US 7,356,001 B1Grant

Method and system for diverting wireless network communications

Issue Date:2008-04-08

•21 Claims

•42 Drawing Sheets

Abstract

A private wireless network is able to provide wireless telecommunication services to subscriber mobile stations that also subscribe to a public wireless network. The private wireless network includes a private base transceiver station (BTS), a private mobile switching center (MSC), and a gateway service control point (SCP). The private BTS provides a private network wireless coverage area within which the mobile station can communicate with the base transceiver station over an air interface. The gateway SCP has a private network database containing private network data records for subscribing mobile stations. A private network data record includes a private network service profile and a private network locator address. The public wireless network has a home location register (HLR) with a public network database containing public network data records for subscribing mobile stations. A public network data record includes a public network service profile and a public network locator address. When a subscriber mobile station is active on the private wireless network, the private network locator address identifies the private MSC, and the public network locator address identifies the gateway SCP. By providing the private network wireless coverage area so that it overlaps the public network's wireless coverage area, the subscriber mobile station may be handed off between the private and public wireless networks.

Metadata

Assignee

Sprint Spectrum L.P.

Inventors

Bryce A. Jones
Jason Delker
Von K. McConnell

Application Information

Application Number:US 10/161,497

Filing Date:2002-06-03

Priority Date:2000-06-15

Art Unit:2619

Classifications

IPC:

H04Q7/00H04B7/00

Patent Drawings (42 sheets)

Description

Related Applications

[0001] The present application is related to Non-provisional application Ser. No. 09/595,595, filed Jun. 15, 2000, titled “Private Wireless Network Integrated with Public Wireless Network,” which is assigned to the same assignee as the present application. The present application also claims priority under Title 35, United States Code §120 from the Non-provisional application Ser. No. 09/595,595, filed Jun. 15, 2000, titled “Private Wireless Network Integrated with Public Wireless Network.”

Background of the Invention

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates in general to telecommunications networks and more particularly to a private wireless network that is integrated with a public wireless network.

[0004] 2. Description of Related Art

[0005] Recent advances in telecommunications technology have allowed a wide array of special telecommunication services to be made available to subscribers. Examples of such services include abbreviated dialing, which allows a subscriber to reach a party by dialing less than the entire telephone number of that party, call forwarding, in which calls directed to the subscriber may be forwarded to another line, terminating call screening, which allows the subscriber to specify certain times during which all or selected incoming calls are to be rejected, and originating call screening, in which calls to certain telephone numbers are barred. In general, enhanced telecommunications services (“services”) encompass those call features that do more than simply place or terminate telephone calls as dialed.

[0006] To enable such services, telecommunications networks typically carry “signals,” as well as the voice or data comprising the conversation between the calling party and the called party. These signals monitor the status of the lines, indicate the arrival of incoming calls, and carry the information needed to route the voice or other data through the network. At one time, these signals were inband, i.e., the signals were transmitted through the same circuits as used for voice transmission. However, most telecommunications networks now use out-of-band signaling, i.e., the signals are transmitted over a signaling network separate from the circuit-switched network that carries voice and data. Thus, signals carried on the separate signaling network are used to control the switches in the circuit-switched network to set up and tear down the circuit between the calling party and called party. Currently, Signaling System 7 (“SS7”) is the most commonly used signaling system.

[0007] In previous decades, the switches themselves provided the special telecommunications services. However, the switches had to have a great deal of “intelligence” built into them to accomplish this. In particular, a typical switch included a database of control information and call processing logic, in addition to switching capabilities. This approach was unwieldy because a telecommunications provider needed to update the software and databases on all of its many switches in order to update services or add new services throughout its telecommunications network. To complicate matters, the software needed to program switches from different vendors often differed greatly.

[0008] To overcome these limitations, most telecommunications networks in the Unites States have adopted the advanced intelligent network (“AIN”) approach. The advent of AIN has improved matters in two ways. First, most of the control information and call processing logic, usually referred to as “service logic,” resides in a central network location, the service control point (“SCP”), instead of in the multitude of switches. Second, AIN provides a set of standardized messages between the switches and the SCP to allow for a variety of services. These standards are embodied in Bellcore's AIN Release 0.1 and AIN Release 0.2.

[0009] The benefit of having the call control functions in a centralized SCP is that changes made at the SCP will apply to a large number of switches. This makes changing services and adding new services much easier and reduces the problem of differences in switches from different vendors. Moreover, the centralization at the SCP and the standardized message set allows an SCP to control a large number of switches, which are referred to as service switching points (“SSPs”) in AIN parlance, even those from different vendors. Indeed, in the AIN approach, the switches can be quite generic but still able to provide a variety of services. This is because, instead of the SSPs themselves having the necessary call processing logic, the SSPs signal the SCP for guidance at predefined “trigger points” in the call processing. The triggers can occur either when the SSP is attempting to originate a call or attempting to terminate a call. The query signal from the SSP passes a set of relevant parameters, in a predefined format, to the SCP. Such parameters can include the calling party's telephone number and the called party's telephone number, for example. When the SCP receives the query, it executes the appropriate service logic and consults the appropriate databases to obtain the information and instructions needed to provide the intelligent network service. The SCP then sends a response message to the SSP instructing it how to complete the call to provide the service.

[0010] Because of the large number of SSPs and other network elements connected to the signaling network, the signaling network typically includes one or more signal transfer points (“STPs”) that route the signals through the signaling network. Thus, the signals between SSPs and other SSPs or the SCP are often routed through one or more STPs. When SS7 signaling is used, signals may be routed to specific network elements based on their point codes. Alternatively, signals may be routed using Global Title Translation (“GTT”), in which STPs route signals to their intended destinations without the need for point codes. In particular, when GTT is used, STPs route signals based on information contained in their payloads.

[0011] Wireless telecommunications networks have also been developed on a similar model. In wireless networks, switching is performed by mobile switching centers (MSCs). Each MSC typically controls one or more base stations or base transceiver stations (BTSs), sometimes via one or more base station controllers (BSCs). Each BTS provides a wireless coverage area within which mobile stations can communicate with the BTS over an air interface. The mobile stations can be cellular or PCS telephones, or other devices. Different formats may be used for communicating over this air interface. At present, the most commonly used formats in the United States are Advanced Mobile Phone Service (AMPS), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), and Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA).

[0012] Each mobile station typically has a “home” wireless network, in which a home location register (HLR) serves as a centralized repository of information about the mobile station. Typically, the HLR contains a service profile for the mobile station, the last reported location of the mobile station, and the current status of the mobile station, such as whether it is active or inactive. The service profile indicates which enhanced services the mobile station subscribes to.

[0013] Mobile stations typically identify themselves to wireless networks using one or more types of identification numbers. Each mobile station typically has a 10-digit Mobile Identification Number (MIN). The MIN may be, but need not be, the same as the directory number that would be dialed to reach the mobile station. Thus, a mobile station may also have a Mobile Directory Number (MDN) different from its MIN. Each mobile station also typically has a unique 32-bit Electronic Serial Number (ESN).

[0014] When an MSC needs to find information about a mobile station, such as where it is located or what services it subscribes to, it queries the HLR corresponding to that mobile station. Thus, to inquire about a mobile station that is roaming, i.e., operating on a network other than its home network, the MSC queries an HLR that is outside of its network. Typically, these queries are routed to the appropriate HLR based on the mobile station's MIN and/or MDN. For example, the MSC may reference internal translation tables to determine which HLR to query for which MINs and/or MDNs. Alternatively, STPs may route queries to the appropriate HLR using GTT, based on either MIN or MDN.

[0015] In a manner analogous to the AIN approach used in wireline networks, an MSC may also query a Wireless Intelligent Network (WIN) SCP for call processing instructions, in the course of either originating a call from or terminating a call to the mobile station. Such queries can arise from trigger points set by the mobile station's service profile that the MSC downloaded from the mobile station's HLR. Moreover, an MSC uses such queries to obtain the call processing instructions needed to provide enhanced telecommunications services to the mobile station. In response to such queries, the WIN SCP will typically execute the appropriate service logic and consult the mobile station's service profile to formulate the call processing instructions that the WIN SCP then sends to the MSC.

[0016] The Telecommunications Industry Association/Electronics Industry Association (TIA/EIA) has developed a number of interim standards that specify how this signaling between MSCs, HLRs, WIN SCPs, and other network elements, should occur. In particular, most wireless networks in the United States use one of the revisions of TIA/EIA Interim Standard 41 (“IS-41”). The IS-41 signaling is typically run as an application on another signaling system, such as SS7. A recent revision of this Interim Standard, ANSI-41 Rev. D, which was published in July, 1997, is fully incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, extensions to ANSI-41D or WIN triggers and WIN call processing are included in Interim Standard IS-771, which was published July, 1999, and is fully incorporated herein by reference.

[0017] In addition to public wireline and wireless networks, businesses and other organizations (collectively referred to herein as “enterprises”) have been using private telecommunications networks for many years. Such networks are “private” in that the subscribers are typically limited to employees of, or other individuals associated with, the enterprise. For example, many enterprises have used private wireline switching systems, such as private branch exchanges (PBXs), to switch calls to and from telephones in the enterprise's office area. Such private telecommunications networks advantageously allow an enterprise greater control over its telecommunications system and enable the enterprise to customize the telecommunications it provides to its subscribers. For example, the enterprise can set up an abbreviated dialing plan for the private network, in which the subscriber telephones can reach one another by dialing an abbreviated digit string. In another typical service, calls to subscriber telephones that are not answered are sent to a voice mail system.

[0018] Private telecommunications networks have also been provided with wireless capability. In particular, there have been developed various wireless office telephone systems (“WOTS”) that provide for wireless communication in a, typically, limited geographic area, such as a building or campus. See, e.g., Lawrence Hart, et al., “Cellular and PCS: The Big Picture,” p. 183-232 (1997). However, many such WOTS systems require specialized telephones, so that a standard cellular or PCS telephone that can be used in a public wireless network may not work in a given WOTS system. With many people routinely carrying a cellular or PCS telephone, requiring a different telephone to be used at work is a substantial inconvenience.

[0019] To overcome this disadvantage, some wireless office systems have been developed in accordance with the TIA's IS-94 specifications. The IS-94 specifications allow the same handsets to be used in both private cellular systems, e.g., wireless office systems, and public cellular systems. However, IS-94 is not designed to handoff calls between the private and public cellular systems. The lack of handoff capability is a significant disadvantage. In particular, if a user moves out of the limited coverage area of the wireless office system during the course of a call, the call may be dropped.

[0020] Some wireless office systems, however, have some limited ability to allow users to move between the private and public cellular networks during the course of a call. An example is the ROAMEO in-building wireless telephone system that is sold by AG Communication Systems, headquartered in Phoenix, Ariz. The ROAMEO system is provided as an adjunct to a company's existing PBX, Centrex, or key system and allows standard wireless telephones to act as wireless extensions of the existing office desktop telephones. If a user originates a call in the public wireless network and then moves into the building served by the ROAMEO system during the course of the call, the call will continue using the public wireless network (provided the signal from the public wireless network is able to penetrate into the building). Moreover, once the call is ended, the telephone is automatically registered on the ROAMEO system. However, if a call is originated within the coverage area of the ROAMEO system, it may be dropped if the telephone leaves the ROAMEO coverage area.

[0021] Widergen, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,890,064 discloses a wireless office system that is said to be integrated into both a private telephony network and a public cellular system. Certain of the disclosed embodiments are said to support handover of ongoing calls between cells of the wireless office system and the public cellular system. The wireless office system includes a wireless office gateway and a radio access network to provide wireless communications to corporate mobile terminal, which are part of a corporate group of terminals of the private telephony network. The public cellular system includes an HLR/SCP, which, in turn, includes a home location register (HLR) and a Service Controller Function (SCF). The SCF can store a user profile for each subscriber. The wireless office system communicates with the HLR to provide mobility management for the corporate mobile terminals and communicates with the SCF to provide intelligent network services for the corporate mobile terminals.

[0022] A disadvantage with this configuration, however, is that many users may already have a cellular telephone for personal use and may be disadvantaged by having to use a separate “corporate mobile terminal” for business. In particular, it would be advantageous for many users to have one mobile telephone that could be used for both personal and business calls. Moreover, with respect to enhanced telecommunications services, a user may desire a different set of services for personal calls than for business calls. However, the Widergen approach of using the HLR/SCP to serve the corporate mobile terminals in both the private and public networks does not facilitate the application of separate business and personal services.

[0023] Another disadvantage with this configuration is that the wireless office system “is implemented as a private wireless system that operates according to the same standard as the public cellular system.” See Widergen, et al., ln. 1 col 4. Such a system allows the subscriber of both a public wireless system and a wireless office system to use the same mobile station in both the public wireless system and the wireless office system. It may be advantageous for subscribers to have one or more mobile stations using different standards, which may allow for different range and power capacities for both the mobile station and subscribing networks. Further, it would be beneficial for a subscriber of one type of public wireless network to have services directed to another's mobile station in a private wireless network. Windergen's technique of using the HLR/SCP to control the transmission of communication services in both the public and private wireless network does not facilitate application of different standards either using a single mobile station or multiple stations.

Summary of the Invention

[0024] In a first principal aspect, an exemplary embodiment provides a private wireless network, to which private network mobile stations subscribe, integrated with a public wireless network, to which public network mobile stations subscribe. The private wireless network is able to provide wireless telecommunications services to at least one mobile station that subscribes to the private wireless network and to the public wireless network. The public wireless network has a public network subscriber database containing a public network data record for each of the public network mobile stations, including a first data record for the at least one mobile station. The private wireless network comprises at least one base station, a switching system in communication with the at least on base station, and a private network subscriber database accessible by the switching system. The at least one base station provides a private network coverage area in which the at least one mobile station can communicate with the at least one base station over an air interface. The private network subscriber database contains a private network data record for each of the private network mobile stations, including a second data record for the at least one mobile station.

[0025] In a second principal aspect, an exemplary embodiment provides a method for mobility management of a mobile station that subscribes to both a private wireless network and a public wireless network. The private wireless network has a base station able to communicate with the mobile station over an air interface, a switching system in communication with the base station, a gateway in communication with the switching system, and a private network database accessible by the gateway. The private network database contains a first data record for the mobile station. The public wireless network has a home location register containing a second data record for the mobile station. In accordance with the method, the mobile station transmits a registration request message to the base station over an air interface. The gateway receives a first registration notification message identifying the mobile station. The gateway then transmits a second registration notification message to the home location register, which message identifies the mobile station.

[0026] In a third principal aspect, an exemplary embodiment provides a method for handing off a mobile station being served by a serving system in a private wireless network to a target system in a public wireless network. The public wireless network has a home location register that includes a public network subscriber database containing a first data record for the mobile station. The first data record includes a first locator address for locating the mobile station. The private wireless network has a gateway in communication with the serving system and a private network subscriber database accessible by the gateway. The private network subscriber database contains a second data record for the mobile station. The second data record includes a second locator address for locating the mobile station. The second locator address identifies the serving system. In accordance with the method, the home location register receives from the target system a registration notification message identifying the mobile station, and the home location register transmits to the gateway a first registration cancellation message identifying the mobile station.

