Roaming Platform Translating SIP to MAP for Dual-Mode Handsets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile communication systems face challenges in seamless roaming for voice and SMS services across different networks, leading to increased roaming charges and user inconvenience, as well as limitations in authenticating and billing dual-mode devices.
Innovation Solution
A platform that enables dual-mode mobile stations to use SIP-based technology for voice and SMS communications, incorporating an IP-VLR, SIP Server, AAA Server, Billing Server, and Trunk Gateway, which translates registration messages between SIP and MAP protocols, authenticates devices, and manages call and SMS services across GSM and IP domains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mobile phones use roaming services outside their registered network, then users can maintain communication coverage, but roaming charges increase and user convenience decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a roaming service platform as an intermediary system that includes a roaming server, authentication server, and billing server. This platform mediates between the mobile phone and visited networks, enabling seamless authentication and billing while maintaining communication coverage and user convenience during roaming
2Loss of energy
If mobile operators charge roaming fees, then revenue is generated, but user convenience decreases and roaming usage reduces
Solution Approach 1:
The roaming service platform acts as an intermediary that automates the billing process through integration with operator billing systems. This allows operators to continue receiving roaming revenues while users experience seamless service without manual intervention or reduced convenience
3Adaptability or versatility
If dual-mode devices roam between fixed and mobile networks, then service flexibility increases, but authentication and billing capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal authentication mechanism that works across both fixed and mobile networks. The roaming server and authentication server provide multi-functional support for authenticating dual-mode devices regardless of whether they are connected via WiFi or cellular networks, maintaining reliability while enabling service flexibility
4Adaptability or versatility
If protocol translation is implemented between SIP and MAP, then interoperability between IP and GSM networks is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The roaming server serves as an intermediary that handles protocol translation between SIP (used by dual-mode devices) and MAP (used by traditional GSM networks). This centralized approach enables network interoperability while containing system complexity within the roaming platform rather than distributing it across multiple network elements
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to systems for and methods of using dual mode handsets or softphone client for voice, sms, and data services. In one embodiment of the present invention, a mobile handset uses a SIP User Agent to register on a visiting network. The mobile handset generates SIP REGISTER messages. The SIP REGISTER messages are translated into corresponding MAP registration (or RADIUS message) and authentication commands, allowing system to contact the HPLMN HLR (or home AAA) associated with the mobile device to authenticate the mobile device and register it on a VLR of a visiting network. MAP responses (or RADIUS response) are translated to corresponding SIP commands that are forwarded to the mobile device, thereby completing the connection set up.