MXPA99007090A - Cellular telephone network support of international mobile station identity (imsi) - Google Patents

Abstract

TIA IS-136 specifies the assignment to mobile stations (14) of a unique international mobile station identification (IMSI) in addition to a mobile identification number (MIN). The IMSI number is communicated from the mobile station to the network, and is processed by the network to provide for non-ambiguous subscriber identification. Accordingly, the IMSI number is transmitted by the mobile station during registration (104), and processed during authentication (102, 110) to insure accurate and unique subscriber identification. Once registered with an IMSI instead of a MIN, the network utilizes the IMSI during subsequent call handling to insure, for example, proper call delivery and handoff.

Description

SUPPORT OF CELLULAR TELEPHONE NETWORK OF IDENTITY OF INTERNATIONAL MOBILE STATION (IMSI) BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Technical Field of the Invention The present invention relates to cellular telephone networks and, in particular, to the handover and handling of international mobile station identity number (IMSI) network transmitted during authentication and registration, delivery of call and transfer of call.

Description of the Related Art Probably the most important selling characteristic of cell phone service is the mobility advantage. Those people who subscribe to a cell phone service do so in order to make and receive phone calls without being tied in a fixed location. These subscribers also carry their cell phones with them on trips, and make use of their subscriptions as they move not only within their own country, but also in foreign countries. It is when people move to different countries whose service is regulated by different rules and numbering plans, and whenever different protocols are used, which often present conflicts and concerns with the provision of service. An example of potential conflict arises when two or more cell phones are assigned to use the same mobile identification number (MIN), where numbers are attributed to two different numbering plans, and where one of those phones moves towards the jurisdiction of the other telephone service. For example, in cases where a detection of the mobile station's electronic serial number (ESN) of a fraudulent cell phone is not made, and if that mobile cell phone is to make a registration within the visited service jurisdiction, the Another (local) cell phone can be mistakenly marked by the system as being placed in the location of the moving phone. In this case, an incoming call to the local phone will be routed instead to the cell phone that ST moves. Additionally, the subscriber profile of the local cell phone can be downloaded from the local location register to the switching center that currently serves the mobile cell phone that is being moved. Consequently, the one who moves has access to an incorrect profile. Also, charges for calls made or received by the mobile cell phone that is being moved may be incorrectly billed to the local cell phone account. Other problems that arise in such a situation are known to those skilled in the art. Another potential conflict case arises when a mobile phone moves to a service jurisdiction that does not recognize the numbering plan to which the mobile identification number of the mobile station is associated. For example, in trying to provide telephone service cellular, the cellular system may not be able to identify the local location record to which the phone belongs. Consequently, the cell phone service may be denied, or somewhat limited (and potentially incorrect) the service will be provided using a failing subscriber profile. Each of the previous cases of potential conflict arises due to the problems encountered in trying to uniquely identify the cell phone that requests service. Therefore, it is of some concern that cell phones are uniquely identified on a global basis, rather than just within one or more individual cellular service jurisdictions or numbering plans. Some solutions to this problem have been proposed. For example, from the perspective of the air interface, the TIAEIA IS-136A Specification provides the assignment of a unique international mobile station identity number (IMSI) to each cell phone. With the implementation of this identification scheme, each cell phone will have its own unique identification number. In response to the system information received in the upper message stream, the IS-136A mobile station uses either the mobile identification number or the international mobile station identity number to be identified through the air interface. While the IS-136A directs the use and transmission of the international mobile station identity number through the air interface by a cellular telephone, there is no specification of how this number should be processed by the cellular network in view of the existing use and registration of mobile identification numbers (MINs) for cell phones. Accordingly, there is a need then for a specification of the network operations (and in particular the registration, authentication, call delivery and handover operations) that support the use of the international mobile station identity number as transmitted through the air interface.

