Voicemail Callback Collision Handling in LTE SIP Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In scenarios where a caller leaves a voicemail for another user who is simultaneously trying to return the call, existing communication systems often require the caller to repeat information, as the voicemail content is not efficiently shared or accessible during the callback.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that detects a 'voicemail callback collision' in communication systems, allowing the caller to either ignore, delete, or hold while the recipient listens to the voicemail, which may be incomplete, thereby avoiding the need for repeating information. This is facilitated through a SIP proxy in an LTE network, using SIP and RTP protocols, where the voicemail can be played as a ring-back tone and the caller can choose to connect or delete the voicemail.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the caller leaves a voicemail for the second user, then the caller can convey information asynchronously, but the caller must repeat the information when the second user calls back
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a communication system intermediary that detects voicemail callback collisions and mediates between the caller and recipient. When a collision is detected (caller leaving voicemail while recipient is calling back), the system plays the voicemail as a ring-back tone for the recipient, allowing them to hear the message before answering. This intermediary mechanism eliminates the need for information repetition by making the voicemail content accessible during the callback scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by playing the voicemail message to the recipient before they actually answer the call. The voicemail is delivered as a ring-back tone during the ringing phase, allowing the recipient to preview the message content in advance. This preliminary delivery of information prevents the need for repetition when the call is answered.
2Loss of information
If the system plays the complete voicemail before connecting the call, then the recipient can listen to all information, but the caller experiences extended wait time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by playing only a portion of the voicemail (or the entire voicemail if short) as a ring-back tone rather than requiring the caller to wait for complete playback before connection. The system balances information delivery with time efficiency by allowing the voicemail to play during the ringing phase without blocking the eventual call connection, thus providing substantial information without excessive delay.
3Ease of operation
If the system provides multiple options (ignore, delete, hold) to the caller, then the caller can choose the most appropriate action, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by providing a universal control mechanism that handles multiple caller preferences (ignore, delete, hold) through a unified collision detection and management system. The same intermediary component detects the collision scenario and executes different actions based on caller selection, rather than requiring separate specialized systems for each action type. This consolidates complexity into a single multi-functional module.
Data Source
AI summary
When a first user is leaving a voicemail while a second user is attempting to call the first user back, the first user is given the option to ignore the second caller, delete the voicemail and connect with the second user, or hold while the second user reviews the voicemail. The voicemail may or may not be complete. This may avoid the need for the first user to repeat the information contained in the voicemail. In one embodiment, the voicemail message is played on the second user's device as a ring-back tone.