MXPA99007461A - A system for controlling multiple networks and associated services - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for enabling network convergence and interworking between multiple communications networks is disclosed. A subscriber is associated with a plurality of communications networks (10A, 10B, 10C) each utilizing its own schemes, protocols, and standards for effectuating communication therein. A main centralized database (220) storing subscription, network, service, and location data associated with each of the communications networks is provided. A main administrative node (200) for defining and providing new subscription, subscriber preference, and parameters is further provided. The main centralized database and the administrative node then communicate (270, 280) with corresponding functions (200 A-C, 220 A-C) within each of the communications networks to provide centralized information sharing, data control, and network resource management across the plurality of associated communications networks.

Description

SYSTEM. TO CONTROL MULTIPLE NETWORKS AND ASSOCIATED SERVICES BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Technical Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a communications network and, in particular, to the administration of multiple services within multiple communication networks Description of the Related Art With the development of different types of telecommunications and data communications, users have at their disposal a large number of different services and features. For example, a number of the Mobile Station Integrated Digital Service (MSISDN), Mobile Identification Number (MIN), or the number of the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI). , Subscriber Identity number and International) can be assigned to a specific mobile telecommunications user allowing the mobile user to use the mobile service within a mobile telecommunications network. An Internet Protocol (IP) address can be assigned to a specific node or device to receive and transmit Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP, Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) packets. over the associated TCP / IP network such as the Internet. In addition, the Async ronous Transfer Mode (ATM) addresses are used to communicate data in packets between two associated nodes within an ATM network. Another type of communications network is a Digital Cellular Packet Data (CDPD) network, which is a cellular radio network specification that allows CDPD users to send computer data about existing cellular networks. With the help of the Interworking Functions (I F, Interconnection Functions) and other communication devices, a mobile terminal can have communication over different communication networks. As an illustration, a subscriber can communicate voice, data, fax, e-mail, etc. about different types of networks. In order to access and use the different networks, a user or subscriber needs to maintain a subscription, account and / or separate address to carry out the communication within the respective communications network. Therefore, each of these communication networks must be maintained and operated individually. However, for the different communication protocols and network architectures there is no common interface between different communication networks. Accordingly, any changes or updates to the data associated with a specific subscriber within a communications network need to be manually and / or separately updated within another applicable communications network. In addition, there is no continuous interconnection functionality between different communication networks. As an example, a mobile device or station is assigned with an identification number and an IP address. As already described, the MSISDN, MIN or IMSI number may be associated within a mobile telecommunications network, and the IP address may be associated with the CDPD, Internet or other data network. Due to its ability to associate with any given mobile telecommunications node, the mobile station is able to travel within a specific geographical area and be served by different mobile switching centers (MSCs). As the mobile station travels from a first coverage area of the MSC to a second coverage area of MSC, the mobile station, the serving MSC and the associated visitor location register (VLR) perform a location update to inform a base centralized data known as a residence location record (HLR) of the current location of the mobile station. This location information is then used by the mobile telecommunications network to route an incoming call connection to the MSC / VLR currently serving the mobile station of the party receiving the call.However, although the mobile telecommunications network is updated with the most recent location information, in addition to receiving data about the cellular network, it is necessary to perform a similar location update within the CDPD network. These location updates or redundant subscriber data within multiple communication networks are rather inefficient and inconvenient. In addition, since compatibility and interface are not currently possible between different types of communication networks, a first communication network can not use information available within a second communication network. Furthermore, for a subscriber or a user (eg, mobile user, operator, system administrator, network controller, etc.) to evaluate the subscription or service data associated with a plurality of communication networks, the user needs to evaluate individually the itant data associated with each of the communication networks. In summary, there is no global scheme to allow a subscriber or user to review all the communication networks and subscription data associated with them.

Accordingly, there is a need for a mechanism to allow a subscriber or user to consolidate and manage multiple networks and associated services in a more efficient and centralized manner.

