Virtual Number Assignment for Local International Calling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current telecommunication systems lack an efficient method for automatically assigning virtual numbers for international dialing, leading to cumbersome dialing processes and excessive charges for long distance calls, with no automated process for recipients to call back customers.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for automatically assigning virtual numbers by tracking frequent call patterns and using a pre-paid calling service to provide local virtual numbers for both customers and recipients, allowing calls to be routed within local calling areas, reducing long distance charges and enabling easy return calls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If international long distance calls are made using traditional dialing methods, then calls can be established between different countries, but excessive communication fees are charged based on long distance carrier rates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a virtual number as an intermediary between the customer and the international recipient. Instead of directly dialing the international number, the customer dials a local virtual number that is routed through the service provider to reach the international destination. This intermediary mechanism allows the call to be charged at local rates rather than international long distance rates, significantly reducing communication fees while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the international calling process into two parts: a local virtual number for dialing and an international routing path for call delivery. By separating the dialing interface from the actual call path, the system enables customers to use local calling rates while still reaching international destinations, thus reducing fees without compromising operational simplicity
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual processes are used to assign virtual numbers, then virtual numbers can be provided to customers, but the process is cumbersome and requires customer initiation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated system that self-assigns virtual numbers to customers based on call patterns and service requirements. The system monitors customer calls and automatically provisions virtual numbers without requiring customer initiation or manual intervention, making the process seamless and easy to operate while maintaining adaptability to different calling scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary analysis of customer calling patterns and pre-provisions virtual numbers before they are needed. By anticipating customer needs based on historical data and service profiles, the system automatically assigns appropriate virtual numbers in advance, eliminating the need for manual customer requests and simplifying the overall process
3Loss of information
If caller ID information contains international numbers, then recipients can be identified, but return calls become long distance calls with excessive charges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the virtual number as an intermediary in the caller ID information provided to recipients. Instead of displaying the actual international number, the system presents the local virtual number as the calling number. This allows recipients to identify and call back using the local virtual number, which is then routed internationally by the service provider, ensuring accurate recipient identification while avoiding excessive return call charges
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a local copy of the international calling capability through the virtual number. The virtual number serves as a local representation of the international destination, allowing recipients to dial a local number instead of an international one. This copying mechanism preserves the ability to identify and reach the recipient while eliminating the cost burden of international dialing for return calls
4Productivity
If automated systems are implemented to assign virtual numbers, then assignment efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal automated system that handles multiple functions: monitoring call patterns, analyzing service requirements, provisioning virtual numbers, and managing call routing. By creating a multi-functional platform that performs all these tasks through integrated processes, the system achieves high assignment speed and efficiency without proportionally increasing complexity, as the same infrastructure serves multiple purposes
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for automatically assigning virtual numbers are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method for automatically assigning virtual numbers may include receiving, from a first customer device associated with a first identifier, a second identifier associated with a recipient device; establishing a call between the first customer device and the recipient device; assigning a first virtual number associated with the first identifier and the second identifier, wherein the first virtual number is selected to be in a local calling area of the first identifier; and transmitting the first virtual number to the customer for use in making future calls to the recipient device.