Network-Initiated Auto Redial with User-Defined Retry Intervals

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current telephone call redialing systems lack the ability for users to set a redial interval and duration, leading to inefficient attempts and potential miscommunication when the calling party is unavailable, as existing solutions do not allow for user-defined retry settings and fail to inform the called party of the call's purpose.

Innovation Solution

A method for network-initiated auto redialing that allows users to select a retry duration and interval, reattempting calls until successful or until the set duration expires, and informs the called party of the call's purpose if the calling party is unavailable, using subscriber databases or user input for settings and message delivery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If network-based redial systems are used without user-defined settings, then automatic redialing can be implemented, but the calling party cannot control the redial duration or interval leading to inefficient attempts

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic redialingVSAvoiduser-defined redial control

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system allows dynamic configuration of redial parameters (duration and interval) based on user selection. The network element can adjust the redial behavior according to the calling party's preferences, transforming a static automated system into a dynamic one that adapts to different usage scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention enables changing the parameters of redialing operations by allowing users to select from multiple redial duration and interval options. The network element modifies these parameters before executing the redialing sequence, enabling flexible control over the automated process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If continuous redialing attempts are made without interruption, then the calling party can reach the called party, but the calling party cannot perform other tasks during the redialing process

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecall completionVSAvoiduser activity freedom

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of continuous redialing, the system implements periodic redialing at user-defined intervals. This allows the calling party to engage in other activities during the redialing process while still maintaining the ability to reach the called party through scheduled attempts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by establishing redialing attempts before the calling party needs to perform other tasks. The network element can initiate redialing sequences in advance or schedule them according to user preferences, allowing the calling party to focus on other activities without compromising call completion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If the calling party is unavailable when the network establishes a connection to the called party, then the call can be completed, but the called party hears only silence and may perceive it as a prank or harassing call

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecall establishmentVSAvoidcall purpose communication

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The network element provides feedback to the called party by delivering a notification message that explains the situation. This feedback mechanism informs the called party that the calling party is temporarily unavailable, preventing misinterpretation of the call as a prank or harassment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The network element acts as an intermediary between the calling and called parties. It facilitates communication by delivering explanatory messages to the called party, mediating the situation where the calling party is unavailable and preventing direct miscommunication.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Ease of operation

If the redial button is used on user equipment, then the last number dialed can be automatically redialed, but the calling party must interrupt other activities to check availability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic redialingVSAvoidtime for other tasks

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces the mechanical redial button on user equipment with a network-based automated redialing system. The network element handles the redialing process without requiring direct user intervention, eliminating the need for the calling party to interrupt other activities to check availability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS7319861B2Network initiated auto-redial

Publication Date: 2008.01.15 LUCENT TECH INC

AI summary

Network initiated auto redialing is based on an auto redial duration selected or entered by a calling party. An auto redial interval or retry rate may also be selected or entered by the calling party. If the calling party is unavailable when a connection is established with a called party, a message is played or sent to the called party explaining that the call is an auto redial call. The message may explain that the calling party is now unavailable. Additionally, the message may include identifying information regarding the calling party. For example, the message may include a directory number of the calling party.