COMPENDIUM OF THE INVENTION A communications system for maintaining and managing subscription, service and network data on a plurality of communication networks is described herein. A plurality of communication networks are offered, each using its own protocol and standards to effect mobility management and data communications. A main database stores data that correlates network addresses, subscription data, and location and registration data that represents a specific subscriber and is associated with the plurality of different communication networks. In addition, a main administrative node connects with each of the communication networks to define and provide subscription data representing a subscriber and for the communication of this data with each of the associated communication networks. As an alternative, each of the communication networks can define and provide its own subscription data representing the subscriber and then communicate this data to the main management node and consequently to the centralized database. A main module for the administration of resources also connects with the associated communications networks to assign and manage shared network resources among the associated communications networks. A service control function module is also associated with the administrative master node to effect an interface between a first service within a first communication network and a second service within a second communication network. As another embodiment of the present invention, the main database is composed of three sub-databases: a sub-database of subscriber addresses for storing and mapping different network addresses associated with a specific subscriber; a sub-database for the subscriber's profile to store and provide authentication / service authorization, and service references; and a location and registration sub-database for maintaining and providing the current location and the particular subscriber status within each of the associated communications networks.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS A more complete understanding of the method and apparatus of the present invention can be had by referring to the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 is a block diagram of a cellular network telecommunications illustrating the establishment of an incoming call connection to a traveling mobile station; Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the different logical functions within a communication network; Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the interfaces that exist between the communication networks, a centralized, main database and an administrative node according to the teachings of the present invention; Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating a physical representation of a logical Traffic Control Function within a communications network; Figure 5 is a diagram that illustrates in a logical manner the sub-databases within the main, centralized database and the sub-functions within the main administrative node; Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the logical interfaces that exist between a resource management module, master and each communication network; Figure 7 is a diagram of the signal sequence illustrating a common routing strategy in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; and Figure 8 is a block diagram illustrating the network configuration of a PLMN, in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a block diagram of a cellular telecommunications network 10, such as a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), which illustrates the establishment of an incoming call connection to a station. traveling mobile 20. Via the radio interface, mobile station 20 can travel in any geographical area and be served by an associated mobile telecommunications node. As an illustration, the mobile station travels in the geographical area being served by a mobile switching center (MSC) 30 and a visitor location register (VLR) 40. This MSC 30 may also be equipped with interconnection (IF) functions. to provide communication on different protocols. The MSC 30 and the VLR 40 are often co-located with each other and collectively referred to as an MSC / VLR 30/40. When the mobile station 20 knows that it is within a geographical area served by a new MSC / VLR 30/40,. The mobile station 20 initiates a registration process by transmitting its identification number 50, such as an International Mobile Subscriber Identity number (IMSI, International Mobile Subscriber Identity Number), or a mobile Adentification Number (MIN, Identification Number of the Mobile) . The MSC / VLR 30/40 server then transmits a location update signal 60 to a residence identification register (HLR) 70 associated with the received identification number 50. The HLR 70 is a centralized database for storing subscription data and other necessary network data associated with the mobile station (or the mobile subscriber associated with the mobile station 20). The associated HLR 70 further maintains the data representative of the current location of the mobile station 20. As a result, the location update signal 60 transmitted by the MSC / VLR 30/40 server informs the HLR 70 of the current location of this station mobile 20 and request from the HLR 70 the necessary subscription data. The HLR 70, in turn, authorizes the mobile station represented by the received identification number and returns the requested subscription data to the server MSC / VLR 30/40 by means of yet another signal 80. Then a connection of Incoming call is requested to the mobile station 20. As an illustration, another telecommunications subscriber dials a Mobile Subscriber Integrated Service Digital Network number (MSISDN, Mobile Subscriber Integrated Services Digital Network number) or a Mobile Identification Number (MIN, Mobile Identification Number) identifying the mobile station 20. A call set-up signal, such as a signal based on the Integrated Service Digital Network User Park (ISUP, Part of the User of the Integrated Services Digital Network 90) is transmitted by an office at the originating end and routed to a mobile gate switching center (GMSC) 100 associated with the HLR 70. To evaluate the current location of the mobile station of the party receiving the call 20, the GMSC 100 then interrogates the HLR by transmitting a signal without connection 110, such as a signal based on Mobile Application Part (MAP, Part of the Application of the Mobile) or IS-41, to the HLR 70. The transmitted signal based on MAP or IS-41 requests routing instructions to the mobile station of the party receiving the call 20. Using the location information previously updated by the MSC / VLR 30/40 server, the HLR 70 then transmits another signal based on MAP or IS-41 120 to the MSC / VLR 30/40 server. The MSC / VLR 30/40 server then provides a mobile location number 130 or temporary location directory number (TLDN) represented by the MSC / VLR 30/40 server back to HLR 70. The location number of roving mobile received or TLDN, for example, is then again provided to the requesting GSMC 10 by means of yet another signal based on MAP 140. The GMSC 100 then reroutes the incoming call set-up signal, received, to the MSC / VLR 30/40 server using the received number as the new destination address. A new call connection 150 is established between the server GMSC 100 and the server MSC / VLR 30/40. The MSC / VLR 30/40 server page or looks for the mobile station within its service area and performs a radio communication 160 with the mobile station 20 demanded. As a result, without taking into account the telecommunications node that currently serves the the mobile station 20, the serving PLMN tracks the current location and registration status of the mobile station and automatically makes a call connection therewith. This scheme for updating the location information and making an incoming call connection to a mobile station is hereinafter referred to as mobility management (MM) and a routing and traffic control scheme.

