JP2010226637A - Radio base station device and radio communication system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a radio base station device that restricts an operable environment and can prevent problems that cannot be assumed from occurring, and a radio communication system thereof. <P>SOLUTION: A controller 100 controls a cable communication section 120, receives assignment of an IP address from an ISP, judges whether the IP address is a desired local IP address or not, and only when it is the desired local IP address, controls a radio communication section 110 to connect a mobile station MS to a communication provider network CN. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a radio base station apparatus for connecting a wirelessly connected terminal apparatus to a communication line by IP.

  As is well known, there is a technique in which an area that cannot be covered by a cell formed by a radio base station laid by a carrier is interpolated by a micro cell by a small radio base station device that can be transported by a user (for example, patent document). 1). This portable radio base station apparatus is connected to the Internet through various wired lines to connect a mobile station connected wirelessly to the Internet. According to this, since the service area can be formed by the microcell in any place where IP connection is possible, it is highly convenient for the user.

  On the other hand, if the IP connection can be made, it can be used in different radio law environments such as overseas, so that there is a problem that an unexpected problem may occur.

JP 2004-064655 A

The conventional portable radio base station apparatus has a problem that an unexpected problem may occur when it is used in an environment that is not assumed by an operator.
The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and provides a radio base station apparatus and a radio communication system capable of limiting the operating environment and preventing the occurrence of problems that cannot be assumed. Objective.

  To achieve the above object, the present invention provides a wireless base station device for connecting a wirelessly connected mobile station to a carrier network through the Internet, a first communication means for wirelessly communicating with the mobile station, and an Internet through a provider. Second communication means for performing communication through the address, address detection means for detecting the IP address assigned by the provider, area determination means for determining the area based on the IP address detected by the address detection means, and the area When the area determined by the determination means is a preset area, the wireless communication control means for activating the first communication means is provided.

  As described above, according to the present invention, a region is determined based on an IP address assigned by a provider, and wireless communication is performed when the determined region is a preset region.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, since wireless communication is performed only in a preset area, it is possible to limit the operating environment, and it is possible to prevent the occurrence of problems that cannot be assumed, and the wireless base station apparatus and the wireless A communication system can be provided.

1 is a system configuration diagram showing the configuration of a first embodiment of a wireless communication system according to the present invention. The flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the radio base station apparatus shown in FIG. The system block diagram which shows the structure of 2nd Embodiment of the radio | wireless communications system concerning this invention. 4 is a flowchart for explaining an operation of the authentication server shown in FIG. 3. 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the radio base station apparatus shown in FIG. 3. The system block diagram which shows the structure of 3rd Embodiment of the radio | wireless communications system concerning this invention. The flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the radio base station apparatus shown in FIG. The flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the authentication server shown in FIG. The system block diagram which shows the structure of 4th Embodiment of the radio | wireless communications system concerning this invention. The flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the radio base station apparatus shown in FIG. The flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the authentication server shown in FIG. The flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the authentication server shown in FIG. The flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the radio base station apparatus shown in FIG. The flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the authentication server shown in FIG.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 shows the configuration of a wireless communication system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. This radio communication system includes a mobile station MS, a radio base station BS, and an authentication server SV. FIG. 1 also shows the Internet IN and the communication carrier network CN.

  ISPs (Internet Services Providers) that connect users to the Internet IN are providers that provide services by forming an ISP network in Japan, and providers that provide services by forming an ISP network outside Japan. There are many, using IP (Internet Protocol) addresses for each country and region.

  The communication carrier network CN is, for example, a communication network of a carrier that provides a mobile phone service, and a gateway server GW is provided between the carrier IN and the Internet IN. In addition, only specific communication devices such as the radio base station BS can be connected from the outside. The authentication server SV performs an authentication process for determining whether the mobile station MS seeking connection to the communication carrier network CN is a service subscriber, and permits the service subscriber to use the communication carrier network CN.

  The mobile station MS is a portable communication device such as a mobile phone used by a service subscriber. The mobile station MS normally communicates wirelessly with a carrier radio base station CS (not shown) and communicates via the carrier network CN, but uses the service via the radio base station BS. Is also possible.

  The radio base station BS is, for example, a portable base station that is lent (or sold) by a telecommunications carrier to a service subscriber, and the service subscriber can be installed at an arbitrary location. A communication service area (microcell) smaller than the CS is formed, and wireless communication is performed with the mobile station MS to connect to the communication carrier network CN. Thereby, the mobile station MS can enjoy the same service as that through the carrier radio base station CS.

The radio base station BS includes a control unit 100, a radio communication unit 110, a wired communication unit 120, a notification unit 130, and a storage unit 140 as main components.
The radio communication unit 110 is a radio unit that performs radio communication with the mobile station MS. Specifically, the radio communication unit 110 receives a radio signal from the mobile station MS, down-converts to an intermediate frequency, and demodulates and decodes the received signal. At the same time, encoding, modulation, up-conversion to a radio frequency, transmission of a radio signal, and the like are performed for data addressed to the mobile station MS. The operation is controlled by the control unit 100.

  The wired communication unit 120 performs an IP connection to the communication carrier network CN via the Internet IN and performs communication through the communication carrier network CN. The wired communication unit 120 is addressed to the mobile station MS connected through the wireless communication unit 110. Is received from the telecommunications carrier network CN, or data received from the mobile station MS is transmitted to the telecommunications carrier network CN, and its operation is controlled by the control unit 100.

The notification unit 130 notifies the user of the operating state of the radio base station BS, and includes a light emitting unit that emits light in colors such as red and green, a sounding unit that emits a buzzer sound, and the operation thereof. Controlled by the control unit 100.
The storage unit 140 includes a RAM, a ROM, and the like, and stores a control program, control data, and the like of the control unit 100.

  The control unit 100 controls each unit of the radio base station BS, and controls each unit to provide a communication service area to the mobile station MS and perform radio communication with the mobile station MS. The mobile station MS is connected to the communication carrier network CN. In addition, the control unit 100 performs an operation restriction process so that the radio base station BS can be operated only in an area (for example, in Japan) intended in advance by the communication carrier.

