VCC Server Bypass Bearer for IMS Voice Trunk Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The coexistence of 3G and 4G wireless communication networks poses a challenge in maintaining seamless voice calls due to the difference in network communication types, with 3G networks using Circuit Switched (CS) and 4G networks using Packet Switched (PS) communications, necessitating techniques for trunk optimization in Internet Protocol (IP) Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) voice calls.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for a Voice Call Continuity (VCC) application server to perform trunk optimization by determining if it serves both originating and terminating User Equipments (UEs) and establishing a bypass bearer for IMS voice calls, bypassing the CS network when possible, thereby minimizing CS trunk resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If IMS voice calls between UEs homed in CS network use CS network for voice transmission, then voice call continuity is maintained, but CS trunk resources are consumed and network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a bypass bearer as an intermediary transmission path that allows IMS voice calls to traverse through PS network elements (SBC, PGW, SGW) instead of directly using CS network trunks. This mediator approach enables voice calls to avoid CS network complexity while maintaining continuity, resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the voice call transmission path into two independent bearers: a CS network bearer for traditional voice transmission and a bypass bearer for IMS voice calls. By segmenting the transmission path, the system can selectively route voice calls through the bypass bearer to avoid CS trunk consumption, thereby reducing network complexity while maintaining call continuity.
2Quantity of substance
If IMS voice calls use bypass bearer to avoid CS network, then CS trunk resources are saved, but additional network elements and configuration complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass bearer is designed to serve multiple functions: it can carry IMS voice calls, support both PS and CS network UEs, and provide flexible routing options. By making the bypass bearer a multi-functional component, the system reduces the need for separate dedicated paths, thereby reducing overall network configuration complexity while conserving CS trunk resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic bearer selection where the network can flexibly choose between CS network trunks and bypass bearers based on real-time conditions. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to varying network loads and configurations, reducing the impact of additional network elements while maintaining resource efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If 3G and 4G networks coexist with different communication types, then network coverage is extended, but voice call compatibility and resource management become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass bearer acts as a universal intermediary that connects both 3G CS network UEs and 4G PS network UEs within the IMS framework. This mediator enables seamless voice call compatibility across different network generations without requiring separate handling mechanisms, thereby simplifying operation while extending network coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The bypass bearer is designed as a universal transmission path that can serve both 3G and 4G UEs, supporting multiple network types within a single framework. This multi-functionality enables the system to maintain voice call compatibility across different network generations while managing resources efficiently, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and Voice Call Continuity (VCC) application server to perform trunk optimization for an Internet Protocol (IP) Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) voice call between an originating User Equipment (UE) and a terminating UE, which are homed in a CS network, is provided. The method includes receiving a request from the originating UE for an IMS voice call with the terminating UE, determining whether the VCC application server serves both the originating UE and the terminating UE, and, if it is determined that the VCC application server serves both the originating UE and the terminating UE, controlling to establish a bypass bearer for the IMS voice call between the originating UE and the terminating UE that bypasses the CS network.