Virtual Point-to-Point Tunneling for Wireless Call Services
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication systems, particularly in wireless networks, face challenges in providing efficient end-to-end call services between user equipment connected to different closed subscriber groups (CSGs) without relying on centralized gateways, which limits the support for Voice-over-IP calls and other IP-based services.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a virtual point-to-point connection using an Internet Protocol tunneling mechanism within the network of an operator, allowing HNBs to connect directly and establish secure, end-to-end communications between user equipment across different CSGs, utilizing a third-party server for key distribution and configuration, enabling fast and easy setup of connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If centralized gateways are used to connect user equipment across different CSGs, then network control and management are simplified, but service quality and network flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the gateway function from the core network and implements it in the access network through HNBs. Each HNB establishes independent point-to-point connections with other HNBs, removing the mandatory centralized gateway from the call path while maintaining network control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the centralized gateway function into distributed HNB-to-HNB direct connections. Instead of all calls routing through a single gateway, each HNB independently manages its own connections to other HNBs, dividing the centralized control function into multiple autonomous nodes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If direct HNB-to-HNB connections are established without centralized gateways, then service quality and network flexibility are improved, but connection setup complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-establishing point-to-point connections between HNBs before actual voice calls are needed. The HNBs exchange capability information and establish tunneling connections in advance, so when a call is initiated, the path is already prepared and ready for immediate use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of IP tunneling protocols and signaling messages that facilitate automatic connection establishment between HNBs. These intermediaries handle the complexity of direct peer-to-peer connection setup, authentication, and resource allocation without requiring manual configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If Voice-over-IP calls are supported without centralized gateways, then network flexibility is enhanced, but reliability of call service may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by implementing redundant connection paths and pre-established tunneling connections between HNBs. If one direct HNB-to-HNB connection fails, alternative pre-configured paths are available to maintain call service, ensuring reliability without centralized gateway dependency.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a method are provided. The provided solution includes an apparatus including a transceiver to be in wireless connection with one or more sets of user equipment and a controller configured to connect to the Internet, set up a virtual point-to-point connection to a second apparatus, set up and provide end-to-end call services using the virtual point-to-point connection between user equipment which are connected to and served by the apparatuses.