MXPA98001825A - System to manage telecommunication - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for call processing in telecommunications. The signaling for a call is received in a signaling processor (110). The signaling processor (110) processes the call and generates the new signaling that incorporates the processing. The new signaling is transferred to the network elements (135) as appropriate. The signaling processor (110) is not coupled to a switching matrix and only communicates with the network elements (135) on signaling links (14).

Description

SYSTEM TO MANAGE TELECOMMUNICATIONS BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The invention relates to telecommunications and specifically to a system that handles telecommunications by processing the signaling to generate new signaling for the network elements that provide the telecommunications services. 2. Previous Technique Telecommunications networks use switches to process calls and establish connections. The switches need to communicate with others in order to achieve this function. These communications within the switches are known as signaling. A prominent example of signaling is signaling system # 7 (SS7). It is important to note that the signaling is different from the actual user traffic carried over the connections established by a call. The REF: 27014 Signaling is the communications that occur in order to establish and abate the connections of the call. A classic example of signaling is where a first switch processes a dialed number and selects a second switch for use in the call. The first switch extends the connection of the call to the second switch and signals the number dialed to the second switch. This second switch can repeat the process for a third switch, and the process will be repeated until the connection of the call is terminated. To facilitate this processing, the switch contains a central processing unit (CPU) and a signaling point. The switching CPU is coupled to the switching matrix and controls the connections established by the matrix. The switching CPU processes the information, such as a dialed number, to select a connection and direct its associated switching matrix to make the connection. The switching signaling point acts as the signaling interface for the switching CPU when transmitting or receiving signaling and converting all the call information between the signaling protocol and the protocol of the switching CPU.

The signaling has an additional functionality linked to the evolution of what is called the intelligent network. In the intelligent network, the switches are supported by processors and external databases. The switches process the signaling, which they receive to process calls. During this processing, the switching CPU can recognize what the external processing support or data needs. To obtain that support, the switching CPU and the signaling point will generate a new signaling message to send to an external processor. The new signaling message is known as a question. The external processor will process the question and respond to the same switch with a signal that contains the additional information to support the switch. A classic example of the intelligent network operation is the 800 call (also known as a free phone). For 800 calls, a switch will receive a call setup message that includes a dialed number. In SS7, this is an initial address message (IAM). The switch will process the IAM until it recognizes that the dialed number has an area code of 800 and that the switch will require the support of a database external to obtain a normal telephone number, which can be used to route the call. This act of recognition is known as an activator. The normal telephone number is known colloquially as an old, simple telephone service number (POTS). As such, the switch will generate a signaling message to be sent to an external database. In SS7, this is a message from the Transaction Capabilities Application Part (TCAP) and is commonly referred to as a question. The external processor that receives the TCAP question is known as a service control point (SCP). The SCP analyzes the question and typically responds to the switch with the appropriate POTS number. The switch then processes the call in a conventional manner. Those skilled in the art are aware of the many special features of call processing that can be implemented through an SCP. In this way, the technique is known that a switch initially receives a call set-up message to begin the processing of the call. The switch can be activated during the processing of the call and request an external processor with a message from separate questions. After the analysis, the external processor will respond to that same switch with its own message. At present, switches are the devices that receive and process call set-up signaling to route calls and call the smart network. As a result, the current networks are limited to what the switch can achieve in the form of call processing. In order to add new functionality, the switching CPU must be re-programmed with new call processing logic or an existing switching activator must be re-used. Both restrict the ability of the network to provide new services. Since the switch remains on the primary platform from which call processing is initiated and controlled, the networks must wait until the switches are developed with the necessary functionality before new services and interconnection can be deployed. A common example of this problem is provided by the switches of the synchronous transfer mode (ATM, for its acronym in English). Although ATM switches are Currently functional to carry broadband traffic, ATM switches that can handle an extensive call and signaling capability are not available. The support systems for these switches, such as the description of the trigger and billing, are not in a strong stage of development. As a result, the networks have to wait until the ATM switches develop additional capabilities before the broadband transport functionality can be fully exploited. Systems are needed that do not depend on the signal processing and call processing capabilities of the switches. At least one system has suggested routing the user's service questions to a call server that is external to a switch. However, this system requires that the processing of the call be separated from the connection processor. This separation requires the deployment of a completely new and patented signaling system. In this system, a call server receives the user's signaling and selects the services and the characteristics of the route. A separate connection server selects the route, and a Separate channel server selects the specific connections in the route. The servers communicate with a patented signaling protocol, this system is not yet defined to a sufficient point for the implementation. As such, the system can not be implemented as easily as a system that integrates call processing with connection processing and uses conventional signaling protocols.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The invention includes a method for processing calls, wherein a user transfers a call set-up signaling message to a telecommunications network comprising at least one network element connected to a communication path. A signaling processor is also linked to the network element and the user. The method comprises receiving the call set-up signaling message in the signaling processor. The signaling processor only communicates with the network element over a signaling link and does not mesh with a switching matrix. The signaling processor performs the processing the call in response to the call set-up signaling message to produce a new signaling message that chooses the network element to provide a telecommunications service. The signaling processor transmits the new signaling message to the network element connected to the communication path. The signaling message received by the signaling processor could be an initial address message (IAM) of signaling system # 7 (SS7). The processing of the call can include the validation of the call, of the identification service, the processing of the NOO call, the processing of the personal / terminal mobility call, the processing of the voice message call, the processing of the private, virtual network call, the implementation of control of echo, the generation of billing information, the selection of a virtual connection, and the processing of the POTS call. The signaling messages could be conventional signage. They could be from the same protocol or they can be from different signaling protocols, such as the signaling of the integrated services user part (ISUP) of SS7 and the message of the part of user of broadband integrated services (B-ISUP) of SS7. The invention also includes a signaling processing system comprising a signaling interface for transmitting and receiving signaling messages over a signaling link and a call / connection processor which is coupled to the signaling interface. The connection / call processor is not coupled to a switching matrix and is operable to perform the call processing, to produce a new signaling message based on call processing, and to transmit the new signaling message through of the signaling interface. The new signaling message directs a network element to provide a telecommunications service for the call. The network element is connected to a communication path for the call and does not generate the initial signaling message received through the signaling interface. The signaling / connection processor only communicates with the network element through the signaling interface. Another embodiment of the invention is a method for selectively validating calls that they include accepting a call and receiving the caller's number and the called number. Before validating the call, it is determined if the call is of a type of call that requires validation, and if the call does not require validation, then the processing of the called number, but if the call requires validation, then a base is introduced of validation data with the caller's number before further processing of the called number. The invention also includes a method for selectively validating calls comprising the acceptance of a call and the reception of the calling number and the called number for the call. Then, determine if the called number is a number "800", and if the called number is a number "800", then enter a database of numbers "800" with the called number before entering a validation database with the caller's number; but if the called number is not an "800" number, then enter a validation database with the caller's number before further processing with the called number. The invention also includes a telecommunications system that provides services of telecommunications to system users. The system comprises ATM switches, ATM multiplexers, ATM connections, narrowband connections, signaling links and signaling processors. The signaling processors reside externally to the ATM switches and receive and process a signaling message from a user for a call. The general signaling precursors and transmit a new signaling message that directs an ATM switch to provide a telecommunications service to the user for the call.

BRDESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention can be better understood by reference to the following drawing figures, where: Figure 1 represents a block diagram of a version of the invention.

Figure 2 represents a logic diagram of a version of the invention.

Figure 3 represents a logic diagram of a version of the invention.

Figure 4 represents a logic diagram of a version of the invention.

Figure 5 represents a logic diagram of a version of the invention.

Figure 6 represents a logic diagram of a version of the invention.

Figure 7 represents a flow chart of a version of the invention.

Figure 8 depicts a flow chart of a version of the invention.

Figure 9 depicts a flow diagram of a version of the invention.

Figure 10 represents a block diagram of a version of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The invention provides a system for managing telecommunications that is not dependent on the functionality of the switch as the previous systems. This is achieved by employing a system that processes the signaling of the call and does not have to be linked with a switch and associated with the switching matrix. Using the invention, the switches can be used to provide their switching and transport functions without considering their capacity, to provide other features. In addition, some embodiments of the invention can logically integrate call and connection processing, and can be operational with conventional signaling systems. In the Figures, the connections that carry the user information are shown as individual lines in the signaling links that carry the signaling messages are shown as double lines. Figure 1 represents a basic version of the unique invention. Signaling processor 110 is shown connecting user 115 via link 120. Processor 110 is also connected to switch 125 with link 130 and element 135 via link 140.