  Next, the operation of the radio base station BS configured as described above will be described. In the following description, the description of the normal communication control operation for connecting the mobile station MS to the communication carrier network CN via the Internet IN is omitted, and the operation restriction process of the radio base station BS performed before that is omitted. explain.

  FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the operation restriction process. This process is realized by the control unit 100 operating based on a control program and control data stored in the storage unit 140, and the power is turned on. And executed.

First, in step 2a, the control unit 100 self-diagnosis whether there is an abnormality in the operation state of the radio base station BS, and proceeds to step 2b.
In step 2b, the control unit 100 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the self-diagnosis performed in step 2a. If there is an abnormality (NG), the process proceeds to step 2c. On the other hand, if there is no abnormality and the operation is normal (OK), the process proceeds to step 2d.

In step 2c, the control unit 100 controls the driving of the notification unit 130, notifies the user that an abnormality has been detected as a result of self-diagnosis, and ends the process. Thereby, the radio base station BS does not form a micro cell.
On the other hand, in step 2d, the control unit 100 controls the wired communication unit 120, acquires an IP address from the ISP according to a predetermined procedure, and proceeds to step 2e.

  In step 2e, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the IP address acquired in step 2d is an IP address in a region (for example, Japan) intended by the communication carrier in advance. That is, the operation area is determined based on the IP address. Here, if the IP address acquired in step 2d is an IP address in the area intended by the communication carrier in advance, the process proceeds to step 2g. On the other hand, if the IP address is not in the intended area, step 2f. Migrate to

  In step 2f, the control unit 100 drives and controls the notification unit 130 to notify the user that an operation in an area not intended by the communication carrier is attempted, and ends the process. Thereby, the wired communication unit 120 ends the communication, and the radio base station BS does not form a micro cell.

  On the other hand, in step 2g, the control unit 100 communicates with the ISP according to a predetermined procedure to connect to the Internet IN, and subsequently connects to the gateway server GW through the Internet IN to the communication carrier network CN. Request, establish a communication link with the carrier network CN according to a predetermined procedure, and proceed to Step 2h.

  In step 2h, the control unit 100 activates the wireless communication unit 110, forms a microcell, and ends the process. Thereafter, when the control unit 100 receives a pilot signal transmitted from the mobile station MS, the control unit 100 requests the authentication server SV to register the location of the mobile station MS through the communication carrier network CN.

As described above, the radio base station BS configured as described above determines whether or not the IP address assigned to itself when connecting to the Internet IN through the ISP is an IP address in a desired region. Operation is possible only for IP addresses.
Therefore, according to the radio base station BS configured as described above, the operation can be performed only in a desired area. Therefore, the operation cannot be performed even if it is taken out to an unexpected area, and an unpredictable problem does not occur.

(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 3 shows the configuration of a radio communication system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. This radio communication system includes a mobile station MS, a radio base station BS, and an authentication server SV. Further, FIG. 3 shows the Internet IN and the communication carrier network CN.

  There are many ISPs that connect users to the Internet IN, such as providers that provide services by forming ISP networks in Japan, and providers that provide services by forming ISP networks outside Japan. Uses the IP address of the country or region to which it belongs. A large number of access servers AS exist on the Internet IN, and these access servers AS are interposed between the ISP network and the communication carrier network CN.

  The communication carrier network CN is, for example, a communication network of a carrier that provides a mobile phone service, and a gateway server GW is provided between the carrier IN and the Internet IN. In addition, only specific communication devices such as the radio base station BS can be connected from the outside.

  The authentication server SV performs an authentication process for determining whether the mobile station MS seeking connection to the communication carrier network CN is a service subscriber, and permits the service subscriber to use the communication carrier network CN. Further, the authentication server SV knows the operating environment of the radio base station BS, and permits the operation only when operated through a registered ISP. Details will be described later.

The authentication server SV includes a control unit 200, a network interface (I / F) 210, and a storage unit 220 as main components.
The network interface 210 is an interface for performing communication via the communication carrier network CN.

  The storage unit 220 includes a RAM, a ROM, a hard disk drive, and the like, and stores a control program and control data of the control unit 200. The storage unit 220 also stores a base station authentication table in which identification information of the radio base station BS is associated with ISP identification information used when the radio base station BS is connected to the Internet IN.

  The control unit 200 controls each unit of the authentication server SV in an integrated manner, operates according to the control program and control data stored in the storage unit 220, and requests a connection to the communication carrier network CN. Executes authentication processing to determine whether the subscriber is a service subscriber, or grasps the operational environment of the radio base station BS and permits its operation depending on whether it is operated through a registered ISP Perform base station authentication processing.

  The mobile station MS is a portable communication device such as a mobile phone used by a service subscriber. The mobile station MS normally communicates wirelessly with a carrier radio base station CS (not shown) and communicates via the carrier network CN, but uses the service via the radio base station BS. Is also possible.

  The radio base station BS is, for example, a portable base station that is lent (or sold) by a telecommunications carrier to a service subscriber, and the service subscriber can be installed at an arbitrary location. A communication service area (microcell) smaller than the CS is formed, and wireless communication is performed with the mobile station MS to connect to the communication carrier network CN. Thereby, the mobile station MS can enjoy the same service as that through the carrier radio base station CS.

The radio base station BS includes a control unit 100, a radio communication unit 110, a wired communication unit 120, a notification unit 130, and a storage unit 140 as main components.
The radio communication unit 110 is a radio unit that performs radio communication with the mobile station MS. Specifically, the radio communication unit 110 receives a radio signal from the mobile station MS, down-converts to an intermediate frequency, and demodulates and decodes the received signal. At the same time, encoding, modulation, up-conversion to a radio frequency, transmission of a radio signal, and the like are performed for data addressed to the mobile station MS. The operation is controlled by the control unit 100.

