Session Border Controller Protocol Translation for MWI Interoperability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current message waiting indicator (MWI) systems in VOIP networks are limited by their ability to handle either SIP or H.323 messages but not both, leading to interoperability issues across different protocols, which hampers the integration of existing and new IP infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a non-call-based MWI approach that uses a Session Border Controller to translate MWI messages between H.323 and SIP protocols, eliminating the need for call establishment and reducing overhead, thereby enabling seamless inter-working between H.323 and SIP networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If MWI servers are equipped to handle only one protocol (SIP or H.323), then the server can be simpler and more specialized, but interoperability between different protocols is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Session Border Controller (SBC) as an intermediary component that translates MWI messages between H.323 and SIP protocols. The SBC receives MWI messages from either protocol, translates them to the appropriate protocol format, and forwards them to the destination. This mediator approach allows the MWI server to maintain specialization while achieving multi-protocol interoperability through the translation layer.
2Loss of energy
If traditional call-based MWI handling is used in H.323 networks, then protocol compatibility is maintained, but system bandwidth is wasted and zero-duration signaling calls are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of MWI transmission from call-based to message-based. Instead of establishing actual voice calls to convey MWI status, the system transmits MWI information as standalone messages through the SBC. This parameter change eliminates the creation of zero-duration calls, reduces bandwidth consumption, and removes the need for call setup/teardown procedures while maintaining protocol compatibility through proper message formatting.
3Productivity
If H.323 and SIP networks operate independently without inter-working, then each network can be optimized for its specific protocol, but integration between existing and new IP infrastructure is hampered
Solution Approach 1:
The Session Border Controller is designed with multi-functionality to handle both H.323 and SIP protocols simultaneously. It can receive, translate, and forward MWI messages in either protocol format, making it a universal gateway that enables integration between H.323 and SIP networks. This universal approach allows existing H.323 infrastructure to inter-work with newer SIP-based systems without requiring separate specialized components for each protocol combination.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques and systems for inter-working between different protocols are disclosed. In one embodiment, a protocol inter-working system can include: (i) a first server that can connect to a first gateway, where the first server and the first gateway can operate in a first protocol; (ii) a second server that can connect to a second gateway, where the second server and the second can operate in a second protocol; and (iii) a controller that can connect to the first and second gateways, where the controller can translate a first indicator in the first protocol to a second indicator in the second protocol. The first and second protocols can include H.323 and session initiation protocol (SIP), for example. The first and second indicators can each include a message waiting indicator (MWI), for example.