[0027] In a fourth principal aspect, an exemplary embodiment provides a method for handing off a mobile station being served by a serving system in a public wireless network to a target system in a private wireless network. The public wireless network has a home location register that includes a public network subscriber database containing a first data record for the mobile station. The first data record includes a first locator address for locating the mobile station. The first locator address identifies the serving system. The private wireless network has a gateway in communication with the serving system and a private network subscriber database accessible by the gateway. The private network subscriber database contains a second data record for the mobile station. The second data record includes a second locator address for locating the mobile station. In accordance with the method, the gateway receives from the target system a first registration notification message identifying the mobile station, and the gateway transmits to the home location register a second registration notification message identifying the mobile station.

[0028] In a fifth principal aspect, an exemplary embodiment provides a method for delivering a voice mail indication to a mobile station that subscribes to a private wireless network and to a public wireless network. The private wireless network has a gateway and a computer telephony interface (CTI) in communication with the gateway. The gateway includes a private network subscriber database containing a first data record for the mobile station. The private wireless network also has a private network serving system for serving the mobile station when it is operating in a private network wireless coverage area. The public wireless network has a home location register that includes a second data record for the mobile station. The public wireless network also has a public network serving system for serving the mobile station when it is operating in a public network wireless coverage area. In accordance with the method, the CTI transmits to the gateway a first voice mail notification message identifying the mobile station. If the mobile station is operating in the private network wireless coverage area, then the gateway transmits to the private network serving system a second voice mail notification message identifying said mobile station, and, in response, the private network serving system causes a first voice mail indication to be transmitted to the mobile station.

[0029] In a sixth principal aspect, an exemplary embodiment provides a method for providing call origination services to a mobile station that subscribes to a private wireless network and to a public wireless network. The private wireless network has a private network serving system for serving the mobile station when it is operating in a private network wireless coverage area. The public wireless network has a public network serving system for serving the mobile station when it is operating in a public network wireless coverage area. The private wireless network has a first service control point (SCP), and the public wireless network having a second service control point (SCP). In accordance with the method, if the mobile station is operating in the private network wireless coverage area, then: (1) the private network serving system transmits a first call origination query to the first SCP; (2) the first SCP transmits a second call origination query to the second SCP; (3) the second SCP executes service logic to formulate first call processing instructions; (4) the second SCP transmits to the first SCP a first response message containing the first call processing instructions; and (5) the first SCP transmits to the private network serving system a second response message containing the first call processing instructions.

[0030] In a seventh principal aspect, an exemplary embodiment provides a method for providing call termination services to a mobile station that subscribes to a public wireless network. The private wireless network has a mobile switching center (MSC) and a first service control point (SCP). The public wireless network has a second SCP. In accordance with the method, in response to receiving a request to terminate a call to the mobile station, the MSC transmits a first call termination query to the first SCP. The first SCP transmits to the MSC a first response message identifying the second SCP. The MSC then transmits a second call termination query to the second SCP. The second SCP executes service logic to formulate call processing instructions. The second SCP then transmits to the MSC a second response message containing the call processing instructions.

[0031] In an eighth principal aspect, an exemplary embodiment provides a method for updating at least one telecommunications feature available to a mobile station that subscribes to a private wireless network and to a public wireless network. The private wireless network has a private network serving system for serving the mobile station when it is operating in a private network wireless coverage area, and the public wireless network has a public network serving system for serving the mobile station when it is operating in a public network wireless coverage area. The private wireless network has a gateway service control point (SCP) that includes a private network subscriber database containing a first service profile for the mobile station. The public wireless network has a home location register (HLR) that includes a public network subscriber database containing a second service profile for the mobile station. In accordance with the method, the mobile station transmits a signal containing a feature code, and, if the mobile station is operating in the private network wireless coverage area, then: (1) the private network serving system transmits a first feature request message to the gateway SCP; (2) the gateway SCP updates the first service profile for said mobile station; (3) the gateway SCP transmits a second feature request message to the HLR; and (4) the HLR updates the second service profile for the mobile station.

[0032] In a ninth principal aspect, an exemplary embodiment provides a communication-diverter system to direct the transmission of communications destined for one or more public wireless network subscribers to a wireless local area network for transmission to a given wireless local area network subscriber. The communication-diverter system includes a public wireless network controller (PWN controller) that operates in a public wireless network to which the one or more public wireless network subscribers subscribe. The PWN controller manages the transmission of communications for the public wireless network, including the communications destined for the public wireless network subscribers. The communication-diverter system also includes a wireless local area network controller (WLAN controller) that operates in the wireless local area network (WLAN) to which the given WLAN subscriber and other WLAN subscribers subscribe. The WLAN controller manages wireless communications for the WLAN, including the communications destined for the given WLAN subscriber, and other WLAN subscribers. The WLAN controller also provides an interface for associating the given WLAN subscriber, and the other WLAN subscribers with the WLAN.

[0033] To facilitate the directing the transmission of communications destined for the public wireless network (PWN) subscribers to the WLAN, the WLAN controller sends a signaling message to the PWN controller in response to a given WLAN subscriber associating, or establishing link layer connectivity, with the WLAN. The signaling message sent to the PWN controller contains commands for directing the transmission of communications destined for the public wireless network subscribers to the WLAN controller. In response to the signaling message, the PWN controller then directs the transmission of communications destined for the one or more PWN subscribers to the WLAN controller for transmission to the given WLAN subscriber.

[0034] In a tenth principal aspect, an exemplary embodiment provides a mobility management method for directing the transmission of communications destined for one or more public wireless network subscribers of a public wireless network to a WLAN for transmission to a given WLAN subscriber. The public wireless network includes a public wireless controller (“PWN controller”) that manages communications for the public wireless network, including communications destined for the public wireless network subscribers. The WLAN includes a WLAN controller that manages communications for WLAN subscribers. In particular, the WLAN controller manages communications destined for the given WLAN subscriber. The WLAN controller also provides an interface for the given WLAN subscriber, and other WLAN subscribers, to associate with the WLAN. In response to the given WLAN subscriber associating with the WLAN, the WLAN controller sends a signaling message to the PWN controller, to direct the transmission of communications destined for the public wireless network subscribers to the WLAN. The public wireless network controller then responsively directs the transmission of communications destined for the one or more public wireless network subscribers to the WLAN.

[0035] An exemplary embodiment can conveniently take advantage of the higher data rates, lower cost, and superior building coverage of wireless local area networks, as compared with public wireless networks, such as a CDMA public wireless network. For instance, the invention can obviate the need for CDMA radio equipment in buildings and other campus areas, which may remove the need for custom preferred roaming lists (PRLs) in customers' handsets and the associated threat of pilot pollution and complicated frequency planning. Further, by using a wireless local area network configuration, such as an IEEE 802.11 wireless local area network, lower cost may be realized by not having to bid for licenses or pay license fees for using the frequency spectrum reserved for such wireless local area networks. Moreover, the subscribers of both networks may benefit by reducing duplicate or additional equipment by co-locating or integrating the public wireless network components or elements with the WLAN components and elements, and vice-versa. Co-locating or integrating the public wireless network and wireless local area network components or elements may provide subscribers of both networks additional benefits, such as reduced service costs, reduced capital equipment costs resulting from subscribing/leasing rather than owning, and eliminating or reducing the cost of obsolescence.

[0036] These as well as other advantages will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art by reading the following detailed description, with appropriate reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0037] Presently preferred embodiments of the invention are described below in conjunction with the appended figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements in the various figures, and wherein:

[0038] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a private wireless network integrated with a public wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the HLR of FIG. 1, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of the Gateway SCP of FIG. 1, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a private wireless network integrated with a public wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a private wireless network integrated with a public wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a private wireless network integrated with a public wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0044] FIG. 7 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of a mobile station registering and de-registering with a private wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0045] FIG. 8 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of a first mobile station operating in the private wireless network originating a call to a second mobile station operating in the private wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 9 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of a first mobile station that is served by a first private MSC in the private wireless network originating a call to a second mobile station that is served by a second private MSC in the private wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 10 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of a first mobile station operating in the private wireless network originating a call to a second mobile station operating in the public wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 11 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of terminating a call routed through the PSTN to a mobile station operating in the private wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 12 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of terminating a call routed through the PSTN to a mobile station operating in the public wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0050] FIG. 13 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of applying call origination services to a mobile station operating in the private wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0051] FIG. 14 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of applying call origination services to a mobile station operating in the public wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0052] FIG. 15 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of applying call termination services to a mobile station operating in the private wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0053] FIG. 16 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of applying call termination services to a mobile station operating in the public wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0054] FIG. 17 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of using a feature code from a mobile station operating in the private wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0055] FIG. 18 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of using a feature code from a mobile station operating in the public wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0056] FIG. 19 is an idealized schematic diagram illustrating the overlap of the wireless coverage area provided by the private BTS shown in FIG. 1 with the wireless coverage areas provided by three BTSs of the public wireless network shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0057] FIG. 20 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of handing off a call from the private wireless network shown in FIG. 1 to the public wireless network shown in FIG. 1, given the overlapping wireless coverage areas illustrated in FIG. 19, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0058] FIG. 21 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of handing off a call from the public wireless network shown in FIG. 1 to the private wireless network shown in FIG. 1, given the overlapping wireless coverage areas illustrated in FIG. 19, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0059] FIG. 22 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of handing off a call between the two private MSCs of the private wireless network shown in FIG. 5, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0060] FIG. 23 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of delivering a short message to a mobile station when it is active in the private wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0061] FIG. 24 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of delivering a short message to a mobile station when it is first inactive, and then active, in the private wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0062] FIG. 25 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of delivering a voice mail notification to a mobile station operating in the private wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0063] FIG. 26 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating the process of delivering a voice mail notification to a mobile station operating in the public wireless network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0064] FIG. 27 is a simplified functional block diagram illustrating a system for directing the transmission of communications destined for one or more public wireless networks subscribers to a given wireless local area network subscriber of a wireless local area network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0065] FIG. 28 is second simplified functional block diagram illustrating a system for directing the transmission of communications destined for one or more public wireless networks subscriber to a given wireless local area network subscriber of wireless local area network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0066] FIG. 29 is third simplified functional block diagram illustrating a system for directing the transmission of communications destined for one or more public wireless networks subscriber to a given wireless local area network subscriber of wireless local area network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0067] FIG. 30 is a simplified flow diagram showing the method for directing the transmission of communications destined for public wireless network subscribers to a WLAN for transmission to a WLAN subscriber, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0068] FIG. 31 is a simplified communication flow diagram showing the WLAN subscriber registering and de-registering with the WLAN using the WLAN subscriber's mobile station, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0069] FIG. 32 is a simplified communication flow diagram illustrating the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller and a wireless local area network controller, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0070] FIG. 33 is a second simplified communication flow diagram illustrating the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller and a wireless local area network controller, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0071] FIG. 34 is a third simplified communication flow diagram illustrating the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller and a wireless local area network controller, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0072] FIG. 35 is a fourth simplified communication flow diagram illustrating the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller and a wireless local area network controller, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0073] FIG. 36 is a fifth simplified communication flow diagram illustrating the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller and a wireless local area network controller, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0074] FIG. 37 is a sixth simplified communication flow diagram illustrating the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller from a wireless local area network controller, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0075] FIG. 38 is a seventh simplified communication flow diagram illustrating the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller from a wireless local area network controller, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0076] FIG. 39 is a flow chart depicting functions carried out in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0077] FIG. 40 is another flow chart depicting functions carried out in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0078] FIG. 41 is yet another a flow chart depicting functions carried out in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0079] FIG. 42 is still another a flow chart depicting functions carried out in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Detailed Description of an Exemplary Embodiment

1. Integrated Wireless Telecommunication Network Architecture

[0080] FIG. 1 shows a functional block diagram of a telecommunications network 10 that includes a private wireless telecommunications network 12 integrated with a public wireless telecommunications network 14, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. In FIG. 1, logical connections and signaling pathways are represented by dashed lines, and circuit-switched connections for voice, data, and other traffic are represented by solid lines. Public wireless network 14 provides wireless telecommunications services, in a particular geographic coverage area, to its subscribers and, typically, to other wireless networks' subscribers who are roaming in the coverage area of network 14. Typically, any interested member of the public meeting minimal criteria may become a subscriber of public wireless network 14. Additionally, the coverage area of public wireless network 14 is typically wide-ranging. For example, the coverage area of network 14 may encompass a metropolitan area, a substantial part of a metropolitan area, or several metropolitan areas.

[0081] In contrast, private wireless network 12 typically provides wireless telecommunications services in only a very limited geographic area and only to its subscribers. In particular, the coverage area of private wireless network 12 may be limited to a single building, to part of a building, or to a complex of buildings. Private wireless network 12 may be used by only a particular enterprise, such as a business or other organization, and the subscribers of network 12 may be limited to the enterprise's employees or others specifically authorized by the enterprise.

[0082] The wireless communications provided by private wireless network 12 and public wireless network 14 may be in a format, such as AMPS, TDMA, GSM, CDMA, or some other format. Preferably, networks 12 and 14 use the same format. Most preferably, networks 12 and 14 use CDMA. Details of a preferred CDMA air interface are set forth in the ANSI/TIA/EIA-95-B-99 standard, published by the Telecommunications Industries Association/Electronic Industries Association (TIA/EIA), which standard is fully incorporated herein by reference.

[0083] As described in more detail below, private wireless network 12 is provided with an SCP that serves as a “gateway,” between private network 12 and public network 14. In particular, this Gateway SCP intermediates much of the signaling between the network elements in private network 12 and the HLR in public network 14. For example, the Gateway SCP receives many of the signals from the HLR in public network 14 on behalf of private network 12, thereby acting in certain ways as a “virtual VLR” to public network 14. However, Gateway SCP also typically includes a private network subscriber database for the mobile stations that subscribe to private network 12, thereby serving in certain ways as a “private HLR.” The Gateway SCP enables private network 12 to be “integrated” with public wireless network 14, in exemplary embodiments. In particular, the present invention beneficially enables a subscriber of private wireless network 12 to use the same mobile station, or “handset,” for wireless communication in the coverage area of public wireless network 14 as the subscriber uses for wireless communication in the coverage area of private wireless network 12. Additionally, in preferred embodiments, the present invention beneficially allows calls to or from private network subscribers to be handed off between private network 12 and public network 14. In this way, if, during the course of a call, the private network subscriber moves from the coverage area of private network 12 to the coverage area of public network 14, or vice versa, the call will not be dropped.

[0084] On the other hand, in preferred embodiments, much of the traffic of private network 12 will typically be calls internal to private network 12, which calls result in little or no traffic increase on public network 14. Thus, by making a capital investment to put private network 12 in place, an enterprise may obtain lower periodic expenses for telecommunications services. Further, public wireless network operators may expand their subscriber bases by building out into the private wireless networks, with only modest increases to the load on public network 14.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 1, public wireless network 14 includes a mobile switching center (MSC) 16 that is connected to the public switched telephone network (PSTN) 18 and another MSC 17 connected to PSTN 18 via MSC 16. Public wireless network 14 also includes a base station controller (BSC) 20, connected to MSC 16, and base transceiver stations (BTSs) 22, 24, and 26, connected to BSC 20. Each of BTSs 22, 24, and 26 is provided with one or more antennas to define a wireless coverage area, which is termed a “cell.” In addition, BTSs 22-26 may use directional antennas to define a plurality of “sectors” within each cell. Within its wireless coverage area, each of BTSs 22, 24, and 26 is able to communicate with one or more mobile stations, such as mobile station 28, over an air interface. Mobile station 28 may be a cellular or PCS telephone, a personal digital assistant, or other device that transmits or receives voice, data, or other media over an air interface.