  The wired communication unit 120 performs an IP connection to the communication carrier network CN via the Internet IN and performs communication through the communication carrier network CN. The wired communication unit 120 is addressed to the mobile station MS connected through the wireless communication unit 110. Is received from the telecommunications carrier network CN, or data received from the mobile station MS is transmitted to the telecommunications carrier network CN, and its operation is controlled by the control unit 100.

The notification unit 130 notifies the user of the operating state of the radio base station BS, and includes a light emitting unit that emits light in colors such as red and green, a sounding unit that emits a buzzer sound, and the operation thereof. Controlled by the control unit 100.
The storage unit 140 includes a RAM, a ROM, and the like, and stores a control program, control data, and the like of the control unit 100.

  The control unit 100 controls each unit of the radio base station BS, and controls each unit to provide a communication service area to the mobile station MS and perform radio communication with the mobile station MS. The mobile station MS is connected to the communication carrier network CN. In addition, when the control unit 100 performs the operation restriction process and is permitted in accordance with the result of the authentication process of the authentication server SV so as to operate only in a region (for example, in Japan) intended by the communication carrier in advance. Only communicate with the mobile station MS.

  Next, the operation of the radio communication system having the above configuration will be described. First, the operation of the authentication server SV will be described. In the following description, the description of the authentication process for the mobile station MS will be omitted, and the authentication process for the radio base station BS will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an authentication process for the radio base station BS. This process is realized by the control unit 200 operating based on a control program and control data stored in the storage unit 220, and is a wireless It is executed in response to an access request from the base station BS.

In step 4a, the control unit 200 detects the base station ID included in the request from the radio base station BS received through the network interface 210, and verifies whether or not this ID is registered in the storage unit 220. It is determined whether or not the wireless base station BS has been registered for the first time. If the initial registration has been completed, the process proceeds to step 4b. If the initial registration has not been completed, the process proceeds to step 4e.
In step 4b, the control unit 200 acquires the IP address acquired by the radio base station BS, and proceeds to step 4c.

In step 4c, the control unit 200 specifies the ISP used by the radio base station BS from the global IP address of the IP address acquired in step 4b, and proceeds to step 4d.
In step 4d, the control unit 200 associates the base station ID detected in step 4a with the ISP identification information specified in step 4c, records it in the base station authentication table stored in the storage unit 220, and performs the process. finish.

On the other hand, in the process of transition to step 4e, the control unit 200 performs the process on the radio base station BS that has already undergone the processes of steps 4b to 4d, that is, the radio base station BS that has been registered with the ISP.
In step 4e, the control unit 200 acquires the IP address acquired by the radio base station BS, and proceeds to step 4f.

In step 4f, the control unit 200 identifies the ISP used by the radio base station BS from the global IP address of the IP address acquired in step 4e, and proceeds to step 4g.
In step 4g, the control unit 200 refers to the base station authentication table stored in the storage unit 220, associates the base station ID detected in step 4a with the ISP identification information specified in step 4f, and It is inquired whether or not it is recorded in the station authentication table, and the process proceeds to step 4h.

  In step 4h, when the base station ID detected in step 4a and the ISP identification information specified in step 4f are associated with each other and recorded in the base station authentication table, the control unit 200 performs step 4j. On the other hand, if identification information of different ISPs is recorded in association with each other, the process proceeds to step 4i.

In step 4i, the control unit 200 transmits a response message (rejection notification) indicating that the operation is not permitted to the radio base station BS through the network interface 210, and ends the processing.
On the other hand, in step 4j, the control unit 200 transmits a response message (permission notification) indicating that the operation is permitted to the radio base station BS through the network interface 210, and ends the processing.

  Next, the operation of the radio base station BS configured as described above will be described. In the following description, a description of a normal communication control operation for connecting the mobile station MS to the communication carrier network CN via the Internet IN will be omitted, and an operation restriction process performed before that will be described.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation restriction process. This process is realized by the control unit 100 operating based on the control program and control data stored in the storage unit 140, and the power is turned on. And executed.

First, in step 5a, the control unit 100 self-diagnose whether there is an abnormality in the operation state of the radio base station BS, and proceeds to step 5b.
In step 5b, the control unit 100 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the self-diagnosis performed in step 5a. If there is an abnormality (NG), the process proceeds to step 5c. On the other hand, if there is no abnormality and the operation is normal (OK), the process proceeds to step 5d.

In step 5c, the control unit 100 drives and controls the notification unit 130, notifies the user that an abnormality has been detected as a result of self-diagnosis, and ends the process. Thereby, the radio base station BS does not form a micro cell.
On the other hand, in step 5d, the control unit 100 controls the wired communication unit 120, acquires an IP address from the ISP according to a predetermined procedure, and proceeds to step 5e.

  In step 5e, the control unit 100 controls the wired communication unit 120 to make an access request to the authentication server via the Internet IN and the communication carrier network CN, and then proceeds to step 5f. This access request includes the ID of the radio base station BS. Thereby, the authentication server SV starts an authentication process (FIG. 4) for the radio base station BS.

  In step 5f, the control unit 100 controls the wired communication unit 120 to attempt to receive a response message from the authentication server SV. When the response message is received, the control unit 100 proceeds to step 5g. At the time of the first registration, the authentication server SV does not transmit a response message because the authentication server SV performs the processes of steps 4a to 4d. For this reason, when a predetermined time elapses, the control unit 100 times out and restarts the processing.

  In step 5g, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the response message received in step 5f indicates permission. Here, in the case of a message indicating permission, the process proceeds to step 5i. On the other hand, in the case of a message indicating rejection, the process proceeds to step 5h.

  In step 5h, the control unit 100 drives and controls the notification unit 130 to notify the user that an operation in an area not intended by the communication carrier is attempted, and ends the processing. Thereby, the wired communication unit 120 ends the communication, and the radio base station BS does not form a micro cell.

  In step 5i, the control unit 100 activates the wireless communication unit 110 to form a microcell, and ends the process. Thereafter, when the control unit 100 receives a pilot signal transmitted from the mobile station MS, the control unit 100 requests the authentication server SV to register the location of the mobile station MS through the communication carrier network CN.