The user 115 is connected to the switch 125 on the connection 145. The switch 125 is connected to the element 135 on the connection 150. In addition to the processor 110, these components are known in the art. The user 115 can be any entity that requests a service that requires a communication route with a few examples that are a telephone, a computer, or a switch of the local telephone company (LEC). Switch 125 can be any device that establishes communication routes in response to signaling with examples that are a Northern Telecom DMS-250 switch or Fore Systems ATM. The element 135 can be any device to which the calls are connected. Some examples would be a switch, an interconnection, cellular, improved platform, or even a destination phone or computer. The connections 145 and 150 could be any means that conveys the user information with a few examples which are the S3 link lines, the SONET / ATM virtual connections or the wireless connections. The links 120, 130 and 140 can be the means that transfer the telecommunication signaling with examples that are a 56 kbit data line, a virtual channel carrying SS7, or a data link.

UDP / IP. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that networks typically display numerous different switches, connections, links, and other network elements as shown in Figure 1 for purposes of clarity. Among these other elements can be the SCP, signal transfer points (SCP), multiplexers and cancellers or echo suppressors, but there is much more. The processor 110 could be any processing platform configured to support the requirement of the invention and discussed in detail later. In comparison, user 115 would request a service that requires a communication path when signaling a network. These signals direct processor 110 over link 120. Those skilled in the art are aware that STPs could be used for this purpose. In addition, the band signals, such as those in a local circuit, can pass through a switch before they are separated out of band and directed to the processor 110. Any technique for directing signaling to the processor is contemplated by the invention. 110. This signaling is known as call set-up signaling and for SS7, it is the IAM.

It is important to note that the call set-up signaling from the user 115 is routed to the processor 110 and is not processed by the switch 125 in order to recognize an activator or establish a communication path. The processor 110 does not receive only questions generated by the switch 125 that are generated in response to the call setup signaling from the user 115. It is also important to note that the processor 110 does not accept connections 145 or 150 that carry the actual traffic of the user. As such, the processor 110 is linked to the switch only by a signaling link. It is not coupled to a switching matrix and can be external to the switch. However, the signal processor may actually reside physically within a switch if it is not coupled to the switch matrix and only communicates with the switch over a signaling link. Those skilled in the art are aware of how a switching CPU is coupled to the switching matrix. Processor 110 would process call set-up signaling. For a call typically, this could include checking the dialed number, caller validation, control of an echo canceller, the generation of information and billing, the selection of connections for the call and the generation of signaling that incorporates the relevant information to end the call. The signaling generated by the processor 110 will only transmit the link 130 to the switch 125 in order to provide the service. This may include establishing the communication path over connections 145 and 150. If required, the processor 110 could also generate and transmit the appropriate signaling to the element 145 on the link 140 or to the user 115 on the link 120. The signaling could be the conventional signaling such as SS7. Figure 2 represents another embodiment of the invention, although the invention is not restricted to this embodiment. The narrowband switch 215 connected to the ATM switch 225 is shown by the connection 205. The signaling processor 210 is shown linked to the narrowband switch 215 by the signaling link 220. The signaling processor 210 is also shown linked to the ATM switch 225 over signaling link 230.

Those skilled in the art are familiar with the logic failure and functionality shown for switches 215 and 225. Both switches 215 and 225 contain the switching structure that is connected by connections 205. The structure of the switch and connection 205 carries the user information for a call. Both the structure of the switch and the connection 205 are well known. An interconnect multiplexer will be used to convert traffic to connection 205 between narrow band and broadband formats. The multiplexer is not shown for purposes of clarity. Signaling is required to control the switching function. The switching link 220 is connected to level 1 of the message transfer part (MTP). The signaling link is typically an SS7 link. MTP level 1 defines the physical and electrical requirements for link 220. MTP level 2 is located at the top of level 1 and maintains reliable transport on link 220 when inspecting the status and performance of error verifications . Together, MTP levels 1-20 provide reliable transport over an individual link. A device would need MTP level 1-2 functionality for each link it uses. MTP level 3 is located at the top of level 2 and provides a routing and management or management function for the large signaling system. MTP level 3 directs the messages to the appropriate signaling link (actually to MTP level 2 for that link). MTP level 3 directs the messages to the applications using the MTP levels for access to the signaling system. MTP level 3 also has a management or administration function that inspects the status of the signaling system and can take appropriate measures to restore service through the system. Levels 1-3 of MTP correspond to layers 1-3 of the basic open system interconnection reference model (OSIBRF). Both MTP 1-3 and OSIBRF are well known in the art. The switch 215 has a logic of the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISUP) user part that supports basic call processing. The ISUP uses the MTP to transmit the messages through the signaling system. The information contained in the ISUP messages is used by telecommunications networks to implement the services and establish the communication routes. A few examples of the ISUP information are the dialed number and the caller's number. The ISUP uses many different types of messages to carry this information with a few examples that are the message and initial address (IAM) and the response message (ANM). ISUP is well known in the art. The narrowband switch 215 has a call processing logic that processes the call information provided by the ISUP in order to control the structure of the switch and establish the communication routes. A classic example of this would be the analysis of a dialed number to select a route for the call. The narrowband switch call processors are well known in the art. The ATM switch 215 has the ATM layer, the signaling ATM adaptation layer (SAAL), the MTP level 3 logic that provides routing, handling and transport over the signaling system. The signaling link 230, typically an ATM virtual connection carried by the means SONET or DS3, is connected to the ATM layer. The ATM layer is analogous to level 1 of MTP and transmits and receives the ATM cells containing the signaling messages in the link specified in the header of the cell. The SAAL assembles and disassembles these cells, maintains the virtual and individual connections, performs the error verifications and is analogous to MTP level 2. The MTP level 3 logic in ATM switch 225 performs the same basic functions as described above for MTP level 3, but the broadband version of MTP level 3 is updated to support the needs in broadband systems. The ATM band, the SAAL, and the updated MTP level 3 are known in the art. The ATM switch 225 has the broadband ISUP logic (B-ISUP) that supports basic call processing in the broadband environment to control the structure of the broadband switch. The B-ISUP uses the MTP level 3, the SAAL and the ATM layer to transmit the messages through the signaling system. The information contained in the messages generated by B-ISUP is used by telecommunications networks to establish communication routes. A few examples of the B-ISUP information are the dialed number and the caller's number. The B-ISUP employs Many different types of messages to convey this information with a few examples that are the initial address message (IAM) and the response message (ANM). B-ISUP is known in the art. The ATM switch 225 has the logic of the calling process that processes the call information provided by B-ISUP in order to control the switching structure and establish the communication routes. An example of this would be the assignment of a virtual connection to a call based on the dialed number. The ATM switch call processors are well known in the art. The processor 210 is connected to the signaling links 220 and 230. The processor 210 has the logic of an MTP and ATM described above that allows it to interface with the components using either ISUP or B-ISUP. If the ISUP or B-ISUP signaling is not required, the associated functions could be omitted. The processor 210 has an interface logic that transfers signaling between MTP level 3 and the call / connection manager (CCM). The processor 210 has the logic of CCM that is capable of processing the information in the signaling received from the interface. For a typical call, this it could include the verification of the dialed number, the caller's validation, the control and an echo canceller, the generation and billing information, the translation of the dialed number, the selection of a route for the call, and the generation of the signaling to end the call. The signaling generated by the CCM would be transported back through the interface for the transfer to the switches 215 and 225. In one embodiment, the broadband switch 215 could be a LEC switch and the ATM switch 225 could be a local office switch (IXC). The IXC faces several problems when it attempts to interconnect the existing LEC broadband switches with its own ATM switches. Current ATM switches do not support many of the features required by an IXC in a strong manner, such as routing and billing. Additionally, switches 215 and 225 are not equipped to exchange signaling without modifying the switches with an ISUP or B-ISUP interconnection and signaling unit. The present invention provides the interconnection function between the two switches and provides the processing of the call. This means that a much less sophisticated ATM switch can be used. In this mode, the LEC switches 215 can request a connection through the IXC. As a result, the LEC 215 switches will signal the IXC with an SS7 IAM on the signaling link 220. The processor 210 will accept the message through its MTP and interface layers. The interface will distribute the signal to the CCM, and the CCM will process the signaling information in the IAM. This may include verification that the dialed number is legitimate, validation of the caller when verifying the automatic number identification (ANI), generation of a record report, and control of an echo canceller. The CCM could also process the dialed number to select a connection for the call. Relevant portions of this information will be packed into an appropriate B-ISUP message and passed to the interface to the subsequent transfer by MTP 3, SAAL, and ATM layer to ATM switch 225 over signaling link 230. Based on the B-ISUP message, the ATM switch 225 will connect the call. This would cause the extension of the communications path beyond connection 205 based on the signaling message from the CCM. As such, the communications path would be established through the switch 215 and the switch 225.

