VoLTE Roaming Gateway Interoperability LBO S8-HR
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Solution Overview
Problem
Interoperability issues between visited LTE networks using the Local Break-Out (LBO) VoLTE model and home LTE networks using the S8 Home Routed (S8-HR) VoLTE model hinder the deployment of VoLTE roaming services, limiting the availability and development of next-generation multimedia services.
Innovation Solution
A VoLTE Roaming Gateway system is deployed, enabling a visited LTE network using the LBO VoLTE model to interoperate with a home LTE network using the S8-HR VoLTE model by establishing a connection through a signaling manager, media resource manager, and virtual user devices, which relay signaling and media streams over an IP multimedia services network, and utilize existing mobile network components to comply with local regulations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a visited LTE network uses the LBO VoLTE model and a home LTE network uses the S8-HR VoLTE model, then each network can operate with its preferred roaming model, but interoperability issues arise and VoLTE roaming services cannot be properly deployed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a VoLTE Roaming Gateway as an intermediary component that mediates between the visited LTE network (LBO model) and the home LTE network (S8-HR model). This gateway translates and adapts signaling and media streams between the two different roaming models, enabling interoperability without requiring either network to change its preferred model. The gateway acts as a bridge that resolves the compatibility issue between LBO and S8-HR models.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the roaming functionality by separating the VoLTE Roaming Gateway from the traditional network infrastructure. Instead of integrating the interoperability function into the existing LBO or S8-HR models, the solution creates a distinct segmented component that handles the translation between models. This segmentation allows each network to maintain its preferred model while the standalone gateway handles the interoperability requirements.
2Productivity
If VoLTE roaming services are deployed across different network configurations, then service availability increases, but implementation complexity and interoperability challenges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The VoLTE Roaming Gateway is designed with universal functionality that supports multiple roaming scenarios. It can handle both LBO and S8-HR model traffic, as well as other roaming configurations, through a single unified platform. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate implementation solutions for different network configurations, thereby reducing overall implementation complexity while enabling faster service deployment across diverse networks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes in the form of configurable translation rules and protocols within the VoLTE Roaming Gateway. The gateway can dynamically adjust signaling parameters and media stream characteristics based on the specific network configuration being accessed. This configurability allows the same gateway infrastructure to adapt to different roaming scenarios without requiring complex hardware changes or multiple specialized devices.
3Ease of manufacture
If existing mobile network components are utilized to comply with local regulations, then regulatory compliance is achieved, but the need for additional roaming gateway infrastructure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the VoLTE Roaming Gateway functionality with existing mobile network components where possible. Rather than creating entirely new infrastructure, the gateway integrates with and utilizes existing elements such as border elements, serving gateways, and media resource managers that are already present in the network. This merging approach allows the system to comply with local regulations while minimizing the addition of new infrastructure, as the gateway leverages existing components to fulfill regulatory requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method enabling VoLTE roaming between at least two mobile LTE networks. According to at least one example embodiment, the system includes a signaling manager, a media resource manager, a serving gateway, a virtual user device for each of one or more user devices. The signaling manager and the media resource manager are configured to accept signaling and a media stream, respectively, from one or more user devices associated with a home mobile network. According to at least one other aspect, each virtual user device is configured to relay the accepted signaling and media stream through a connection established by the serving gateway, to the home network.