(TCR), respectively. An access to the PLMN requires mobility management based on its own panoramas and network-dependent protocols. For example, signaling based on the associated IS-41 and MAP is required to track the current location of the mobile station and to re-route an incoming call to a suitable telecommunication node currently in service of the mobile station of the mobile station. The party receiving the call in addition, the PLMN has its own scheme to identify the call, as it can be by means of an IMSI, MIN or MSISDN number. The PLMN also has its own way of locating a mobile station, assigning the communication or the necessary radio channels to establish a radio interface with the mobile station of the party receiving the call. The nodes, devices and telecommunications platforms to perform this mobile service are also dependent and specific to the PLMN. The database and access schemes for storing subscription data with a specific subscriber are also defined in the PLMN. Various communication networks are available to communicate data, in addition to voice alone, with mobile stations. These networks include, but are not limited to, Integrated Service Digital Network (ISDN, Integrated Services Digital Network), Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM, Asynchronous Transfer Mode) network, Internet Protocol (IP) network, with adaptation of modality, and the Cellular Digital Packet Data network (CDPD, of data in digital, cellular packages). Each of these networks has its own mobility management scheme, subscription management scheme, traffic control scheme and other functionality, protocols and standards necessary to carry out the communication. For example, a scheme for maintaining the location and subscriber activity data depends on the models and reference concepts specific to the network. In addition, it is managed through dedicated nodes and databases with routing tables or specific location records defined in the network. As an illustration, following a definition of the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), the Internet Protocol (IP) establishes mobility through the concepts of "local agents", "monitoring of the direction" and "visiting agents" for routing IP packets to the appropriate subscriber location. It also has a separate update procedure and scheme for updating routing tables to perform mobility management for it. As another illustration, a CDPD network in the same way has its own mechanism for locating subscribers within the CDPD radio network. A "channel flow" data identifies a Mobile Datábase Station (MDBS, Mobile Database Station) currently in service for a CDPD mobile terminal. The channel flow identification data associated with the CDPD mobile terminal located within a specific area is then maintained as location information in the Mobile Visiting Function (MVF, Mobile Visitor Function) of the CDPD by the Radio Resource Management Protocol (RRMP). ), protocol for managing radio resources) of the CDP and the Mobile Registration Protocol (MNRP, Mobile Network Registration Protocol). The Mobil Data - Intermediate System (MS-IS) address of the "visitor" also remains in the Mobile Home Function (MHF, Local Mobile Function) of the CDPD through a Mobile Network Location Protocol (MNLP, Mobile Network Location Protocol) ). Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the different logical functions within a common communications network. Within any given communications system 10, in service for a terminal, equipment or device that can be relocated from a first geographical area to a second geographic area, the functions for performing communication within this network are divided into three main logical functions. There is a service management and control (SMCF) function 200 to maintain subscription data associated with its users. This subscription data includes a network address that represents a specific user, service data, subscriber application feature data, and other network data necessary to effect communication with the user. A residence location record (HLR) and the subscription data stored therein within a PLMN are analogous to the SMCF 200. The "intelligence" or control to send and handle information is also concentrated in the SMCF 200. For example , the SMCF 200 determines the parameters that are to be applied for an applicable routing mechanism in order to perform the optimal routing choice associated with a specific data delivery. The subscriber data, location and activity (SDLA) function 220 maintains the status of the current location and registration of a specific subscriber within the communication network 10. The SDLA 220 function therefore tracks the current location status and registration of the mobile station as the mobile station tls from an MSC / VLR coverage area to another MSC / VLR coverage. In the same way, the HLR, the server MSC / VLR and the signaling based on MAP or IS-41 communicated between them within a PLMN are analogous to the logical function SDLA. Finally, a function of traffic control and routing (TCR) 210 performs the function of receiving, routing and effecting a radio interface with a subscriber or device of the party receiving the call. Therefore, the function TCR 210 handles the real routing algorithms or mechanisms needed within the network, either for connection-oriented routing (for example, fixed or virtual circuit connection) or for connectionless routing (for example, IP). The TCR 210 function therefore controls the interaction of the different layers of the network communication protocols and the necessary Interworking Functions (IWF). This works as a relay between the communications networks by means of which the routing is performed. Within a cellular telecommunications network, the routing requests GMSC-HLR, the HLR-MSC / VLR location request and the establishment of a call connection are analogous to the TCR 210 function. As a result, the data is stored and maintained. which represent a user or subscriber, the current location of a specific user or device is updated, and through the three previous functions a physical communication establishment is made with a user or device of the party receiving the call. It will be understood that most of the three main functions are illustrated above only for example purposes. Each network also includes other different functions, modules, resources and support applications to allow communication within this network. Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the interfaces that exist between each of the communication networks 10A-10C. A main, centralized database 250, and an administrative logical node 260, in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. As already described, each communication network 10A-10C uses its own schemes for mobility management, addressing users or associated devices, to define and maintain the subscription data, and so on. In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a centralized database 250 is presented which is developed and maintained independently of the associated communications network. The centralized database 250 stores subscription data, location data, registration status data, network address data and any other necessary network data in a more generic and user-friendly manner without being dependent on any network of specific communications 10 or associated protocols. As a result, the centralized database 250, also known as a main SDLA, maintains and provides a consolidated view of all the necessary network data associated with a plurality of communication networks that serve a specific user or device. Therefore, instead of the user evaluating, individually and separately, the data stored within local SMCF 200A-200C or SDLA 220A-220C, the user can obtain a consolidated or centralized overview of all accounts of the relevant subscription, network addresses, directory numbers or location information associated with a plurality of communication networks. The main SDLA 250 is then the interface with each of the local databases or SDLA 220A-220C within each of the communication networks 10A-10C via the signal interfaces 270. As another embodiment of the present invention, in addition, a centralized administrative node, known as the Service Management and Control Functions (SMCF, Administration and Service Control Functions), is provided 260. The main SMCF 260 provides an independent profile of the network representing a specific subscriber or account. The network-independent data entered by the main SMCF 260 is then communicated down to each local SMCF 200A-200C, relevant via the interfaces 280. Therefore, instead of a user individually and separately performing a subscription with each of the relevant communication networks, the user can instead communicate with the centralized administrative node 260 to subscribe and provide the necessary data in a more targeted manner.