COMPENDIUM OF THE INVENTION TIA IS-136 specifies the assignment to mobile stations of a unique international mobile station (MSI) identification in addition to a 'mobile identification number (MIN). To support the removal, registration, authentication, call delivery and billing of precise service of unambiguous subscriber profile, in those cases where a mobile station moves, the calls of the present invention for the communication and processing of the station number mobile transmitted air interface (IMSI) during mobile station registration, authentication, call delivery and handover. Next, the IMSI number of the mobile station is communicated within and processed by the network to ensure accurate and unique subscriber identification in relation to network authentication, call delivery and handover operations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS A more complete understanding of the method and apparatus of the present invention may be acquired by reference to the following Detailed Description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings, wherein: Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a cell phone network; Figure 2 is a signal flow diagram and node operation for the cellular telephone network of Figure 1 illustrating the flow of signals in connection with a handling of the present invention of the 'registration and authentication processes for a telephone. cellular having an international mobile station identity number (IMSI); Figure 3 is a signal flow diagram and node operation for the cellular telephone network of Figure 1 illustrating the flow of signals in connection with the handling of the present invention of the call delivery process for a cellular telephone that has an international mobile station (MSI) identity number; Figures 4A-4J are signal flow diagrams and node operation for the cellular telephone network of Figure 1 illustrating the flow of signals in connection with a handling of the present invention of various call forwarding processes for a telephone cellular having an international mobile station identity number (IMSI); and Figures 5A-5G are signal flow diagrams and node operation for the cellular telephone network of Figure 1 illustrating the flow of signals in connection with a handling of the present invention of other network transactions with respect to a cell phone that has an international mobile station identity number (IMSI).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Reference is now made to Figure 1, wherein a simplified schematic diagram of a cellular telephone network 10 is shown including a plurality of interconnected switching nodes 12 also referred to as mobile switching centers (MSCs). even though only four switching nodes 12 are shown, it will be understood that network 10 probably includes many more interconnected nodes. The switching nodes 12 may comprise any of a number of known telecommunications switching devices, including those commonly used and known in the art to support cellular telephone service either digital or analogous to a plurality of cellular telephones. The switching nodes 12 are interconnected for communication through both signaling links 16 (illustrated with solid lines) and voice trunks 18 (illustrated with broken lines). The voice trunks 18 provide voice and data communications paths used to carry the subscriber communications between the nodes 12. The signaling links 16 carry command signals between the nodes 12 used to establish and undo voice and data communications links through the voice trunks 18, and to control the provision of special subscriber call service features to the subscriber cellular phones. Each switching node 12 is connected to a local location registration data base (HLR) (or possibly to a plurality of databases if necessary) via VLR 21 via signaling links 22. Even when illustrated as a separate node, it will be understood that the visitor location record 21 may comprise a part of the switching node 12, the database (s) for the local location record 20 and the visitor location record 21 store information related to the cellular telephones 14 of subscriber comprising location information T service information. In particular, the local location registration data base 20 stores the subscriber profile for each cellular telephone 14, with this subscriber profile downloaded to the visitor location register 21 of the switching node 12 where the subscriber is currently located. .