As described above, in the wireless communication system having the above-described configuration, when the authentication server SV stores the ISP used in the initial operation of the wireless base station BS together with the base station ID, and then operates the wireless base station BS. The authentication server SV permits the operation only when the radio base station BS is connected using the same ISP.
Therefore, according to the radio base station BS configured as described above, since the radio base station BS can be operated only through the registered ISP, it cannot be operated even if it is taken out to an unforeseen area, and an unexpected problem occurs. Nor.

  In this embodiment, the identification information of the ISP that can be operated at the first operation is registered. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when lending (or selling) a radio base station BS, a service subscriber applies for a desired ISP and registers it in the base station authentication table, or the ISP identification information determined by the carrier It is possible to register in the base station authentication table and operate the service subscriber using only this ISP. Or you may make it register only the ISP of the area (for example, Japan) intended by the communication carrier beforehand in the base station authentication table.

(Third embodiment)
FIG. 6 shows the configuration of a wireless communication system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. This radio communication system includes a mobile station MS, a radio base station BS, and an authentication server SV. FIG. 6 shows the Internet IN and the communication carrier network CN.

  There are many ISPs that connect users to the Internet IN, such as providers that provide services by forming ISP networks in Japan, and providers that provide services by forming ISP networks outside Japan. Uses the IP address of the country or region to which it belongs.

  The communication carrier network CN is, for example, a communication network of a carrier that provides a mobile phone service, and a gateway server GW is provided between the carrier IN and the Internet IN. In addition, only specific communication devices such as the radio base station BS can be connected from the outside.

  The authentication server SV performs an authentication process for determining whether the mobile station MS seeking connection to the communication carrier network CN is a service subscriber, and permits the service subscriber to use the communication carrier network CN. Further, the authentication server SV determines the operation area of the radio base station BS, and permits the operation only when operated in the area intended by the communication carrier in advance. Details will be described later.

The authentication server SV includes a control unit 200, a network interface (I / F) 210, and a storage unit 220 as main components.
The network interface 210 is an interface for performing communication via the communication carrier network CN.

  The storage unit 220 includes a RAM, a ROM, a hard disk drive, and the like, and stores a control program and control data of the control unit 200. In addition, for each region, the storage unit 220 stores a carrier radio base station table in which identification information indicating the region is associated with identification information of the carrier wireless base station CS installed in the region.

  The control unit 200 controls each unit of the authentication server SV in an integrated manner, operates according to the control program and control data stored in the storage unit 220, and requests a connection to the communication carrier network CN. Execute the authentication process to determine whether the service is a service subscriber, or determine the operation area of the radio base station BS, depending on whether it is operated in advance in the area intended by the telecommunications carrier Perform base station authentication processing to permit operation.

  The mobile station MS is a portable communication device such as a mobile phone used by a service subscriber. The mobile station MS normally communicates wirelessly with a carrier radio base station CS (not shown) and communicates via the carrier network CN, but uses the service via the radio base station BS. Is also possible.

  The radio base station BS is, for example, a portable base station that is lent (or sold) by a telecommunications carrier to a service subscriber, and the service subscriber can be installed at an arbitrary location. A communication service area (microcell) smaller than the CS is formed, and wireless communication is performed with the mobile station MS to connect to the communication carrier network CN. Thereby, the mobile station MS can enjoy the same service as that through the carrier radio base station CS.

The radio base station BS includes a control unit 100, a radio communication unit 110, a wired communication unit 120, a notification unit 130, and a storage unit 140 as main components.
The radio communication unit 110 is a radio unit that performs radio communication with the mobile station MS. Specifically, the radio communication unit 110 receives a radio signal from the mobile station MS, down-converts to an intermediate frequency, and demodulates and decodes the received signal. At the same time, encoding, modulation, up-conversion to a radio frequency, transmission of a radio signal, and the like are performed for data addressed to the mobile station MS. The operation is controlled by the control unit 100.

  The wired communication unit 120 performs an IP connection to the communication carrier network CN via the Internet IN and performs communication through the communication carrier network CN. The wired communication unit 120 is addressed to the mobile station MS connected through the wireless communication unit 110. Is received from the telecommunications carrier network CN, or data received from the mobile station MS is transmitted to the telecommunications carrier network CN, and its operation is controlled by the control unit 100.

The notification unit 130 notifies the user of the operating state of the radio base station BS, and includes a light emitting unit that emits light in colors such as red and green, a sounding unit that emits a buzzer sound, and the operation thereof. Controlled by the control unit 100.
The storage unit 140 includes a RAM, a ROM, and the like, and stores a control program, control data, and the like of the control unit 100.

  The control unit 100 controls each unit of the radio base station BS, and controls each unit to provide a communication service area to the mobile station MS and perform radio communication with the mobile station MS. The mobile station MS is connected to the communication carrier network CN. In addition, the control unit 100 performs an operation restriction process, searches for a carrier radio base station CS existing in the vicinity, and performs authentication so that it operates only in a region (for example, Japan) intended in advance by the communication carrier. According to the result of the authentication process of the server SV, it communicates with the mobile station MS only when there is permission.

  Next, the operation of the radio communication system having the above configuration will be described. First, the operation of the radio base station BS configured as described above will be described. In the following description, a description of a normal communication control operation for connecting the mobile station MS to the communication carrier network CN via the Internet IN will be omitted, and an operation restriction process performed before that will be described.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation restriction process. This process is realized by the control unit 100 operating based on the control program and control data stored in the storage unit 140, and the power is turned on. And executed.

First, in step 7a, the control unit 100 self-diagnosis whether there is an abnormality in the operation state of the radio base station BS, and proceeds to step 7b.
In step 7b, the control unit 100 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the self-diagnosis performed in step 7a. If there is an abnormality (NG), the process proceeds to step 7c. On the other hand, if there is no abnormality and the operation is normal (OK), the process proceeds to step 7d.