Otherwise, the user can individually and separately create a subscription with each of the relevant communication networks. Each of the communication networks then communicates with the centralized administrative node 260 and / or the database 250 to consolidate or correlate the pertinent data. Accordingly, with the introduction of the main SDLA 250 and the main SMCF 260, the incompatibility currently existing between different types of communication systems is solved. Although the functional integrity of each network is maintained and respected, a consistent definition of the fundamental concepts and associated data within each network is provided with the introduction of the centralized database. The individual network and the associated SDLA 220 and SMCF 200 can then view and interpret the data provided by the main SDLA 250 and SMCF 260 with their own perspective and definition. In addition, by defining a system for mobile telephony and mobile data communications independent of the physical networks that support them, the system can support mobility through networks to support the definition of service through the network, administration of shared resources and provide continuous service control and intelligent routing between different "physical" networks. Therefore, a transparent network interconnection is created between different networks such as ISDN, ATN, IP, or similar. Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating a physical representation of a logical Traffic Control and Routing (TCR) function within a communications network. Each communications network controls and handles its own logical PCR function as described in figure 3. The physical realization and configuration of these TCRs within each communications network can, however, be co-located within a single platform or environment . An MSC 30 server serving a specific mobile station 20 by means of a mobile station (BS) 700 may include an Internet Protocol (IP) router 740 for routing IP packets. In addition it can include a narrowband switching platform (STM) 720 to send narrow band data. It can also include a 730 broadband platform, such as an Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) platform for routing broadband data.The MSC 30 server can also include a Direct Access Unit (DAU, 750 Direct Access Unit). Data sending and routing platforms that exist within a single MSC are then used as an interface using an Interworking Functions (IF, Interconnect Function) 710. A controller for traffic control and routing (TCR-C), such as a TCR-C, TCR-CDPD and TCR-IP 725, can then provide the necessary support, platform and logic to control the switch of the STM 720, the ATM switch 730, the 750 IP router and the associated DAU 750. that the data is adapted or transformed to communicate over a specific network, the server MSC 30 connects with other available networks, such as the PSTN / ISDN 760 networks, the public Internet 770, and the main structure CDPD 780. Reference is now made to Figure 5 which illustrates in a logical manner the sub-databases within a centralized main database (SDLA) 250, and the sub-functions within the main administrative node (SMCF) 260. The base of Main SDLA data 250 is composed of three sub-functions or logical sub-databases. A sub-database of subscriber addresses 300 within the main SDLA database 250 stores a plurality of network addresses each representing a specific user or device within each of the associated communication networks. A user may have a different subscription with a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), PLMN, the ATM network, the TCP / IP network and the CDPD network. As a result, the user can be represented by five different network addresses: the directory number of the wired line (directory number E. 164-DN), the mobile identification number (ie, MSISDN, IMSI, or MIN), ATM address, IP address and CDPD address, respectively. As already mentioned, each network knows and follows up on its own respective address. To centralize and consolidate the different network addresses associated with a given subscriber, the sub-database of the addresses of the subscribers 300 stores and correlates different, associated network addresses. If a first communication network can identify a specific user using a first network address, a second corresponding network address for a second communication network may, therefore, be determinable. A subscriber profile function or sub-database 310 stores and maintains subscriber profile data associated with each user or device. A series of authorized services for the subscriber and their service definitions and parameters are maintained in the sub-database of the subscriber profile 310. These parameters may include the type of services, the bandwidth requirements, the requirements of the wrong bit rate, delay requirements, bursts and the requirements of using duplex bandwidth (symmetric or asymmetric). The sub-database of subscriber profile 310 also stores data of the subscriber's preference. These preferred data include a routing cost (the most economical method to provide services based on the definition of previous services), the routing strategy, the choice of the carrier (s) to route and send data, the choice of applications for origin and reception data and redirection data based on the activation / deactivation status of the different services and preferences of the subscriber. The main SDLA 250 also contains a location and record sub-database 320 to store and maintain the current location of a user or device within each of the associated communications networks. Therefore, the location and record sub-database 320 determines where and in which network the subscriber is currently logged and active. As an illustration, each time a mobile subscriber enters a new coverage area of the MSC / VLR (refer to Figure 1), the serving MSC / VLR performs an update of the location with an associated HLR to inform the HLR of the location current of the