Flexible SIP Profile for Mixed Network Interworking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing SIP networks face compatibility issues and reduced service capabilities when interconnected due to differences in ISUP support and security models, leading to a need for interworking gateways and reduced feature transparency.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allow SIP endpoints to negotiate and dynamically adapt the level of ISUP service support using existing SIP signaling mechanisms, enabling direct interconnection and compatibility between networks with different ISUP support levels, thereby minimizing the need for specialized interworking gateways.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple SIP profiles are used to support different network architectures, then network-specific service capabilities are improved, but interoperability between networks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic profile negotiation where endpoints can signal their supported SIP profiles through SIP signaling mechanisms (such as Supported header, Accept header, or custom options). The profile is not fixed but can be negotiated and adapted during session establishment, allowing networks to dynamically select appropriate interoperability modes based on the capabilities of communicating endpoints.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of SIP profile configuration from static to negotiable. By introducing profile negotiation mechanisms that allow endpoints to exchange and agree upon compatible profile parameters, the system enables adaptive parameter adjustment based on the specific network context and endpoint capabilities, resolving the contradiction between specialized profiles and interoperability.
2Reliability
If interworking gateways are deployed to adapt between different SIP networks, then compatibility between networks is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables SIP endpoints to perform self-negotiation of interoperability parameters without requiring external interworking gateways. Each endpoint autonomously signals its capabilities and negotiates compatible profile parameters with remote endpoints, eliminating the need for complex intermediary gateway infrastructure while maintaining network compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a universal SIP profile negotiation mechanism that can handle multiple network types and profiles through a single standardized negotiation framework. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for specialized interworking gateways for each network pair by providing a general-purpose negotiation capability that works across diverse network architectures.
3Reliability
If SIP endpoints use mandatory ISUP encapsulation for PSTN interworking, then PSTN service transparency is improved, but adaptability to different SIP networks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes ISUP encapsulation optional and negotiable rather than mandatory. Endpoints can signal their ISUP encapsulation capabilities through SIP profile negotiation, allowing the system to dynamically adapt between ISUP-encapsulated mode (for PSTN transparency) and non-encapsulated mode (for compatibility with SIP-native networks) based on the specific network context and endpoint capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus in one example has: a plurality of networks operatively coupled to one another, and having respective end points; and a single SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) profile useable by each network of the plurality of networks; wherein two end points, via signaling mechanisms within SIP, negotiate a level of support for ISUP (Integrated Services Digital Network User Part) services that are usable between the two end points.