Online Charging System Service Indicator Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Policy and Charging Control (PCC) architectures in communication networks primarily select charging rules based on subscriber-related data, lacking flexibility in charging methods for different data services, which restricts the ability to dynamically adjust charging for varying services during a data session.
Innovation Solution
The Online Charging System (OCS) selects charging methods based on service indicators, allowing for dynamic switching between online and offline charging for different data services, such as VoIP calls and online gaming, by associating service indicators with tariff plans and updating charging rules accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If charging rules are selected based on subscriber-related data only, then charging control is simplified and consistent, but flexibility to apply different charging methods for different data services is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The charging control system segments the charging rule selection process into multiple independent components: service indicator identification, tariff plan matching, and charging method determination. This allows different data services to be charged differently while maintaining a structured, manageable framework that doesn't overly complicate the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects charging methods based on service indicators rather than using a static, subscriber-only approach. The Online Charging System (OCS) can adaptively choose between online charging, offline charging, or other methods depending on the specific data service being accessed, enabling real-time flexibility in charging control.
2Productivity
If a single charging method is used for all data services, then system operation is simplified, but the ability to dynamically adjust charging for varying services is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
Different charging methods are applied to different data services based on their specific characteristics. For example, real-time services like VoIP may use online charging for immediate billing, while batch services like online gaming may use offline charging for periodic settlement. This localized approach optimizes charging efficiency for each service type while maintaining manageable system operation through standardized processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the charging method parameter dynamically based on service indicators. The OCS monitors service types and adjusts the charging approach accordingly, switching between online charging (real-time credit control), offline charging (batch processing), or other methods to optimize productivity for each specific data service scenario.
3Adaptability or versatility
If charging is based solely on subscriber ID, then account management is straightforward, but the ability to charge different services to different accounts is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system adds a new dimension to charging control by introducing service indicators as an additional layer beyond subscriber ID. This creates a two-dimensional charging framework where both subscriber identity and service type determine the charging method and target account, enabling multi-account charging while preserving service-specific information through the service indicator parameter.
Solution Approach 2:
Service indicators act as intermediaries between the subscriber and the charging system. These indicators carry service-specific information that enables the OCS to determine appropriate charging methods and select the correct target account, thereby preserving service-specific charging information while maintaining straightforward account management through the intermediary service indicator layer.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for performing Policy and Charging Control (PCC) for packet core networks. One embodiment comprises a PCC architecture that includes an online charging system (OCS). The OCS receives a request for charging rules for an initial data service from a PCRF. The request from the PCRF includes a service indicator for the initial data service. The OCS selects a charging method for the initial data service based on the service indicator, and transmits a response to the PCRF that includes the selected charging method. The PCRF may then make a PCC decision based on the charging method selected by the OCS, and a PCEF may enforce PCC rules for the initial data service. If there is a service changing during a data session, the OCS selects a charging method for the new data service, and the PCRF updates the PCC rules accordingly.