Media Gateway Emulation for Converged Network Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and cost of deploying realistic test environments for evaluating network components and functions in modern telecommunication systems, especially with converged wireless, wireline, and packet networks, make realistic testing of end-to-end calls impractical and prohibitively expensive due to the need for multiple network components from various vendors.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism using a single media gateway and a gateway controller, in conjunction with a network emulator, to emulate converged networks, allowing for cost-effective and logistically feasible testing of calls and network performance by simulating bearer connections and call behaviors, thereby reducing the need for dedicated hardware and software.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple network components from various vendors are deployed to create a realistic test environment for evaluating network entities, then the realism and comprehensiveness of network testing is improved, but the cost and complexity of the test environment becomes prohibitively expensive and impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a network emulator to create virtual copies of multiple network components and their interactions. Instead of deploying actual physical network entities from various vendors, the system simulates their behavior and characteristics through software-based emulations, allowing realistic testing without the cost and complexity of physical deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The network emulator serves multiple functions simultaneously: it emulates various network entities, simulates different network protocols, creates virtual test environments, and manages test call routing all within a single unified platform. This multi-functionality replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate physical components and systems
2Measurement precision
If multiple network components are acquired to realistically evaluate a particular network component or function, then the accuracy of evaluation is improved, but the cost becomes prohibitively costly
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates virtual representations of network components that accurately replicate their operational characteristics and behaviors. These emulated copies provide sufficient measurement precision for evaluating network components and functions without requiring acquisition of expensive physical hardware from multiple vendors
Solution Approach 2:
The network emulator acts as an intermediary between the test call and the actual network components being evaluated. It provides the necessary test environment and control mechanisms while eliminating the need to directly acquire and deploy multiple expensive physical network components
3Reliability
If a realistic test environment with multiple network entities is deployed, then the completeness of end-to-end call testing is improved, but the logistical feasibility and cost become impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple network entity emulations, protocol simulations, and test management functions into a single integrated network emulator platform. This merging provides complete end-to-end call testing capability while eliminating the logistical burden of deploying, configuring, and maintaining multiple separate physical network components from different vendors
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system, and computer-readable medium for emulating a converged network are provided. A media gateway receives a call at a first interface of a first network type. The call is processed for distribution on a second network type. The processed call is transmitted to a second interface of a second network type. A service module of the media gateway receives the processed call.