Mid-call Hand-off in Telecommunication Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional call forwarding services in telecommunications networks do not allow for the mid-call hand-off of ongoing calls from one end user terminal to another, leading to inconvenient disruptions when users need to switch due to issues like weak signals or better sound quality.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for mid-call hand-off in telecommunications networks, which involves connecting a first call, receiving a second call, determining its origin, and selectively bridging the second party to the second call if the origin is from a designated alternate terminal, allowing seamless transfer without interrupting the ongoing call.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional call forwarding is used, then future calls can be routed to alternate DNs, but calls currently in progress cannot be forwarded
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts call routing based on real-time conditions. When a call is in progress and the user subscribes to mid-call hand-off, the system can dynamically switch the call from one EUT to another based on current network conditions and user preferences, transforming a static routing system into a dynamic one that responds to changing circumstances during active calls.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service mid-call hand-off by allowing the called party to automatically initiate hand-off procedures without requiring explicit notification to the calling party. The system monitors call status and network conditions, automatically determining when and how to transfer calls between EUTs based on pre-configured user preferences and real-time conditions.
2Ease of operation
If users manually hang-up and re-establish calls to switch EUTs, then call transfer is achieved, but communication continuity is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring user preferences and alternate EUT information before calls occur. When mid-call hand-off is needed, the system has already prepared routing information and network pathways, allowing it to execute seamless transfers without requiring manual intervention or causing communication interruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuity of useful action by keeping the call active and connected throughout the hand-off process. Instead of terminating and re-establishing the call, the system continuously maintains the communication pathway while gradually transitioning the call from one EUT to another, ensuring uninterrupted speech and data flow during the transfer process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If call forwarding is activated in advance, then future calls are routed correctly, but current calls cannot be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The system extends call routing flexibility from static pre-configuration to dynamic real-time control. By monitoring active calls and network conditions, the system can adapt routing decisions during calls in progress, allowing users to switch EUTs mid-call based on current circumstances rather than being locked into pre-configured paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor call status, network conditions, and user preferences during active calls. This real-time feedback enables the system to adjust routing decisions dynamically, improving call handling efficiency by responding to changing conditions rather than relying solely on pre-activated forwarding rules.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of supporting a mid-call hand-off feature (22) is provided in a telecommunications network (40). The method includes: connecting a first call through a first switching facility (20) of the telecommunications network (40), the first call being connected between a first party served by the first switching facility (20) and a second party; receiving a second call at the first switching facility (20) for the first party while the first party is still connected to the first call; determining where the second call originated from; and, selectively connecting the second party to the second call in response to the determined origin of the second call.