Network Authorization for Mobile Devices via Non-Traditional Entry Points

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Solution Overview

Problem

Wireless service providers face challenges in implementing subscription-based services for mobile devices accessing networks via non-traditional entry points, such as unlicensed IP networks, due to the transparent nature of IP solutions which can prohibit certain service implementations.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that authorizes mobile devices accessing a carrier's network through non-traditional entry points by determining the type of network used and initiating an authorization process to verify if the device is associated with a subscriber, allowing access via unlicensed networks like Wi-Fi or femtocells while maintaining system compatibility with traditional cellular networks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If IP-based wireless networks are integrated into mobile device telecommunication systems, then service versatility and network compatibility are improved, but implementation of subscription-based services for non-traditional entry points becomes problematic

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork access versatilityVSAvoidservice implementation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary authorization system that acts as a mediator between mobile devices accessing via non-traditional entry points (IP-based networks) and the core network. This intermediary component determines device eligibility and manages subscription-based services, resolving the contradiction by enabling versatile network access while maintaining manageable service implementation through a dedicated authorization layer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If transparent IP solutions are used for network access, then seamless service continuity is improved, but subscription service implementation for unlicensed networks is prohibited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice continuityVSAvoidservice implementation restrictions
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by implementing differentiated authorization policies for different network access types. The system maintains transparent IP-based access for seamless service continuity while applying specific subscription-based service restrictions only where appropriate, allowing flexible service implementation that respects both continuity requirements and subscription models.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of operation

If non-traditional entry points like Wi-Fi and femtocells are enabled, then wireless access flexibility is improved, but system compatibility with traditional cellular networks is challenged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewireless access flexibilityVSAvoidsystem compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements universality by designing a multi-functional authorization system that handles both traditional cellular network access and non-traditional IP-based access (Wi-Fi, femtocells) through a unified framework. This universal approach enables flexible wireless access while maintaining system compatibility by treating different access types through common authorization principles and interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8189548B2Authorizing access to telecommunications networks for mobile devices, such as mobile devices accessing networks via non-traditional entry points
Publication Date: 2012.05.29 T MOBILE US INC
  • US8189548B2 patent drawing
  • US8189548B2 patent drawing
  • US8189548B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for authorizing mobile devices to carrier networks via non-traditional entry points is described. In some examples, the system reviews a registration message sent during establishment of a communication session between the mobile device and the carrier's network to determine the type of access network used by the mobile device. In some cases, the system may identify the base station controller originating the registration message when determining whether the access request came from an IP-based network or other non-traditional entry point.