The local location registers 20 are connected additionally? to an authentication center 24 (AC) by way of signaling links 22. The authentication center authenticates the subscriber cell phones that use an authentication algorithm in order to verify the right of the subscriber to use the cellular network. Even though it is illustrated how a separate node in the network 10, it will be understood that the authentication center 24 can alternatively be located in the local location register 20. Certain assumptions are made with respect to the configuration of the network 10 related to the various identifications available for the cellular telephones. Each cellular telephone 14 is identified either by (a) a mobile identification number (MIN) only, (b) an international mobile station identity number (IMSI) only, or (c) both a MIN and an IMSI number. Of course, it will be understood that there are other mechanisms for identifying a telephone 14 (such as a temporary mobile station identification - TMSI). For base 20 of local location registration data, if that cellular telephone 14 only has a mobile identification number, the system administrator inputs the mobile identification number, and the local location registration, visitor location record, The switching node and authentication center use the mobile identification number as the index to the subscription, and as an entry for execution of the authentication algorithm. If the cellular telephone 14 has both a mobile identification number and an international mobile station identity (IMSI), the system administrator inputs both the mobile identification number and the international mobile station identity number, and the local location record, the visitor location record, the switching node and the authentication center use either the mobile identification number or the international mobile station identity number as the index to the subscription and as an entry for the execution of the authentication algorithm. If the cellular telephone 14 has only an international mobile station identity, the system administrator inputs the international mobile station identity number, and the local location register, the visitor location register, the switching node and the center of authentication use the international mobile station identity number as the index to the subscription, and as an entry for execution of the authentication algorithm. Reference is now made in combination to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 2 is a signal flow diagram and node operation for the cellular telephone network of Figure 1, illustrating the flow of signals in relation to a handling of the present invention of the registration and authentication process for a cellular telephone 14 having at least one international mobile station identity number (IMSI) (and probably also having a mobile identification number (MIN)). In this example of registration and authentication process, it is assumed that the telephone (14) cellular subscriber of interest is currently receiving service from the switching node 12 (2), but was previously served by node 12 (1) of switching The base stations (not shown) for the serving node 12 (2) currently serving broadcast a higher message train 100 (OMT) to cell phones 14 located in a proximal manner including the telephone 14 (1) of interest. In the upper message stream 100, the network 10 specifies information related to the identification of the system, country code, authentication requirements (such as the random number RAND), and whether the international mobile station identity numbers for cellular telephones are supported by the network Because the international mobile station identity number is supported, the mobile station determines that in order to be unambiguously recognized, authenticates itself and registers using the international mobile station identity number. In response to the higher reported information, the cellular telephone 14 (1) executes the authentication algorithm (step 102) using appropriate parameters such as its electronic serial number (ESN), and the random number value broadcast. It also uses a mobile identification number (MIN) synthesized from (or equivalent to) the international mobile station identity (IMSI), to produce an authentication result (AUTHR). The cellular telephone 14 (1) then registers 104 with the service switching node 12 (2) supplying parameters such as its international mobile station identity, electronic serial number, authentication result, call history account (COUNT) and RANDC (derived from the random number supplied from the network that was used to compute the authentication result). In response to the signal 104, the service switching node 12 (2) notes that the cellular telephone 14 (1) used its international station identity number (step 105), verifies the RANDC (step 106). and then sends an authorization request message 108 (including the international mobile station identity number) to the visitor location register for the service switching node. The authentication request message 108 is then sent to the authentication center 24 through the local location register 20 to which the cellular telephone 14 (1) is assigned. The visitor location register can be authenticated using a derived mobile identification number. of the international mobile station identity number, or relegating the authentication message to the local location register. The local location register 20 may select to relegate the international mobile station identity number to the authentication center 24, or instead may associate a mobile identification number with the international mobile station identity number and send the identification number. mobile to the authentication center. If the authentication center 24 receives the mobile identification number in the authentication request 108, it executes the authentication algorithm with the mobile identification number as an entry. If the authentication center 24 instead receives an international mobile station identity number in the authentication request 108, it associates a mobile identification number with the received international mobile station identity number and executes 112 the authentication algorithm with the Mobile identification number associated as an entry, Execution of the authentication algorithm. produces an authentication result that is compared by the authentication center 24 with the authentication result transmitted together with the authentication request 108. The account received in the authentication request 108 is then verified by the authentication center 24. An account request message 116 formed with either the mobile identification number or the international mobile station identity is sent to the visitor location register 21 for the switching node 12 (1) previously serving through the registry 20. of local location. The withdrawn account contained in an account request response message 118 is then processed 120 for verification. An authorization request response 122 is then sent from the authentication center 24 again to the switching node 12 (2) currently serving through the local location register 20 and the visitor location center 21 associated with the switch. This answer 122 can authorize access of the cellular telephone 14 (1) to the network 10 (together with other data of the current and / or address) if the results of authentication and accounts are verified, or deny access to the network if they are not verified. This answer 122 includes the mobile identification number, which is then provided to both the <node; commutation as to the visitor location record. It should be noted, however, that the mobile identification number need not be provided if it can be derived from the international mobile station identity number. After successful authentication of the cellular telephone 14 (1), the service switching node 12 (2) sends a registration notification message 124 to its visitor location register 21. This message includes the international mobile station identity number used by the mobile station 14 (l) __ in its registration message 104. The visitor location register then records (step 126) that the cellular telephone 14 (1) made an access of air interface using your international mobile station identity number. The registration notification message 124 is then sent to the local location register 20 to which the cellular telephone 14 (1) is assigned. The local location register 20 then records (step 128) that the cellular telephone 14 (1) made an air interface access using its international mobile station identity number and that the cellular telephone has a new location. A registration notification response 130 is then sent back to the service switching node 12 (2) through its associated visitor location register 21. This response 130 includes the associated subscriber profile information in the local location register 20 with the mobile station of the registration subscriber. The response 130 also includes the mobile identification number when the mobile phone has both. If the cellular telephone 14 (1) previously received service from another switching node 12 (1) and was thus registered in another visitor location register 21, the local location register 20 sends a message 132 of cancellation of registration to that other visitor location record, This message includes the international mobile station identity number - or mobile identification number used by the mobile station 14 (1) in its registration message 104. The message 132 is sent from the other visitor location register 21 to its associated switching node 12 (1). A record cancellation response 134 is then sent by the switching node 12 (1) previously serving through its visitor location register 21 