Mobile Web Service Registration via Phone Number Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing web service registration mechanisms in mobile peer-to-peer networks are complex and inefficient, particularly when multiple web services are hosted on a mobile node and multiple users want to access the same service, due to limitations in conventional IMS/SIP registration methods.
Innovation Solution
A method that combines a web service identifier with a unique circuit-switched identifier, such as a phone number, to create a new unique identifier for registering web services, allowing direct access and user-friendly discovery in packet-switched networks, using a registration unit that handles location information for IP addresses or intermediate devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional IMS/SIP registration methods are used, then peer-to-peer connections can be established, but the registration mechanism becomes complex and inefficient when multiple web services are hosted on mobile nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the identification system by introducing distinct identifier types: permanent identifiers (phone numbers) for mobile nodes and temporary identifiers (IP addresses) for web service instances. This segmentation allows multiple web services to be registered under the same mobile node without complexity, as each service gets its own temporary identifier while sharing the permanent node identifier.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mediator component (the web service registration system) that manages the mapping between permanent mobile node identifiers and temporary web service identifiers. This mediator handles the complexity of multiple services and users, allowing simple registration by combining the user's phone number with a service-specific temporary identifier.
2Ease of operation
If full IP connectivity is implemented in mobile networks, then direct peer-to-peer communication is enabled, but security and payment considerations make it infeasible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the existing IMS/SIP infrastructure as an intermediary layer that enables peer-to-peer communication without requiring full IP connectivity. The mediator manages session establishment and resource allocation, providing security and billing control while allowing direct communication between mobile nodes when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the communication system universal by supporting multiple access modes: direct peer-to-peer IP communication when available, and intermediary-based communication through IMS/SIP when IP connectivity is not feasible. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to different network conditions and security requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If overlay networks like IMS are introduced, then peer-to-peer connections can be achieved, but web service registration and discovery becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the web service registration system with the existing IMS/SIP registration mechanism. By combining the permanent identifier (phone number) used in circuit-switched networks with temporary identifiers, the system reuses established IMS/SIP infrastructure for both voice and web service registration, eliminating the need for separate complex discovery mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having web services register with complex IP addresses and ports, the patent inverts the approach by having services registered through simple permanent identifiers (phone numbers) that users already know. The system then resolves these simple identifiers to the actual network locations, simplifying the registration and discovery process.
4Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic IP addresses are used for mobile nodes, then network flexibility is improved, but web service discovery and access becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments identifiers into permanent (phone numbers) and temporary (IP addresses) components. The permanent identifier remains constant for easy discovery and access, while the temporary identifier changes with network conditions to maintain flexibility. This segmentation allows users to access services using stable phone numbers even when IP addresses change dynamically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the registration system continuously updates the mapping between permanent identifiers and temporary IP addresses. When a mobile node's IP address changes, the system automatically updates the registration information, ensuring that services remain accessible through the original permanent identifier without user intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for web service handling in peer-to-peer communication is provided. A web service (412-1) associated with a web service identity e.g. a URI is arranged in a first mobile node (410). Unique identification information is formed by combining the web service identity with a unique circuit switched identifier of the mobile node, such as the E.164 number. The unique identification information is transmitted to a registration unit (440) and registered together with location information that enables for other mobile nodes (420) to find the web service. The location information may for example comprise the current IP address of the first mobile node and the port number for the web service at this node, or relate to an intermediate device used to reach the web service at the first mobile node.