[0086] Although FIG. 1 shows only two MSCs, i.e., MSCs 16 and 17, public wireless network 14 typically includes a large number of MSCs. Further, although FIG. 1 shows only a single BSC, i.e., BSC 20, connected to MSC 16, each MSC in public wireless network 14 is typically connected to a plurality of BSCs. Finally, although three BTSs, i.e., BTS 22, 24, and 26, are shown connected to BSC 20, a BSC in public wireless network 14 may be connected to a greater or fewer number of BTSs.

[0087] Each of BTSs 22, 24, and 26 typically perform radio resource management tasks for its given coverage area. BSC 20, in turn, typically manages the power levels and frequencies transmitted by the BTSs under its control, e.g., BTSs 22-26, and may also control handoffs between these BTSs. MSC 16 is typically responsible for switching calls. For example, MSC 16 may switch calls between the BSCs to which it is connected, such as BSC 20, other MSCs in public network 14, and the PSTN 18. Typically, MSC 16 also performs the signaling needed to originate and terminate calls to the mobile stations in the coverage area of public wireless network 14. To allow the signaling needed to route calls through PSTN 18, and to communicate with other elements of public wireless network 14, MSC 16 is typically connected to one or more STPs, such as STP 30.

[0088] Although BSC 20 is shown as an element separate from MSC 16 and from BTSs 22-26, BSC 20 may, alternatively, be co-located with either MSC 16 or one of BTSs 22-26. Alternatively, BSC 20 may not be used at all, in which case its functions will typically be performed by MSC 16.

[0089] Public wireless network 14 includes a Home Location Register (HLR) 32 and at least one Visitor Location Register (VLR). Preferably, each MSC in public network 14, such as MSC 16 and MSC 17, has its own VLR 33 and 34, respectively, that keeps track of the mobile stations that are operating in, or have recently operated in, the areas controlled by that MSC. VLRs 33 and 34 are preferably attached to, or a part of, the MSCs 16 and 17. Alternatively, VLRs 33 and 34 may be remote from MSCs 16 and 17, in which case MSCs 16 and 17 may communicate with VLRs 33 and 34 using a signaling system, such as IS-41.

[0090] HLR 32 stores information for each mobile station that subscribes to public wireless network 14. In particular, each mobile station subscribing to network 14 has a corresponding HLR data record 31 stored in the HLR 32. The mobile station's HLR data record 31 typically includes a service profile and status information for that mobile station. Typically, the data records in HLR 32 are indexed by the mobile stations' MIN and/or MDN. The service profile lists the services the mobile station subscribes to in public wireless network 14. The service profile may also include one or more triggers, such as WIN triggers, to provide enhanced telecommunications services, as described in more detail below. The status information typically specifies whether the mobile station is active, i.e., is registered with a wireless network, or inactive, i.e., not currently registered with any known wireless network. If the mobile station is active, the status information also typically includes a locator address that identifies the network element that last reported the mobile station's location. In IS-41, the locator address is typically the point code of a VLR or MSC. A mobile station's locator address tells network how to route calls or other information, such as short messages, to that mobile station. Thus, HLR 32 serves as a centralized repository of key information about its subscribing mobile stations.

[0091] Typically, HLR 32 is physically separate from MSC 16, in which case MSC 16 communicates with HLR 32 by using a signaling system, such as IS-41, and the signals are typically routed through one or more signal transfer points (STPs), such as STP 30. MSC 16 is also typically able to communicate with other HLRs, such as HLR 36, that serve other wireless telecommunications networks. For example, MSC 16 may communicate with HLR 36 in order to obtain information about mobile stations that are roaming, i.e., mobile stations that are operating in the coverage area of network 14 but that do not subscribe to network 14. MSC 16 may communicate with HLR 36 via one or more STPs, such as STP 30, using a signaling system, such as IS-41.

[0092] As described in more detail below, when a mobile station registers with public wireless network 14, MSC 16 downloads its service profile into VLR 33. If the mobile station is a subscriber of public wireless network 14, then MSC 16 will typically obtain its service profile from HLR 32. If the mobile station subscribes to some other wireless network, then MSC 16 will typically obtain its service profile from the HLR for that other wireless network. Once a mobile station's service profile is in VLR 33, MSC 16 may refer to it to determine how to process calls involving that mobile station.

[0093] Public wireless network 14 may also include a service control point (SCP), such as WIN SCP 38 to provide enhanced telecommunications services to mobile stations. MSC 16 is able to communicate with WIN SCP 38, via one or more STPs, such as STP 30, using an appropriate signaling system, such as IS-771. As described in more detail below, when MSC 16 detects a trigger during call processing, which indicates that enhanced telecommunications services may be implicated, MSC 16 sends a query message to WIN SCP 38, via STP 30. WIN SCP 38 then responds with the call processing instructions needed to provide the enhanced telecommunications service.

[0094] WIN SCP 38 is typically provided with one or more interfaces, such as WIN SCP interface 40. Interface 40 may allow control over and provisioning of WIN SCP 38. Interface 40 may include a service creation environment (SCE) to allow service logic to be created, tested, and downloaded to WIN SCP 38. Interface 40 may also allow information to be retrieved from WIN SCP 38, such as to generate reports.

[0095] FIG. 2 provides a more detailed illustration of the functional components of HLR 32. In FIG. 2, double-headed arrows indicate the most important logical or signaling connections between the components. HLR 32 includes a public network subscriber database 42 that contains the data records of each mobile station subscribing to public network 14, as described above. HLR 32 may also include a plurality of service logic modules, such as service logic modules 44-48. Although three service logic modules are shown in FIG. 2 for purposes of illustration, it is to be understood that HLR 32 can include a greater or fewer number. Service logic modules 44-48 include software specifying how to provide telecommunications services, such as IS-41 wireless telecommunications services. HLR 32 also typically includes a base service logic module 50 that includes the service logic needed to communicate with other network elements, such as STP 30. Base service logic module 50 is able to access subscriber database 42 to obtain information about mobile stations requested by other network elements, such as VLR 33. Base service logic module 50 may also access database 42 and may execute one or more of service logic modules 44-48 to formulate call processing instructions to other network elements, such as MSC 16.

[0096] Like HLR 32, WIN SCP 38 also typically includes a base service logic module, a plurality of service logic modules, and a public network subscriber database. However, whereas HLR 32 typically executes its service logic modules to provide IS-41 telecommunications services, WIN SCP 38 typically executes its service logic modules to provide IS-771 services. Alternatively, the IS-41 and IS-771 service logic modules may be provided in the same network element, or the various service logic modules may be distributed in various ways among a plurality of network elements. Moreover, in some embodiments, the public network subscriber database may be located in the same network elements as one or more service logic modules, whereas, in other embodiments, the public network subscriber database may be located in a network element that lacks any service logic modules.

[0097] With reference to FIG. 1, private wireless network 12 includes a private MSC 60, having access to a VLR 61, and a private BTS 62 that is controlled by private MSC 60. Private BTS 62 is provided with a distributed antenna array to define a wireless coverage area within which private BTS 62 can communicate with mobile stations, such as mobile stations 64 and 66, over an air interface. Mobile stations 64 and 66 may be cellular or PCS telephones, personal digital assistants, or other devices able to transmit or receive voice, data, or other media over an air interface. Private wireless network 12 may also include a private BSC 68. Alternatively, private BSC 68 may be co-located with either private MSC 60 or with private BTS 62, or private BSC 68 may be omitted entirely.

[0098] Preferably, the wireless coverage area provided by private network 12 overlaps the wireless coverage area provided by public network 14. For example, the wireless coverage area provided by private BTS 62 may overlap with the wireless coverage areas provided by one or more of BTSs 22-26. Additionally, mobile stations 64 and 66 are preferably able to communicate with public wireless network 14, as well as private wireless network 12, to facilitate handoffs.

[0099] Private MSC 60 includes a switching functionality to switch calls among mobile stations in the coverage area of private wireless network 12. Preferably, private MSC 60 also includes VLR 61 for the mobile stations operating in the coverage area of private network 12. Alternatively, VLR 61 may be provided by a separate network element accessible by private MSC 60.

[0100] HLR functionality for private wireless network 12 is preferably provided by a Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70 may be in a location remote from the enterprise served by network 12. Alternatively, Gateway SCP 70 may be provided as an application on a computer, such as a personal computer, located at or near the enterprise served by network 12. Private MSC 60 is able to communicate with Gateway SCP 70 either directly, or via one or more STPs, such as STP 72, using a signaling system, such as IS-41.

[0101] FIG. 3 provides a more detailed illustration of the functional components of Gateway SCP 70. As shown in FIG. 3, Gateway SCP 70 includes a private network subscriber database 74 that contains information for each mobile station that subscribes to private network 12. The information in database 12 for each mobile station is typically similar to that provided for each mobile station listed in an HLR, such as HLR 32. Thus, each mobile station subscribing to private wireless network 12, would typically have a data record in database 74, preferably indexed by MIN and/or MDN. Typically, the data record would include a service profile listing the enhanced services to which the mobile station subscribes on private network 12, status information, such as whether the mobile station is active or inactive, and a locator address identifying the network element that last reported the mobile station's location. Gateway SCP 70 also typically includes a plurality of service logic modules, such as service logic modules 76-80. Although FIG. 3 shows three service logic modules for purposes of illustration, Gateway SCP 70 may include a greater or fewer number of service logic modules. Service logic modules 76-80 contain the software needed to provide the wireless telecommunications services of private network 12, including enhanced telecommunications services. Preferably, service logic modules 76-80 include the software needed to provide both IS-41 and IS-771 services. Gateway SCP 70 also includes a base service logic module 81 that contains the service logic needed to communicate with other network elements, such as STP 72. Moreover, base service logic module 81 formulates the call processing instructions to other network elements, such as private MSC 60, to provide telecommunications services. Base service logic module 81 formulates such call processing instructions by accessing the information contained in subscriber database 74 and by executing one or more of service logic modules 76-80.

[0102] Preferably, database 74, service logic modules 76-80, and base service logic module 81, are all resident on Gateway SCP 70. Alternatively, they may be provided in separate network elements. For example, base service logic module 81 may be located in a “control node” network element, and it may access the subscriber information in a separate database 74 and may execute service logic modules 76-80 located in one or more separate “application servers.” Alternatively, database 74 or one or more of service logic modules 76-81 may be built into private MSC 60. Thus, private MSC 60 may be provided with a database functionality and/or service control functionality, in addition to a call connection, i.e., switching, functionality.

[0103] With reference to FIG. 1, Gateway SCP 70 is typically provided with one or more interfaces, such as Gateway SCP interface 82. Interface 82 may allow control over and provisioning of Gateway SCP 70. Interface 82 may include a service creation environment (SCE) to allow service logic to be created, tested, and downloaded to Gateway SCP 70. Interface 82 may also allow information to be retrieved from Gateway SCP 70, such as may be used to generate reports. Alternatively, instead of Gateway SCP 70 being provided with its own interface, WIN SCP Interface 40 may be used to access Gateway SCP 70.

[0104] In addition to providing wireless telecommunications services, private network 12 typically also provides wireline telecommunications services. For example, private network 12 may include a private branch exchange (PBX) 84, connected to a plurality of wireline stations, such as wireline station 86, and to private MSC 60, as shown in FIG. 1. Wireline station 86 may be a telephone, fax machine, modem, or other such device. In preferred embodiments, many subscribers of private network 12 may have both a wireline station and a mobile station.

[0105] PBX 84 switches calls between the wireline stations to which it is connected, private MSC 60, and PSTN 18. Typically, PBX 84 is not connected to PSTN 18 directly. Instead, PBX 84 is typically connected to a local SSP, such as SSP 88, via a primary rate interface (“PRI”), a multifrequency connection, or some other type of connection. SSP 88, in turn, is connected to PSTN 18 and to an STP 90 to send and receive SS7 signals on behalf of PBX 84. Typically, SSP 88 is also connected to a plurality of wireline stations, such as wireline station 92, that are not part of private network 12.

[0106] Alternatively, PBX 84 may be provided with SS7 signaling capability, in which case PBX 84 may be connected to PSTN 18 and to STP 90 directly (not shown in FIG. 1). Similarly, private MSC 60 may be connected to PSTN 18 directly, or it may route calls via PBX 84.

[0107] Through the use of Gateway SCP 70 and, optionally, PBX 84, private network 12 is typically able to provide enhanced telecommunications services to its mobile station and wireline station users. Such enhanced telecommunications services may include, without limitation, abbreviated dialing, call forwarding, and call screening. PBX 84 may be programmed with the service logic need to provide some of, or all of, the enhanced telecommunications services. In preferred embodiments, PBX 84 may also be provided with a voice mail system. Preferably, however, the service logic needed for the enhanced telecommunications services is provided by the service logic modules in Gateway SCP 70, as described above. In preferred embodiments, the service logic in Gateway SCP 70 may be invoked by either private MSC 60, to provide enhanced telecommunications services to mobile station users, or PBX 84, to provide enhanced telecommunications services to wireline station users.

[0108] In order for PBX 84 to communicate with Gateway SCP 70, PBX 84 may be provided with a computer telephony interface (CTI) 94. Preferably, CTI 94 signals to Gateway SCP 70 using a TCP/IP data link. Alternatively, CTI 94 could signal to Gateway SCP 70 using SS7, typically routed through one or more STPs, such as STP 72.

[0109] CTI 94 may operate as follows. When PBX 84 receives a call that is eligible for enhanced services, PBX 84 suspends the call and signals to CTI 94. CTI 94, in turn, launches a query to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70 executes one or more of its service logic modules and then sends a response message to CTI 94 with the instructions and information needed to provide the services. Further details regarding the architecture and operation of CTI 94 are provided by co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 09/322,780, filed on May 28, 1999 and titled “Integrated Wireless and Private Branch Exchange Communication Network,” which is fully incorporated herein by reference.

[0110] Preferably, network 10 also includes a Local Number Portability Service Control Point (LNP SCP) 98. As described in more detail below, when an enterprise desires to implement private wireless network 12 to provide private wireless telecommunications services to its employees many of the employees may already have mobile stations that subscribe to public wireless network 14. In particular, the mobile stations may already have MDNs assigned to MSC 16. Instead of requiring new MDNs for these mobile stations, through the use of LNP SCP 98, the MDNs may simply be re-designated as corresponding to private MSC 60. Thus, a call made to the MDN is first routed to MSC 16, but MSC 16 then queries LNP SCP 98, typically via one or more STPs, such as STP 30 and 72, to determine where to redirect the call. LNP SCP 98 would then instruct MSC 16 to forward the call to private MSC 60.

[0111] Network 10 may also include other types of network elements to provide telecommunications services to users of private wireless network 12 and/or users of public wireless network 14. For example, network 10 may include a message center 96 to deliver short messages to mobile stations operating either in private network 12 or public network 14, as described in more detail below.

