LRN Test Call Routing Verification for Switch Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

The integration of new switches into telephone networks requires accurate assignment and routing of Location Routing Numbers (LRNs) to ensure proper call routing, as incorrect routing information can lead to failed calls, especially when new switches are added or existing switches are modified.

Innovation Solution

A method for testing assigned LRNs involves generating LRN test telephone calls between switches to verify correct routing, where successful return of the call indicates correct routing and lack of return indicates incorrect routing, allowing for error identification and correction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If new switches are added to the network, then network capacity and functionality are improved, but routing accuracy deteriorates due to potential incorrect LRN assignment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork capacityVSAvoidrouting accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing LRN routing verification before actual network operation. The system automatically tests newly added switches by sending test calls to verify LRN routing correctness, preventing incorrect routing from propagating through the network. This proactive approach ensures routing accuracy is validated prior to full network integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of manufacture

If manual routing information updates are performed, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but error detection capability is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimplementation simplicityVSAvoiderror detection capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by automatically monitoring and verifying LRN routing after updates. The system sends test calls to newly added switches and receives feedback on whether routing is correct. This automated feedback loop detects routing errors that manual processes would miss, while maintaining implementation simplicity through automatic execution rather than complex manual procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If automated testing is implemented, then routing error detection is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverouting error detectionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling the network system to automatically test and verify its own routing configuration. The system uses existing network infrastructure and protocols to send test calls and evaluate routing correctness without requiring external testing equipment or complex additional systems. This self-testing capability improves detection precision while minimizing added complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS7643616B1Method for testing an assigned location routing number (LRN)
Publication Date: 2010.01.05 T MOBILE INNOVATIONS LLC
  • US7643616B1 patent drawing
  • US7643616B1 patent drawing
  • US7643616B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for testing an assigned Location Routing Number (LRN) that is assigned to a first switch is provided according to the invention. The method includes in the first switch generating a LRN test telephone call to a second switch. The LRN test telephone call is targeted to the LRN assigned to the first switch. The method further includes indicating that the LRN is being incorrectly routed in the second switch if the first switch does not receive the LRN test telephone call back from the second switch. The method further includes indicating that the LRN is being correctly routed in the second switch if the first switch receives the LRN test telephone call back from the second switch.