associated with the local location register 20. The above description of the registration and authentication processes for a mobile station differs from prior art processes in that the system supports mobile station registration and authentication as it is identified with either, a mobile identification number or an identity number of international mobile station. By registering and authenticating in this way, unambiguous identification of the mobile station by the system can be made. Reference is now made in combination to Figures 1 and 3. Figure 3 is a signal flow diagram and node operation for the cellular telephone network of Figure 1 illustrating the flow of signals in relation to the handling of this invention of the call delivery process for a cellular telephone having at least one international mobile station identity number (IMSI) (and probably also having a mobile identification number MIN)). In this example of the call delivery process it is assumed that the subscriber cellular phone of interest is currently being served by the switching node 12 (2) that the originating call is received at the node 12 (1) switching. A call 200 dialed to the directory number of the mobile station 14 (1) originates from another cellular subscriber or the PSTN (public switched telephone network) and is received at the originating switching node 12 (1). In this case, the dialed directory number may differ from the mobile identification number of the mobile station or the international mobile station identity number. The source switching node 12 (1) then interrogates the local location registration data base 20 with a location request 202 that includes the marked directory numberThe dialed directory number included within the location request 202 is then processed by the local location registration data base 20 to confirm that the number is assigned to a legitimate subscriber (step 204), and to determine in the step 206 the location (i.e., the service node 12 (2)) within the cellular network 10 of the called mobile station subscriber 14 (1). In response to the same, the local location registration data base 20 points to the visitor location register 21 of the service switching node 12 (2) for the mobile station subscriber 14 (1) called with a request 208 of guide, Since the mobile station 14 (1) called used its IMSI for its last registration (see Figure 2). the guide request 208 is populated with the IMSI associated with the marked mobile station. The guidance request 208 is then sent to the service switching node 12 (2). The service switching node 12 (2) then checks in step 210 to determine whether the called mobile station 14 (1) is busy in a call. In this example, we assume that the mobile station 14 (1) is currently idle. The service switching node 12 (2) then called to the mobile station 14 (1) called in step 212. If the service profile for the called mobile station subscriber 14 (1) has not previously been downloaded from the registry 21 of visitor location to the service switching node 12 (2), a qualification request message 214 including the IMSI is sent to the visitor location register. If the mobile station 14 (1) having the designated IMSI is unknown by the visitor location register 21, the request message 214 is sent to the local location register 20. Appropriate response messages 216 including the subscriber profile are sent from either the local location register 20 or the visitor location register 21 to the service switching node 12 (2). Response messages 216 include the mobile identification number (if available). The service switching node 12 (2) then assigns in step 218 a temporary (moving) local directory number (and associated parameters) for the called mobile station subscriber 14 (1). The number is then sent in a guide request return result message 220 to the local location registration data base 20 through the visitor location record 21. In response to the same, the local location register 20 sends a location request return result message 222 including the address information, required to 1 source switching node 12 (1). The response message 222! includes the mobile identification number (if available). The incoming call is then entered 224 (fully connected) through the voice trunk 18 to the service switching node 12 (2) for the attempted termination of the called mobile station subscriber 14 (1). The above description of the call delivery process differs from the prior art process in that the system supports mobile station identification using either a mobile identification number or an international mobile station identity number. Consequently, an unambiguous identification of the mobile station can be made by the system. Reference is now made in combination to Figures 1 and 4A-4J. Figures 4A-4J are signal flow diagrams and node operation for the cell phone network of Figure 1 illustrating the flow of signals in connection with a handling of the present invention of call transfer processes for a cell phone which has at least one international mobile station identity number (IMSI) (and probably also a mobile identification number (MIN)). Certain assumptions are made regarding the configuration of the network. 10 in relation to the transfer. For a cellular phone 14 that has both a mobile identification number and a number of., international mobile station identity, the mobile station registers (see Figure 2) that use their IMSI, and is allowed to be transferred to a non-IMSI support system. If the cell phone only has an international mobile station identity number, the mobile station registers (see Figure 2) using its IMSI, and is not allowed to transfer to a non-IMSI support system. With specific reference now to Figure 4A, there is shown a signal flow diagram and I node operation illustrating the flow of signals in connection with a handling of the present invention of a call transfer sending process for a cellular telephone that It has an International Mobile Station Identity Number (IMSI). A call 300 is in progress. The service switching node 12 (1) then selects (step 3Ó2), based on the processing of its internal algorithm. to determine if a handover to an adjacent white switching node 12 (2) is appropriate. Then, a handover request request message 304 is sent to the target switching node 12 (2). The blancp switching node 12 (2) then performs the location measurements (step 306), and returns the results 308 to the service switching node 12 (1), then a decision is made in step 310 to pass the call to target switching node 12 (2). A facility address message 312, which includes at least one of the MIN and / or the IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), as well as the circuit identification between the switch (if needed), is then sent to the node 12 ( 2) of white switching requesting a handover shipment .. Assuming that a voice channel is available. the white switching node 12 (2) confirms the handover shipment. The service switching node 12 (1) then sends a mobile handover command 316 to the mobile station 14 (1). The mobile station 14 (1) has access to the identified voice channel (step 318), and the white switching node 1282) completes the voice path between the voice channel and the trunk connection (step 320). A mobile station in the channel message 322 is sent via the target switching node 1282) to the service switching node 12 (1), and the handover process is completed (called 324) by connecting the call through the trunk connection. The above description of the handoff process differs from the prior art process in that the system supports mobile station identification using either a mobile identification number or an international mobile station identity number. Consequently, an unambiguous identification of the mobile station can be made by the system during the handover. Referring now to Figure 4B, there is shown a signal flow diagram and node operation illustrating the flow of signals in relation to a handling of the present invention of a new process, call forwarding for a cell phone having a International Mobile Station Identity Number (IMSI). A call 324 is in progress. A handover measurement request message 304 is sent to the target switching node 12 (1). The target switching node 12 (1) then performs location measurements (step 306), and returns the results 308 to the service switching node 12 (2). Then a decision is made in step 310 to hand over the call to the target switching node 12 (1), a message 326 again handoff, which includes at least one of the MIN and / or the IMSI for the station 14 (1) mobile, as well as circuit identification between switch (if needed) is then sent to target switching node 1281) requesting the return of the handover. Assuming that a voice channel is available, the white switching node 12 (1) confirms 314 the return of the handover. The service switching node 12 (2) then sends a mobile handover command 316 to the mobile station 14 (1) The mobile station 14 (1) has access to the identified voice channel (step 318), and the node 12 (1) White switching sends a facility release message 328, including at least one of the MIN and / or IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), as well as the circuit identification between switch (if needed) to the node Service switching 12 (1) indicating successful completion of the handover return A response 330 is then sent back to the target switching node 12 (1) and the trunk connection is marked idle (step 332) to complete the process return from handover to call 300. The above description of the handover process differs from the prior art process in that the system supports mobile station identification using either a mobile identification number or a mobile number. or identity of international mobile station.

