Telephony Routing Guide Automates Switch Code Updates

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Solution Overview

Problem

Telephony network operators face challenges in managing and updating routing codes due to the increasing complexity of phone number systems, including the introduction of new area codes and NXX codes, which requires frequent reprogramming of switches to ensure proper call routing and billing.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for maintaining and updating routing information in telephony networks, utilizing software to create a web-based program that allows authorized users to access and update routing data, propose changes, and confirm changes have been implemented, with security measures to ensure only authorized personnel can input new information.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual methods are used to program and update telephony switches to accommodate new area codes and NXX codes, then routing changes can be implemented, but the process becomes increasingly complex and time-consuming as the network expands

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to accommodate new area codes and NXX codesVSAvoidcomplexity of managing routing changes
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a centralized routing guide database that serves as an intermediary between network operators and telephony switches. This database stores and manages routing information for all area codes and NXX codes, allowing operators to query and update routing data centrally rather than manually programming each switch. The routing guide acts as a mediator that automates the distribution of routing information to appropriate switches, reducing the complexity of managing network expansion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If frequent reprogramming of switches is performed to maintain proper call routing and billing, then accurate call routing is achieved, but the time and resources required for maintenance increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of call routing and billingVSAvoidtime required for switch reprogramming
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a routing guide database that pre-stores and pre-processes routing information for new area codes and NXX codes before they are activated in the network. When new codes are introduced, the routing information is already prepared and validated in the database, allowing for rapid deployment to switches without extensive manual reprogramming. This preliminary preparation of routing data reduces the time required to implement routing changes while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the routing guide database continuously monitors and updates routing information based on network changes. When routing changes are made, the database automatically notifies relevant switches and verifies proper implementation, reducing the need for manual verification and reprogramming while ensuring routing accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If a centralized system is implemented to manage routing information, then the complexity of managing routing changes is reduced, but system security requirements and implementation complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of managing routing changesVSAvoidcomplexity of security measures and system implementation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the routing management system into distinct functional components: a centralized routing guide database for storing and managing routing information, query interfaces for operators to access and update data, and automated distribution mechanisms to propagate changes to switches. This segmentation allows each component to be independently developed, secured, and maintained, reducing the overall implementation complexity while providing centralized management capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS7466814B1Switch code routing management method and system
Publication Date: 2008.12.16 CENTURYLINK INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LLC
  • US7466814B1 patent drawing
  • US7466814B1 patent drawing
  • US7466814B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides a method and system for maintaining and updating records of the routing of switches in a telecommunication network. Routing information is retrieved from a routing guide, and corresponding routing information is retrieved from switches in the telecommunication network. Routing information is retrieved from switches by using the routing information from the routing guide to iteratively retrieve routing information from switches by NPA code, switch, rate center, and NXX codes. Routing information from the routing guide is compared to routing information retrieved from the switches and discrepancies in the routing information is identified. Identified discrepancies are corrected in either the routing guide or the routing of the switch.