Location-Aware Call Routing in Virtual PBX Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional virtual PBX systems are not well-suited for routing and controlling calls based on the geographic location of mobile devices, as they are unaware of the geographical location of extensions connected to the network.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a positioning system, such as GPS, into mobile devices to determine their location, and an availability status manager within the virtual PBX system that uses these location data to route calls according to predefined rules, allowing for location-aware call management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional vPBX system is used, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot route calls based on geographic location of mobile devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a location service component as an intermediary between the mobile device and the vPBX system. This mediator provides location awareness to the PBX without requiring fundamental architectural changes, allowing call routing based on geographic location while maintaining relative system simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The vPBX system is enhanced to perform multiple functions: traditional call routing plus location-based routing. The system integrates location service, availability status management, and call routing in a unified architecture, allowing a single system to handle both conventional and location-aware call management
2Measurement precision
If location data is collected from mobile devices, then call routing accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device performs self-determination of its location using integrated positioning systems (GPS, cellular triangulation). The device autonomously provides location data to the vPBX without requiring external location services or complex infrastructure, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining location accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures availability status categories (e.g., available, unavailable, mobile, landline) before call routing is needed. When location data is received, the system quickly matches the location to pre-defined status categories and applies corresponding routing rules, avoiding complex real-time decision-making
3Ease of operation
If calls are routed based on availability status, then user accessibility is improved, but call management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The call routing system dynamically adjusts based on real-time location data and availability status. The system can flexibly route calls to different destinations (mobile device, alternative mobile device, or landline) depending on the current status, providing adaptive call management that improves user accessibility without requiring complex manual configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors location data and availability status, using this feedback to automatically adjust call routing decisions. This closed-loop approach ensures calls are consistently routed to the most appropriate destination based on current conditions, simplifying operator tasks while maintaining high user accessibility
Data Source
AI summary
A positioning system (e.g., GPS) integrated in, or coupled to, a mobile device determines the position of the mobile device. An availability status manager (ASM) in a vPBX acquires the position of the mobile device. The ASM can contain rules on how to route or otherwise control incoming phone calls based on availability status of one or more mobile devices in the vPBX network. When a call is received by the vPBX, the ASM determines the availability status of the receiving mobile device based on the geographic location of the receiving mobile device. The ASM then routes the call to the receiving mobile device, to another mobile device, or to a landline based on the availability status of the receiving mobile device and the availability status based rules.