[0112] Using the configuration described above for private network 12, an enterprise can beneficially control the services it provides to both mobile station and wireline station users in network 12. For example, an enterprise may provide the same abbreviated dialing capabilities to mobile stations, such as mobile stations 64 and 66 as it makes available to its wireline stations, such as wireline station 86. The enterprise may also place added restrictions or provide additional services to its mobile station users. For example, the enterprise may wish to limit the airtime available to its mobile station users. Additionally, as described in more detail below, mobile station users may use their mobile stations within the coverage area of public network 14 as well as within the coverage area of private network 12. Moreover, with handoff capability, as is preferred, the mobile station users may move freely between the coverage areas of networks 12 and 14. However, the enterprise may specify that certain enhanced telecommunications services may only apply within private network 12 or that certain services may work differently when the mobile station user is within the coverage area of private network 12. As described in more detail below, the enterprise is also advantageously able to limit the usage of private network 12 to only the subscribers of private network 12.

[0113] The private wireless networks may also include more than one private MSC. For example, FIG. 4 shows an exemplary network 100, which is similar to exemplary network 10, except as described herein. Network 100 includes a private wireless network 112 that includes the elements described above for private wireless network 12, such as private MSC 60 and Gateway SCP 70, and also includes a second private MSC 160. Private MSC 160, which has a VLR 161, controls a private BTS 162, optionally via a private BSC 168. Private BTS 162 provides a wireless coverage area within which mobile stations, such as mobile stations 164 and 166 may communicate with private BTS 162 over an air interface. The wireless coverage areas provided by private BTSs 62 and 162 may be either overlapping or non-overlapping. Network 112 preferably also includes a second Gateway SCP 170, which is accessible to private MSC 160, such as via STP 72. Network 112 may also include a second PBX 184, to which is connected a second set of wireline stations, such as wireline station 186. PBX 184 may communicate with Gateway SCP 170 via a CTI 194.

[0114] A configuration such as private wireless network 112 may be used by an enterprise that has two or more separate locations. For example, an enterprise may already use PBX 84 in a building located in one city and PBX 184 in another building located in another city. Thus, to provide wireless service, the enterprise may simply add private MSC 60, Gateway SCP 70, and associated network elements, to its existing PBX 84 and also add private MSC 160, Gateway SCP 170, and associated network elements, to its existing PBX 184. If the enterprise operates in still other locations, it may install still other private MSCs, private BTSs, and Gateway SCPs to serve these other locations. The enterprise may provide separate interfaces for its Gateway SCPs. However, to coordinate the process of provisioning and monitoring the different parts of its private wireless network 112, an enterprise may use a single Gateway SCP Interface 82, as shown in FIG. 4, for its multiple Gateway SCPs, such as Gateway SCP 70 and Gateway SCP 170.

[0115] Alternatively, an enterprise may use a single Gateway SCP to control multiple private MSCs and PBXs. For example, FIG. 5 shows an exemplary network 200, which is similar to network 100 in most respects, except as described herein. Network 200 includes a private wireless network 212 that includes private MSCs 60 and 160, private BSCs 68 and 168, private BTSs 62 and 162, PBXs 84 and 184, and CTIs 94 and 194. Private network 212 may also include additional, private MSCs, private BSCs, private BTSs, PBXs, and CTIs. In private network 212, Gateway SCP 70 is accessed by both private MSC 60 and private MSC 160, via STP 72. Similarly, Gateway SCP 70 is connected to both CTIs 94 and 194.

[0116] In other embodiments, an enterprise may use more than one private MSC with a given PBX. For example, FIG. 6 shows an exemplary network 300, which is similar to exemplary network 200, except as described herein. Network 300 includes a private wireless network 312 in which private MSCs 60 and 160 are both connected to PBX 84. Moreover, PBX 84 may be connected to more than two private MSCs. This configuration may be used by an enterprise that wants to provide a wireless coverage area, such as for a large campus, that is larger than can be provided by a single private MSC.

2. Registration and De-Registration

[0117] Typically, a mobile station must register with a wireless network before it is able to place or receive calls. Thus, with reference to FIG. 1, mobile stations 64 and 66 must register with private wireless network 12 before they are able to use the resources of network 12. Similarly, mobile station 28 must register with public wireless network 14 before it is able to use the resources of network 14. Typically, a mobile station will attempt to register with a network when it powers up in the wireless coverage area of that network. A mobile station may also become registered with a network as a result of a handoff to that network. Mobile stations may also be programmed to attempt to re-register with the network periodically, such as every 10 minutes.

[0118] FIG. 7 is a simplified call flow diagram showing the signaling that takes place when a mobile station, such as mobile station 64 attempts to register with private network 12, such as when mobile station 64 first powers up within the wireless coverage area of network 12. The call flows described herein with respect to FIG. 7 and subsequent figures are described based on the use of IS-41 and IS-771. However, it is to be understood that other signaling systems or protocols could also be used. The registration attempt begins when mobile station 64 transmits a registration request signal 400, such as would typically occur when mobile station 64 first powers up. Registration request 400 signifies that mobile station 64 is attempting to register with private network 12 and typically includes as registration request information the 10-digit mobile identification number (MIN) of mobile station 64 and the 32-bit electronic serial number (ESN) of mobile station 64. Private BTS 62 receives registration request message 400 and transmits the registration request information to private MSC 60, via private BSC 68.

[0119] Private MSC 60 then transmits to Gateway SCP 70 a registration notification (“REGNOT”) message 402, preferably in accordance with the IS-41 specification. REGNOT message 402 will typically identify mobile station 64 by its MIN and ESN. Gateway SCP 70 then uses this identifying information to try to locate subscriber information for mobile station 64 in subscriber database 74. If mobile station 64 does not subscribe to private network 12, then database 74 will not contain the information needed to validate it. In that case, Gateway SCP 70 may be programmed to deny service to mobile station 64. Gateway SCP 70 would then transmit to private MSC 60 an IS-41 registration notification return result “regnot_rr” message, instructing private MSC 60 to deny service to mobile station 64.

[0120] In this way, private wireless network 12 is able to control which mobile stations can access network 12. In particular, only mobile stations having specified MINs would normally be able to access network 12. This beneficially prevents other mobile stations that may be in the wireless coverage area of network 12 from taking up the resources of network 12.

[0121] However, other approaches for controlling access to private wireless network 12 may be used. For example, a CDMA mobile station may be programmed with a preferred roaming list (“PRL”) that specifies that the mobile station can operate on only certain specified wireless networks or that certain wireless networks are preferred. In particular, each cellular service provider is assigned a 15-bit system identification number (“SID”), and certain portions of a cellular service provider's network may be further specified by a network identification number (“NID”). Each BTS broadcasts its SID and NID to identify the cellular service provider to which it belongs. The PRL includes a list of SIDs and NIDs and specifies whether these networks must be used exclusively or are only preferred. The PRL can be sent to the mobile station by means of Over-The-Air-Service-Provisioning (“OTASP”). PRLs and OTASP are described in more detail in TIA/EIA/IS-683-A, which is incorporated herein by reference. Thus, another way of controlling access to private wireless network 12 is to program the SID and NID of network 12 into the PRLs of only the mobile stations that subscribe to network 12.

[0122] If Gateway SCP 70 is able find subscriber information for mobile station 64 in database 74, then it updates the data record for mobile station 64 to indicate that mobile station 64 is now active. Gateway SCP 70 also sets the locator address for mobile station 64 as an address for private MSC 60.

[0123] As describe above, mobile stations, such as mobile station 64, that use private network 12 also preferably subscribe to public wireless network 14. Thus, mobile station 64 preferably has a data record stored in HLR 32, in addition to its data record stored in Gateway SCP 70. Accordingly, during the registration process, Gateway SCP 70 also transmits an IS-41 REGNOT message 406 to HLR 32. REGNOT message 404 typically identifies mobile station 64 by its MIN and ESN. IS-41 REGNOT messages may also include a number of other parameters to control communication with a mobile station once it is registered. For example, an IS-41 REGNOT message normally includes an “MSCID” parameter that identifies the MSC reporting the mobile station's registration attempt and an “SMSaddr” parameter that specifies where SMS messages should be sent. In this case, REGNOT message 404 identifies Gateway SCP 70 in the MSCID parameter and may also identify private MSC 60 in the SMSaddr parameter.

[0124] Note that even if mobile station 64 is not a subscriber of private network 12, Gateway SCP 70 may optionally grant mobile station 64 access to private network 12 and transmit a REGNOT message to the HLR of mobile station 64.

[0125] When HLR 32 receives REGNOT message 404, it finds the data record for mobile station 64 based on its MIN. Next, HLR 30 transmits to Gateway SCP 70 an IS-41 registration notification return result (“regnot_rr”) message 406. Message 406 normally includes the service profile information for mobile station 64, i.e., the services that mobile station 64 subscribes to on public wireless network 14. Gateway SCP 70 then uses the service profile information for mobile station 64 in subscriber database 74 to either modify or completely override the service profile information obtained from HLR 32, so as to create a working service profile for mobile station 64. This working service profile defines the services available to mobile station 64 while it is in the coverage area of private network 12. Thus, the enterprise has the option of allowing some of, all of, or none of, the services available to mobile station 64 when it is operating in public network 14 to carry over when mobile station 64 is operating in private network 12.

[0126] Gateway SCP 70 can also reconcile potentially incompatible aspects of the two service profiles for mobile station 64. For example, the user of mobile station 64 may have subscribed to an abbreviated dialing service in public network 14 and designated the digits “1234” to indicate a friend's telephone number. If the digits “1234” also represents an extension in private network 12, then Gateway SCP 70 could create a working service profile for mobile station 64, wherein “1234” represents the extension, rather than the friend's telephone number. However, if the digits “1234” IPE not conflict with any digit string used in private network 12, Gateway SCP 70 could maintain “1234” as an abbreviation for the friend's telephone number in the working service profile for mobile station 64.

[0127] Gateway SCP 70 then transmits to private MSC 60 an IS-41 regnot_rr message 408 to confirm that mobile station 64 is to be granted access to private network 12. Preferably, message 408 also includes the working service profile that Gateway SCP 70 created for mobile station 64. Private MSC 60 stores this working service profile in its VLR 61. At this point, mobile station 64 is registered with both Gateway SCP 70 and with HLR 32. Mobile station 64 is, thus, able to originate and to receive calls in the coverage area of private network 12, in accordance with the its working service profile stored in the VLR 61 of private MSC 60.

[0128] Although mobile station 64 is registered with both Gateway SCP 70 and HLR 32, its registrations with these two network elements is very different. In particular, on Gateway SCP 70 the locator address for mobile station 64 would be private MSC 60, whereas on HLR 32 the locator address would be the address of Gateway SCP 70.

[0129] FIG. 7 also shows a simplified call flow for the process of de-registering mobile station 64, such as would occur when mobile station 64 powers off within the wireless coverage of private wireless network 12. Mobile station 64 sends a de-registration signal 410, which is received by private BTS 62 and forwarded to private MSC 60. Signal 410 normally includes the MIN and ESN of mobile station 64. Private MSC 60 then sends an IS-41 mobile station inactive (“MSINACT”) message 412 to Gateway SCP 70 to indicate that mobile station 64 is inactive and not able to receive calls. Gateway SCP 70 sends an MSINACT message 414 to HLR 32 so that HLR 32 is also notified that mobile station 64 is inactive. Messages 412 and 414 normally include the MSN and ESN of mobile station 64. HLR 32 confirms receipt of the message by sending Gateway SCP 70 an IS-41 msinact_rr message 416. Gateway SCP 70 also sends private MSC 60 a msinact_rr message 418. Private MSC 60 then deletes the entry for mobile station 64 from its VLR 61.

[0130] In contrast, the process for registering a subscriber mobile station, such as mobile station 64, when it is in the coverage area of public wireless network 14, i.e., its home network, or some other public wireless network, would typically not involve Gateway SCP 70 at all. This is because when a subscriber mobile station attempts to register in any network, it identifies itself by its MIN, and the MSC serving it typically determines which HLR to send a REGNOT message based on this MIN. In preferred embodiments, the subscriber mobile stations have MINs that correspond to HLR 32. Thus, when a subscriber mobile station attempts to register outside of private network 12, the MSC receiving the registration request sends a REGNOT message to HLR 32, as the HLR corresponding to the subscriber's mobile station MIN, and HLR 32 would not normally forward it to Gateway SCP 70. Moreover, other services, such as short message delivery, that identify mobile stations by MIN would also typically query HLR 32 to reach the subscriber mobile stations.

[0131] The registration process is different in private network 12 because the private MSCs are programmed to route most queries to Gateway SCP 70 instead of routing queries based on MIN. The result of the different registration processes used in private network 12 and public network 14 may be summarized as follows. When a subscriber mobile station is registered with private network 12, Gateway SCP 70 has a locator address for it that identifies which private MSC is serving the subscriber mobile station. However, the subscriber mobile station's locator address in HLR 32 would typically identify only Gateway SCP 70.

[0132] When a subscriber mobile station is registered with public network 14, HLR 32 has a locator address for it that identifies which MSC is serving it. However, Gateway SCP 70 would typically not have a valid locator address for the subscriber mobile station because Gateway SCP 70 is not typically notified when a subscriber mobile station registers with public network 14. Nevertheless, Gateway SCP 70 is able to find the subscriber mobile stations when they are operating in the coverage area of public network 14 by querying HLR 32.

3. Originating and Receiving Calls

[0133] Once a mobile station is registered, either with private network 12 or with public network 14, it is able to make and to receive calls. FIG. 8 is a simplified call flow diagram illustrating an exemplary call setup process for the case of mobile station 64, already registered with private network 12, placing a call to mobile station 66, also registered with private network 14. The caller dials the number of mobile station 66, and mobile station 64 transmits a signal 500 containing the dialed digits. Private BTS 62 receives the dialed digits and forwards them to private MSC 60. In response, private MSC 60 sends to Gateway SCP 70 an IS-41 Location Request (“LOCREQ”) query 502 containing the dialed digits. From the dialed digits, Gateway SCP 70 identifies mobile station 66 as the station being called and retrieves the data record for mobile station 66 from database 74. In this case, the locator address for mobile station 66 would indicate that is in the coverage area of private network 12. If the status information for mobile station also indicates that it is available to receive a call, then Gateway SCP 70 then sends to private MSC 60 an IS-41 Location Request Return Result (“locreq_rr”) message 504 that instructs private MSC 60 to attempt to terminate the call to mobile station 66. In response, private MSC 60 sends, via private BSC 68 and private BTS 62, a signal set 506 to page and alert mobile station 66. When mobile station 66 answers, a voice path is established between mobile stations 64 and 66. Thus, advantageously, in the simplest case of mobile stations calling each other within the coverage area of private network 12, HLR 32 does not need to be queried and the resources of public network 14 do not need to be used.

