Centralized Subscriber Load Distribution in VoIP Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for distributing subscriber load in communication networks, such as VoIP networks, fail to balance call volumes across multiple Serving-Call Session Control Function (S-CSCF) servers, leading to potential overloads and customer dissatisfaction due to unknown load distribution during initial registration.
Innovation Solution
A centralized load distribution method that periodically redistributes registered User Equipment (UEs) across different S-CSCFs based on measured resource capacity and peak period volumes, using thresholds to determine when load balancing is necessary and employing a Home Subscriber Server (HSS) to manage the redistribution process, ensuring that UEs are re-registered to available S-CSCFs that can handle the traffic without exceeding capacity thresholds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If UEs are registered with S-CSCF servers at registration time without load consideration, then the registration process is simple and fast, but call volumes become unbalanced across servers leading to overloads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Home Subscriber Server (HSS) as an intermediary component that centrally manages load distribution. The HSS receives capacity data from multiple S-CSCF servers and uses this information to intelligently re-register UEs, balancing call volumes without adding complexity to the S-CSCF servers themselves. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by centralizing the load distribution intelligence.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary load assessment by collecting capacity data from S-CSCF servers before re-registration decisions are made. The HSS proactively monitors server capacity and pre-determines optimal target servers for UE re-registration, preventing overloads before they occur rather than reacting after imbalances develop.
2Productivity
If UEs are re-registered only under exceptional conditions like network element failure, then system stability is maintained, but load balancing cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic re-registration triggered by capacity threshold monitoring. The HSS continuously assesses server capacity data and initiates re-registration when predefined capacity thresholds are reached, creating a periodic balancing mechanism that maintains system stability while achieving load balance. This approach transforms the exceptional-condition trigger into a routine capacity-based trigger.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where S-CSCF servers report their capacity status to the HSS, which then makes re-registration decisions based on this feedback. The HSS monitors capacity metrics, compares them against thresholds, and triggers re-registration when imbalances are detected, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains both stability and balance.
3Productivity
If centralized load distribution is implemented through HSS, then call volumes are balanced across S-CSCF servers, but additional network components and complexity are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the existing HSS's multi-functionality by having it perform both its traditional subscriber management role and the new load distribution function. The HSS uses its existing capability to manage UE registration and profiling to also manage load balancing decisions, eliminating the need for a completely new system and reducing overall network complexity despite adding a function.
Solution Approach 2:
The HSS performs self-service by autonomously making re-registration decisions based on capacity data it collects from S-CSCF servers. The system does not require external control or manual intervention; the HSS independently assesses capacity metrics, determines optimal target servers, and executes re-registration, reducing operational complexity despite architectural additions.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for providing subscriber load distribution in networks are disclosed. For example, the method receives capacity data and user equipment (UE) resource consumption data from a plurality of devices that process call control signaling messages within the communication network. The method receives a first request from one of the plurality of devices to re-register one or more selected user equipment, and selects at least one available device from the plurality of devices. The method then re-registers the one or more selected user equipment on the at least one available device.