In step 7c, the control unit 100 drives and controls the notification unit 130, notifies the user that an abnormality has been detected as a result of self-diagnosis, and ends the process. Thereby, the radio base station BS does not form a micro cell.
On the other hand, in step 7d, the control unit 100 controls the wired communication unit 120, acquires an IP address from the ISP according to a predetermined procedure, and proceeds to step 7e.
In step 7e, the control unit 100 activates only the part related to the reception operation of the wireless communication unit 110, and proceeds to step 7f. That is, only the reception circuit is operated among the reception circuit and the transmission circuit included in the wireless communication unit 110, and only the reception operation is performed.

  In step 7f, the control unit 100 controls the radio communication unit 110 to receive a pilot signal transmitted by the operator radio base station CS at a predetermined cycle, and obtain a base station ID of the operator radio base station CS. Thereby, the operator radio base station CS located in the vicinity is searched, and the process proceeds to Step 7g.

  In step 7g, the control unit 100 controls the wired communication unit 120 to transmit a search report including the base station ID information acquired in step 7f to the authentication server SV through the Internet IN and the communication carrier network CN. The access request is made and the process proceeds to step 7h. As a result, the authentication server SV starts an authentication process (FIG. 8) to be described later for the radio base station BS.

In step 7h, the control unit 100 controls the wired communication unit 120 to attempt to receive a response message from the authentication server SV. When the response message is received, the control unit 100 proceeds to step 7i.
In step 7i, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the response message received in step 7h indicates permission. Here, in the case of a message indicating permission, a microcell is formed, and the process ends. Thereafter, when the control unit 100 receives a pilot signal transmitted from the mobile station MS, the control unit 100 requests the authentication server SV to register the location of the mobile station MS through the communication carrier network CN.

On the other hand, in the case of a message indicating rejection, the process proceeds to step 7j.
In step 7j, the control unit 100 stops the wireless communication unit 110 and proceeds to step 7k.

  In step 7k, the control unit 100 drives and controls the notification unit 130 to notify the user that an operation in an area not intended by the communication carrier is attempted, and ends the process. Thereby, the wired communication unit 120 ends the communication, and the radio base station BS does not form a micro cell.

  Next, the operation of the authentication server SV configured as described above will be described. In the following description, the description of the authentication process for the mobile station MS will be omitted, and the authentication process for the radio base station BS will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an authentication process for the radio base station BS. This process is realized by the control unit 200 operating based on a control program and control data stored in the storage unit 220, and is a wireless It is executed in response to an access request from the base station BS.

  In step 8a, the control unit 200 detects the search report included in the access request received from the radio base station BS and the ID of the radio base station BS through the network interface 210, and proceeds to step 8b.

  In step 8b, the control unit 200 refers to the carrier radio base station table stored in the storage unit 220, and from the ID of the carrier radio base station CS included in the search report detected in step 8a, the ID detected in step 8a. The position of the radio base station BS is estimated. That is, the area associated with the ID of the carrier radio base station CS included in the search report is obtained from the carrier radio base station table, and the process proceeds to step 8c.

  In step 8c, the control unit 200 determines in advance whether or not the area obtained in step 8b is a non-permitted area that is not intended by the communication carrier. Here, if the area obtained in step 8b is a non-permitted area, the process proceeds to step 8d. On the other hand, if the area is not a non-permitted area, the process proceeds to step 8e.

In step 8d, the control unit 200 transmits a response message (rejection notification) indicating that the operation is not permitted to the radio base station BS through the network interface 210, and ends the processing.
On the other hand, in step 8e, the control unit 200 transmits a response message (permission notification) indicating that the operation is permitted to the radio base station BS through the network interface 210, and ends the processing.

As described above, in the wireless communication system configured as described above, the wireless base station BS searches for the nearby operator wireless base station CS, and notifies the authentication server of the search result, and the authentication server is based on the notification, The location of the radio base station BS is estimated, and the operation is permitted only in the region intended by the communication carrier in advance.
Therefore, according to the radio base station BS having the above configuration, the radio base station BS can be operated only at a location permitted by the authentication server SV. Does not occur.

(Fourth embodiment)
FIG. 9 shows the configuration of a wireless communication system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. This radio communication system includes a mobile station MS, a radio base station BS, and an authentication server SV. FIG. 9 shows the Internet IN, the communication carrier network CN, and the public telephone network PN.
The public telephone network PN is a so-called telephone communication network and accommodates the fixed telephone TEL of the user's home HM. In the present embodiment, the radio base station BS is installed in the user's home HM.

  There are many ISPs that connect users to the Internet IN, such as providers that provide services by forming ISP networks in Japan, and providers that provide services by forming ISP networks outside Japan. Uses the IP address of the country or region to which it belongs. A large number of access servers AS exist on the Internet IN, and these access servers AS are interposed between the ISP network and the communication carrier network CN.

  The communication carrier network CN is, for example, a communication network of a carrier that provides a mobile phone service, and a gateway server GW is provided between the carrier IN and the Internet IN. In addition, only specific communication devices such as the radio base station BS can be connected from the outside.

  The authentication server SV performs an authentication process for determining whether the mobile station MS seeking connection to the communication carrier network CN is a service subscriber, and permits the service subscriber to use the communication carrier network CN. Further, the authentication server SV knows the operating environment of the radio base station BS, and permits the operation only when operated through a registered ISP. Details will be described later.

The authentication server SV includes a control unit 200, a network interface (I / F) 210, a public network interface (I / F) 230, and a storage unit 220 as main components.
The network interface 210 is an interface for performing communication via the communication carrier network CN.
The public network interface 230 is connected to the public telephone network PN, and can make a call to the fixed telephone TEL through the network PN to transmit / receive audio signals including a DTMF (Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency) signal.

  The storage unit 220 includes a RAM, a ROM, a hard disk drive, and the like, and stores a control program and control data of the control unit 200. The storage unit 220 stores a subscriber number table in which the subscriber telephone number of the mobile station MS used by the service subscriber is associated with the subscriber telephone number of the fixed telephone TEL registered at the time of service subscription.