[0134] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary call flow for the case of a private network using two or more private MSCs and where the caller and called mobile stations are being served by two different private MSCs. This may occur, for example, in a configuration like that of private network 112 shown in FIG. 3. In this example, the caller is using mobile station 64, which is in the coverage area being served by private MSC 60, to call mobile station 166, which is in the coverage area of private MSC 160. The caller dials the number for mobile station 166, and mobile station 64 transmits a signal 520 containing the dialed digits. Private MSC 60 receives the dialed digits and sends a LOCREQ message 512 to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70 determines from the dialed digits that mobile station 166 is being called and determines from the locator address for mobile station 166 that it is being served by private MSC 160. Gateway SCP 70 then sends an IS-41 Routing Request (“ROUTREQ”) signal 514 to private MSC 160 to set up the call. In response, private MSC 160 allocates a Temporary Location Directory Number (“TLDN”) and sends the TLDN to Gateway SCP 70 in an IS-41 Routing Request Return Result (“routreq_rr”) message 516. Gateway SCP 70 then forwards the TLDN in an IS-41 Location Request Return Result (“locreq_rr”) message 518 to private MSC 60. Private MSC 60 then routes the call to this TLDN, which corresponds to private MSC 160. To accomplish this call routing, private MSC 60 may, for example, exchange SS7 Integrated Services User Part (“ISUP”) messages 520 with private MSC 160. Once the call is routed to private MSC 160, it sends a signals set 522 to page and alert mobile station 166. When mobile station 166 answers, the voice path from mobile station 64 to mobile station 166 is completed.

[0135] In the example shown in FIG. 9, once again only the resources of private network 12 need to be used to complete the call. Moreover, in this example, it is Gateway SCP 70 that determines how to find mobile station 166, i.e., via its locator address, whereas in public network 14, it is HLR 32 that normally plays this role.

[0136] If Gateway SCP 70 does not have the information needed to locate the mobile station being called, then it may forward the request to a network entity, such as HLR 32 that may have the information. This is illustrated in the simplified call flow shown in FIG. 10 for the case of mobile station 64, operating in the coverage area of private network 12, calling a mobile station, such as mobile station 28, that subscribes to private network 12 but is within the coverage area of public network 14. The caller dials the number for mobile station 28, and mobile station 64 transmits a signal 530 containing the dialed digits. Private MSC 60 receives the dialed digits and transmits a LOCREQ message 532 to Gateway SCP 70 containing the dialed digits. Gateway SCP 70 identifies mobile station 28 from the dialed digits and obtains its data record. From this data record, Gateway SCP 70 determines that mobile station 28 is not currently registered with private network 12, so that no current locator address for this mobile station is available. As a result, Gateway SCP 70 sends a LOCREQ message 534 to HLR 32 to locate mobile station 28. LOCREQ message 534 typically includes the MIN and/or MDN for mobile station 28, or some other identification of mobile station 28. From this identifying information contained in LOCREQ message 534, HLR 32 obtains the data record for mobile station 28. From this data record, HLR 32 obtains a locator address for mobile station 28. In this example, the locator address would indicate that mobile station 28 is being served by MSC 16. Accordingly, HLR 32 sends a ROUTREQ message 536 to MSC 16 to set up the call. In response, MSC 16 allocates a TLDN and transmits a routereq_rr message 538 containing this TLDN to HLR 32. HLR 32 then sends a locreq_rr message 540 containing the TLDN to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70, in turn, forwards the TLDN in a locreq_rr message 542 to private MSC 60. Private MSC 60 then performs the signaling, such as by exchanging ISUP messages 544 to MSC 16, to route the call to the TLDN. Once the call is routed to MSC 16, it sends, via BSC 20 and BTS 24, a signal set 546 to page and alert mobile station 28. When mobile station 28 answers, the voice path between mobile station 64 and mobile station 28 is completed.

4. Call Termination

[0137] The procedures used to set up calls from outside of private network 12 to mobile stations subscribing to private network 12 will, in general, depend on how mobile directory numbers are assigned to the subscribing mobile stations. In particular, at least four different approaches are available for providing subscribing mobile stations, such as mobile station 64 with a mobile directory number: (1) mobile station 64 may have only a directory number that corresponds to private network 12; (2) mobile station 64 may have only a directory number that corresponds to public network 14; (3) mobile station 64 may have a first directory number that corresponds to private network 12 and a second directory number that corresponds to public network 14; and (4) mobile station 64 may have a directory number corresponding to public network 14 that has been ported to private network 12 through the use of Local Number Portability.

[0138] Although any of these four methods may be used, the fourth method is preferred. Thus, in preferred embodiments, the mobile stations subscribing to private network 12 will have mobile directory numbers that were originally allocated to a “home” MSC, such as MSC 17, in public network 14. To port these numbers to the private network 12, LNP SCP 98 is provisioned with information to indicate that calls to certain directory numbers should be redirected to private MSC 60 and the “home” MSCs are updated to query LNP SCP 98 when calls to these certain directory numbers are made.

[0139] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary call flow when a call, routed through PSTN 18, is made to mobile station 64 operating in the coverage area of private network 12. The call may be from a caller using a wireline station, such as station 92, a mobile station, or other device outside of private network 12. In this example, the directory number for mobile station 64 was originally allocated to MSC 17. Thus, the call is originally routed through PSTN 18 to MSC 17, such as by exchanging ISUP messages 600. In response, MSC 17 sends a Number Portability Request (“NPREQ”) message 602 to LNP SCP 98. LNP SCP 98 sends back a Number Portability Request Return Result (“npreq_rr”) message 604 containing a Local Routing Number (“LRN”), corresponding to private MSC 60. MSC 17 then routes the call accordingly, such as by exchanging ISUP messages 606 with private MSC 60. When the call is routed to private MSC 60, it sends a LOCREQ message 608 to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70 responds with a locreq_rr message 610. Private MSC 60 then sends a signal set 612 to page and alert to mobile station 64.

[0140] FIG. 12 illustrates, in simplified form, the process for terminating a call, routed through PSTN 18, to mobile station 64 when it is operating in the coverage area of public network 14 and being served by MSC 16. The process begins in a matter similar to the case when mobile station 64 is in the coverage area of private network 12. The call is routed through PSTN 18 to “home” MSC 17, typically by an exchange of ISUP messages 620. “Home” MSC 17 transmits a NPREQ message 622 to LNP SCP 98, and LNP SCP 98 responds with a nqreq_rr message 624 that includes a LRN. “Home” MSC 17 uses the LRN to signal to private MSC 60, such as by exchanging ISUP messages 626. Private MSC 60 then sends a LOCREQ message 628 to Gateway SCP 70. In this case, mobile station 64 is not registered with private network 12, so Gateway SCP 70 sends a LOCREQ message 630 to HLR 32 to locate mobile station 64. HLR 32 identifies mobile station 64 from the information contained in LOCREQ message 630. From the locator address for mobile station 64, HLR 32 determines that MSC 16 is currently the serving MSC. Thus, HLR 32 sends a ROUTEREQ message 632 to MSC 16. MSC 16 allocates a TLDN and includes it in a routereq_rr message 634 to HLR 32. In response, HLR 32 sends a locreq_rr message 636 to Gateway SCP 70 containing the TLDN. Gateway SCP 70, in turn, sends a locreq_rr message 638 with the TLDN to private MSC 60. Private MSC 60 then performs the signaling needed to route the call to this TLDN, such as by exchanging ISUP messages 640 with MSC 16. MSC 16 then sends a signal set 642 to page and alert mobile station 64.

5. Call Origination Services

[0141] The present invention also allows enhanced call origination services to apply to subscribing mobile stations, whether they are operating in the private network or in public network. Moreover, the enhanced call origination services may be different, depending on whether the mobile station is in the private network or the public network. Abbreviated dialing is an example of such a call origination service. In an abbreviated dialing service, a caller is able to dial only an abbreviated digit strings, such as a four-digit string, to place a call. The four-digit string may, for example, correspond to an office extension used by the enterprise. The present invention beneficially enables subscribing mobile stations to dial such abbreviated digit strings and be able to reach other subscribing mobile stations, regardless of whether the caller or called mobile stations are operating in the private network or the public network.

[0142] FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary call flow for the case of mobile station 64, operating in the coverage area of private network 12, using an abbreviated digit string to call mobile station 28, a mobile station that subscribes to private network 12 but that is operating in the coverage area of public network 14. The caller dials an abbreviated digit string that corresponds to mobile station 28, and mobile station 64 transmits a signal 700 containing the dialed digits. Private MSC 60 receives the abbreviated digit string and recognizes a call origination trigger from the service profile for mobile station 64, the service profile having been downloaded into its VLR 61 when mobile station 64 registered. As a result of this call origination trigger, private MSC 60 sends an IS-41 Origination Request (“ORREQ”) message 702, containing the abbreviated digit string, to Gateway SCP 70.

[0143] What Gateway SCP 70 does next will depend on where the service logic needed to process the abbreviated digit string is located. In one preferred embodiment, the required service logic resides in WIN SCP 38, in which case Gateway SCP 70 forwards the abbreviated digit string to WIN SCP 38 in an ORREQ message 704, as shown in FIG. 13. WIN SCP 38 then executes its service logic to obtain the full directory number of mobile station 28. WIN SCP 38 then sends an IS-41 Origination Request Return Result (“orreq_rr”) message 706 containing the complete directory number to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70 forwards the complete directory number in an orreq_rr message 708 to private MSC 60. In another preferred embodiment, Gateway SCP 70 may have the service logic needed to process the abbreviated digit string. In that case, in response to ORREQ message 702 Gateway SCP 70 would execute its own service logic and would transmit the complete directory number to private MSC 60 in an orreq_rr message, without querying WIN SCP 38.

[0144] When private MSC 60 receives the complete directory number of mobile station 28, private MSC 60 recognizes it as belonging to a mobile station subscribing to private network 12. Thus, to find mobile station 28, private MSC 60 then transmits a LOCREQ message 710 to Gateway SCP 70. In this case, mobile station 28 is currently registered with public network 12, rather than with private network 12, so Gateway SCP 70 transmits a LOCREQ message 712 to HLR 32. HLR 32 retrieves the data record for mobile station 28 from the information contained in LOCREQ message 712 identifying mobile station 28. In this case, the locator address in the data record indicates that mobile station 28 is being served by MSC 16. Thus, HLR 32 sends a ROUTEREQ message 714 to MSC 16. In response, MSC 16 allocates a TLDN and transmits the TLDN to HLR 32 in a routereq_rr message 716. HLR 32 forwards the TLDN in a locreq_rr message 718 to Gateway SCP 70, and Gateway SCP 70 forwards the TLDN to private MSC 60 in a locreq_rr message 720. Private MSC 60 then routes the call to this TLDN, such as by exchanging ISUP messages 722 with MSC 16. With the call now routed to MSC 16, MSC 16 transmits a signal set 724 to page and alert mobile station 28. Once mobile station 28 answers, a voice path is established between mobile station 64 and mobile station 28.

[0145] Although, in the example described above, the abbreviated digit string transmitted by mobile station 64 corresponded to another subscribing mobile station, abbreviated digit strings may also be used for non-subscribing mobile stations or for wireline phones. In such cases, private MSC 60 would simply route the call, such as by exchanging ISUP messages, to the complete directory number it received from orreq_rr message 708.

[0146] Additionally, although abbreviated dialing was described above as an example of a typical call origination service, other call origination services may result in other call processing instructions being sent to private MSC 60. For example, another possible call origination service is originating call screening, whereby calls to certain numbers, or calls made during certain times, may be blocked. To apply such services, orreq_rr message 708 would instruct private MSC 60 to either allow or to block the call. Thus, orreq_rr message 708 may contain different types of call processing instructions, depending on the call origination service involved.

[0147] Beneficially, the present invention allows call origination services to be available to subscribing mobile stations when they are operating in the public network as well. For example, FIG. 14 illustrates, in simplified form, the call flow for when mobile station 28, a mobile station that subscribes to private network 12, attempts to use abbreviated dialing when it is operating in public network 14. The caller dials an abbreviated digit string for mobile station 64, and mobile station 28 transmits a signal 730 containing the dialed digits. MSC 16 recognizes this as a call origination trigger from the service profile in its VLR 33 that was downloaded from HLR 32 during registration. To obtain call processing instructions, MSC 16 transmits an ORREQ message 732 containing the digit string to either WIN SCP 38 or HLR 32, depending on which network element contains the necessary service logic. In preferred embodiments, WIN SCP 38 contains the service logic. Thus, WIN SCP 38 executes its service logic to obtain the complete directory number of mobile station 64 and transmits the directory number to MSC 16 in an orreq_rr message 734. In the example shown in FIG. 14, this directory number was originally allocated to “home” MSC 17, but then ported to private MSC 60, as described above. Thus, MSC 16 routes the call to “home” MSC 17, such as by exchanging ISUP messages 736. “Home” MSC 17 recognizes the directory number as one that has been ported, so MSC 17 transmits an NPREQ message 738 to LNP SCP 38. LNP SCP 38 obtains a LRN, corresponding to private MSC 60, and transmits it to MSC 17 in an npreq_rr message 740. MSC 17 then routes the call to the LRN, such as by exchanging ISUP messages 742 with private MSC 60. Private MSC 60 then transmits a LOCREQ message 744 to Gateway SCP 70, and Gateway SCP 70 responds with a locreq_rr message 746. In response, private MSC sends a signal set 748 to page and alert mobile station 64.

[0148] Notably, the call origination services provided to a subscriber mobile station may differ depending on whether it is operating in the coverage area of private network 12 or public network 14. The differences may come about in several different ways. First, the service profiles used in the public and private networks may differ. Second, different network elements may apply the service logic, depending in which network the subscriber mobile station is operating. For example, Gateway SCP 70 may apply its service logic for subscriber mobile stations operating in private network 12, while WIN SCP 38 may apply its service logic for subscriber mobile stations operating in public network 14. Third, even if WIN SCP 38 supplies the service logic in both networks, WIN SCP 38 may be programmed to apply different service logic depending on whether the ORREQ query originates from a private network MSC or a public network MSC.

[0149] In this way, an enterprise may provision some or all of the available call origination services to apply only when operating in private network 12. This may advantageously result in lower cost to the enterprise. Moreover, it would allow users to maintain their own “personal” call origination services for use outside of the work environment, i.e., outside of private network 12.

6. Call Termination Services

[0150] The present invention also beneficially allows call termination services to be applied to a subscribing mobile station, regardless of whether the mobile station is operating in the coverage area of private network 12 or public network 14. Such call termination services may include, without limitation, call termination screening or call forwarding.

[0151] FIG. 15 illustrates a simplified exemplary call flow for the case of a call routed through PSTN 18 to mobile station 64. Thus, the call may originate from a wireline station, such as station 92, or from a mobile station not operating in private network 12. The call is routed through PSTN 18, such as by the exchange of ISUP messages 800, to “Home” MSC 17, the MSC for which the directory number of mobile station 64 was originally allocated. MSC 17 then transmits a NPREQ message 802 to LNP SCP 98, and LNP SCP 98 responds with a npreq_rr message 804 containing a LRN corresponding to private MSC 60. MSC 17 then routes the call to this LRN, such as by exchanging ISUP messages 806 with private MSC 60. When the call is routed to private MSC 60, it recognizes a call termination trigger for mobile station 64. The call termination triggers are preferably programmed into private MSC 60 instead of being provided by the service profile for mobile station 64 contained in the VLR 61. To obtain call processing instructions, private MSC 60 sends a LOCREQ message 808 to Gateway SCP 70.

