Tandem Switch Migration Using LNP and LRN Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in switch migration within telephone networks is to quickly and efficiently transfer communications from an old tandem switch to a new one without causing service disruptions, especially when local number portability is involved, as existing methods can lead to costly and time-consuming reconfigurations if not executed properly.
Innovation Solution
A tandem switch migration method utilizing Local Number Portability (LNP) capability, where the LRN information is configured to direct inbound calls through a new tandem switch, and routing information is programmed to redirect calls to a new node, using either Time Division Multiplex (TDM) or Internet Protocol (IP) trunk lines with appropriate signaling systems, allowing for phased migration of end users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional switch migration methods are used, then service disruptions occur during migration, but migration speed and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the new tandem switch with routing information and establishing backup call paths before the actual migration occurs. The new switch is prepared in advance to immediately assume call routing duties, and the system pre-establishes fallback mechanisms so that if any issue arises during migration, service can be maintained without disruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by enabling real-time, incremental migration of call routing from the old tandem switch to the new one. The system dynamically adjusts call paths during operation, allowing selective migration of different call types or time periods while maintaining service continuity. The migration process is made flexible and adaptable rather than static and all-or-nothing.
2Loss of time
If migration is performed quickly to minimize service loss, then proper configuration and testing time is reduced, but the complexity of reconfiguration increases if migration fails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies copying by creating a replica configuration of the old tandem switch in the new switch before migration. The new switch is programmed with identical routing information, database structures, and operational parameters as the old switch. This copy enables the new switch to immediately take over call routing duties without requiring complex manual reconfiguration, and if migration fails, the copy can be easily discarded without leaving the system in a complex intermediate state.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by systematically modifying specific routing parameters and configuration values during migration rather than changing the entire system architecture. The migration involves changing numerical identifiers, routing tables, and database pointers from old to new switch identifiers while maintaining the same operational logic and structure. This approach minimizes reconfiguration complexity because only discrete parameters need adjustment rather than the overall system design.
3Reliability
If all end users are migrated at once to ensure complete service continuity, then the complexity of managing partial migrations increases, but the risk of complete service disruption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the end user population into distinct groups or segments that can be migrated independently. Different user groups, geographic regions, or call types can be migrated in separate phases or batches. The system maintains separate routing configurations for different segments, allowing granular control over which users are served by the old switch versus the new switch at any given time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing the new tandem switch to handle multiple functions simultaneously - serving both newly migrated users and potentially acting as a backup or overflow switch for the old system. The new switch is configured to universally handle various call types and routing scenarios, whether serving migrated users, original users, or providing backup capacity, thereby simplifying migration management through a single multi-functional switch rather than requiring multiple specialized switches.
Data Source
AI summary
A tandem switch migration method is provided according to the invention. The tandem switch migration method migrates at least some end users from an old tandem switch of a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) to a new tandem switch using a Local Number Portability (LNP) capability. The method includes configuring a Local Routing Number (LRN) information of the PSTN in order to direct inbound cells from the PSTN through the new tandem switch and to an old node. The method further includes programming routing information of the new tandem switch to direct inbound calls from the PSTN to a new node after at least a portion of end users of the old node have been physically moved from the old node to the new node.