Multi-Layer Signaling Across Multiple Control Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-layer communication networks face challenges in allowing calls to traverse multiple Signaling Control Networks (SCNs) between different layers, leading to issues with call setup and signaling path visibility between client layer Network Call Controllers (NCCs) on separate SCNs.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism is introduced to form associations between pairs of NCCs across different layers, enabling the client layer to discover and establish a signaling path by generating an ordered list of network call controllers that can communicate across multiple SCNs, allowing calls to be completed even when resources are not available within the client layer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate SCNs are used for each layer and domain, then network autonomy and independence are maintained, but signaling path visibility and call setup capability are lost between NCCs on different SCNs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where NCCs on boundary SCNs act as mediators to establish signaling paths between NCCs on different SCNs. The intermediary NCC receives signaling requests, determines the target SCN, forwards the request through appropriate gateways, and establishes the connection without requiring direct visibility between all NCCs. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining SCN independence while enabling cross-SCN communication through controlled intermediary points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal signaling framework where NCCs can operate within their own SCNs while also functioning as gateway points for inter-SCN communication. The same NCC structure serves multiple functions: local call control, inter-SCN signaling initiation, and path determination. This multi-functionality allows network autonomy to be preserved while enabling broader signaling visibility across SCN boundaries.
2Device complexity
If multiple SCNs are deployed within a single layer, then network segmentation and autonomy are achieved, but call setup between NCCs on separate SCNs becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs intermediary NCCs positioned at SCN boundaries that facilitate call setup between separate SCNs. When a call needs to traverse multiple SCNs, the intermediary NCC acts as a relay point, receiving the call setup request from one SCN, determining the appropriate path through gateway SCNs, and establishing the connection in the target SCN. This maintains network segmentation while restoring call setup capability across SCN boundaries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the signaling path into discrete hops between SCNs, with each SCN maintaining its independence while being connected through standardized gateway interfaces. The call setup process is segmented into independent stages: local NCC processing within source SCN, inter-SCN gateway transmission, and target NCC processing within destination SCN. This segmented approach preserves network segmentation benefits while enabling cross-SCN call setup through standardized interconnection points.
3Productivity
If client layer NCCs are placed on separate SCNs, then network distribution and scalability are improved, but signaling path discovery and call completion fail
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where intermediary NCCs receive signaling requests, query their knowledge bases about target SCN locations and gateway paths, and use this feedback information to determine the appropriate forwarding path. The system continuously learns and updates signaling path information based on successful call setups, improving reliability as the network scales. This feedback-driven approach enables distributed NCC placement while maintaining call completion capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Intermediary NCCs serve as reliable mediators that coordinate call completion between distributed client layer NCCs on separate SCNs. The intermediary receives the signaling request, uses feedback from its knowledge base about network topology and gateway locations, and orchestrates the multi-SCN signaling path establishment. This intermediary coordination ensures reliable call completion even as the network distributes NCCs across multiple SCNs for scalability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If inter-layer signaling is implemented, then multi-layer call control is enabled, but additional signaling overhead and SCN complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments inter-layer signaling into distinct, standardized interfaces between layers. Each layer maintains its own SCN with simplified signaling protocols, while inter-layer communication occurs through defined gateway interfaces that translate between different layer signaling formats. This segmentation prevents signaling complexity from propagating across all layers, enabling multi-layer call control while containing SCN complexity within manageable boundaries at each layer and gateway interface.
Data Source
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AI summary
An aspect of the present invention provides a method of establishing call controller communication in a multi-layer transport network where a plurality of signaling communications networks may exist within each layer. An interlayer call controller association is enhanced to provide associations of multiple client call controllers to a single server layer call controller. A method of collecting sets of associations related to a single server layer call is provided so that a sequence of client call controllers may be constituted. The plurality of signaling communications networks is then used to pass control information between call controllers in that sequence.