  The control unit 200 controls each unit of the authentication server SV in an integrated manner, operates according to the control program and control data stored in the storage unit 220, and requests a connection to the communication carrier network CN. The authentication process is performed to determine whether the user is a service subscriber, or when the operation of the radio base station BS is started, the operation depends on whether or not the operation location is the user home HM. The base station authentication process that permits is performed.

  The mobile station MS is a portable communication device such as a mobile phone used by a service subscriber. The mobile station MS normally communicates wirelessly with a carrier radio base station CS (not shown) and communicates via the carrier network CN, but uses the service via the radio base station BS. Is also possible.

  The radio base station BS is, for example, a portable base station that is lent (or sold) to a service subscriber by a telecommunications carrier, and can be installed at any location by the service subscriber. A communication service area (microcell) that is smaller than that of the base station CS is formed, wirelessly communicated with the mobile station MS, and connected to the communication carrier network CN. Thereby, the mobile station MS can enjoy the same service as that through the carrier radio base station CS.

The radio base station BS includes a control unit 100, a radio communication unit 110, a wired communication unit 120, a notification unit 130, and a storage unit 140 as main components.
The radio communication unit 110 is a radio unit that performs radio communication with the mobile station MS. Specifically, the radio communication unit 110 receives a radio signal from the mobile station MS, down-converts to an intermediate frequency, and demodulates and decodes the received signal. At the same time, encoding, modulation, up-conversion to a radio frequency, transmission of a radio signal, and the like are performed for data addressed to the mobile station MS. The operation is controlled by the control unit 100.

  The wired communication unit 120 performs an IP connection to the communication carrier network CN via the Internet IN and performs communication through the communication carrier network CN. The wired communication unit 120 is addressed to the mobile station MS connected through the wireless communication unit 110. Is received from the telecommunications carrier network CN, or data received from the mobile station MS is transmitted to the telecommunications carrier network CN, and its operation is controlled by the control unit 100.

The notification unit 130 notifies the user of the operating state of the radio base station BS, and includes a light emitting unit that emits light in colors such as red and green, a sounding unit that emits a buzzer sound, and the operation thereof. Controlled by the control unit 100.
The storage unit 140 includes a RAM, a ROM, and the like, and stores a control program, control data, and the like of the control unit 100.

  The control unit 100 controls each unit of the radio base station BS, and controls each unit to provide a communication service area to the mobile station MS and perform radio communication with the mobile station MS. The mobile station MS is connected to the communication carrier network CN. In addition, when the control unit 100 performs the operation restriction process and is permitted in accordance with the result of the authentication process of the authentication server SV so as to operate only in a region (for example, in Japan) intended by the communication carrier in advance. Only communicate with the mobile station MS.

  Next, the operation of the radio communication system having the above configuration will be described. First, the operation of the radio base station BS configured as described above will be described. In the following description, a description of a normal communication control operation for connecting the mobile station MS to the communication carrier network CN via the Internet IN will be omitted, and an operation restriction process performed before that will be described.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation restriction process. This process is realized by the control unit 100 operating based on the control program and control data stored in the storage unit 140, and the power is turned on. And executed.

First, in step 10a, the control unit 100 self-diagnose whether there is an abnormality in the operation state of the radio base station BS, and proceeds to step 10b.
In step 10b, the control unit 100 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the self-diagnosis performed in step 10a. If there is an abnormality (NG), the process proceeds to step 10c. On the other hand, if there is no abnormality and the operation is normal (OK), the process proceeds to step 10d.

In step 10c, the control unit 100 drives and controls the notification unit 130, notifies the user that an abnormality has been detected as a result of self-diagnosis, and ends the process. Thereby, the radio base station BS does not form a micro cell.
On the other hand, in step 10d, the control unit 100 controls the wired communication unit 120, acquires an IP address from the ISP according to a predetermined procedure, and proceeds to step 10e.
In step 10e, the control unit 100 controls the wired communication unit 120, makes an access request to the authentication server SV through the Internet IN and the communication carrier network CN, and proceeds to step 10f. Thereby, the authentication server SV starts an authentication process (FIG. 11) to be described later for the radio base station BS.

In step 10f, the control unit 100 activates the wireless communication unit 110 and proceeds to step 10g. Thereafter, the service subscriber operates the mobile station MS and transmits to the special number notified by the operator when the radio base station BS is acquired.
In step 10g, the control unit 100 controls the wireless communication unit 110 to receive a call request from the mobile station MS, detect the requested call destination telephone number, and shift to step 10h.

  In step 10h, the control unit 100 determines whether the destination telephone number detected in step 10g is a special number registered in the storage unit 140. If the destination telephone number is a special number, the process proceeds to step 10i. On the other hand, if it is not a special number, the process proceeds to step 10n.

  In step 10i, the control unit 100 receives a transmission request from the mobile station MS, controls the wired communication unit 120, and transmits to the communication carrier network CN through the Internet IN. On the other hand, the communication carrier network CN gives an incoming signal to the authentication server SV when detecting a call request to the special number. And the control part 100 will transfer to step 10j, if a communication link is established between authentication server SV.

In step 10j, the control unit 100 controls the wireless communication unit 110 to accept an input of a pass code transmitted from the mobile station MS using a DTMF signal, and proceeds to step 10k.
In step 10k, the control unit 100 controls the wired communication unit 120 to convert the DTMF signal input in step 10j into a voice packet, transmit it to the authentication server SV, and shifts to step 10l.

  In step 101, the control unit 100 controls the wired communication unit 120 to attempt to receive a response message from the authentication server SV. When the response message is received, the control unit 100 proceeds to step 10m.

  In step 10m, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the response message received in step 10l indicates permission. Here, in the case of a message indicating permission, the wireless communication unit 110 is left activated as it is, so that the micro cell remains formed. On the other hand, in the case of a message indicating rejection, the process proceeds to step 10n.

In step 10n, the control unit 100 stops the wireless communication unit 110 and proceeds to step 10o. Thereby, the formed microcell disappears.
In step 10o, the control unit 100 drives and controls the notification unit 130 to notify the user that an operation in an area not intended by the communication carrier is attempted. In addition, the control unit 100 stops the wired communication unit 120 and ends the process.

