Handling Subscriber Location Requests Across CS and IP Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication networks, such as GSM and UMTS, face challenges in obtaining subscriber location information when the subscriber is not within the control area of the Visitor Location Register (VLR), leading to failed MAP-PSI requests, especially when subscribers are attached to both IP-based networks like EPS and Circuit Switched (CS) systems.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves an apparatus and method that enables handling MAP-PSI requests by paging the subscriber through a control node in the first network, allowing for location updates and responses across different network types, including E-UTRAN and CS networks, using mobility management entities and mobile switching centers to manage location updates and paging requests.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the VLR stores location information only for subscribers within its controlled area, then the VLR can provide location information efficiently for local subscribers, but it cannot provide location information for subscribers located in areas not controlled by the VLR
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the HLR acts as a mediator between the requesting entity and the VLR. When a VLR cannot find a subscriber in its controlled area, it queries the HLR which then provides the location information or determines the appropriate VLR. This intermediary approach allows the system to handle subscribers across different network areas while maintaining the original VLR control boundaries.
Solution Approach 2:
The HLR is given multiple functions: it not only stores permanent subscriber parameters but also serves as a central location registry for the entire network. The HLR can provide location information for any subscriber in the network regardless of which VLR controls the current area, making it a universal location service provider that enhances system-wide adaptability.
2Ease of manufacture
If the MAP-PSI protocol is used to request subscriber location, then standard location retrieval procedures can be followed, but the protocol fails when the subscriber is not in the VLR's controlled area or attached to an IP-based network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic behavior to the location request handling process. Instead of a static protocol that fails when conditions change, the system dynamically adapts by checking multiple conditions (subscriber in controlled area, subscriber in different VLR area, subscriber attached to IP network) and following different procedural paths accordingly. This dynamic approach maintains reliability across varying network conditions while preserving standardized procedures where applicable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a subscriber is registered to both CS network and IP-based EPS network, then the subscriber can access services from both networks, but location requests in the CS network cannot be handled when the subscriber is attached to EPS
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors the subscriber's network attachment status. When a location request is received in the CS network, the system checks whether the subscriber is currently attached to the EPS network. Based on this feedback, it either retrieves the location from the HLR (if available) or determines that the subscriber is unreachable in the CS network, providing accurate location service availability information back to the requesting entity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, system and a related computer program product for handling requests for location of a subscriber are disclosed. The method comprises receiving a first request for a location of a subscriber in a first network, wherein the subscriber is attached to a second network, transmitting a second request to page the subscriber, receiving a response to the second request comprising the location of the subscriber in the first network, and transmitting a response for the first request comprising the location of the subscriber in the first network.