Consequently, an unambiguous identification of the mobile station can be made by the system during the handover. Referring now to Figure 4C, there is shown a signal flow diagram and node operation illustrating the flow of signals in relation to a handling of the present invention of transferring call with tandem process for a cell phone which has at least one international mobile station identity number (IMSI) (and probably a mobile identification number (MIN)). A call 300 anchored with the switching node 12 (1) is in progress. The switching node 12 (2) currently serving then selects (step 302), based on the processing of its international algorithm, to determine whether a handover is appropriate. A handover measurement request message 304 is then sent to the target switching node (or nodes) 12 (3). The target switching nodes 1283) then perform location measurements (step 306), and return the results 308 to the service switching node 12 (2). A decision is then made in step 310 to pass the call to the target switching node 12 (3). A facility address message 312, which includes at least one of the MIN and / or the IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), as well as the circuit identification between the switch (if necessary) is then sent to the node 1283) white switching requesting a transfer transfer. Assuming that a voice channel is available, the target switching node 1283) confirms 314 handover send. The service switching node 12 (2) then sends an order 316 to the mobile station 14 (1). The mobile station 14 (1) has access to the identified voice channel (step 318), and the white switching node (3) completes the voice path between the voice channel and the trunk connection (step 320). A mobile station in the channel message 322 is sent via the target switching node 123) to the service switching node 12 (2), and the handover transmission process_ is completed (called 324) by connecting the call through the trunk connection. The above description of the handoff process differs from the prior art process in that the system supports the mobile station identification using either a mobile identification number or an international mobile station identity number. Consequently, the unambiguous identification of the mobile station can be done by the system during the handover. Referring now to Figure 4D, there is shown a signal flow diagram and node operation illustrating the flow of signals in connection with a handling of the present invention of a call transfer return with tandem process for a cell phone which has at least one international mobile station identity number (IMSI) (and probably a mobile identification number (MIN)). A call 324 anchored with the switching node 12 (1) is in progress. The switching node 12 (3) currently serving then selects (step 302), based on the processing of its internal algorithm, to determine whether a handover to the adjacent white tandem switching node 12 (2), which previously served, is appropriate. . Then a send message 304 is sent to the target switching node 12 (2), the target switching node 12 (2) then performs location measurements (step 306), and returns the results 308 to the node 12 (3) of service switching. Then a decision is made in step 310 to pass the call to the target switching node 12 (2). A handover return message 326, optionally including the MIN and / or the IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), as well as the circuit identification between the switch (if needed), is then sent to the node 12 (2) of white switching requesting a transfer return. Assuming that a voice channel is available, a white switching node 12 (2) confirms 314 the return of the handover. The service switching node 12 (3) then sends a mobile handover command 316 to the mobile station 14 (1). The mobile station 14 (1) has access to the identified voice channel (step 318), and the white switching node (2.) Sends a message 328 of facility release, including at least one of the MIN and / or the IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), as well as the inter-switch circuit identification (if needed), to the service switching node 12 (3) indicating successful completion of the handover return. answer 330 to node 12 (blank switching 29 and trunk marked unoccupied (step 332) to complete the handover return process to call 300. The above description of the handover process differs from the prior art process in which the system supports mobile station identification using either a mobile identification number or an international mobile station identity number.Subsequently, unambiguous identification can be made a of the mobile station through the system during the handover. Referring now to Figure 4E, there is shown a signal flow diagram and node operation illustrating the flow of signals in connection with a third party call transfer handling with the path minimization process for the present invention. a cell phone that has at least one international mobile station identity number (IMSI) (and probably a mobile identification number MIN)). A call 300 anchored with the switching node 12 (1) is in progress. The switching node 1282) currently serving then selects (step 302), based on the processing of its internal algorithm, to determine whether a handover is appropriate. A handover measurement request message 304 is then sent to the target switching node 12 (3). The target switching node 12 (3) then performs location measurements (step 306), and returns the results 308 to the service switching node 12 (2). Then a decision is made in step 310 to pass the call to the target switching node 12 (3), and an identification is made that minimization of the path may be possible. A handover to the third message 334, which includes at least one of the MIN and / or the IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), as well as the circuit identification between the switch (if needed) and the switching node 12 (3) of blank, it is then sent by the service switching node 12 (2) to the clamping switching node 12 (1) requesting the handoff with minimization of trajectory. A facility address message 312 that includes at least one of the MIN and / or the IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), as well as the circuit identification between the switch (if needed), is then sent to the node 12 (3). ) of white switching requesting the handover, Assuming that a voice channel is available, node 12 (3). white switching confirms 314 the handover. The clamping switching node 12 (1) then answers 336 to the service switching node 12 (2) with the parameters for the selected voice channel. The service switching node 12 (2) then sends a mobile transfer command 316 to the mobile station 14 (1). The mobile station 14 (1) has access to the identified voice channel (step 318), and the white switching node (3) completes the voice path between the voice channel and the trunk connection (step 320). A mobile station in the channel message 322 is sent by the target switching node 12 (3) to the sub-switching switching node 12 (1), and the handover sending process is completed (step 320) through the connection of the call through the trunk connection. A facility release message 328, optionally including the MIN and / or the IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), as well as the circuit identification between the switch (if needed), is then sent to the switching switching node 12 (1) to the service switching node 12 (2) indicating the successful completion of the transfer to a third party. A response 330 is then sent again to the trunk switching node 12 (1) and the marked trunk connection disconnected (step 332) to complete the handover process to the 324 call. The above description of the handover process differs from the process of the prior art in which the system supports mobile station identification using either a mobile identification number or an international mobile station identity number. Consequently, unambiguous identification of the mobile station can be done by the system during the handover. Referring now to Figure 4F, there is shown a signal flow diagram and node operation illustrating the flow of signals in connection with a handling of the present invention of tandem third party handover and minimization process. trajectory for a cell phone having at least one international mobile station identity number (IMSI) (and probably a mobile identification number (MIN)), A call 300 anchored with the switching node 12 (1) is in progress. The switching node 12 (3) currently serving then selects (step 302), based on the processing of its internal algorithm, to determine whether a handover is appropriate. A handover measurement request message 304 is then sent to the target switching node 12 (4). The target switching node 12 (4) then performs location