  Next, the operation of the authentication server SV configured as described above will be described. In the following description, the description of the authentication process for the mobile station MS will be omitted, and the authentication process for the radio base station BS will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an authentication process for the radio base station BS. This process is realized by the control unit 200 operating based on a control program or control data stored in the storage unit 220, and is a wireless It is executed in response to an access request from the base station BS.

  In step 11a, the control unit 200 temporarily grants access to the wireless base station BS that has requested access through the network interface 210, and then proceeds to step 11b. As a result, the radio base station BS can temporarily communicate with the authentication server, and an incoming call is generated in the authentication server SV by the transmission performed in step 10i.

  In step 11b, the control unit 200 determines whether an incoming call addressed to the special number has occurred through the network interface 210. Here, if an incoming call addressed to the special number occurs, the process proceeds to step 11c. On the other hand, if it does not occur, an incoming call addressed to the special number is waited until a preset time elapses.

  In step 11c, the control unit 200 detects the calling number from the incoming call detected in step 11b, and proceeds to step 11d. As a result, the subscriber telephone number of the mobile station MS is detected.

  In step 11d, the control unit 200 refers to the subscriber number table stored in the storage unit 220, detects the subscriber telephone number of the fixed telephone TEL associated with the subscriber telephone number detected in step 11c, and performs step 11e. Migrate to

In step 11e, the control unit 200 controls the public network interface 230 to make a call to the subscriber telephone number of the fixed telephone TEL detected in step 11d.
In step 11f, after generating the pass code, the control unit 200 controls the public network interface 230 to send voice guidance for transmitting the pass code to the responding fixed telephone TEL and control the network interface 210. Then, the pass code is transmitted to the radio base station BS, and the process proceeds to Step 11g. As a result, the service subscriber recognizes the pass code given to operate the radio base station BS and sends the pass code through the mobile station MS (step 10j).

  In step 11g, the control unit 200 controls the network interface 210, receives the passcode sent from the radio base station BS in step 10k, and proceeds to step 11h.

  In step 11h, the control unit 200 determines whether or not the passcode generated in step 11f matches the passcode received in step 11g. If the passcodes match, the process proceeds to step 11j. If the passcodes do not match, the process proceeds to step 11i.

In step 11i, the control unit 200 transmits a response message (rejection notification) indicating that the operation is not permitted to the radio base station BS through the network interface 210, and ends the processing.
On the other hand, in step 11j, the control unit 200 transmits a response message (permission notification) indicating that the operation is permitted to the radio base station BS through the network interface 210, and ends the processing.

As described above, in the wireless communication system configured as described above, the authentication server SV sends a call to the fixed telephone TEL installed in the area where the operation of the wireless base station BS is permitted, and notifies the service subscriber of the pass code. By returning the pass code to the authentication server SV through the radio base station BS, it is determined that the radio base station BS is in an area where the operation is permitted, and the operation of the radio base station BS is permitted.
Therefore, according to the radio base station BS configured as described above, the radio base station BS can be operated only at a location registered in the authentication server SV. Therefore, the radio base station BS cannot be operated even if it is taken out to an unexpected area. There is no problem.

In order to prevent the once-permitted radio base station BS from moving to a different location and operating, the processes shown in FIGS. 12 to 14 are executed.
FIG. 12 is a process performed by the authentication server SV every time a preset period arrives. This process is realized by the control unit 200 operating based on a control program and control data stored in the storage unit 220.

  In step 12a, the control unit 200 controls the network interface 210 to transmit a confirmation signal to the radio base station BS through the communication carrier network CN and the Internet IN, and proceeds to step 12b.

  In step 12b, the control unit 200 controls the network interface 210 to determine whether or not a response signal is received from the radio base station BS through the communication carrier network CN and the Internet IN. If the response signal is received within the predetermined time, the process proceeds to step 12c. On the other hand, if the response signal cannot be received within the predetermined time, the process proceeds to step 12d.

In step 12c, the control unit 200 records the time at which the response signal is received in association with the identification information (base station ID) of the radio base station BS in the storage unit 220 as base station confirmation data, and ends the process. .
In step 12d, the control unit 200 records the time when the response signal could not be received in the storage unit 220 as base station confirmation data in association with the identification information (base station ID) of the radio base station BS, and performs the process. finish.

On the other hand, when the power is turned on, the radio base station BS repeatedly executes a process as shown in FIG. This process is realized by the control unit 100 operating based on a control program or control data stored in the storage unit 140.
In step 13a, the control unit 100 monitors whether or not the wired communication unit 120 has received a confirmation signal addressed to the wireless base station BS from the authentication server SV. If the confirmation signal is received, the process proceeds to step 13b. If not received, the process proceeds to step 13a again to monitor the arrival of the confirmation signal.
In step 13, the control unit 100 controls the wired communication unit 120 to transmit a response signal addressed to the authentication server SV, and proceeds to step 13a.

  The authentication server SV executes the process shown in FIG. 14 prior to the authentication process shown in FIG. 11, and executes it when an access request is received from the radio base station BS. This process is realized by the control unit 200 operating based on a control program and control data stored in the storage unit 220.

In step 14a, the control unit 200 acquires the identification information (base station ID) of the radio base station BS through the network interface 210, and proceeds to step 14b.
In step 14b, the control unit 200 refers to the base station confirmation data stored in the storage unit 220 for the radio base station BS of the base station ID acquired in step 14a, and proceeds to step 14c.

  In step 14c, the control unit 200 determines whether or not there is a period in which the radio base station BS of the base station ID acquired in step 14a cannot obtain a response signal for a predetermined time or more. If there is a period during which a response signal cannot be obtained for a predetermined time or more, the process proceeds to step 14f. On the other hand, if a response signal is obtained within a predetermined time, the process proceeds to step 14d. To do.