The call / connection management (CCM).

Figures 3-9 represent a mode of the signaling processor that also refers to call / connection management. Although this mode is preferred, the invention is not restricted to this specific modality. The signaling processor 310 is shown. Reference number 315 indicates that signaling processor 310 may be equipped with a signaling interface of MTP level 1-3, an ATM layer / signaling interface of SAAL, or both. Signaling processor 310 will be equipped with level 3 of MTP 320 which operates as described above for ISUP and B-ISUP. The ethernet interface 335 is also shown for the signaling processor 310. The ethernet interface 335 is a standard ethernet bar which supports TCP / IP which transfers the signaling messages from the MTP level 3 to the platform manipulator 340. Together, the above components provide a signaling side for the signaling processor. Those skilled in the art will recognize other interfaces and protocols that would provide a signaling interface according to the invention. The signaling interface will be operational to route the selected ISUP messages to the platform handler 340. One technique to accomplish this would be to make signaling processor 310 a separate user of the STP. A point code converter could be placed between MTP level 2 and MTP level 3 of the STP. The point code converter would convert the destination point code of the messages that satisfy certain criteria to a point code that the signaling processor 310. The criteria could be loaded into a table and could include the source point code ( OPC), the destination point code (DPC), the (circuit identification code), and the various combinations of these criteria. The conversion of this location to the STP could be specific to the signaling link used by the message, so that the conversion tables could inherently respond by the link used by the message. After the conversion, the function MTP level 3 distribution would send the signaling messages with the converted DPC to the platform manipulator 340 over the ethernet 335 interface. A similar conversion function could be placed before the MTP level 3 route function to convert the codes point for messages transmitted by the platform manipulator 340 through the STP. The prior art is described in the North American Patent Application entitled "TELECOMMUNICATIONS APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD ITH AN ENHANCED SIGNAL TRANSFER POINT", filed concurrently with this application, assigned to the same assignee, and which is incorporated herein by reference herein. request. Alternatively, the SS7 signaling interface to the platform handler could be constructed using the commercially available SS7 programming element tools. An example of these tools would be the programming elements of the SS7 interface provided by Trillium, Inc. The signaling messages as a destination point code (DPC) that matches the point code for signaling processor 310 will be routed to the signaling interface of the signaling processor 310 for the STP.

Additionally, the STP would convert the DPC of a signaling message to the point code of signaling processor 310 as described above. However, since the signaling processor 310 is not a user part of the STP, the route function of the level 3 of the MTP and the STP will route the signaling message to the signaling processor 310 over a signaling link. The signaling interface would receive the signaling message and transfer it to the platform handler 340. Although the conversion of the point code facilitates a transition from the existing systems to one of the present invention, this is not essential. Any method of sending the CCM signaling is sufficient. The platform handler 340, the message handler 345, and the data handler 350 are also shown. The platform handler 340 is a system that accepts ISUP and B-ISUP messages from the ethernet 365 interface and routes them to the message handler 345. Preferably, the platform handler 340 is configured to route messages to a particular message handler processor, based on the signaling link selection code (SLS) in the message. The message handler 345 is a system that exchanges the signaling with the platform handler 340 and controls the connection and the switching requirements for the calls. You can select and implement the services and start the echo control. It also converts the signaling between ISUP and B-ISUP. The data manipulator 350 is a set of logic circuits coupled to the message handler 345 that processes the service requests and provides the data in the message handler 345. The data handler 350 also controls the echo conserrators and generates the data reports. record for the call. In the discussions that follow, the term ISUP will include ISUP as well. In operation, ISUP messages that satisfy the appropriate criteria route by MTP and / or ATM interface 315, MTP level 3 320, ethernet interface 335 to platform handler 340. Platform handler 340 will route the ISUP messages to the message handler 345. The message handler 345 will process the ISUP information. This could include validation, selection and determination if additional data is needed for the processing of the call. If so, the data manipulator 350 will be called and will provide the message handler 345 with the pertinent data so that the message handler 345 could terminate the processing of the call. The message handler 345 generates the appropriate ISUP message to implement the call and passes the signals to the platform handler 340 for subsequent transmission to the assigned network elements. The distribution of the functional entities between the message handler 345 and the data handler 350 are shown. These functional entities are well known in the art. The message handler 345 includes at least the call control function (CCF) and the service switching function (SSF). The CCF establishes and releases the call connections, and the CCF recognizes the triggers during call processing by the CCF and provides an interface between the CCF and the service control function (CCF). The CCF identifies the services and obtains the data for the service. In some embodiments, the message handler 345 may include the CCF and the service data function (SDF). The SDF provides the service data in real time to the CCF. Taken together, the message handler 345 is capable of at least controlling the connections and recognizing the triggers. In some embodiments, the message handler 345 can also identify the services, obtain the data for the services, and generate the signaling required to implement the services. The message handler 345 can provide the signaling interconnection (i.e., ISUP to B-ISUP), the connection control, the service selection and the service implementation in a logically integrated packet that interconnects with the network through the a conventional medium. The data manipulator 350 includes at least the SCF and the SDF. In some embodiments, the message handler 345 and the data handler 350 both include the SCF and the SDF, and the services are divided among the functional entities. Two other functions are shown in the data handler that are not standardized functional entities. The accounting generates a billing report and the echo handles the echo cancellers. Typically, an echo canceller is disabled for a data call and is enabled after the data call for use in subsequent voice calls, however, other techniques are applicable. In the operation, the CCF will perform the basic processing of the call until the SSF recognizes an activator and calls the SCF. The SCF will identify the service associated with the activator. The SCF will access the data from the SDF in order to implement the service. The SCF will process the data from the SDF and provide the data to the CCF through the SSF. The CCF will then establish the connections through the conventional signaling to the service switching points (SSP). The SSPs connect to the communication routes and make the connections. Also, all echo cancellers can be controlled by a call, and a billing record could be generated for the call. Those skilled in the art are aware of various components of physical equipment of a computer that can support the requirements of the invention. For example, the platform handler, the message handler, and the data handler could each reside in a separate SPARC station 20.