measurements (step 306), and returns the results 308 to the switching node 12 (3) in service. A decision is then made in step 310 to pass the call to the target switching node 12 (4), and an identification is made that minimization of the path may be possible. A handover to third message 334, optionally including the MIN and / or the IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), as well as the circuit identification between the switch (if needed), is then sent via the node 12 (3) of service switching to a tandem switching node 12 (2) previously in service requesting the handoff with minimization of trajectory. The tandem switching node 12 (2) confirms in step 338 that no e has exceeded a tandem depth limit, and sends the handover to the third message 334 to the sub-switching switching node 12 (1), assuming now that the white switching node 12 (4) is known by the tandem switching node 12 (2), and that a trunk connection, a facility address message 312, including the MIN and / or the IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), as well as circuit identification between switch (if needed), is then sent to target switching node 12 (4) requesting handover. Assuming that a voice channel is available, the white switching node 12 (4) confirms 314 the handover to the tandem switching node 12 (2). The tandem switching node 12 (2) then answers 336 to the service switching node 12 (3) with the parameters for the selected voice channel. The service switching node 12 (3) then sends a mobile handover command 316 to the mobile station 14 (1). The mobile station 14 (1) has access to the identified voice channel (step 318), and the white switching node 12 (4) completes the voice path between the voice channel and the trunk connection (step 320), A mobile station in the channel message 322 is sent to the target switching node 12 (4) to the tandem switching node 12 (2), and the complete handover sending process (step 320) through connecting the call through the trunk connection, A facility release message 328, optionally including the MIN and / or the IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), as well as the circuit identification between the switch (if needed), is then sent by the tandem switching node 12 (2) to the service switching node 12 (3) indicating successful completion of the handover to a third party. A response 330 is then sent back to the tandem switching node 12 (2) and the trunk connection is marked unoccupied (step 332) to complete the handover process to the 324 call. The above description of the handover process differs of the prior art process in which the system supports mobile station identification using either a mobile identification number or an international mobile station identity number. Consequently, unambiguous identification of the mobile station can be done by the system during the handover. Referring now to Figure 4G, there is shown a signal flow diagram and node operation illustrating the signal flow in connection with a handling of the present invention of a handover of an originating mobile station call awaiting the process answer for a cell phone that has at least one international mobile station identity number (IMSI) (and probably a mobile identification number (MIN)). A call 340 is originated by a mobile station 14 (1), but has not yet been answered by the called party. The service switching node 12 (1) then selects (step 302), based on the processing of its internal algorithm, that a handover is appropriate. A handover measurement request message 304 is then sent to the target switching node 12 (2). The target switching node 12 (2) then performs location measurements (step 306), and returns the results 308 to the service switching node 12 (1). A decision is then made in step 310 to pass the call to the target switching node 12 (2). A facility address message 312, which includes at least one of the MIN and / or the IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), as well as the circuit identification between the switch (if needed), is then sent to the node 12 (2) White switching requesting a handover shipment. Assuming that a voice channel is available, the white switching node 12 (2) confirms 314 the handover, the service switching node 12 (1) then sends a handover command 316 to the station 14 ( 1) mobile. The mobile station 14 (1) has access to the identified voice channel (step 318), and the white switching node (2) completes the voice path between the voice channel and the trunk connection (step 320). A mobile station in the channel message 322 is sent by the target switching node 12 (2) to the service switching node 12 (1), and the complete handover transmission process (called 324) through the connection of the call through the trunk connection. The called party answers, then the call (step 342). The switching node 12 (1) previously serving (now holding) then signals 344 to the previous target switching node (2) (now in service) with respect to answering the call, and receives a response 346. The above description of the handoff process differs from the process of the prior art in that the system supports mobile station identification using either a mobile identification number or an international mobile station identity number. Consequently, the unambiguous identification of the mobile station can be made by the system during the handover. Referring now to Figure 4H, there is shown a signal flow diagram and node operation illustrating the flow of signals in connection with a handling of the present invention of a handover of a mobile station call terminating while alerting the process for a cell phone that has at least one international mobile station identity number (IMSI) (and probably a mobile identification number)). A call 348 is terminated to a mobile station 14 (1), but still not answered by the subscriber. The service switching node 12 (1) then selected (302), based on the processing of its internal algorithm, which is appropriate a handover. A handover measurement request message 304 is then sent to the target switching node 12 (2). The target switching node 12 (2) then performs location measurements (step 306), and returns the results 308 to the service switching node 12 (1). Then a decision is made in step 310 to transfer the call to the blank switching node 1282). A facility address message 312, which includes at least one of the MIN and / or the IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), as well as the circuit identification between the switch (if needed), is then sent to the node 12 ( 2) white switching requesting a handover shipment. Assuming that a voice channel is available, the target switching node 12 (2) confirms 314 the handover shipment. The service switching node 12 (1) then sends a mobile handover command 316 to the mobile station 14 (1). The mobile station 14 (1) has access to the identified voice channel (step 318), and the white switching node (2) completes the voice path between the voice channel and the trunk connection (step 320). A mobile station in the channel message 322 is sent via the target switching node 12 (2) to the service switching node 12 (1), and the handover process is completed (called 324) through the connection of the call through the trunk connection. The subscriber then answers the. call (step 350). The previous target switching node (2) (now in service) then signals 352 to the previous service switching node (1) (now holding) with respect to answering the call, and receives a response 354. The above description of the handoff process differs from the prior art process in that the system supports mobile station identification using either a mobile identification number or an international mobile station identity number. Consequently, the unambiguous identification of the mobile station can be made by the system during the handover. Referring now to Figure 41, there is shown a signal flow diagram and Node operation illustrating the flow of signals in connection with a handling of the present invention of mobile station call release after the handover process for a telephone. cellular that has at least one international mobile station identity number (IMSI) (and probably a mobile identification number (MIN)). A call 300 anchored at the switching node 12 (1) is in progress. The mobile station 14 (1) then light 360 the call. The service switching node 12 (3) recognizes that a trunk connection between the switch was used for the call, and sends a facility release message 362 to the tandem switching node 12 (2). This message is then sent to the clamping switching node 12 (1) with the optional international mobile station identity. The trunk connection is then marked off by the clamping switching node 12 (1) in step 364, and the tandem switching node 12 (2) in step 366, and the service