Network Node Charging Data Segmentation for Roaming Transparency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of mobile devices face challenges in understanding the different connection types and pricing for communication services, especially when roaming abroad, due to the complexity of various connection types and unclear pricing information.
Innovation Solution
A method and network node that combine information from separate entities to provide users with detailed charging data for available communication types, allowing users to make informed decisions by determining and transmitting relevant communication type information based on set criteria.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple communication connection types are provided to users, then service versatility and connectivity options are improved, but user understanding and perception of pricing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments charging information by communication type (circuit-switched, packet-switched, Wi-Fi) and presents them as separate, organized options to users. Each communication type has its own charging record with distinct pricing details, making the information manageable and comprehensible rather than overwhelming.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system (network node, application server, or user equipment) that automatically generates, retrieves, and presents charging information in a user-friendly format. This intermediary processes complex network charging data and transforms it into clear, standardized records that users can easily understand.
2Loss of information
If detailed charging information for each communication type is provided, then user awareness and transparency are improved, but system complexity and information processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal charging information structure that works across multiple communication types and network configurations. The standardized data record format can accommodate circuit-switched, packet-switched, and Wi-Fi connections uniformly, simplifying the processing system while maintaining comprehensive information transparency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter organization by grouping charging information according to communication type rather than by network element or time period. This reorganization transforms complex multi-dimensional charging data into a structured format that is easier to process and present, reducing system complexity while maintaining information completeness.
3Loss of information
If roaming charging information is made transparent, then user perception of costs is improved, but the complexity of understanding foreign network pricing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments roaming charging information by separating home network charges from foreign network charges, and further segments them by communication type. This segmentation allows users to clearly distinguish between different charging sources and types, making roaming pricing understandable despite the complexity of international network arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an intermediary system that automatically retrieves charging information from multiple foreign network elements and home network elements, consolidates them, and presents them in a unified, standardized format. This intermediary eliminates the need for users to directly navigate complex international charging systems.
Data Source
Figure 1~3B
Figure 2
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for providing information on at least one communication type for a communication service to a user terminal (110) wherein a request of a communication service with a subscriber information is received (210); a first inquiry to an application server (140) is generated (220); a second inquiry to a register (150) is generated (230); at least one communication type meeting criterion is determined (240); a data record for providing information on the determined at least one communication type is generated (250) and transmitted (260) to the user terminal (110) requesting the communication service. The invention also relates to a network node (130) implementing the method and a computer program product.