Packet-Switched Call Mediation via In-Memory Partial Records
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing billing technologies for packet switched networks face challenges in constructing accurate Call Data Records (CDRs) due to the complexity and fragmentation of data from new-generation communication services, such as 2.5G, 3G, 4G, and VoIP, which are not adequately addressed by traditional circuit switched network billing solutions.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that analyzes data records from network elements and initializes partial records in an in-memory database to construct CDRs, allowing for real-time processing and updating of multiple partial records based on a single data record, enabling accurate billing for complex calls and resource usage monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional circuit switched network billing technologies are used for packet switched networks, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but billing accuracy and reliability deteriorate due to architectural differences and data fragmentation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the CDR construction process into multiple parallel partial records, each handling specific event types (e.g., call setup, teardown, intermediate events). This segmentation allows the system to process fragmented packet-switched network data more reliably by organizing it into structured, manageable units that can be independently validated and correlated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mediation layer with correlation engines that act as intermediaries between packet-switched network elements and billing systems. This mediator correlates fragmented events from multiple network elements, reconstructs complete call flows, and generates accurate CDRs, thereby improving billing reliability without requiring changes to the underlying network infrastructure.
2Loss of time
If real-time mediation is implemented for new-generation services, then billing timeliness and accuracy improve, but processing speed and resource efficiency worsen due to huge amounts of fragmented information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-defining correlation rules, event templates, and CDR structures before processing begins. The mediation system pre-configures partial records for expected event types and establishes correlation logic in advance, enabling rapid real-time processing of fragmented data without requiring complex runtime decision-making, thus maintaining both timeliness and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting processing priorities, thresholds, and aggregation levels based on service types and network conditions. For high-volume services like group calls or gaming sessions, the system automatically adjusts correlation depth and CDR granularity, optimizing processing efficiency while maintaining billing accuracy for different service scenarios.
3Loss of information
If comprehensive event correlation is performed for all network elements, then CDR completeness improves, but system complexity and computational resources worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing selective correlation strategies that apply different processing depths to different network elements and event types. Critical events (call setup/teardown) receive comprehensive correlation, while less critical events use simplified processing. This ensures CDR completeness for essential billing information while reducing overall system complexity through differentiated processing quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses partial action by implementing optional correlation levels and selective event filtering. The system processes only the minimum necessary events required for accurate billing, using heuristics to identify and skip redundant or low-value correlation operations. This maintains CDR completeness for billing-critical information while avoiding excessive processing of unnecessary data.
Data Source
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AI summary
In the field of mediating packet-switched calls, the invention provides a method, system and computer program product for constructing CDRs relating to a packet-switched call on the basis of data received from network elements participating in the call. According to the invention, at least part of the information content of each of the received data records is analyzed, and responsive thereto are performed the steps of initializing or updating a plurality of simultaneously existing partial records in an in-memory database. A single data record may trigger updating at least two different partial records responsive to the content of a single data record. The CDRs are constructed on the basis of the partial records.