mobile station. The HLR, which performs the logical function of the SDLA 220, then communicates this location and registration information to the centralized database SDLA 250 through the interface 270. The sub-database or sub-function of location and registration 320 then stores the data and allows other communication networks to access the data and use the stored information. Again in relation to Figure 4, the server MSC 30 may be associated with a plurality of network addresses. As an illustration, the server MSC may be assigned with a number of roving mobile or TLDN for a cellular network. The same server MSC 30 may also be associated with an IP address for its IP router. The server MSC 30 can in the same way be assigned with an ATM address for the associated ATM switch. The served MSC 30 can also be assigned with an address independent of the network or identification data, such as the coordinates of the global positioning system (GPS). Accordingly, a plurality of different network addresses can be associated with the same physical telecommunications node by supporting the relevant network protocols and standards or with the same location of the subscriber. Again, reference is made to figure 5. As another embodiment of the present invention, the centralized administrative node (main SMCF) 260 is further subdivided into two sub-functions or main modules. A profile and service definition (SPD) function 340 defines a new service profile of the subscriber to represent a new subscriber or device. In the same way, changes or updates to existing subscriber profiles or network data are made through SPD 340. The changes are then updated with subscriber access sub-database 300 and the profile sub-database of the subscriber 310. Therefore, for a subscriber to subscribe and obtain a new network address with a PLMN, the ATM and IP networks, instead of making contact individually and subscribing to a number of different networks, the SPD 340 within the main SMCF 260 collects the information and creates a profile and subscription independent of the network and communicates this data to the centralized database SDLA 250 and its sub-databases 300 and 310 via the interface 290. The SDLA main 250 and its associated sub-databases then determine the network that will be informed of the new subscriber or device and therefore download the pertinent data to each of the affected networks through interfaces 270. In the same manner a, the main SMCF 260 can also communicate with each of the networks through the interfaces 280. The main SMCF 260 also includes an enhanced service control function (SCF) 330. It may be desirable to perform service interaction between different networks for subscribers who have adequate capacities in terms of terminal, profile and Intelligent Network (IN) to access different types of networks. The intelligence or control for this interaction is performed by SCF 330 of the main SMCF 260. Thus, the SCF 330 coordinates with the SMCF 200 within each associated communications network 10 through the interfaces 280 to allow the data to be communicated between a first service within a first network and a second service within a second network. As an illustration, an incoming fax transmission is received by a specific subscriber within a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN, Public Switched Telephony Network). The subscriber is currently associated with a mobile station and wishes to receive the fax through his e-mail capability over the associated IP network. Accordingly, the SCF 330 coordinates with a bearer service within the PLMN network to form the interface and transport the fax data with the IP network and send the fax message to the mobile station of the party receiving the call on a PLMN associated. Although in this case it serves as an interface for the first service with the second service, the SCF 330 can also make format adjustments and additional parameters. Reference is now made to figure 6 which illustrates the logical interfaces that exist between a main module for the administration of resources and each of the communication networks. In addition, included within each communication network is a function for channel management (CM) or resource management 300. The CM 300 function within each network manages and controls the available resources of the network. In the event that a first channel management function 300A within a first communication network 10A and a second function for the administration of channels 300B within a second communication network 10B use or share the common resources of the network, it could a collision or total blockage of resources occurs. As an illustration, a CDPD network is a cellular radio network specification that allows CDPD users to send computing data over existing cellular networks (including the Advaced Mobile Phone System- MPS, or Digital Advaced Mobile Phone System-DAMPS) or PLMN Consequently, some of the resources of the network are shared by the cellular network and the CDPD network. A main system or network then needs to reconcile or control access to different physical devices or shared resources by more than one communications network. This can be known as network convergence. In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a principal administrator of channels or resources (CM) 310 is further provided within the general system. The main CM 310 then assigns, controls and reconciles the use of the shared resources of the network between the local CMs 300A-300C associated with each of the communication networks 10A-10C through the interfaces 320. Figure 7 is a sequence diagram of signals that illustrates a common routing strategy in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. The routing and delivery strategy illustrated is based on the "service request" transmitted from an originating network serving a subscriber or originating device. The originating network can be a mobile-based network or a fixed network. The