Service Authorization Node Charging Attributes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cellular communication systems lack a generic, service-based mechanism for authorizing and charging visiting subscribers, as existing mechanisms are bearer-specific and do not support per-service charging or determine the charging method and server address effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for providing charging attributes in communication networks, involving a service authorization node that receives requests, transmits charging attribute requests, determines the appropriate storage node, and replies with authorization, enabling service-based authorization and charging for visiting subscribers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If bearer-specific charging mechanisms are used, then network access authorization is provided, but per-service charging and determination of charging method/server address are not supported
Solution Approach 1:
The charging mechanism is segmented into separate functional components: service authorization nodes handle service-specific authorization, while charging attribute storage nodes store and manage charging attributes. This segmentation allows per-service charging without requiring complete redesign of the entire charging system, thereby improving adaptability while managing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A service authorization node acts as an intermediary between the visiting subscriber and the charging attribute storage node. This intermediary retrieves and processes charging attributes, enabling per-service charging determination without direct complex interactions between all system components, thus supporting service-specific charging while maintaining manageable system complexity.
2Reliability
If existing AAA or HLR mechanisms are used, then network access authorization is provided, but service-based authorisation and charging resolution are partially provided
Solution Approach 1:
The service authorization node is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as an authorization node for service access and as a requester for charging attributes. This universal component can handle both traditional network access authorization and new service-specific charging authorization, improving reliability while enhancing service-based charging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Charging attributes are retrieved and stored in advance by the service authorization node before service delivery. This preliminary action ensures that charging method and server address information are already available when service authorization is needed, improving authorization reliability while enabling comprehensive service-based charging support.
3Adaptability or versatility
If non-standard protocol extensions are used, then service-based authorisation can be performed, but standardisation is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The solution copies and adapts existing standardized protocol frameworks (such as Diameter protocol structures) rather than creating entirely new non-standard protocols. By using standardized message formats and interfaces, the system achieves service-based authorization flexibility while maintaining protocol standardisation and interoperability.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to communication networks, specifically to service provisioning and authorization of service usage in different networks. The invention provides a method and a system for authorizing services for visiting subscribers and for obtaining the necessary charging profile information from the subscribers' home networks on a per-service basis.