Platform manipulator Figure 4 shows a possible version of the platform manipulator. The platform manipulator 410 is shown. The platform manipulator 410 includes the STP manipulator 413, the supervisor 414 and the CCM manipulator 416. The platform manipulator 410 transmits and receives the ISUP messages to / from a signaling interface. This STP routed the ISUP messages with particular characteristics to an application that resides at the top of the STP. The application could be the CCM and the characteristics could be the source point code (OPC), the destination point code (DPC), the signaling link selection (SLS), the circuit identification code (CIC) , and / or the service information object (SIO). The connection between the platform manipulator 410 and the STP could be an ethernet LAN that carries the ISUP messages encapsulated in TCP / IP packets. The STP 412 manipulator has a process for damping and dismounting the incoming packets to the CCM, and damping and mounting the outgoing packets. The STP 412 manipulator could also verify messages for defects basic Any technique for transferring the signaling messages to the platform handler 410 is contemplated by the invention. The supervisor 414 is responsible for the handling and inspection of the CCM activities. Among these are the initiation and interruption of CCM, the start-up and deactivation of the various CCM modules, the handling of the administrative messages (ie, error, warning, status, etc.) of the CCM modules, and the handling of messages from network operations such as questions, configuration instructions and data updates. The connection to network operations is the man-machine interface that allows the CCM to be controlled and inspected by an operator either remote or local. The supervisor 414 has a process that retrieves the configuration data from the internal tables to initialize and configure the CCM. The CCM modules also have internal tables that are used in conjunction with this procedure. The supervisor 414 also communicates internally with the STP manipulator 412 and the CCM manipulator 416. The CCM manipulator 416 exchanges the ISUP information with the STP 412 manipulator. The CCM manipulator 416 also exchanges messages of ISUP and CCM monitoring messages with the message handler. The connection between the CCM manipulator 416 and the message handler could be an Ethernet LAN transport message encapsulated in TCP / IP packets, but other methods are known. The CCM 416 manipulator will provide the ethernet-TCP / IP interface. The CCM manipulator 416 has a process for damping and dismounting the incoming packets from the message handler, and buffering and mounting the outgoing packets to the message handler. The CCM 416 manipulator can also verify messages for basic errors. Internally, the platform manipulator 416 is equipped with bi-directional channels that exchange information between the STP 412 manipulator, the supervisor 414, and the CCM manipulator 416. The channels between the STP 412 manipulator, the manipulator CCM 415, and supervisor 412. They transport supervisory and administrative information. The channel between the STP manipulator 414 and the CCM manipulator 416 carries the information of the ISUP message. Platform manipulator 410 accepts, dismounts, and mutes received ISUP messages from the network. You can perform basic checks on messages before transferring them to the message handler. More than one message handler must be connected to the platform handler 410, the ISUP messages must be assigned to the message handler based on the SLS of the particular ISUP message. The CCM manipulator 416 accepts the routing instructions from the message handler for routing certain ISUP messages to select the processes of the message handler. The platform manipulator 410 also provides the supervision and man / machine interface for the CCM.

The message manipulator Figure 5 represents a possible version of the message handler. The message handler 520 is shown and includes the call center 521, the source administration 522, the termination administration 523, the detection point manager 528, the main administrator 524, the auxiliary administrator 525, the switching manager 526 , and local resources 527. A The main function of the message manipulator 520 is to modify the ISUP messages. The call center 521 is the process that receives the call set-up messages from the platform handler. The establishment of the ISUP call starts with the IAM. When the call center 521 receives an IAM, it guides a case of an origin administrator process with the data defined by the information in the IAM. The origin administrator 522 represents any of the origin manager processes produced by call center 521. The CCM manipulator is instructed in the new case so that subsequent ISUP messages related to that call can be transferred directly to the appropriate case of the source administrator 522 by the platform manipulator. The origin administrator 522 establishes a block of memory a control block of originating call. The call control block provides a deposit for specific information to a call. For example, the originating call control block can identify the following: the call control block, the origin administrator, the message handler, the originating LS, the line circuit of LS link (CIC), the ATM virtual circuit, the ATM virtual path, the caller's number, the dialed number, the dialed number, moved, the origin line information, the ANI service class, the selected route, the selected route number, the SLS, the OPC, the DPC, the service indicator (SIO), the echo cancellation status, the release reason, the status of the call, and the indicators to the blocks control of the call, adjacent. In addition, the call control block will also contain the several times signaling messages are received, such as the complete address message (ACM), the response message (ANM), the suspension message (SUS), the message of continuation (RES), the release message (REL). Those skilled in the art will be aware of other pertinent data that is included. The origin administrator 522 executes call processing according to the basic call status model (BCSM), recommended by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), but with some notable exceptions. The origin administrator 522 processes the IAM through each point in the call (PIC) until a detection point (DP) is found. When a point of detection, a message is sent to the detection point manager 528 and the processing is suspended in the source administrator 522 until the detection point manager 528 responds. An example of a detection point for the origin administrator 522 would be to authorize an attempt of origin. The detection point manager 528 accepts messages from the origin administrator 522 caused by a detection point encountered during the processing of the call. The detection point manager 528 will identify whether or not the detection point is armed. An armed detection point has specific criteria that can affect the processing of the call if it is found. If the detection point is not armed, the administrator of the detection point 528 will send a continuous signal back to the origin administrator 522. A continuous message instructs the origin administrator 522 to continue processing the call to the next detection point . If the detection point is armed, the administrator of the detection point 528 will take the action to see if they meet the criteria of the detection point. If the 528 detection point manager requires help to process the point of armed detection will send a message to the main administrator 524. The main administrator 524 will accept the messages from the detection point manager 528 and either send a message to the auxiliary administrator 525 or the communication manager 526. The particular main messages will be routed to the auxiliary administrator 525 that will process these call features. There are typically non-IN features, such as echo control or POTS billing. Other main or characteristic messages will be routed to the switching manager 526. These are typically IN characteristics. Examples of IN characteristics are the translation of the number 800 or a translation of the terminal mobility number. The main or characteristic administrator 524 will pass the information back to the administrator of the detection point 528 (then to the origin administrator 522) when it is received back from the auxiliary administrator 525 or the switching manager 526. The switching manager 526 will determine whether the request is handled by the local resource 527 or by the data manipulator. Local resource 527 will be structured to provide data from a more efficiently stored way in the message handler 520. Examples of these data include: validation table of automatic number identification (ANI) that verifies the number of the caller, a translation table of the dialed number to translate the numbers of POTS in routing instructions, or NOO translation tables to translate the selected 800 numbers into routing instructions. Examples of a routing instruction produced by the tables would be a link-link switch or a virtual connection. An example of data in the data manipulator would be virtual private network (VPN) routing tables or complex 800 routing plans. Typically, the origin administrator 522 will execute through the relevant points in a call to a point indicating that the establishment is authorized. At this point, the origin administrator 522 will instruct the call center 521 to create a case of a termination manager. The termination manager 523 represents any of these termination administrators. The origin administrator 522 will also transfer the IAM information to the administrator termination 523. It will establish a block of memory called a termination call control block. The call control block provides a deposit for information specific to a call and is similar in composition to the originating call control block. The termination manager 523 also operates in accordance with the ITU BCSM, but also with some exceptions. The termination manager 523 continues processing for the call through its own points in the call until the detection points are found. When a detection point is found, a message is sent to the detection point manager 528 and processing in the terminating administrator 523 is suspended until the detection point manager 528 responds. An example of detection point for the administrator termination 522 would authorize the termination that would cause the authorization of the call as established by the origin administrator 522. The messages from the termination manager 523 to the detection point manager 528 are handled as discussed above for the messages from the origin administrator 522. When the processing by the terminating administrator 523, an IAM will be produced to be transmitted through the platform handler 410 to the appropriate network elements. The message handler 520 communicates with the data handler using a data transfer protocol. Examples include a UDP / IP, or intelligent network application protocol (INAP) that is contained within the component sub-layer of the transaction capabilities application part (TCAP).

Data manipulator Figure 6 shows a possible version of the data manipulator. The data manipulator 630 is shown. The data manipulator 630 includes the service control center 631, the service selection 632, the service logical center 633, the main or characteristic process 644, the data center 635, the service data manager 636, the control echo 637, and the accounting 638. The data manipulator 630 receives the service request messages from the message handler. These messages result from points and Armed detections that trigger the message handler to call the data handler 630. The messages also result from the features implemented through the auxiliary handler. The service control center 631, the service logical center 633, and the service data center 535 are static processes created at startup. The 631 service control center creates cases of service selection managers in a call based on the call. The service control center 331 notifies the switching manager of the routing of the subsequent service request messages for that call to the appropriate service selection manager. The service selection manager 632 represents any of the service selection managers created by the service control center 631. The service selection manager 632 executes the service portion of the call processing. The service selection manager 632 identifies the various services associated with each message and implements the service through messages to the service logical center 633. The service logical center 633 accepts the messages from the selection of 632 service and creates the cases of the main or characteristic processes required for the identified services. The examples of the main or characteristic processes are NOO, message sending, personal / terminal mobility, and virtual private network (VPN). The characteristic processes are logical service programs that implement the services required for a call. The main or characteristic process 634 represents any of the characteristic or main processes created by the service logical center 633. The characteristic or main process 634 has access to the resources of the network and the data required to implement the service. This will cause the execution of the independent service blocks (SIB). A SIB is a set of functions. An example of a function will be to retrieve the called number from a signaling message. The SIBs combine to build a service. An example of a SIB is the translation of a called number. Those skilled in the art are familiar with the above services, although they have never been implemented by a system such as the present invention. NOO services are such as the call to 800, 900, or 500 in which the number dialing is used to access the call processing and billing logic circuit by the subscriber to the service. Sending messages causes the caller to connect to a voice message sending service. For example, the reception of a release message (REL) with a busy cause could be an activator recognized by the message handler. In response, the data manipulator would create a case of the main message sending process and determined whether the call placed to a particular dialed number would require the local message sending platform. If so, the CCM would instruct the SSP to connect the caller to the voice message platform. Personal / terminal mobility includes recognition that the dialed number has mobility that requires a database search to determine the current number. The database is updated when the called party changes location. The VPN is a private dial plan. It is used for calls from particular delicate lines, from numbers that call, particular (ANI), or to particular, dialed numbers. The calls are routed as defined for the particular plan.