service request from the originating physical network can be routed through a connection-oriented bearer (eg circuit connection) or bearer without connection (e.g., IP packet connection.) Typically, the service request 400 originated by the originating network 500 is routed to a compatible mobile gate 510 with carrier or access function of the originating network As an illustration, within the PLMN, the gate MSC (refer to Figure 1, GMSC 100) functions as a mobile gate 510. Gate 510 then performs the task of routing the service request to the intended device or subscriber Within gate 510, the destination subscriber or party receiving the call is identified to determine an associated local system 520. The physical address of the network can be used to identify the subscriber, or it can also be an address of the network terminating equipment. such as ATM, FramRelay, ISDN, directory number, MSISDN, MIN, IP, IMSI. The address of the subscriber within the service request signal is then deduced by gate 510 and the appropriate functions of the TCR network. As an example, a residence location register (HLR) associated with a specific MSISDN, IMSI or MIN number is determined by the GMSC as a local system for a specific mobile station. Once the subscriber's local system 520 has been specified, such as an HLR, gate 500 transmits another service request 410 to the identified local system 520. The local system then determines how the requested connection can be fulfilled or performed. The local SMCF 200 and TCR 210 then determines the routing parameters and the indispensable requirements as input for the associated TCR functions to send and route the received service request. This is done by analyzing the service requested in the main SDLA and SMCF (not shown in Figure 7, refer to Figure 6) with respect to the previously defined service parameters, service preferences, and current location and record status of the subscriber in a specific network. For example, the SMCF 200 of the local network invokes the main SMCF. The main SMCF can also invoke and have access to the main SDLA database. The main SDLA database may have access to another SDLA data base (s) from the local network, if necessary, to obtain the necessary data. By using this data it is possible to initiate specific routing procedures towards the visited system through the interfaces 420 and 430. As a result, the service routing is performed to the server network 530 where the subscriber is located (sequence 440 and 450). An end-to-end connection 460 is negotiated and then the user's traffic or data is communicated between them. Figure 8 is a block diagram illustrating the network configuration of a TLMN according to the teachings of the present invention. As fully described in Figure 7, the GMSC 100 serves as a gateway within a PLMN system. Each mobile subscriber is associated with a specific residence location record (HLR). Typically, the subscriber is assigned with an MSISDN number, MIN and / or an IMSI number from a series of pre-assigned numbers to HLR 70. Accordingly, the HLR 70 stores and maintains subscription data., service data, location data and registration data associated with a specific subscriber. Even if the user is located within a specific geographical area, another database known as the visitor location register (VLR) maintains and tracks the subscriber while the subscriber remains within this coverage area. Again with reference to Figure 3, the physical telecommunication nodes, such as HLR 70 and VLR 40, then perform the logic functions illustrated by the SMCF 200 and SDLA 220 logic. In addition, when analyzing an MSISDN, MIN or IMSI number, specified within a service request signal, such as an ISUP Initial Address Message (IAM), the GMSC 100 can determine the HLR that is servicing the identification number. provided. Accordingly, the GMSC 100 can send the service request through an interface 600 to the associated HLR 70. The HLR 70 then further communicates with the MSC / VLR 30/40 via a 620 interface to determine how to make a call connection. The parameters and routing instructions, such as a roaming number or TLDN representing the server MSC / VLR, are returned to the requesting GMSC 100. As a result, a 610 interface is made between the GMSC 100 and the serving network or MSC / VLR 30/40. The HLR 70 server in the same way communicates with other compatible networks through an interface 655. As already described, the HLR 70 that functions as the SMCF and local SDLA also communicates with the centralized database 250 which functions as the main SDLA. This communication allows data to be shared between the main SDLA and the local SDLA and SMCF. This shared data includes the current location of a specific mobile station within a PLMN. The database of the main SDLA 250 then shares this information with other associated networks through the interfaces 650. This interaction or interface allows other types of communication networks to inter-network or communication through the network between them. In addition, to provide a concentrated or consolidated overview of all the network information associated with a specific subscriber, the main SMCF 260 can also communicate with the local HLR 70 through a 650 interface and with the main SDLA 250 through a interface 660. It is understood that for example purposes, the main SDLA 250 and the main SMCF 260 are illustrated using two separate nodes. However, the two functions can be co-located within a single node and supported by a common platform. Although a preferred embodiment of the method and apparatus of the present invention have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the aforementioned detailed description, it is understood that the invention is not limited to the described embodiment, but is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications and modifications. substitutions without departing from the spirit of the invention, as established and defined by the following claims.

