VoIP Positioning Center for Emergency Call Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Emergency call services face challenges in accurately routing calls and providing location information for mobile and VoIP units, particularly due to the reliance on cell antenna location data, which can lead to mis-routing and delayed dispatching, and the need for substantial upgrades to accommodate emerging technologies like VoIP and next-generation 911 systems.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves obtaining and provisioning actual mobile unit location information independently of wireless network cell antenna data, using methods such as hotspot location, satellite-based technologies, and node mapping, and interposing a VoIP positioning center between the VoIP gateway and call routing center to ensure accurate call routing and dispatching, leveraging existing infrastructure to support VoIP, NG911, and legacy wireless systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cell antenna location information is used for call routing, then call routing can be implemented using existing network infrastructure, but mis-routing occurs and location accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an independent location determination system (GPS, triangulation, node mapping) as an intermediary between the mobile unit and the call routing center. This intermediary provides accurate location information separately from the cell antenna data, allowing the routing center to make informed routing decisions based on precise location rather than relying solely on cell antenna information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the location information provision into two independent components: cell antenna location data for network routing purposes, and independent mobile unit location data (from GPS, triangulation, or node mapping) for accurate call routing decisions. This segmentation allows each component to fulfill its specific function without compromising the other.
2Reliability
If independent mobile unit location information is obtained and provisioned, then call routing accuracy improves, but system complexity and infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the mobile unit serve multiple functions: it acts as both a communication device and a location determination device. By equipping the mobile unit with location determination capabilities (GPS receiver, triangulation participation, node mapping), the system eliminates the need for separate location determination infrastructure while achieving accurate call routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile unit performs self-location determination using its own resources (GPS receiver, signal processing capabilities for triangulation, or node mapping data). This self-service approach eliminates the need for network-based location determination infrastructure, reducing system complexity while maintaining routing accuracy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If substantial upgrades are implemented to accommodate VoIP and next-generation 911 systems, then support for emerging technologies improves, but cost and implementation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal location information provision mechanism that works across multiple platforms (wireless, VoIP, next-generation 911 systems). By using independent location determination methods that can be implemented on various device types and network architectures, the system achieves broad adaptability without requiring platform-specific infrastructure upgrades.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and architectures for improving operation of 9-1-1 and other emergency services networks. Enriched data (e.g., text messages, videos, phase II location information, etc.) may be transmitted to a PSAP via a secondary communication channel (i.e., data), wherein the primary communication channel is a voice telephony trunk. Disclosed embodiments may increase the speed with which accurate location information is made available to improve call routing accuracy and decrease dispatch time. Some embodiments may also enable continued operation of legacy emergency services systems during and after transition to next generation systems.