Peering Network Parameter-Based Routing for VoIP Emergency Calls
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is no simple, consistent system for routing VoIP telephone calls to an emergency services operator that serves the emergency services zone where the VoIP device is located, especially since VoIP devices can be moved and may not support emergency services numbers in their new location.
Innovation Solution
A peering network that routes special number calls, such as emergency services calls, based on parameters like the location of the VoIP device, using a gateway connected to a service provider network, a parameter server, and selective routers to ensure calls are directed to the correct emergency services zone, regardless of the communication technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If VoIP service providers allow customers to use emergency services numbers anywhere, then service flexibility and customer mobility are improved, but call routing accuracy and reliability deteriorate because the system cannot ensure calls reach the correct emergency services zone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a peering network as an intermediary layer between VoIP service providers and emergency services zones. This peering network receives calls from any VoIP provider, determines the appropriate emergency services zone based on caller location, and routes the call accordingly. This mediator resolves the contradiction by enabling universal access while maintaining accurate routing through centralized intelligence.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary location determination and routing decisions before the call is fully established. By pre-determining the appropriate emergency services zone based on the caller's location information, the system ensures accurate routing is established at the outset, preventing misrouting issues that would otherwise occur with mobile VoIP devices.
2Device complexity
If a simple routing system is implemented, then system complexity is reduced, but the ability to handle parameter-based routing across multiple networks and technologies deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the call routing function into distinct modular components: a peering network layer that handles inter-provider routing, location determination modules that identify caller position, and zone routing modules that direct calls to appropriate emergency services zones. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, maintaining simplicity while achieving complex parameter-based routing across multiple networks and technologies.
3Ease of operation
If VoIP devices can be moved freely, then user convenience is improved, but the assurance of reaching the correct emergency services operator deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms that continuously track and determine the current location of mobile VoIP devices. When a call is initiated, the system queries location information, uses this feedback to identify the appropriate emergency services zone, and routes the call accordingly. This real-time location feedback ensures that even as devices move freely, calls are consistently directed to the correct local emergency services operator.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method that routes special number calls from communications devices, including VoIP communications devices, to an answering point that is selected based on a parameter. A peering network effects parameter-based routing of calls to a pre-assigned answering point, wherein the voice path and the signaling paths are set up simultaneously. A gateway in the peering network is connected to the service provider switch and receives special number calls. The gateway queries a pre-provisioned parameter server that determines call routing information for the particular communications device. The gateway then selects another gateway, or, optionally, a selective router access provider network, based on the routing information and delivers the call thereto. The other gateway or selective router access provider network is connected to a router in the destination network and delivers the call and the call parameters to the router.