In the execution of the SIB to provide the service, the main process 634 would call the service data center 635 to create a case of the service data manager 636. The service data manager 636 has access to the data base of the service. network that provide the data required for the service. Access could be facilitated by sending TCAP messages to an SCP. The service data manager 636 represents any of the service administrators created by the service data center 635. Once the data is retrieved, it is transferred back to the main process 634 for the implementation of the additional service. When the main processes for a call ends execution, the service information is passed back to the message handler and finally to the origin or termination manager for the call. After a release message in a call, billing requests will be sent to the 638 accounting. The 638 accounting will use the call control block to create a billing record. The call control block will contain the information from the ISUP messages for the call and from the processing of CCM. From the complete address message (ACM), the call control block will include the routing label, the CIC, the type of message, the indicators of the cause. From the response message (ANM), the call control block will include the routing label, the CIC, the type of message, and the indicators of the return call. From the initial address (IAM) message, the call control block will include the routing label, the CIC, the type of message, the indicators of the outgoing call, the user service information, the part number call, calling party number, company identification, company selection information, load number, generic address, origin line information, original called number, and redirection number. From the release message (REL), the call control block will include the routing label, the CIC, the type of message, and the indicators of the cause. From the suspend message (SUS) or the pass message (PAM), the call control block will include the routing label, the CIC, and the type of message. Those skilled in the art are familiar with other information relevant to a billing record and appreciate that some of this information could be deleted. For POTS calls, the billing request will arrive from the terminating origin administrators through the auxiliary administrator. For IN calls, the request will come from service selection 632. Accounting 638 will generate a billing record from the call control blocks. The billing record will be sent to a billing system over a billing interface. An example of this interface is the I.E.E.E protocol. 802.3 FTAM. At some point during the establishment of the call, the origin administrator, the termination manager or even the discovery point process will verify the user's service information data and source line information to assess the need for control of echo. If the call is a data call, a message will be sent to the data manipulator 630. Specifically, the message will be routed through the auxiliary manager to the echo control manager 637 and the data handler 630. Based on the CIC, the auxiliary administrator to the control administrator of echo 637 in the data handler 630. Based on the CIC, the echo control manager 637 can select which echo canceller and DSO circuit needs to be disabled. A message to that effect will be generated and transmitted over a normal data link to the relevant echo canceller or echo control system. Once the release message (REL) is received for the circuit, the echo canceller is re-enabled. In a typical call, this procedure will occur twice. One time for an echo canceller on the access side, and again for an echo canceller on the terminating side. The CCM that handles the IAM for a particular call segment will control the particular echo cancellers for the segment.

Processing of the IAM call.

Before a description of the IAM processing, a brief description of the SS7 message is given. The sending of SS7 messages is well known in the art. The SSUP ISUP messages contain numerous information fields. Each message will have a routing label that contains a destination point code (DPC), a point code of source (OPC), and a signaling link selection (SLS) that is used primarily to route the message. Each message contains a described identification code (CIC) that identifies the circuit to which a message relates. Each message contains the type of message that is used to recognize the message. The ISUP messages also contain control parts filled with fixed-length data and variable-length data, in addition to a part available for optional data. These parts vary from message type to message type depending on the need for the information needed. The initial production message (IAM) initiates the call and contains the call establishment information, such as a dialed number. The IAMs are transferred in the calling direction to establish the call. During this process, TCAP messages can be sent to access remote data and processing. When the IAMs have reached the final network element, a complete address (ACM) message is sent to the return address to indicate that the required information is available and the called party is encouraged. If the called party responds, a response message (ANM) and the return address indicating that the call / connection will be used. If the calling party hangs up, a release message (REL) is sent to indicate that the connection is not being used and can be interrupted. If the called party hangs up, a suspension message (SUS) is sent and if the called party reconnects, a continuation message (RES) keeps the line open, but if there is no reconnection, a release message is sent (REL) ). When connections are free, complete release messages (RLC) are sent to indicate that the address can be re-used for another call. Those skilled in the art will be aware of other UISP messages, however, these are major to be considered. As you can see, the IAM is the message that establishes the call. In the preferred modality, the processing of the call deviates from the basic call model recommended by the ITU, although other forms of written adherence to the model can be achieved. Figures 7-10 represent the preferred processing of the call. With reference first to Figure 7, when the IAM for a call is received at 705, the call center creates a case of an origin administrator at 710. The origin administrator begins processing the call by sending an authorization message to the discovery point administrator. The detection point administrator verifies the IAM information, including the dialed number, in CIC, and the origin line information, to perform the discrimination of the 715 service. This is done to determine if the requested service requires the validation of 720 The call processing systems, streams and the ITU BCSM both validate, called before the realization of service discrimination. In a significant advantage over the prior art, the preferred embodiment deviates from the known call processing methods by searching the IAM information before validation to determine if validation is still required. For example, the calling party can not pay the bill for a call. The called party pays the invoice in 800 calls and validation may be unnecessary. If the validation is not required in 720, the processing of the call proceeds directly to B. advantageously, this avoids Unnecessary searches in the validation tables for a significant percentage of calls. If the validation is required in 720, a validation table is verified at 725. The validation checks to see if a call should be allowed and focuses on potential billing problems for the call. For example, calls from ANI that are delinquent in payments have problems for billing and can not be validated. The validation will cause the message to be sent from the detection point manager through the main or characteristic administrator and the switching administrator to the local resource to access the tables. The tables may include authorized ANIs, unauthorized ANIs, or both. If calls are not authorized at 730, the processing (ie, route to an operator or message) is given to the 735 call. If the call is authorized at 730, the services identified at 715 are checked at 740 to determine if the call can be routed. This will typically occur for POTS calls. If no additional services are required at 740, the dialed number is translated into a routing instruction 745. The routing instruction it could be a particular virtual connection in the network. The processing then proceeds to A. If additional services are required at 740, the processing proceeds to B. Figure 8 shows processing at A after a route has been selected. A termination manager is created in 805. The termination administrator is not responsible for processing in accordance with the termination BCSM of the ITU. However, in some modalities, processing may exhibit some deviation. For example, detection points, such as media selection and call validation can be skipped. The bearer capability is analyzed at 810 to determine if the line is a data call at 815. This analysis can occur anywhere in the call processing (ie, by the origin administrator after the route is selected). If a data call is found at 815, an echo control message is sent to the data manipulator 820. The unauthorization message is created at 825 and 830 is sent. The echo cancellation instructions identify the selected route instruction for the call. He The message could be sent to the echo canceller system over a conventional data link from the CCM to the echo canceller system. If the call is not a data call at 815 or after processing of the echo canceller at 830, an IAM message is created at 835. The new IAM incorporates the processing information of the relevant call such as the selected route. The new IAM is sent to the platform handler at 840. Typically, the IAM will place the route instruction in the digit field of the called number. This means that the digits can not represent the real number, but will contain other routing information recognizable by the network elements. The network elements will have to be able to process the route instruction. The called number can be placed in another field in the IAM. Figure 9 shows the processing in B. At this point, several things are known about the authorization in relation to the call and the service requirements. The call information is then analyzed at 905 as required to apply the services to the call. If the data manipulator is not required in 910, the service is implemented and the route is selected in 715. This can be occur if a service can be implemented directly by the source administrator or through the local resource. For example, particular 8009 translations or profiles of the dialed number service (that is, call forwarding) can be stored in the local resource). In this case, the route selection will be made by the local resource after the information is analyzed to identify the correct entry to a database in the local resource. When the local resource is used, the messages must be routed from the detection point processing through the main or characteristic administrator and the switching administrator to the local resource. If the data manipulator is required for call 910, a message is sent to data manipulator 920. The sending of messages typically flows from the processor of the detection point to the main administrator and the communication manager to the data manipulator. Upon receipt of the message in the data manipulator, the service control center creates a case of the service selection process 925. A service selection process analyzes the message from the detection point processor and selects the processes main or characteristic for the 930 call. For example, a call can be placed from a caller on a virtual private network (VPN) to a PCS number. In this case, both a main VPN process and a main PCS process will be created. Each main process will determine if the data is required in 940. For example, a main process of personal mobility will be needed to have access to a database to locate the current telephone number of the called party. If the data is required at 940, the service data center creates the service data manager 945. The data administrator manages or manages the data section and has access to the appropriate database at 950. After collect the data (or none is needed), the service is implemented by the main process 955. For some features, that is, the 800 service, this may include the route selection. The results of the analysis of the main process are returned to the origin administrator for assimilation. If the main process does not provide the route, the origin administrator must select the route to through the local resource or through another main process. The IAM itself contains numerous fields of information. The following table describes the segments of an IAM with respect to the information content of the call processing.

