SMS Delivery via Network Segmentation and Dynamic Retry Logic
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Cellular networks are overwhelmed by the volume of SMS messages and often unavailable or costly, necessitating a method to offload SMS services onto alternative networks like IP networks.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that attempt SMS message delivery on a first network according to a predetermined schedule, then switch to a second network upon failure, with reattempts on both networks following specific retry logic to ensure service continuity and efficient message routing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If SMS messages are sent through cellular networks, then delivery reliability is maintained, but network overload and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments SMS delivery into multiple network paths: a primary path through the cellular network for reliable delivery, and a secondary path through IP networks (WiFi, LTE) for alternative delivery. The system divides the delivery process into separate attempts on different networks, allowing SMS traffic to be distributed across multiple pathways rather than concentrated on a single cellular network, thereby reducing network overload while maintaining delivery reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the network parameter (delivery path) dynamically based on network conditions. When cellular network capacity is insufficient or unavailable, the system switches to IP-based networks. The retry logic modifies delivery parameters by attempting SMS delivery on different networks with different time schedules, allowing flexible adaptation to varying network conditions and reducing dependency on any single network.
2Reliability
If SMS delivery attempts are made on multiple networks with retry logic, then delivery reliability improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service through automated retry logic that autonomously selects networks and attempts delivery without manual intervention. The predefined time schedules and automatic network switching handle the complexity internally, allowing the system to self-manage delivery failures and network selection. This reduces the need for complex external control mechanisms while maintaining high delivery reliability through multiple automated attempts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action through predefined time schedules for retry attempts. The system automatically schedules delivery attempts at specific time intervals on different networks, creating a structured rhythm to the retry process. This periodic approach manages complexity by providing clear temporal patterns for network switching and retry logic, making the system more predictable and easier to manage despite the multiple networks involved.
3Loss of energy
If SMS traffic is offloaded to IP networks, then bandwidth cost decreases, but network availability requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to network availability conditions by monitoring which networks are accessible and switching between them. The retry logic with predefined time schedules allows the system to flexibly respond to changing network conditions, attempting delivery on available networks and switching to alternatives when necessary. This dynamic approach reduces bandwidth cost by utilizing lower-cost IP networks while maintaining reliability through adaptive network selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing multiple network paths and preparing retry schedules in advance. Before actual SMS delivery, the system has already configured the sequence of network attempts and time schedules, ensuring that alternative paths are ready if the primary network fails. This preliminary preparation reduces the need for real-time decision-making complexity while maintaining high availability through pre-planned network switching strategies.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments include originating and terminating a short message service (SMS) message using an IP network. Delivery of an SMS message is attempted on a first network a first predetermined number of times according to a first predetermined time schedule. Delivery of the SMS message on a second network is attempted after a failure to deliver the SMS message on the first network. Reattempted delivery of the SMS message on the first network is followed by reattempted delivery of the SMS message on the second network, according to a second predetermined time schedule. Embodiments also include monitoring registration of a recipient of the SMS message, receiving a new registration, and attempting delivery of the SMS message on the network associated with the new registration.