  In step 14d, the control unit 200 determines whether or not the wireless base station BS of the base station ID acquired in step 14a has not obtained a response signal in the latest confirmation. Here, when the response signal is not obtained by the latest confirmation, the process proceeds to step 14f. On the other hand, when the response signal is obtained by the latest confirmation, the process proceeds to step 14e.

In step 14e, the control unit 200 transmits a response message (permission notification) indicating that the operation is permitted to the radio base station BS through the network interface 210, and ends the processing. As a result, permission notification is sent to the radio base station BS that has made an access request to the authentication server SV, so that the radio base station BS can operate without performing the authentication process shown in FIG. Can start.
On the other hand, in step 14f, the control unit 200 performs the authentication process shown in FIG. 11 again and confirms that the radio base station BS is in an area where the operation is permitted.

  Note that the processing illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 14 is not limited to the fourth embodiment, and can be applied to the second and third embodiments described above. That is, once the operation of the radio base station BS is permitted, the processing of FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 is performed. Thereafter, when there is an access request from the radio base station BS, the authentication server SV performs the processing of FIG. To implement. The authentication process in step 14f corresponds to the authentication process shown in FIGS.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment as it is, and can be embodied by modifying the constituent elements without departing from the scope of the invention in the implementation stage. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of constituent elements disclosed in the embodiment. Further, for example, a configuration in which some components are deleted from all the components shown in the embodiment is also conceivable. Furthermore, you may combine suitably the component described in different embodiment.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Control part, 110 ... Wireless communication part, 120 ... Wired communication part, 130 ... Notification part, 140 ... Storage part, 200 ... Control part, 210 ... Network interface, 220 ... Storage part, 230 ... Public network interface, AS ... Access server, BS ... radio base station, CN ... communication carrier network, CS ... provider radio base station, GW ... gateway server, HM ... user home, IN ... Internet, MS ... mobile station, PN ... public telephone network, PN ... network, SV ... authentication server, TEL ... fixed telephone.

Claims (7)

In a radio base station apparatus that connects a mobile station to be wirelessly connected to a carrier network through the Internet,
First communication means for wirelessly communicating with a mobile station;
A second communication means for communicating through the Internet through a provider;
Address detecting means for detecting an IP address assigned by the provider;
An area determination means for determining an area based on the IP address detected by the address detection means;
A radio base station apparatus comprising: a radio communication control unit that activates the first communication unit when the region determined by the region determination unit is a preset region. In a wireless communication system in which an authentication server accommodated in a carrier network authenticates a wireless base station device, and a mobile station to which the wireless base station device is wirelessly connected is connected to the carrier network through the Internet.
The authentication server is
Storage means for storing the identification information of the radio base station apparatus and the identification information of the provider in association with each other;
Provider detecting means for detecting a provider used by the wireless base station device;
Base station detection means for detecting identification information of the radio base station device;
When the provider identification information detected by the provider detection means and the identification information of the radio base station apparatus detected by the base station detection means are associated with each other and stored in the storage means, through the Internet, A notification means for performing permission notification for permitting operation to the radio base station device,
The wireless base station device
First communication means for wirelessly communicating with a mobile station;
A second communication means for communicating through the Internet through a provider;
A wireless communication system comprising: a wireless communication control unit that activates the first communication unit when the second communication unit receives the permission notification from the authentication server.   The wireless communication system according to claim 2, wherein the provider detecting unit detects a provider from a global IP address assigned to the wireless base station device. The authentication server further includes:
When the radio base station apparatus is connected for the first time, the identification information of the provider detected by the provider detection means and the identification information of the radio base station apparatus detected by the base station detection means are associated with each other and stored The wireless communication system according to claim 2, wherein the wireless communication system is stored in a means. In a wireless communication system in which an authentication server accommodated in a carrier network authenticates a wireless base station device and a mobile station to which the wireless base station device is wirelessly connected is connected to the carrier network through the Internet
The wireless base station device
First communication means for wirelessly communicating with a mobile station;
A second communication means for communicating through the Internet through a provider;
Base station detection means for receiving radio signals transmitted by other radio base stations and detecting identification information of other radio base stations located in the vicinity;
Transmission control means for controlling the second communication means and transmitting the identification information detected by the base station detection means to the authentication server;
Wireless communication control means for activating the first communication means when the second communication means receives a permission notice from the authentication server;
The authentication server is
Receiving means for receiving identification information detected by the base station detecting means;
Based on the identification information received by the receiving means, an area determining means for determining an area;
A wireless communication system, comprising: a notification unit configured to transmit a notification according to a determination result of the region determination unit to the wireless base station device through the Internet. In a wireless communication system in which an authentication server accommodated in a carrier network authenticates a wireless base station device, and a mobile station to which the wireless base station device is wirelessly connected is connected to the carrier network through the Internet.
The authentication server is
Storage means for storing identification information of the radio base station apparatus and a telephone number of a fixed telephone accommodated in a public telephone network in association with each other;
A passcode transmission means for calling a telephone number of the fixed telephone and transmitting a passcode;
Authentication information receiving means for receiving the identification information and passcode of the wireless base station device through the Internet;
A determination unit that determines whether or not to permit the operation of the radio base station apparatus based on the identification information and the pass code received by the authentication information receiving unit and the information stored in the storage unit;
A notification unit that transmits a notification according to a determination result of the determination unit to the radio base station apparatus through the Internet,
The wireless base station device
First communication means for wirelessly communicating with a mobile station;
A second communication means for communicating through the Internet through a provider;
Transmission control means for controlling the second communication means and transmitting a passcode to the authentication server;
A wireless communication system comprising: a wireless communication control means for controlling the operation of the first communication means in response to a notification received by the second communication means from the authentication server. The authentication server further includes:
A connection determination unit that determines whether or not the wireless base station device is connected to the Internet when the notification unit performs permission notification;
The notification means transmits a permission notice to the radio base station apparatus through the Internet when the connection determination means detects a connection,
The wireless communication system according to claim 6, wherein the wireless communication control unit operates the first communication unit when the second communication unit receives a permission notice from the authentication server.

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