TABLE 1 - DESCRIPTION OF THE INITIAL ADDRESS MESSAGE Category of the calling parties Category of the party that 00000000 for unknown calls 00001010 for ordinary caller 00001101 for test call TRANSPORTATION OF ACCESS Elements of the parties Pass any access information COMPANY SELECTION INFORMATION Selection Indicator Indicate whether Company Code company identification was presubscribed or entered SERVICE CODE Service code Pass any information TRAVEL COUNTER Trip Counter Limits on the number of times an IAM can be transferred through a signaling point. If the count reaches the limit, release the call. The various fields in the message contain the pertinent information required to initiate the processing of the call. The IAM messages that are generated by the CCM could contain the routing instructions. These could be placed in the digit field of the called party number. The called party number could be relocated to another field. The STP then I could receive the IAM and route based on the routing instruction in the digit field. For example, the information could identify a routing code, telephone number, switch, link line, platform, or network. A network element that resides this IAM would recognize the routing instruction, such as a routing code, and provide the corresponding telecommunications service.

Processing of the subsequent ISUP message The processing of AMI is discussed above. Those skilled in the art will appreciate how other SS7 messages can be incorporated into the processing of the present invention. For example, the moment a complete address message is received (ACM) is recorded in the call control block for billing and maintenance. Activators can also be based on the reception of subsequent messages, such as ACM. The process for the response message (ANM) is the same. The step cutoff is the point in time at which users are able to pass the information along the end-to-end call connection. Messages from the CCM to the appropriate network elements are they require to allow the pass step of the call. Typically, the call connections include both a transmission route from the caller and a reception route to the caller, and pass-through is allowed, in the reception route after the ACM is received and in the transmission route after the ANM is received. Upon receipt of a release message (REL), the CCM shall describe a time for the message to the call control block and verify the triggers in the release (such as re-originating the call). Additionally, any disabled echo canceller will be re-enabled, and the call control block will be used to create a billing record. Upon receipt of a complete release message (RLC), the CCM shall transmit the messages that direct the interruption of the call route. It will clear your specific calling processes and reuse call connections for subsequent calls. Additionally, suspension messages (SUS) and pass messages (PAM) can be processed by the CCM. A Suspend message (SUS) indicates that the called party has disconnected and a REL will continue if the called party does not reconnect at a specific time. A PAM is simply a message before the signaling points and may contain a variety of information and is used for a variety of purposes.

Operation of the network From the above discussion, it can be seen that the invention can receive and process a signaling to select connections for the call. The invention is also capable of applying services during the processing of the call. Figure 10 shows a specific embodiment of the present invention with respect to a network, but the invention is not applicable to other scenarios. The networks 1001, 1002 and 1003 are shown. The network 1001 is comprised of the broadband switch 1005 and the signal transfer point (STP) 1010. The broadband switch is connected to the network 1002 by the connection 1015. The narrowband switch is linked to STP 1010 by link 1020 and STP 1010 is linked to network 1002 by link 1025. Connection 1015 carries user traffic. The links 1020 and 1025 carry the signaling messages. Narrowband switches, STPs, connections, and signaling links can take several different forms and are well known in the art. The 1003 network is positioned similarly with the band switch narrow 1030, STP 1035, connection 1040, link 1045, and link 1050. Network 1002 is shown with ATM switch 1055, ATM switch 1060, mux 1065, mux 1070, echo control 1068, and the echo control 1078. The mux 1075 is coupled to the echo control 1068. The mux 1075 is connected to the narrowband switch 1005 via the connection 1015. The mux 1065 is connected to the ATM switch 1055 via the 1075 connection The ATM switch 1055 is connected to the ATM switch 1060 by the connection 1080. The ATM switch 1060 is connected to the mux 1070 by the connection 1085. The echo control 1078 is connected to the narrow band switch 1030 by the connection 1040 They are also shown in STP 1090 and STP 1095. STP 1090 is linked to STP 1010 over link 1035. STP 1090 is linked to ATM switch 1055 via link 1005. STP 1090 is linked to STP 1095 by the link 1010. STP 1095 is linked to ATM switch 1060 by link 1110. STP 1095 is linked to STP 1035 via link 1050. These components are well known in the art. The network 1002 also includes the CCM 115 and the CCM 1120. The CCM 1115 is linked to the STP 1090 by the link 1125 of the echo control 1068 by the link 1128. The CCM 1120 is linked to the STP 1095 by link 1130 and the control from echo 1078 by link 1138. CCMs and associated links are configured to operate as described above with respect to the present invention. In the operation, a call may proceed as follows: the network 1001 will send a call to the network 1002.

This means that the switch 1005 will use the connection 1015 to connect to a network 1002. A signaling message will also be sent on the link 1020 through the STP 1010 and on the link 1025 to the network 1002. The network 1002 will receive the message of signaling in STP 1090. The signaling message could be an ISUP message of SS7, and in particular an IAM. The STP 1090 will route SS7 ISUP messages from switch 1005 to CCM 1115. It may be the case that the message was actually sent to a different component of CCM 1115, but it was directed to 1115 by network 1002. CCM 1115 will process the IAM. Processing may include validation, analysis of call information, and route selection as described above. In turn, this may include POTS calls or calls that require additional services such as NOO, VPN, message sending, or personal / terminal mobility. In this mode, CCM 1115 could select connection 1080 as the routing instruction for ATM switch 1055. An SS7 B-ISUP IAM would be formulated by CCM 1115 would be formulated by CCM 1115 and sent to ATM switch 1055 over link 1125 via STP 1090 and over link 1105. ATM switch 1055 would accept the route instruction and select the specific VPI / VCI or connection 1080 and generate a B-ISUP to reflect the selected VPI / VCI. Additionally, the route instruction from CCM 1115 could have identified the actual VPI, and would leave the VCI selection to ATM switch 1055. This IAM from ATM switch 1055 would be routed over link 1105 through STP 1090 and over link 1100 to STP 1095. STP 1095 would route this IAM over link 1130 to CCM 1120. CCM 1120 would then process the B-ISUP IAM and select network 1003, and in particular, connection 1085 and / or switch 1030 as the route instruction for switch 1060. A B-ISUP IAM will be formulated by CCM 1120 and sent to switch 1060 over link 1130 through STP 1095 over link 1110. ATM switch 1060 would select the Appropriate VPI / VCI (or possibly only the VCI) on connection 1085 and generate a B-ISUP message that reflects the selection. This B-ISUP message would be routed over link 1110 through STP in 1095 over link 1130 to CCM 1120. CCM 1120 would process the B-ISUP IAM to create an ISUP IAM for the narrowband switch 1030. The ISUP IAM would be sent to switch 1030 over link 1130, through STP 1095, over link 1050, through STP 1035, over link 1045. Muxes 1065 and 1070 convert traffic between the narrow band format and the ATM format. The CCM follows these connections through the muxes so that it can match the narrowband connections and the ATM connections on each side of the given mux. The CCM 115 would verify the IAM to determine if the call is a data call. If so, the echo canceller on the selected connection would need to be disabled. This would be achieved by a CCM message 115 to echo control 1078 over link 1138. The same procedure would occur between CCM 1120 and echo control 1038 over link 1138. Narrowband switch 1030 would typically produce a full message of address (ACM) to give meaning to the called party to be alerted and a reply message (ANM) to mean the called party that has answered. These messages are routed back to network 1002 and CCM 1120. CCM 1120 and CCM 1115 instruct switches 1055 and 1060 to allow pass-through at selected connections and signal network 1001 of call status . When a party ends the call, the suspend (SUS), release (REL), and full release (RLC) messages on lines 1001 and 1003 as appropriate in order to interrupt the call. The CCM 1115 and the CCM 1120 will process these messages and instruct the switch 1055 and the switch 1060 to use those VPI / VCI for other calls. At this time, each CCM will generate the billing information for the call. The invention provides several advantages over the above systems. The invention is not coupled to a switching matrix and thus, is not dependent on the capabilities attached by a switch by the switch provider. The invention does not accept the user's actual traffic and is not required to have transport capacity. However, the invention accepts the signaling that the switch will receive, processes the signaling, and provides a switch with a new signal incorporating processing. Processing can implement routing, billing and special services so that the switch does not need to have the capabilities. The processing can also interconnect different types of signaling so that each switch receives the signaling in its own format.