[0152] What happens next depends on where the service logic to process the call resides. In one preferred embodiment, WIN SCP 38 contains the necessary service logic. In that case, Gateway SCP 70 sends a locreq_rr message 810 containing a Trigger Address List (“TAL”) that instructs private MSC 60 to query WIN SCP 38 to obtain call processing instructions. Private MSC 60 then sends an IS-771 Analyzed Information message (“ANALYZD”) 812 to WIN SCP 38. WIN SCP 38 executes its service logic to obtain call processing instructions and transmits the call processing instructions to private MSC 60 in an analyzd_rr message 814. In the simplest case, the call processing instructions would instruct private MSC 60 to terminate the call to mobile station 64. In that case, private MSC 60 would send a LOCREQ message 816 to Gateway SCP 70, and Gateway SCP 70 would respond with a locreq_rr message 818. Private MSC 60 would then send a signal set 820 to page and alert mobile station 64. In other cases, the call processing instructions contained in analyzd_rr message 814 may instruct private MSC 60 to block the call, to forward the call to some other number, or to perform some other function, depending on the call termination service.

[0153] In another embodiment, the service logic to provide some or all call termination services may reside on Gateway SCP 70. In that case, in response to LOCREQ message 808, Gateway SCP 70 would return a TAL in locreq_rr message 810 that points to Gateway SCP 70. Thus, private MSC 60 would send ANALYZD message 812 to Gateway SCP 70, which would execute its own service logic to formulate call processing instructions, without requiring any queries to WIN SCP 38. Gateway SCP 70 would then forward the call processing instructions to private MSC 60 in analyzd_rr message 814.

[0154] FIG. 16 illustrates a simplified exemplary call flow applying call termination services to mobile station 28, a subscriber of private network 12, while it is operating in the coverage area of public network 14. A call for mobile station 28 is routed through PSTN 18 to “home” MSC 17, such as by exchanging ISUP messages 830. “Home” MSC 17 then transmits an NPREQ message 832 to LNP SCP 98, and LNP SCP 98 responds with a npreq_rr message 834 containing a LRN corresponding to private MSC 60. MSC 17 routes the call to private MSC 60, such as by exchanging ISUP messages 836. When private MSC 60 receives the call, it recognizes a call termination trigger and sends a LOCREQ message 838 to Gateway SCP 70 to receive call processing instructions. In the case where WIN SCP 38 has the necessary service logic to provide the call termination service, Gateway SCP 70 sends a locreq_rr message 840 to private MSC 60 containing a TAL instructing private MSC 60 to query WIN SCP 38. In response, private MSC 60 sends an ANALYZD message 842 to WIN SCP 38. WIN SCP 38 executes its service logic to obtain call processing instructions and forwards the call processing instructions to private MSC 60 in an analyzd_rr message 844.

[0155] In the simplest case, analyzd_rr message 844 would simply instruct private MSC 60 to put the call through. In that case, private MSC 60 sends a LOCREQ message 846 to Gateway SCP 70 to find mobile station 28. Because mobile station 28 is registered with public network 14, rather than private network 12, Gateway SCP 70 sends a LOCREQ message 848 to HLR 32. From the information contained in LOCREQ message 848, HLR 32 identifies mobile station 28 as the destination of the call. From the locator address in the data record for mobile station 28, HLR 32 then determines that MSC 16 is currently serving mobile station 28. Thus, HLR 32 sends a ROUTEREQ message 850 to MSC 16. In response, MSC 16 allocates a TLDN and forwards it to HLR 32 in a routereq_rr message 852. HLR 32, in turn, forwards the TLDN in a locreq_rr message 854 to Gateway SCP 70, and Gateway SCP 70 forwards the TLDN in a locreq_rr message 856 to private MSC 60. Private MSC 60 then routes the call to this TLDN, such as by exchanging ISUP messages with MSC 16. Once the call is routed to MSC 16, it sends a signal set 860 to page and alert mobile station 860.

7. Feature Code Updates

[0156] Many wireless networks enable mobile station users to update some of their available features by dialing a feature code string that typically begins with a “*” digit. As a typical example, a user may be able to dial the digit string “*72” in his mobile station, followed by a 10-digit directory number, to have calls forwarded to that 10-digit directory number. The present invention beneficially allows mobile stations that subscribe to the private network to use such feature code updates, whether the mobile station is operating in the coverage area of the private network or the public network.

[0157] FIG. 17 illustrates a simplified exemplary call flow that may be applied when mobile station 64 dials a feature code while operating in the coverage are of private network 12. The user of mobile station 64 dials the feature code, such as “*72” followed by a 10-digit number, and mobile station 64 responsively transmits a signal 900 containing the feature code. Private MSC 60 receives the feature code and sends an IS-41 Feature Request (“FEATREQ”) message 902, identifying mobile station 64, to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70 then updates the service profile for mobile station 64 contained in database 74 to reflect the update requested by the feature code. As a result, Gateway SCP 70 will be able to apply the updated service for mobile station 64 when it is operating in the coverage area of private network 12. Thus, for the example of a feature code update requesting call forwarding to a given number, Gateway SCP 70 will be able to instruct private MSC 60 to forward the call to the given number, in response to a LOCREQ message from private MSC 60.

[0158] Preferably, Gateway SCP 70 also sends a FEATREQ message 904, containing the feature code string and identifying mobile station 64, to HLR 32, so that the requested update will also apply when mobile station 64 is operating in the coverage area of public network 14. HLR 32 then updates the service profile for mobile station 64 contained in database 42 to reflect the requested update. HLR 32 also sends to Gateway SCP 70 an IS-41 feature request return result (“featreq_rr”) message 906 to confirm the update. Gateway SCP 70, in turn, also sends a featreq_rr message 908 to private MSC 60 to confirm the update. In response, private MSC 60 causes a confirmation signal 910 to be sent to mobile station 64. When mobile station 64 receives confirmation signal 910, it preferably provides a user-discernible indication, such as a tone or a visual display, that the feature update has been processed.

[0159] FIG. 18 shows, in simplified form, an exemplary call flow for a mobile station 28 requesting a feature code update while it is in the coverage area of public network 14 being served by MSC 16. The user dials the feature code, and mobile station 28 responsively transmits a signal 920 containing the feature code. MSC 16 receives the feature code and transmits it to HLR 32 in a FEATREQ message 922. HLR 32 then updates the service profile for mobile station 28 contained in database 42 to reflect the requested update. In some embodiments, HLR 32 may also forward the feature code in a FEATREQ message 924 to Gateway SCP 70 so that Gateway SCP 70 can also update the service profile for mobile station 28. Gateway SCP 70 would then send back a featreq_rr message 926. In other embodiments, HLR 32 would not forward the feature code to Gateway SCP 70 but would simply send a featreq_rr message 928 back to MSC 16 after updating the service profile for mobile station 28. MSC 16 then causes a confirmation signal 930 to be sent to mobile station 28.

8. Handoffs Between the Private and Public Wireless Networks and within the Private Wireless Network

[0160] Preferably, the wireless coverage area provided by private network 12 overlaps the wireless coverage area provided by public wireless network 14. A benefit of providing such an overlapping wireless coverage area is that it facilitates the handoff of calls between private network 12 and public network 14. FIG. 19 shows an example of such an overlapping wireless coverage area. In FIG. 19, the wireless coverage area provided by private BTS 62 is idealized as a hexagonal “pico” cell 1000. The wireless coverage areas provided by BTSs 22, 24, and 26 are idealized as hexagonal “macro” cells 1002, 1004, and 1006, respectively. In the example shown in FIG. 19, “pico” cell 1000 overlaps all three “macro” cells 1002, 1004, and 1006. However, in general, “pico” cell 1000 may overlap a greater or fewer number of the “macro” cells of network 20. For example, “pico” cell 1000 may be wholly within one of “macro” cells 1002-1006. Also, though the wireless coverage areas are idealized as hexagons in FIG. 19, the shape of the actual effective wireless coverage areas provided by private BTS 62 and BTSs 22-26 will depend on a number of factors, including the directionalities of the antennas used, and the local topography, and the presence of obstructions, such as buildings.

[0161] The details of the handoff process will depend on the wireless technology used, such as AMPS, TDMA, or CDMA. In AMPS systems, the BTSs monitor the signal strengths of the mobile stations with which they communicate to determine when to initiate handoffs. When a BTS finds that the signal strength of a mobile station falls below a threshold value, the BTS informs its controlling MSC. The controlling MSC then orders the MSCs that control the BTSs of “neighboring” cells to monitor the signal strength of the mobile station and to report back the results. In IS-41, this is done by the controlling MSC sending a “HandoffMeasurementRequest” invoke message to the other MSCs “neighboring” cells. The other MSCs would then provide the requested measurement results in a “HandoffMeasurementRequest” return result message. The identity of the “neighboring” cells would be predetermined. Thus, for the configuration shown in FIG. 19, private MSC 60 would normally define cells 1002-1006 as the “neighbors” of cell 1000. When private BTS 62 detects that the signal strength from a mobile station with which it is in communication has fallen below a threshold value, private MSC 60 would send a “HandoffMeasurementRequest” message to MSC 16. Similarly, in public wireless network 14, “pico” cell 1000 would be considered a “neighbor” to cells 1002-1006, at least for mobile stations that subscribe to private network 12. Thus, when one of BTSs 22-26 detects that the signal strength from a mobile station with which it is in communication has fallen below a threshold value, MSC 16 would send a “HandoffMeasurementRequest” message to private MSC 60. The results of the signal strength measurements may indicate that the mobile station is in better wireless communication with another BTS, in which case the controlling MSC may initiate a handoff in the manner described below. In this way, when a mobile station in communication with BTS 62 starts to move out of range, as indicated by its signal strength having fallen below a threshold value, the mobile station can be handed off to one of BTSs 22-26. Similarly, if the signal strength of a mobile station in communication with BTS 24 decreases below a threshold value, because the mobile station has entered a building in the coverage area of private BTS 62, then the mobile station can be handed off to private BTS 62.

[0162] In contrast, TDMA systems typically use mobile assisted handoff (MAHO). In the MAHO approach, each mobile station periodically monitors the signal strength of the control channel of the BTS with which it is currently communicating, as well as the control channels of cells in a “neighbor list.” The mobile station periodically reports these signal strength measurements to the BTS with which it is communicating. The BTS forwards the measurements to the controlling MSC, and the controlling MSC, in turn, initiates handoffs based on the measurements. Typically, the MSC would initiate a handoff when the mobile station reports a signal strength for a neighboring cell that is higher than that of the current cell. The “neighbor list” is normally transmitted to the mobile station by the BTS with which it is currently communicating. Thus, for the configuration shown in FIG. 19, cells 1002-1006 would normally be included in the neighbor list for cell 1000. Similarly, cell 1000 would normally be included in the neighbor lists of cells 1002-1006 that are provided to mobile stations that subscribe to private network 12. Thus, when a mobile station in communication with private BTS 62 starts to move out of range, as indicated by the mobile station reporting a higher signal strengths for BTS 24, for example, then private MSC 60 would normally initiate a handoff to BTS 24. Similarly, when a mobile station measures a higher signal strength for private BTS 62 than for BTS 24, MSC 16 would normally initiate a handoff to private BTS 62.

[0163] CDMA systems also normally use a MAHO approach that is similar to that used by TDMA systems. Specifically, CDMA mobile stations monitor the strengths of the pilot channels of the cell (or cells) with which it is currently communicating, as well as the pilot channels of the cells in a “neighbor list.” The CDMA mobile stations periodically report the measured signal strengths to the BTS, which, in turn, forwards the information to the MSC controlling it. The MSC will typically initiate a handoff when the mobile station reports a signal strength for a neighboring cell that is higher than that of the current cell (or cells). As with TDMA systems, the BTSs normally transmit the neighbor lists to the mobile stations. Given the configuration shown in FIG. 19, the neighbor lists for CDMA mobile stations would be similar to that described above for TDMA mobile stations.

[0164] CDMA systems also take advantage of a CDMA mobile station's ability to communicate on more than one channel at a time to perform, to the extent possible, “soft” handoffs. During a “soft” handoff, a mobile station in communication with a first cell begins to communicate with a second cell. The communication with the first cell can be subsequently dropped when the signal level becomes too low. Soft handoffs are particularly desirable as they provide a “make before break” connection that is almost imperceptible to the user. Soft handoffs between “pico” cell 1000 and one of “macro” cells 1002-1006 would not normally be possible because they are controlled by different MSCs. However, a “hard” handoff can be effected, as described below.

[0165] FIG. 20 shows a simplified call flow for the process of handing off mobile station 64 from private MSC 60, the MSC currently serving mobile station 64 in private network 12, to MSC 16, the target MSC in public network 14, given the overlapping wireless coverage areas illustrated in FIG. 19. More particularly, the call flow shown in FIG. 20 assumes that both the private network 12 and public network 14 use the preferred CDMA format. In the example of FIG. 20, mobile station 64 is being handed off from cell 1000 to one of cells 1002-1006.

[0166] The process begins when mobile station 64 measures the signal strength of the pilot channel of one of BTSs 22-26 as being sufficiently high for communication. For example, mobile station 64 may measure the pilot channel of BTS 22, corresponding to cell 1002, as being sufficiently high. Mobile station 64 then transmits a Channel Selection Request signal 1010 requesting communication on one of the channels of BTS 22. In response, private MSC 60 transmits an IS-41 Facilities Directive message 1012 to MSC 16 in order to request a handoff. MSC 16 transmits an IS-41 Facilities Directive Return Result message 1014 to private MSC 60 to accept the handoff to the requested channel. Once MSC 16 detects mobile station 64 on the new channel, MSC 16 completes a voice path between private MSC 60 and MSC 16, to prevent calls from being dropped. MSC 16 then sends an IS-41 Mobile On Channel message 1016 to private MSC 60 to confirm that mobile station 64 has successfully moved to the new channel.

[0167] MSC 16 also transmits a REGNOT message 1018, identifying mobile station 64, to HLR 32 in order to register mobile station 64 with public network 14. Because mobile station 64 had previously been registered in private network 12, the locator address in HLR 32 for mobile station 64 would identify Gateway SCP 70 before HLR 32 receives REGNOT message 1018. Thus, in response to REGNOT message 1018, HLR 32 changes the locator address for mobile station 64 to identify MSC 16. HLR 32 also sends an IS-41 Registration Cancellation (“REGCAN”) message 1020, identifying mobile station 64, to Gateway SCP 70 in order to cancel the registration of mobile station 64 in private network 12. As a result, the locator address in Gateway SCP 70 for mobile station 64 would no longer identify private MSC 60. Gateway SCP 70, in turn, sends a REGCAN message 1022, identifying mobile station 64, to private MSC 60. In response, private MSC 60 typically deletes the entry for mobile station 64 in its VLR 61. Private MSC 60 responds by sending an IS-41 Registration Cancellation Return Result (“regcan_rr”) message 1024 to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70, in turn, sends a regcan_rr message 1026 to HLR 32. Finally, HLR 32 sends a regnot_rr message 1028 to MSC 16 to confirm that registration was successful.

[0168] By this communication between HLR 32 and Gateway SCP 70, the registration of mobile station 64 may be switched over from private network 12 to public network 14 during the course of the handoff. Moreover, the handoff occurs without calls being dropped.