switching node 12 (1) in step 368, with the transmission and processing of a corresponding response message 370. Referring now to Figure 4J, there is shown a signal flow diagram and node operation illustrating the flow of signals in relation to a handling of the present invention of calling party call release after the handover process for a cell phone that has at least one international mobile station identity number (IMSI) (and probably a mobile identification number (MIN)). A call 300 anchored in the switching node 12 (1) is in progress. A call release signal 380 is then received by the sub-switching switching node 12 (1) optionally including the international mobile station identity. The clamping switching node 12 (1) recognizes that a trunk connection between switches was used for the call, and sends a facility release message 382 to the tandem switching node 12 (2). This message is then sent to the service switching node 12 (3). The trunk connection is then marked unoccupied, by the service switching node 12 (3) in step 384, the tandem switching node 12 (2) in step 386, and the switching node 12 (1) of clamping in step 388, with the transmission and processing of a corresponding response message 390. Reference is now made in combination to Figures 1 and 5A-5G. Figures 5A-5G showing signal flow diagrams and node operation for the cellular telephone network of Figure 1 illustrating the flow of signals in connection with a handling of the present invention of other network transactions with respect to to a cell phone that has an International Mobile Station Identity Number (IMSI). Referring now to Figure 5A, following a handover between systems, a mobile switching switching center 12 (1) receives a request (action 400) to perform a unique identification signal to the mobile station 14 (1). The mobile clamping switching center 12 (1) then sends an authentication address sending message 402, which includes a mobile station identification, such as at least one of the MIN or the IMSI for the mobile station 14 (1), to the mobile service switching center 12 (3) (through any tandem mobile switching center 12 (2), if needed) requesting that the mobile station initiate an authentication with the system. In the mobile service switching center 12 (3), a unique identification signal order 404 is then sent to the mobile station 14 (1). In response thereto, the mobile station 14 (1) points 406 to the center 12 (3) mobile service switching. A report 408 of the result of the unique identification signal command is again returned to the mobile switching switching center 12 (1) (through any tandem mobile switching center 12 (2), if needed). Referring now to Figure 5B, in cases where the authentication of a mobile station 14 (1) fails (due probably to a lack of RANDC registration during the initial registration), the mobile service switching center 12 (3) transmits an authentication failure report message 410, including either the MIN or the IMSI depending on how the mobile station 14 (1) was registered last, to the visitor location register 21. This message 410 is sent to the authentication center 24 through the local location register 20. From the message 410, the authentication center 24 determines (action 412) that the mobile station 14 (1) must be denied access to the system. Accordingly, an authentication failure return result message 414, including a negative access parameter, is sent back to the mobile switching center 12 (3) in service through the local location register 20 to the visitor location register 21. . Referring now to Figure 5C, when the authentication center 24 wants to know the current value of the call history account parameter (COUNT), an account request message 416, including either the MIN or the IMSI, depending on how the mobile station 14 (1) was finally registered, is sent to the visitor location register 21 through the local location register 20. The account is then withdrawn (action 318), and the value is returned as a parameter within the return result message 420 sent from the visitor location registration register 21 to the authentication center 24 through the local location register 20. Referring now to Figure 5D, the case is presented where the local location register 20 wishes to provide special notification to an unoccupied mobile station 14 (1). In such cases, the local location register 20 transmits an information address message 422, which includes either the MIN or the IMSI depending on how the mobile station 14 (1) was finally registered, to the center 12 (3) of. mobile service switching through visitor location register 21. The mobile service switching center 12 (3) then notifies the mobile station 14 (1) with an appropriate alert 424. A return result message 426 is then sent via the mobile service switching center 12 (3) to the local location register 20 through the visitor location register 21 which contains an indication of the result of the notification. Referring now to Figure 5E, there are cases where a mobile service switching center 12 (3) needs to request a mobile edge switching center 12 (4) either call a mobile station 14 (1) or listen a call response from a mobile station (analogous to IS-41 ISPAGE and ISPAGE2 messages). The mobile service switching center 12 (3) consequently generates a system inter-system message 428, which includes all known parameters about the mobile station 14 (1) including, if available, both the MIN and the IMSI, for transmission to the center 12 (4) of mobile edge switching. An appropriate return result message 430 is then sent back to the mobile service switching center 12 (3) from the mobile edge switching center 12 (4). The inter-system call message is typically used in two situations: first, to request the return of address information; and second, to confirm the presence of the mobile station. Referring now to Figure 5F, it is sometimes necessary to reconfirm the authorization of 0 mobile station 14 (1) without updating the subscriber profile. A qualification address message 432, including all known parameters about the mobile station 14 (1) including, if available, both the MIN and the IMSI, is generated by the local location register 20 for transmission to the registration 21 of visitor's location. In response thereto, the visitor location register 21 transmits an appropriate return result message 434 back to the local location register 20. Similarly, the qualification address message 432, which includes either the MIN or the IMSI depending on how the mobile station 14 (1) was finally registered, may instead be generated by the visitor location register 21 for transmission to the center 12 (3) of mobile service switching. Again, an appropriate return result message 434 is transmitted back to the visitor location register 21. It is further noted that in some cases it would be advantageous to include both the MIN and the IMSI within the message 432 of the rating address. For example, it could be used to inform the mobile service switching center 12 (3) of all the various mobile station identifications used to identify the mobile station 14 (1). Referring now to Figure 5G, there are cases in which a mobile service switching center needs to validate a mobile station 14 (1) and probably obtain its subscriber profile. A qualification request message 436, which includes all known parameters about the mobile station 14 (1), including, if available, both the MIN and the IMSI, is consequently generated by the switching center 12 (3) mobile service after detecting the presence of the mobile station, and it is sent to the visitor location register 21. If the mobile station 14 (1) had previously registered and its profile is stored in the visitor location register, no further action is necessary except to respond 438 appropriately to the mobile service switching center 12 (3). If said registration had not previously occurred, and the mobile station 14 (1) is unknown to the visitor location register 21, a message 436 'of rating request ,, which includes either the MIN or the IMSI depending on how the station 14 (1) mobile was finally registered, it is consequently generated by the visitor location register 21 and sent to register 20 of local location. The local location register 20 then responds 438 'to the visitor location register 21 with the service profile, and an appropriate response 438 is sent to the mobile service switching center 12 (3). Although modalities of the method and apparatus of the present invention have been illustrated in the accompanying Drawings and described in the above Detailed Description, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described, but is capable of numerous rearrangements. , modifications and substitutions without abandoning the spirit of the invention as established and defined by the following claims.