The current signaling processors can not provide these advantages. The SCPs process the TCAP message questions and do not process the call set-up messages sent from a user. The SCP processes questions generated by a switch and responds to the same switch. The SCPs must be called by a switch and respond to that switch. The signaling points and their associated switch CPUs are linked to the switch and the switch CPU is coupled to a switching matrix. The additional functionality to this system increases its cost and reduces its flexibility. Another proposed signaling processing system is logically separated according to the call, service, connection and channel. As such, it must rely on a patented signaling protocol to communicate between the separated components in a logical manner. This system does not provide an individual logical component that processes the signaling and generates the signaling for a network element connected to the communication path. Those skilled in the art will appreciate variations that will support the requirements of the invention. As such, the invention should not be restricted to only the modalities listed above. The invention should only be defined by the following claims.

It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known by the applicant to carry out the present invention is that which is clear from the present description of the invention.

Having described the invention as above, the contents of the following are claimed as property

Claims (50)

1. A method for processing calls, wherein a user transfers a call set-up signaling message to a telecommunications network, comprising at least one network element connected to a communication path, and wherein a signaling processor is links to the network element and the user; the method is characterized in that: receiving the call set-up signaling message from the user in the signaling processor, wherein the signaling message from the call set-up is not received and processed by the network element connected to the communication path, wherein the signaling processor only communicates with the network element over a signaling link and wherein the signaling processor is coupled to a switching matrix; perform call processing on the signaling processor in response to the call set-up signaling message to produce a new signaling message that selects the network element to provide a telecommunications service; and transmitting the new signaling message to the network element connected to the communication path.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the reception of the signaling message comprises the reception of an initial address message (IAM) of the signaling system # 7 (SS7).

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the execution of the call processing comprises the validation of the call.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the execution of the call processing comprises the identification of the service.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the embodiment of the call processing comprises a processing of the so-called NOO.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the execution of the call processing comprises the processing of the personal / terminal mobility call.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the execution of the call processing comprises the processing of the call that sends the voice message.

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the execution of the call processing comprises the processing of the virtual private network call.

9. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the implementation of the call processing comprises the implementation of the echo control.

10. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the execution of the call processing comprises the generation of the billing information.

11. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the execution of the call processing comprises the selection of a virtual connection.

12. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the execution of the call processing comprises the processing of the so-called POTS.

13. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the transmission of the new signaling message to the network element comprises the transmission of the new signaling message to an ATM switch.

14. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the transmission of the new signaling message to the network element it comprises the transmission of a message from signaling system # 7 (SS7).

15. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the reception of the call set-up signaling message and the transmission of the new signaling message comprises the reception and transmission of the signaling messages with different signaling protocols.

16. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the call set-up signaling message comprises the reception of a message from the integrated services user part (ISUP) of signaling system # 7 (SS7) and the transmission of the new signaling message comprises the transmission of a message from the broadband integrated services user part (B-ISUP) of signaling system # 7 (SS7).

17. A signaling processing system for the processing of telecommunications signaling, characterized in that it comprises: an operable signaling interface to be coupled to a signaling link and transmit and receive the signaling messages on the signaling link. a call / connection processor that is coupled to the signaling interface and does not connect to a switching matrix, wherein the call / connection processing is operable to analyze the processing of the call in response to receiving a message from initial signaling through the signaling interface, to produce a new signaling message based on call processing, and to transmit the new signaling message through the signaling interface, where the new signaling message directs an element network to provide a telecommunication service for the call, wherein network element is connected to a communication path for the call and does not generate or process the initial signaling message received through the signaling interface, and where the call / connection processor only communicates with the network element through the signaling interface.

18. The system according to claim 17, characterized in that the initial signaling message is an initial address message (AM) of signaling system # 7 (SS7).

19. The system according to claim 17, characterized in that the call processing comprises the validation of the call.

20. The system according to claim 17, characterized in that the processing of the call comprises the identification of the service.

21. The system according to claim 17, characterized in that the processing of the call comprises the processing of the call NOO.

22. The system according to claim 17, characterized in that the processing of the call comprises the processing of the personal / terminal mobility call.

23. The system according to claim 17, characterized in that the processing of the call comprises the processing of the call that sends a voice message.

24. The system according to claim 17, characterized in that the processing of the call comprises the processing of the private, virtual network call.

25. The system according to claim 17, characterized in that the call processing comprises the implementation of the echo control.

26. The system according to claim 17, characterized in that the processing of the call comprises the generation of the billing information.

27. The system according to claim 17, characterized in that the processing of the call comprises the selection of a virtual connection.

28. The system according to claim 17, characterized in that the call processing comprises the call processing POTS.

29. The system according to claim 17, characterized in that the call processing comprises the network element is an ATM switch.

30. The system according to claim 175, characterized in that the new signaling message is a signal from signaling system # 7 (SS7).

31. The system according to claim 17, characterized in that the call set-up signaling message and the new signaling message comprise the signaling messages with different signaling protocols.

32. The system according to claim 17 characterized in that the call set-up signaling message comprises a message from the integrated services user part (ISUP) of signaling system # 7 (SS70) and the new signaling message comprises a message from the broadband integrated services user part (B-ISUP) of the signaling system signage # 7 (SS7).

33. A telecommunications computer system that is not coupled to a switching matrix, wherein the computer system operates as directed by the logic of the program and the computer system is operable to be coupled to a signaling link, the system of computer, is characterized in that it comprises: receiving the operable logic to direct the computer system to receive an initial signaling message from the signaling link; signaling the logic of operable processing to direct the computer system to process the initial signaling message to produce the information related to a telecommunications service and produce a new signaling message incorporating the information, wherein the new signaling message is configured to direct a network element that connects to a route of communications to provide the telecommunications service; and transmitting the operable logic to direct the computer system to transmit the new signaling message through the signaling link to the network element, where the network element does not generate or process the initial signaling message.

34. A call / connection processor for processing the telecommunications service, characterized in that it comprises a processor that is operable to be coupled to a signaling interface, to perform the call processing in response to the reception of a signaling message from the signaling interface, for producing a new signaling message based on call processing, and for transmitting the new signaling message to the signaling interface for subsequent transmission to a network element connected to a communication route for the call, wherein the processor is not coupled to a switching matrix and only communicates with the network element through a signaling interface, wherein the new message of signaling is configured to direct the network element to provide a telecommunications service for the call, and wherein the call processing in the processor comprises the execution of a call control function (CCF), a service communication function ( SSF), and a service control function (SCF).

35. A telecommunication service processor for processing the messages of the signaling system # 7 (SS7), characterized in that it comprises: a level 1 interface of the message transfer part (MTP); an MTP level 2 interface coupled to the MTP level 1 interface; an MTP level 3 interface coupled to the MTP level 2 interface; a call / connection processing means that is not coupled to a communication matrix and is coupled to the MTP level 3 interface to process the SS7 initial address (IAM) messages received from the level 3 interface of MTP to select at least one connection, to generate new signaling signals based on the processing and to transmit the new signaling signals to the MTP level 3 interface for subsequent transmission; a routing means in the MTP level 3 interface for routing the selected SS7 IAMs to the call / connection processing means.