[0169] Mobile stations may also be handed off from the public network to the private network. FIG. 21 illustrates a simplified call flow for handing off mobile station 28, which is being served by MSC 16 in public network 14, to private MSC 60 in private network 12. The process begins when mobile station 28 detects the signal strength of private BTS 62 as being sufficiently high for good communication. Mobile station 28 then transmits a Channel Selection Request 1030 to MSC 16 to request a handoff to private BTS 62. In response, MSC 16 sends a Facilities Directive message 1032 to private MSC 60 to request a handoff. Private MSC 60 responds with a Facilities Directive Return Result 1034 to confirm the availability of the requested channel. Once private MSC 60 detects mobile station 28 on the new channel, it completes a voice circuit between MSC 16 and private MSC 60. Private MSC 60 also sends a Mobile On Channel message 1036 to MSC 16 to confirm that mobile station 28 is on the new channel.

[0170] Private MSC 60 also sends a REGNOT message 1038, identifying mobile station 28, to Gateway SCP 70 to register mobile station 28 with private network 12. In response, Gateway SCP 70 updates the locator address for mobile station 28 to identify private MSC 60. Gateway SCP 70 also sends a REGNOT message 1040, identifying mobile station 28, to HLR 32 to notify public network 14 that mobile station 28 is now operating in the coverage area of private network 12. In response, HLR 32 updates the locator address for mobile station 28 to identify Gateway SCP 70. HLR 32 also sends a REGCAN message 1042, identifying mobile station 28, to MSC 16. MSC 16 then deletes the entry for mobile station 28 in its VLR 33 and sends a regcan_rr message 1044 to HLR 32. HLR 32, in turn, sends a regnot_rr message 1046 to Gateway SCP 70, and Gateway SCP 70 sends a regnot_rr message 1048 to private MSC 60 to confirm that the registration process is complete.

[0171] In this way, mobile station 28 becomes registered with private network 12 in the course of a handoff to private network 12. Moreover, the handoff may occur without calls being dropped.

[0172] Mobile stations may also be handed off between different MSCs in the private network. FIG. 22 illustrates a simplified call flow that may be used to hand off a mobile station from one MSC to another in a private network, such as private network 212, shown in FIG. 5. The process beings when mobile station 64, currently being served by private MSC 60, measures the signal strength of the pilot channel of private BTS 162, controlled by private MSC 160, as being above a threshold level. Mobile station 64 transmits a Channel Selection Request signal to private MSC 60. Private MSC 60, in turn, sends a Facilities Directive message 1052 to private MSC 160 to request a handoff. Private MSC 160 accepts the handoff by responding with a Facilities Directive Return Result message 1054. Once private MSC 160 detects mobile station 64 on the new channel, it completes a voice circuit between private MSC 60 and private MSC 160 and sends a Mobile On Channel message 1056 to private MSC 60.

[0173] Private MSC 160 also sends a REGNOT message 1058 to Gateway SCP 70 to notify it of the new location of mobile station 64. In response, Gateway SCP 70 updates the locator address for mobile station 64 to identify private MSC 160 and send a regnot_rr message 1060 to private MSC 160. Gateway SCP 70 also sends a REGCAN message 1062 to private MSC 60. In response, Private MSC 60 deletes the entry for mobile station 64 from its VLR 61 and sends back a regcan_rr message 1064. Thus, handoffs within private network 12 do not require any signaling to HLR 32, thereby beneficially reducing the traffic load on public network 14 that would otherwise occur.

9. Short Message Delivery

[0174] The present invention also allows short messages to be sent to mobile stations, whether they are operating in the public network or the private network. FIG. 23 illustrates a simplified call flow for delivering a short message to mobile station 64 operating in private network 12. To deliver a short message to mobile station 64, Message Center 96 sends an IS-41 SMS Request message 1100 HLR 32 to locate mobile station 64. SMS Request message 1100 typically identifies mobile station 64 by its MIN. In response, HLR 32 retrieves the data record for mobile station 64 and checks its status. If mobile station 64 is active, i.e., available to receive short messages, then HLR 32 retrieves the SMS address (“SMSaddr”) for mobile station 64 that was stored when mobile station 64 registered, and HLR 32 transmits the SMSaddr to Message Center 96 in an IS-41 SMS Request Return Result (“smsreq_rr”) message 1102. The SMSaddr is simply an address that Message Center 96 may use to deliver the short message to mobile station 64. When mobile station 64 is operating in private network 12, the SMSaddr may correspond to private MSC 60. Alternatively, the SMSaddr may correspond to another element in private network 12, such as private BSC 68. However, the SMSaddr for mobile station 64 would not typically correspond to Gateway SCP 70, which is identified by the locator address in HLR 32 for mobile station 64, because Gateway SCP 70 would typically not be able receive short messages. Thus, the call flow shown in FIG. 23 is premised on the usual situation of a mobile station's locator address being different than its SMS address. On the other hand, if mobile station 64 were operating in public network 14, the SMSaddr would typically correspond to the MSC currently serving it, or it may correspond to some other element in public network 14.

[0175] In the example shown in FIG. 23, the SMSaddr corresponds to private MSC 60. Thus, in the next step, Message Center 96 sends the short message in an IS-41 SMS Delivery Point-To-Point (“SMDPP”) message 1104 to the SMSaddr, which, in this case, correspond to private MSC 60. Private MSC 60 acknowledges receipt by sending back an IS-41 SMS Delivery Point-To-Point Return Result (“smdpp_rr”) message 1106. Private MSC 60 also sends a signal 1108 to mobile station 64 to deliver the short message.

[0176] However, if Message Center 96 attempts to deliver a message to mobile station 64 when mobile station 64 is inactive, the delivery may be postponed until mobile station 64 becomes active, as shown in FIG. 24. Message center 96 sends to HLR 32 an SMSREQ message 1110 identifying mobile station 64 as the recipient. In this case, HLR 32 determines that mobile station 64 is inactive and, thus, sends an smsreq_rr message 1112 indicating that delivery should be postponed. The status of mobile station 64 changes once mobile station 64 registers. Thus, when mobile station 64 sends a power-up registration request signal while in the coverage area of private network 12, private MSC 60 sends a REGNOT message 1116 to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70, in turn, sends to HLR 32 a REGNOT message 1118 that includes an SMSaddr for mobile station 64 as private MSC 60. As described above, the SMSaddr may correspond to private MSC 60, as shown in FIG. 23, or it may correspond to another network element, such as private BSC 20. HLR 32 sends a regnot_rr message 1120 back to Gateway SCP 70, and Gateway SCP 70 sends a regnot_rr message 1122 back to private MSC to complete the registration process.

[0177] With mobile station 64 now registered, HLR 32 sends an IS-41 SMS Notification (“SMSNOT”) message 1123 to Message Center 96. SMSNOT message 1123 identifies mobile station 64 by its MIN and includes the SMSaddr for mobile station 64 obtained from registration. SMSNOT message 1123 notifies Message Center 96 that short messages intended for mobile station 64 may now be sent to the SMSaddr. Message Center 96 acknowledges with an IS-41 SMS Notification Return Result (“smsnot_rr”) message 1124 to HLR 32. Message Center 96 then transmits the short messages in a SMDPP message 1126 to private MSC 60. Private MSC 60 acknowledges by sending a smdpp_rr message 1128 back to Message Center 96, and private MSC transmits a signal 1130 to mobile station 64 to deliver the short messages.

10. Voice Mail Notification

[0178] In preferred embodiments, private network 12 includes PBX 84, which, in turn, includes a voice mail system. In typical embodiments, PBX 84 may activate a user-discernable indicator, such as a light, on a user's wireline telephone to indicate that the user has voice mail on the PBX 84 voice mail system. In accordance with preferred embodiments, a user of private network 12 may have both a wireline telephone, such as wireline telephone 86, and a mobile station, such as mobile station 64. Thus, the present invention may provide a user-discernable voice mail indication on the user's mobile station as well, and may do so whether the mobile station is operating in the coverage area of private network 12 or the coverage area of public network 14.

[0179] FIG. 25 illustrates a simplified exemplary call flow for the process of activating, and then de-activating, a voice mail indication on both wireline station 86 and mobile station 64, while mobile station 64 is being served by private MSC 60 in private network 12. When the voice mail system of PBX 84 receives a voice mail message for the user of wireline station 86 and mobile station 64, PBX 84 sends a signal 1200 to wireline station 86 to activate the voice mail indicator therein. Signal 1200 may, for example, cause a light on wireline station 86 to be lit. To reach mobile station 64, PBX 84 sends to CTI 94 a voice mail notification message 1202 that identifies mobile station 64. CTI 94, in turn, sends a voice mail notification message 1204 identifying mobile station 64 to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70 retrieves the data record for mobile station 64 and determines, from its locator address, that it is being served by private MSC 60. Gateway SCP 70 then sends an IS-41 Qualification Directive (“QUALDIR”) message 1206, identifying mobile station 64, to private MSC 60. In response, private MSC 60 causes a signal 1208 to be transmitted to mobile station 64 to activate its voice mail indication. The voice mail indication is typically a user-discernable indication such as a tone and/or a visible indication on the display of mobile station 64. Private MSC 60 then sends an IS-41 Qualification Directive Return Result (“qualdir_rr”) message 1210 back to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70, in turn, sends a return result message 1212 to CTI 94, and CTI 94 sends a return result message 1214 to PBX 84 to confirm delivery of the voice mail activation.

[0180] Once the voice mail has been read, PBX 84 typically deactivates the voice mail indications on wireline telephone 86 and mobile station 64, as shown in FIG. 23. The call flow is similar for activating the voice mail indication. PBX 84 sends a signal 1220 to wireline station 86 to deactivate the voice mail indication. PBX 84 also sends a voice mail notification message 1222 to CTI 94. CTI 94, in turn, sends a voice mail notification message 1224 to Gateway SCP 70, and Gateway SCP 70 sends a QUALDIR message 1226 to private MSC 60. In response, private MSC 60 sends a signal 1228 to mobile station 64 to deactivate the voice mail indication. Private MSC 60 also sends a qualdir_rr message back to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70, in turn, sends a return result message 1232 back to CTI 94 and a return result message 1234 back to PBX 84.

[0181] The voice mail notification may also reach mobile station 64 when it is being served by MSC 16 in the coverage area of public network 14, as shown in FIG. 26. As before, PBX 84 sends a signal to wireline station 86 to activate its voice mail indication, and PBX 84 also sends a voice mail notification message 1252 to CTI 94, which, in turn, sends a voice mail notification message 1254 to Gateway SCP 70. Messages 1252 and 1254 identify mobile station 64. In this case, Gateway SCP 70 does not have a locator address for mobile station 64, because mobile station 64 is not operating in the coverage area of private network 12. To reach mobile station 64, Gateway SCP 70 sends to HLR 32 an IS-41 Information Directive (“INFODIR”) message 1256 that identifies mobile station 64. HLR 32 retrieves the data record for mobile station 64 and determines, from its locator address, that it is being served by MSC 16. Accordingly, HLR 32 sends a QUALDIR message 1258, identifying mobile station 64, to MSC 16, and MSC 16 causes a signal 1260 to be transmitted to mobile station 64 to activate its voice mail indication. MSC 16 also sends a qualdir_rr message 1262 to HLR 32, which, in turn, sends an IS-41 Information Directive Return Result (“infodir_rr”) message 1264 to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70 then sends a return result message 1266 to CTI 94, and CTI 94 sends a return result message 1268 to PBX 84 to confirm delivery of the voice mail notification to mobile station 64.

[0182] The process of deactivating the voice mail indication is similar. PBX 84 sends a signal 1270 to wireline station 86 to deactivate its voice mail indication. PBX 84 also sends a voice mail notification message 1272 to CTI 94, which, in turn sends a voice mail notification message 1274 to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70 sends an INFODIR message 1276 to HLR 32, and HLR 32 sends a QUALDIR message 1278 to MSC 16. MSC 16 sends a signal 1280 to mobile station 64 to deactivate its voice mail indication. MSC 16 sends a qualdir_rr message 1282 back to HLR 32, and HLR 32 sends an infodir_rr message 1284 back to Gateway SCP 70. Gateway SCP 70 then sends a return result message 1286 to CTI 94, which, in turn, sends a return message 1288 to PBX 84 to confirm that the voice mail indication on mobile station 64 has been deactivated.

11. Communication-Diverter System

[0183] The integrated wireless telecommunications network described above advantageously allows for a communications-diverter system that diverts communications destined for one or more of the public wireless subscribers to a subscriber in the private wireless network. Preferably, the communication-diverter system is deployed in the integrated wireless telecommunication network in which a wireless local area network (WLAN) represents the private wireless network.

[0184] Referring to FIG. 27, a simplified block diagram of the communication-diverter system 2710 is shown. In FIG. 27, logical connections, and signaling pathways are represented by dashed lines, and circuit-switched connections for voice, data, and other traffic are represented by solid lines. Further, the simplified block diagram shown in FIG. 27 is similar to the simplified block diagram shown in FIG. 1, except as described herein.

[0185] The communication-diverter system 2710 includes a public wireless network controller that manages the transmission of communications for the public wireless network subscribers. As described in more detail below, the public wireless network controller may include one or more elements of the public wireless network. And the selection of the public wireless network elements comprising the public wireless network controller may vary depending on the registration status of the public wireless subscribers for whom communications may be diverted.

[0186] The communication-diverter system 2710 also includes a wireless local area network controller 2704 (WLAN controller) operating in the wireless local area network (WLAN). Similar to the public wireless network controller, the WLAN controller 2704 manages the transmission of communications for the WLAN subscriber. In addition to managing the transmission of communications for the WLAN subscriber, the WLAN controller 2704 provides an interface for associating WLAN subscriber.

[0187] Communication-diverter system 2710 facilitates directing the transmission of communications destined for the public wireless subscribers to the WLAN by having the WLAN controller 2704 send a signaling message to the public wireless network controller. This signaling message contains commands either instructing or requesting the public wireless network controller to direct the transmission of communications to the WLAN controller 2704 for the public wireless network subscribers that the WLAN subscriber designates.

[0188] In response to the signaling message, the public wireless network controller then directs the transmission of, or otherwise forwards, communications destined for the designated public wireless network subscribers to the WLAN controller 2704 for transmission to the WLAN subscriber.

[0189] A. Wireless Local Area Network Services, Coverage Area, and Subscriber-Types

[0190] Similar to the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 1, as a private wireless network, the WLAN may provide geographically limited wireline and wireless telecommunications services to its subscribers. For instance, the coverage area of the WLAN may include a single building, a part of a building, or a complex of buildings and campuses, but such coverage is unlikely to cover large contiguous areas. The wireless communications provided by WLAN may be in a format such as an IEEE 802.11 WLAN, AMPS, TDMA, GSM, CDMA, or some other format. The particulars of a preferred wireless communication for the WLAN are disclosed in the IEEE 802.11 standard published by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc., which is fully incorporated herein by reference. In an exemplary embodiment, WLAN may use the IEEE 802.11 format, while the public wireless network 14 may use CDMA.

[0191] A WLAN subscriber may be a person, an organization, or other entity (including a computer or computer system) that uses the services provided by the WLAN, after being granted permission to use such services. A WLAN subscriber may have a long-term and continuous subscription, such as a subscription for as long as the WLAN subscriber remains an employee of an enterprise or other organization. The WLAN subscriber, however, may have a shorter duration subscription. A short duration subscription may include a subscription for a period of time while the WLAN subscriber performs a project as a business consultants, or a subscription for a specific communication service from a WLAN provider, such as travelers receiving in-airport flight updates on their WLAN compatible mobile stations.