Claims (22)

1. A system for providing mobility management and control over subscription and service data for a plurality of communication networks, each communication network includes a function to provide service and subscription data management, a function for maintaining data, location and activity of the subscriber and a function to provide control and routing of service traffic, where all the functions within each network are dependent and specific to the network and are not compatible with corresponding functions within another network, the system consists of: a base of main data that maintains the data representative of the data, location and activity of the subscriber within each of the plurality of communication networks, the main database communicates the data with the function to maintain the data, location and activity of the subscriber within each of the plurality of communication networks; and a main module for the service management and control function (SMCF) that handles and controls the service and subscription data, the main SMCF module communicates with the function to provide service management and subscription data within each of the plurality of communication networks and with the main database.

The system of claim 1, wherein the main database further comprises: a first sub-database for maintaining a plurality of network addresses each representing a specific subscriber within each -one of the plurality of networks of communications; a second sub-database for maintaining subscriber profile data representing the mobile subscriber, a portion of the profile data of the subscriber representing the subscriber within each of the plurality of communication networks; and a third sub-database for maintaining location and record data representing the user with respect to each of the plurality of communication networks.

The system of claim 2, wherein the network addresses are selected from the group consisting of: number Mobile Subscriber Integrated Service Digital Network (MSISDN); International Mobile Subscriber Identity number (IMSI); Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) address; Internet Protocol (IP) address; E.164 directory number; and E-mail address.

