile applications that automatically detect available access points and configure routing parameters. This self-service approach reduces the need for complex manual installation and configuration by technical personnel.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing money transfer services are used, then international fund transfer is achieved, but bank account requirements limit accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the telecommunications infrastructure with financial service delivery by integrating money transfer capabilities into the existing call routing system. This combination allows fund transfers to occur through the same access layer hardware and mobile applications used for calls, eliminating the need for separate banking infrastructure and increasing accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces intermediary financial accounts and processing mechanisms that operate through the existing telecom infrastructure. These intermediaries enable fund transfers without requiring traditional bank accounts, as the system itself provides the financial intermediary layer that bridges sender and receiver.
4Ease of manufacture
If SIM card applications are used for call routing, then call cost reduction is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements call control logic and routing intelligence in software form within SIM cards and mobile applications, rather than requiring complex hardware modifications. This software-based approach allows the system to replicate and distribute call control capabilities across multiple user devices, reducing individual device complexity while maintaining overall system functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for least cost routing for mobile telephone calls between the United States and Mexico in such a way so that the call is separated into several call legs and the international portion or call leg is routed via a low-cost or no-cost route independently of the local call legs, essentially achieving an international call with local call rates. This uses a SIM card that automatically identifies any incoming or outgoing call and provides the ability to convert the call from an expensive international and/or roaming call to a local (free) call. Several slight variations are disclosed, and all embodiments have an integrated money transfer service that can be used with a very simple low-cost basic mobile phone using IVR, SMS and voice recognition, or can be accessed via the web or via a smartphone app.