36. The processor according to claim 37, characterized in that it further comprises: an ATM layer interface; a signaling ATM adaptation layer interface (SAAL) coupled to the ATM layer interface and the MTP level 3 interface.

37. A telecommunications system that provides telecommunications service to system users, the system is characterized in that it comprises: a. plurality of ATM switches; a plurality of ATM multiplexers; a plurality of ATM connections, wherein the ATM connections interconnect the ATM switches, and wherein the ATM connections connect the ATM switches to the ATM multiplexers; a plurality of narrowband connections, wherein the connections connect the ATM multiplexers to the users; a plurality of signaling processor residing externally to the ATM switches, wherein the processors are operable to receive and process a signaling message from a user for a call, and operable to generate and transmit a new signaling message that directs an ATM switch to provide a telecommunications service to the user for the call; a plurality of signaling links that bind the signaling processors to the users and to the ATM switches.

38. A telecommunications system that provides telecommunications service to system users, the system is characterized in that it comprises: a plurality of ATM switches; a plurality of ATM connections wherein the ATM connections interconnect the ATM switches, and wherein the ATM connections connect the ATM switches to the users; a plurality of signaling processor that externally reside to the ATM switches, e where the processors are operable to receive and process a signaling message from a user for a call, and operable to generate and transmit a new signaling message that directs an ATM switch to provide a telecommunications service to the user for the call; a plurality of signaling links that bind the signaling processors to the users and to the ATM switches.

39. A method for processing calls, wherein a user transfers a call set-up signaling message to a prior art system, comprising at least one network element connected to the communication path and wherein a signaling processor is linked to the network element and the user, the method, characterized in that it comprises: receiving the call set-up signaling message from the user in the signaling processor where the signaling processor is not coupled to a switching matrix; perform call processing on the signaling processor in response to the message of call set-up signaling to produce a new message directing the network element to provide a telecommunication service wherein the completion of the call processing comprises the validation of the call; and transmit the new message to the network element connected to the communication path.

40. A method for processing calls, wherein the user transfers a call set-up signaling message to a telecommunications system comprising at least one network element connected to a communication path, and wherein a signaling processor is linked to the communication element. network and the user, the method is characterized in that it comprises: receiving the call set-up signaling message from the user in the signaling processor, wherein the signaling processor is not coupled to a communication matrix; perform call processing on the signaling processor in response to the call set-up signaling message for producing a new message directing the network element to provide a telecommunication service, wherein performing the call processing comprises the implementation of the echo control; and transmit the new message to the network element connected to the communication path.

41. A method for the processing of calls, wherein a user transfers a call set-up signaling message or a telecommunications system comprising at least one network element connected to the communication path, and where a signaling processor is linked to the network element and the user, the method is characterized in that it comprises: receiving the call set-up signaling message from the user in the signaling processor, wherein the signaling processor is not coupled to a switching matrix; perform call processing on the signal processor in response to the call set-up signaling message to produce a new message that directs the network element to provide a service telecommunications, wherein performing the call processing comprises the generation of billing information; and transmit the new message to the network element connected to the communication path.

42. A method for the processing of calls, wherein a user transfers a call set-up signaling message to a telecommunications system comprising at least one network element connected to a communication path and where a signaling processor is linked to network element and the user, the method is characterized in that it comprises: receiving a call set-up signaling message from the user in the signaling processor, wherein the signaling processor is not coupled to a switching matrix; performing the call processing in the signaling processor in response to the call set-up signaling message to produce a new message that directs the network element to provide a telecommunications service, wherein the performance of the signaling processor comprises the selection of a virtual connection; and transmit the new message to the network element connected to the communication path.

43. A method for processing calls, wherein a user transfers a call set-up signaling message to a telecommunications system comprising at least one network element connected to the communication path and where a signaling processor is linked to network element and the user, the method is characterized in that it comprises: receiving the call set-up signaling message from the user in the signaling processor where the signaling processor is not coupled to a switching matrix; performing the call processing in the signaling processor in response to the call set-up signaling message to produce a new message directing the network element to provide the telecommunications service, wherein performing the call processing comprises performing the POTS call processing; Y transmit the new message to the network element connected to the communication path.

44. A method for call processing, wherein a user transfers a call set-up signaling message to a telecommunications system comprising at least one ATM switch and where a signaling processor is linked to the ATM switch and the user , the method is characterized in that it comprises: receiving the call set-up signaling message from the user in the signaling processor, wherein the signaling processor is not coupled to any switching matrix; performing the call processing in the signaling processor in response to the call set-up signaling message to produce a new message that directs the ATM switch to provide a telecommunications service; and transmit the new message to the ATM switch.

45. A method for processing calls, wherein a user transfers a message from the integrated services user part (ISUP) and the signaling system # 7 (SS7) to a telecommunications system comprising at least one ATM switch and where a signaling processor is linked to the ATM switch and the user, the method is characterized in that it comprises: receiving the SS7 ISUP message from the user in the signaling processor, where the signaling processor does not connect to the signaling processor. a matrix in the ATM switch; performing call processing on the signaling processor in response to the SS7 ISUP message to produce an SS7 broadband ISUP message (B-ISUP) that directs the ATM switch to provide a telecommunications service; and transmitting the B-ISUP message from SS7 to the ATM switch.

46. A telecommunications computer system that is not coupled to a switching matrix, wherein the computer system operates as directed by the logic of the program, the computer system, is characterized in that it comprises: receive the logic that is operational to direct the computer system to receive a first signaling message from the first link; signaling the logic of the processing that is operational to direct the computer system to process the first signaling message to produce the information that is related to the telecommunications service and that is related to the echo control, and to produce a second message incorporating the information, wherein the second message is configured to direct a network element that connects to a communications path to provide the telecommunications service and to implement the echo control; and transmitting the logic that is operational to direct the computer system, to transmit the second message through a second link to the network element where the network element does not generate the first signaling message.

47. A telecommunications computer system that is not coupled to a switching matrix, where the computer system operates as it is addressed by the logic of the program, the computer system is characterized in that it comprises: receiving the logic that is operational to direct the computer system to receive a first signaling message from the first link; signaling the logic of the processing that is operational to direct the computer system to process the first signaling message to produce the information in relation to billing, wherein the second message is configured to direct a network element that is connected to a route of communications to provide the telecommunications service and to implement echo control; and transmitting the logic that is operational to direct the computer system, to transmit the second message through a second link to the network element where the network element does not generate the first signaling message.

48. A telecommunications computer system that is not coupled to a switching matrix, where the computer system operates as it is addressed by the logic of the program, the computer system is characterized in that it comprises: receiving the logic that is operational to direct the computer system to receive a first signaling message from the first link; signaling the logic of the processing that is operational to direct the computer system to process the first signaling message to select a virtual connection and to produce a second message identifying the selected virtual connection, wherein the second message is configured to address a network element that connects to a communications path to provide the telecommunications service and to implement echo control; and transmitting the logic that is operational to direct the computer system, to transmit the second message through a second link to the network element where the network element does not generate the first signaling message.

49 A telecommunications computer system that is not coupled to a switching matrix, where the computer system operates as it is addressed by the logic of the program, the computer system is characterized in that it comprises: receiving the logic that is operational to direct the computer system to receive a first signaling message from the first link; signaling the logic of the processing that is operational to direct the computer system to process the first signaling message to perform the POTS call processing to produce the information correlated to the POTS service, and to produce a second message incorporating the information , wherein the second message is configured to address a network element that is connected to a communications path to provide the telecommunications service and to implement the echo control; and transmitting the logic that is operational to direct the computer system, to transmit the second message through a second link to the network element where the network element does not generate the first signaling message.

50. A telecommunications computer system that does not mesh with a matrix of commutation, wherein the computer system operates as directed by the logic of the program, the computer system is characterized because it comprises: receiving the logic that is operational to direct the computer system to receive a message from the user side of services integrated (ISUP) of signaling system # 7 (SS7) from a first link; signaling the logic of the processing that is operational to direct the computer system to process the SS7 message (broadband ISUP) (B-ISUP), which incorporates the information wherein the B-ISUP message of SS7 is configured to direct an ATM switch to provide the telecommunications service; and transmit the logic that is operational to direct the computer system to transmit the B-ISUP message of SS7 through a second link to the ATM switch.