Claims (15)

1. - A method for cell phone network operation, comprising the steps of: receiving from an mobile station an identification of that mobile station comprising an international mobile station identity number; and using the international mobile station identity number via the network to provide unambiguous identification of the mobile station associated therewith during network operation.

2. The method as in claim 1, wherein the step of using comprises the step of deriving a mobile identification number for the mobile station from the received international mobile station identity number associated with that mobile station.

3. The method as in claim 2, wherein the step of using further comprises the step of using the derived mobile identification number by providing network operation functions such as call delivery, registration, authentication and handover.

4. The method as in claim 1, wherein the step of using comprises the step of identifying the mobile station by associated international mobile station identity number during registration of the mobile station with the network.

5. The method as in claim 1, wherein the step of using comprises the step of identifying the mobile station by associated international mobile station identity number during the authentication of the mobile station with the network.

6. The method as in claim 1, wherein the step of using comprises the step of identifying the mobile station by associated international mobile station identity number during the handover through the network of a voice call communication or of data with the mobile station.

7. The method as in claim 1, wherein the step of using comprises §1 step of identifying the mobile station by associated international mobile station identity number during the delivery via the network of a voice call communication or data to the mobile station,

8. The method as in claim 1, wherein the step of using comprises the step of identifying the mobile station by associated international mobile station identity number during the release by the network of a voice or data call communication with the mobile station.

9. The method as in claim 1, wherein the step of using comprises the step of identifying the mobile station by international mobile station identity number when requesting that a unique identification signal be made through the network to the mobile station.

10. The method as in claim 1, wherein the step of using comprises the step of identifying the mobile station by associated international mobile station identity number when it reports on a failure to authenticate the mobile station.

11. The method as in claim 1, wherein the step of using comprises the step of identifying the mobile station by associated international mobile station identity number when requesting a call history account related to the mobile station.

12. The method as in claim 1, wherein the step of using comprises the step of t identifying the mobile station by associated international mobile station identity number when it is directed to the network to provide a special notification to the station mobile.

13. The method as in claim 1, wherein the step of using comprises the step of identifying the mobile station by associated international mobile station identity number when it is directed to the network to engage in an inter-system call operation .

14. The method as in claim 1, wherein the step of using comprises the step of identifying the mobile station by means of associated international mobile station identity number when the mobile station authorization is reconfirmed.

15. The method as in claim 1, wherein the step of using comprises the step of identifying the mobile station by associated international mobile station identity number when requesting validation from the mobile station.