Inbound Voice Call Routing via Network Category Matching

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity and cost of connecting calls across different types of networks, such as PSTN and IP networks, increase due to the need for frequent format changes and network conversions, especially in a multi-network environment where consumers have various options for voice services.

Innovation Solution

A method that directs a call connection request by determining the network category of the called party and selecting an appropriate network for communication, eliminating the need for conversions by matching the call initiation network with the called party's available network category, using a system with a telephone device, network device, and decision logic to select the optimal network for the call.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If calls are routed across multiple different types of networks (PSTN, IP, cellular), then consumers have more service options and flexibility, but the cost and technical complexity of connecting calls increase due to frequent format changes and network conversions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveservice optionsVSAvoidnetwork connection complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary determination of the called party's network category before the call is actually connected. By querying the called party's available networks in advance and storing this information, the system prepares the routing decision beforehand, avoiding complex real-time conversions and format changes during call establishment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces an intermediary network device (such as a gateway or routing server) that acts as a mediator between the calling and called parties. This intermediary determines the appropriate network category, selects the optimal network for call completion, and handles the network conversion logic, thereby simplifying the overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If calls are routed across multiple different types of networks, then consumers have more service options, but the cost of connecting calls increases due to format changes and network conversions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveservice optionsVSAvoidcall connection cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the routing parameter selection based on the determined network category. By matching the call initiation network with the called party's available network category, the system optimizes the routing path to minimize format changes and network conversions, thereby reducing connection costs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8180045B2Method for selection and routing of an inbound voice call to an appropriate network for completion

Publication Date: 2012.05.15 CENTURYLINK INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LLC

AI summary

A method of directing a call includes receiving a call connection request, the call connection request including an identifier associated with a called party. The method also includes determining a network category associated with the called party in response to receiving the call connection request and generating an instruction operable to direct the call connection request to a selected one of at least two networks accessible for communication by the called party. The network is selected by the instruction in response to the determined network category associated with the called party.