Session Transfer Server for Seamless VoIP Device Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for transferring active media sessions across multiple devices associated with the same user are cumbersome, often requiring call forwarding, termination, and re-establishment, which can be disruptive and inefficient, especially in scenarios like VoIP or video conferencing.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for seamlessly switching an active session from one device to another within an SIP-capable IP network using a server with a mapping table to associate user addresses with device addresses, allowing for minimal disruption to the session and awareness of the remote party, by sending a device switch message and establishing a new session with the second device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If call forwarding is used to transfer sessions between multiple devices, then the session can be redirected to different devices, but the process becomes complicated and requires significant line holding time
Solution Approach 1:
A session transfer server is introduced as an intermediary component that manages the session transfer process between devices. The server receives session information from the first device, validates the second device's eligibility, and establishes a new session without requiring complex manual forwarding configurations. This centralizes the complexity in the server while keeping client devices simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary validation of the second device's eligibility to receive the session before actually transferring it. The server checks whether the second device is suitable for session reception in advance, preventing invalid transfers and reducing the need for retry operations or error handling during the actual session transfer.
2Adaptability or versatility
If call forwarding is implemented on multiple telephones, then sessions can be forwarded, but each telephone must be reprogrammed every time forwarding is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The session transfer server acts as a mediator that handles all configuration and routing decisions centrally. Instead of requiring each device to have programmable call forwarding capabilities, the server manages the session routing between devices, eliminating the need for device-side reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The server provides universal session transfer functionality that works across different device types and configurations. Rather than requiring each device to have specialized call forwarding programming, the system uses a universal server-based approach that can handle sessions between any combination of devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the existing session is terminated and re-established on a new device, then the session can be moved to a different device, but the process is highly disruptive
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous session operation by establishing a new session on the second device while the original session on the first device remains active. The server coordinates both sessions simultaneously, allowing the user to switch devices without interrupting the ongoing communication. The useful action of media transmission continues uninterrupted throughout the transition.
Solution Approach 2:
The server initiates the new session on the second device before terminating the old session on the first device. This preliminary establishment of the new session ensures that media flow is already prepared and ready, eliminating gaps or interruptions during the actual switch and maintaining seamless session continuity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If call forwarding is used to transfer calls, then the calling party can reach the user on different devices, but the calling party must remain on the line for a significant period
Solution Approach 1:
The session transfer server acts as an intermediary that quickly validates and executes session transfers without requiring the calling party to wait for manual forwarding operations. The server handles the entire transfer process automatically in the background, significantly reducing the time the calling party needs to remain on the line compared to traditional call forwarding methods.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for facilitating transfer of an active session from a first device to a second device associated with the same user. A network server is configured to enable the switching or swapping of an active session from one device to another device, where both devices are associated with a common user address. The switching or swapping is implemented with no or minimal effect on the active session or awareness of the remote party. The device switch may be performed in relation to any active session, including VoIP, video conferencing, or other media sessions.