The system of claim 1, wherein the main SMCF module further comprises: a service definition module and the profile to define the new subscription for a specific user and communicate the subscription to the main SDLA; and an improved service control function module for enabling the data to be communicated between a first communication network and a second communication network.

The system of claim 4, wherein the main SMCF and the main database further comprise the means for receiving and storing data from each of the plurality of communication networks.

The system of claim 3, wherein the enhanced service control function module further enables a first service within the first communication network to establish the interface with a second service within the second communication network.

The system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of communication networks further comprises a channel management (CM), for managing associated hardware resources, some of the plurality of communication networks sharing common resources for perform communication in these, the system further comprises a main module for the administration of channels (CM) to allocate and manage resources shared between them of the plurality of communication networks.

The system of claim 1, wherein the main database further comprises: means for receiving data representing a current location of a specific subscriber within a first communication network; and the means for communicating the data with a second communication network in a readable format.

9. A communication system consisting of: a first communication network including a first record for storing and maintaining a current location of a specific subscriber within the first communication network, the subscriber identified by a first network address within the first communications network; a second communication network including a second register for storing and maintaining a current location of the subscriber within the second communication network, the subscriber identified by a second network address within the second communication network; and a main database for storing the first network address and the second network address associated with the subscriber, the main database further tracks the current location of the subscriber within the first and second communications networks.

10. The system of claim 9 further comprises: a third record within the first communication network for storing the first subscription data associated with the subscriber; a fourth record within the second communication network for storing the second subscription data associated with the subscriber; and wherein the main database also stores the first subscription data and the second subscription data associated with the first and second communication networks.

11. The system of claim 10 further comprising: a main management node for defining new subscription data for a second subscriber and communicating the new subscription data with the first and second communication networks and the main database.

The system of claim 11, wherein the first communication network provides a first service to the subscriber and the second communication network provides a second service for the subscriber, wherein the main administration node further comprises a control module of service to enable the first service to establish an interface with the second service.

13. The system of claim 9, wherein the first communication network uses network specific resources and the second communication network also uses network resources, and the system further comprises a main resource management module for assigning and managing resources of the network. the network between the first and second communication networks. The system of claim 9, wherein the first communication network consists of a cellular communications network and the first address of the network consists of the mobile identification number representing the subscriber. The system of claim 9, wherein the second communication network consists of an Internet Protocol (IP) network and the second address of the network consists of an Internet Protocol (IP) address associated with the subscriber. The system of claim 9, wherein the main database further comprises an application module for receiving data representing the location of the subscriber within the first communication network from the first register and communicating the received data with the second registration within the second communications network. 17. A communication system, which consists of: a first communication network comprising: a first service management and control (SMC) module for maintaining subscription data associated with a specific subscriber and service data associated with a first service provided within the first communications network; and a first subscriber registration and location module (SLR) for maintaining location and registration data associated with the subscriber; a second communication network comprises: a second module (SMC) for maintaining subscription data associated with the subscriber, and service data associated with the second service provided within the second communication network; and a second SLR module for maintaining location and registration data associated with the subscriber; a central, centralized database for storing data representing the location of the subscriber within each of the first and second communication networks; a main administrative module for defining and providing new subscription data representing a second subscriber; a first communications interface for connecting the main database, centralized with the first SLR and the second SLR; and a second communication interface for connecting the main administrative module with the first SMC and the second SMC. The system of claim 17, wherein the main, centralized database further comprises a sub-database of the subscriber addresses for storing and mapping a first network address representing the subscriber within the first network of communications with a second network address representing the subscriber within the second communication network; The system of claim 17, wherein the main, centralized database further comprises a sub-database of the subscriber profile for storing and correlating a first subscription associated with the subscriber within the first communication network with a second subscription associated with the subscriber within the second communication network. 20. The system of claim 19 further comprises a third communications interface for connecting the centralized, central database to the administrative module. 21. The system of claim 19 further comprises: network resources wherein the first communication network and the second communication network share the resources of the network; and a main module for the administration of the resources in order to assign and manage the resources of the network between the first and second communication networks. The system of claim 19, wherein the main administrative module further comprises a service control function for enabling the first service within the first communication network to establish the interface with the second service within the second communication network .