[0192] In a preferred embodiment, the WLAN subscriber is also one of the designated public wireless network subscribers. Alternatively, the WLAN subscriber may not subscribe to the public wireless network, but still receive communications destined for one of the designated public wireless network subscribers.

[0193] A WLAN subscriber may use one or more mobile stations to connect to, access, and/or exchange communications with the WLAN. The WLAN subscriber's mobile stations may take a variety of forms. For instance, the WLAN subscriber mobile stations may include (i) infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) mobile station 2764a; (ii) personal digital assistant coupled with a wireless modem 2764b; (iii) and/or other device able to transmit or receive voice, data, or other media over an air interface. Further, in an exemplary embodiment the WLAN subscriber's mobile stations may comply with the IEEE 802.11 protocol.

[0194] In another arrangement, one or more of the WLAN subscriber's mobile stations may be a multi-mode mobile station. In an exemplary embodiment, the multi-mode mobile station integrates into a single mobile station at least one public wireless network communication technology, such as CDMA, and at least one wireless local area network communication technology, preferably 802.11 WLAN.

[0195] Additionally, the WLAN subscriber may use one or more fixed-access stations to connect to, access, and/or exchange communications with the WLAN. Like the WLAN subscriber's mobile stations, the WLAN subscriber's fixed-access stations may take various forms. The WLAN subscriber's mobile stations may include (i) desktop personal computer 2764c; (ii) docked laptop or mobile computer 2764d; (iii) or other device able to transmit or receive voice, data, or other media. While the WLAN subscriber's fixed-access stations may provide access to services of the WLAN, in most cases, such access may be possible only after registering with the WLAN using at least one their mobile stations.

[0196] B. Public Wireless Controller

[0197] In an exemplary embodiment, the public wireless network controller may include an SCP, such as WIN SCP 38 or intelligent network integrated service control point (ISCP) 2739. The ISCP 2739 may provide enhanced telecommunication services to public wireless network subscribers. Like HLR 32, ISCP 2739 includes a base service logic module, a plurality of service logic modules, and an ISCP subscriber data store or database 2747 that is capable of storing public wireless network subscriber profiles.

[0198] Each public wireless network subscriber served by the ISCP 2739 may have a data record, e.g., ISCP data-record 2745, stored in the ISCP subscriber data store 2747. The ISCP data-record 2745 contains the subscriber profile and status information for the corresponding public wireless subscriber served by the ISCP 2739. Further, the ISCP data-record 2745 includes the same type of information that is typically included in the HLR data-record 31 that is stored in the HLR 32, and in some instances, may be a copy of the HLR data-record 31.

[0199] As stated above, the ISCP 2739 also includes a base service logic module that contains service logic for communicating with other network elements, such as STP 30 and MSC 16. The base service logic module of the ISCP 2739 may access the ISCP subscriber data store or database for the public wireless network subscribers' profiles to update feature services, or otherwise modify ISCP data-records for the public wireless network subscribers it serves. Further, the base service logic module of the ISCP 2739 devises the communication processing instructions by querying the ISCP data-record 2745.

[0200] The plurality of service logic modules in the ISCP 2739 employ software for determining which mechanisms that the ISCP 2739 is to use to supply other network elements telecommunications services for public wireless network subscribers. Using the query results, and executing one or more of its service logic modules, the ISCP 2739 may determine the appropriate signaling system for communicating with other elements of the public wireless network 14.

[0201] The ISCP 2739 may operate as follows. Responding to a feature service update, or other change, in the ISCP data-record 2745, the base service logic module of the ISCP 2739 may query the ISCP data-record 2745 for the change. Then, the base service logic module references one or more of service logic modules to devise communication processing instructions. The service logic modules execute the included software to determine the signaling system necessary to communicate with MSC 16. The base service logic module then signals the MSG 16, using the proper signaling system, to update feature services in the VLR 33 referenced by or integrated into MSC 16.

[0202] The ISCP's functionality may be integrated into different elements of the public wireless network, such as MSC 16. Alternatively, the ISCP's functionality may spit into various elements of the public wireless network. As another option, the ISCP 2739 may be a software application running on one or more of the public wireless network elements.

[0203] C. Additional Public Wireless Network Elements

[0204] To implement the communications-diverter system, the integrated wireless telecommunications network may include additional public wireless network elements. One such element is internetworking gateway 2741. In a preferred embodiment, internetworking gateway 2741 connects communications between the WLAN subscriber and the public wireless subscribers, via packet-switched data network 2719.

[0205] The internetworking gateway 2741 may consist of a software application running on a public wireless network e-mail or web server. In another possible arrangement, the internetworking gateway 2741 may be one or more pieces of dedicated telephony or computer networking equipment, e.g. a packet-switched data network bridge/router. Alternatively, the internetworking gateway 2841 may be incorporated into the MSC 16, thereby allowing the MSC 16 to connect to the packet-switch data network 2719 without an external gateway. In yet another arrangement, the internetworking gateway 2741 may be embodied as a public wireless network Voice-over-Packet-data (VoP) server that is wholly or partially deployed in various public wireless network elements, but preferably deployed in the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32. In one embodiment, the internetworking gateway 2741 may include an interworking function for translating between dissimilar protocols.

[0206] Functioning as a gateway between dissimilar networks, the internetworking gateway 2741 may translate, or otherwise convert, the communication for transmission between the PSDN 2719 and the public wireless network 14. With the ability to connect the public wireless network 14, the internetworking gateway 2741 may separate, or otherwise extract, signaling messages from the communication, and translate the signaling messages from its native format to a public wireless network signaling system format, such as IS-41.

[0207] In a preferred embodiment, the WLAN exchanges signaling messages with one or more elements of the public wireless network, e.g., ISCP 2739, over the PSDN 2719 via the internetworking gateway 2741 using e-mail messages or other packet-data-format messages. The body or payload of each e-mail message may contain the communication's signaling messages, and the communication's voice or data content. Alternatively, the e-mail message may contain only the communication's signaling messages. As described in great detail below, for signaling the public wireless network 14, the internetworking gateway 2741 extracts, parses, or otherwise retrieves, the signaling messages from the body of the e-mail or other packet-data format message, and uses the signaling messages to connect to the proper public wireless network element. Further, for signaling messages sent in the opposite direction, i.e. to the WLAN from the public wireless network 14, the internetworking gateway 2741 transforms, assembles or embeds the public wireless network signaling messages into an e-mail or other packet-data format message.

[0208] D. Wireless Local Area Network Controller Embodiment 1

[0209] In an exemplary embodiment, the communication-diverter system 2710 includes wireless local area network controller (WLAN controller) 2704. Referring to FIG. 27, the WLAN controller 2704 is shown comprising (i) a wired local area network server (wired-LAN server) 2705 coupled to (ii) a wireless access point 2758, and coupled to (iii) a WLAN subscriber profile store 2769.

[0210] The wireless access point 2758 provides base station functionality for the WLAN by providing access, over an air interface, for multiple WLAN subscriber mobile stations, e.g., WLAN subscriber's mobile stations 2764a and 2764b, onto the wireless local area network. The wireless access point 2758 may consist of a radio transceiver 2761, a wired-network interface 2763, and a bridging software application 2765 that conforms to the IEEE 802.11d bridging standard, or some other LAN-based wireless bridging standard.

[0211] In an 802.11 compliant WLAN, WLAN subscribers may communicate with the WLAN via wireless access point 2758 using a mobile station, e.g., WLAN subscriber mobile station 2764a. Each WLAN subscriber's mobile station may contain a unique identifier so that the wireless access point 2758 may locate, control and exchange communications originated from and terminated to that WLAN subscriber's mobile station. In a preferred embodiment, the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a may have a unique IEEE 802.11 or other packet-data (802.11/packet-data) address, programmed or hard coded into the mobile station. This programmed or hard-coded address is akin to the MIN, MDN, ESN, or other identification that is contained in public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28.

[0212] Alternatively, the IEEE 802.11/packet-data address may be dynamically programmed into the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a by the wireless access point 2758, a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server (not shown), or some other WLAN element. Such programming may reserve WLAN resources; however, the wireless access point 2758, or other WLAN element may query a database containing translation information to translate from the dynamically programmed address to an address representative of the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a. As another option, the WLAN subscriber may be assigned a single 802.11/packet-data address for more than one of the WLAN subscriber's mobile stations. In such case, the wireless access point 2758 may employ an address masquerade or network address translation application to differentiate the WLAN subscriber's mobile stations.

[0213] In addition to locating, controlling, and exchanging communications with the WLAN subscriber's mobile stations, the wireless access point 2758 also acts as a bridge or “portal” between WLAN subscriber's mobile stations 2764a and 2764b, and the wired-LAN server 2705. The wireless access point 2758 performs portal functions by providing address and protocol translation for communications exchanged between the wireless access point 2758 and the wired-LAN server 2705. Communications exchanged between the wireless access point 2758 and the wired-LAN server 2705 are preferably transmitted over an Ethernet connection. Alternatively, the portal's functionality may be integrated into the wired-LAN server 2705, whereby communications exchanged between the wireless access point 2758 and the wired-LAN server are transmitted without being translated. As another option, the portal may comprise a standalone WLAN network element, e.g., a bridge or gateway, interconnecting the wired-LAN server 2705, and wireless access point 2758.

[0214] In a preferred embodiment, the wireless access point 2758 communicates with the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a using 802.11/packet-data address format, and then translates the communications in the 802.11/packet-data address format into an IEEE 802.3, or other packet-data (IEEE/packet-data) address, for transport to the wired-LAN server 2705. The wireless access point 2758, likewise, translates IEEE/packet-data addressed communications from the wired-LAN server 2705 into 802.11/packet-data addressed communications for transmission to the WLAN subscriber.

[0215] As a node on the wired-LAN, the wireless access point 2758 may be assigned its own IEEE/packet data address. Further, the wireless access point 2758 may be considered a mobile station in the WLAN, and thus, may be assigned its own 802.11/packet-data address, or some variation thereof. As a result, the wireless access point 2758 may employ an address masquerade or network address translation application to differentiate the IEEE/packet-data and 802.11/packet-data address of the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a from the corresponding addresses of the wireless access point 2758.

[0216] Although only wireless access point, i.e. wireless access point 2758, is shown in FIG. 27, the WLAN may include more than one wireless access points. Alternatively, the WLAN may not include any wireless access point, for example, where the WLAN comprises an ad-hoc network according to the IEEE 802.11 protocol. In ad-hoc mode, the WLAN subscriber's mobile stations may perform switching functions, portal functions, and other wireless access point functions.

[0217] As stated above, the WLAN controller includes a wired-LAN server 2705. The wired-LAN server 2705 includes switching functionality to switch communications between the wireless access point 2758 and the PSTN 18, and/or between the wireless access point 2758 and the public wireless network 14 using signaling systems such as SS7, and IS-41, respectively. The wired-LAN server 2705 may comprise a processor, e.g., personal computer or workstation, or a peripheral device, such as a data storage device, running operating and application software to manage the resources for the WLAN. Additionally, the wired-LAN server 2705 may connect to fixed-access stations such as WLAN subscriber stations 2764c and 2764d via an Ethernet connection or other shared access media connection.

[0218] The wired-LAN server 2705 may include logic modules and/or software applications for communicating with elements of the PSTN 18, and elements of the public wireless network 14. To update or modify feature services for the public wireless network subscribers, the wired-LAN server 2705 may exchange signaling messages with the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32. For example, to locate or update feature service, such as call-forwarding, for an unregistered public wireless subscriber's mobile station, the wired-LAN server 2705 may communicate with HLR 32, via one or more STPs, such as STP 30, using the IS-771 signaling system. Alternatively, for the public wireless network subscriber mobile station 28 currently served by MSC 16, the wired-LAN server 2705 may communicate with the ISCP 2739 instead. Similar to the HLR 32, the wired-LAN server 2705 may communicate with the ISCP 2739 via one or more STP's, such as STP 30, and using the IS-41 signaling system.

[0219] In an exemplary embodiment, the wired-LAN server 2705 may exchange signaling messages with the elements of the PSTN 18, and/or elements of the public wireless network 14, such as ISCP 2739, and/or HLR 32 via the internetworking gateway 2741. The signaling messages exchanges between the wired-LAN server 2705 and the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32 may take the form of IS-41 signaling messages embedded in packet-data messages that conform to the simple mail transfer protocol (SMTP), the hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), the file transfer protocol (FTP), the file service protocol (FSP), the session initiation protocol (SIP), the media gateway control protocol (MGCP), and/or some other protocol.

[0220] Further, the embedded signaling messages may conform to SS7, IS-771, and other signaling system messages. As another option, the format of the signaling message may not include a standardized set signaling messages, but rather, contain proprietary messages embedded in the packet-data messages sent according to the protocols listed above. As a further option, the packet-data messages sent according to the protocols listed above may not contain any signaling messages, but rather, an identifier of a public wireless network subscriber, and the corresponding WLAN subscriber. Other messaging schemes are possible, as well.

[0221] To facilitate updating feature services, e.g., call-forwarding, for the public network subscriber, the WLAN controller also includes a WLAN subscriber profile store 2967. The WLAN subscriber profile store 2967 may comprise a database stored on data-storage devices, such hard-drives, volatile and non-volatile memory, tape drives, optical media, and any other storage media capable of storing digital information. The WLAN subscriber profile store 2767 may also include a processor for storing, and retrieving information from the data store or database.

[0222] In a preferred embodiment, the wireless access point 2758 houses the WLAN subscriber profile store 2967. Alternatively, the WLAN subscriber profile store 2967 may reside as a wired-LAN database 2705a on data storage coupled to the wired-LAN server 2705. Regardless of the WLAN subscriber profile store's location, the wired-LAN server 2705 and/or the wireless access point 2758 may access it either directly, or via one or more interfaces, using an Ethernet connection, a token ring connection or other shared medium access mechanism.

[0223] The WLAN subscriber profile store 2767 provides HLR-type functionality for the WLAN, and may afford VLR-type functionality for the WLAN subscriber's mobile stations. Each WLAN subscriber has a corresponding WLAN subscriber record, e.g., WLAN subscriber record 2769, in the WLAN subscriber profile store 2967.

[0224] In addition to containing the WLAN subscribers' subscriptions, feature services, and location information, each WLAN subscriber record 2769 includes a recordable or programmable indication of one or more public wireless network subscribers that the corresponding WLAN subscriber designates to receive communications from. This indication may include one or more of the designated public wireless network subscribers' (i) telephone numbers, (ii) mobile station's MINs, MDNs, ESNs, and/or Temporary Local Directory Numbers (TLDNs), (iii) Voice-over-Packet-data address for public wireless networks using VoP communications and/or MobileIP, or (iv) other address identifying the public wireless network subscribers of interest.

[0225] The WLAN subscriber record 2967 may contain more than one indication for each public wireless network subscriber that the WLAN subscriber designates. The WLAN subscriber record 2967, however, may contain a single indication incorporating information for more than one of the public wireless subscribers.

[0226] The WLAN subscriber records in the WLAN subscriber profile store 2767 may be indexed by the WLAN subscribers' mobile stations unique identifier, for example, the programmable, hard-code, or otherwise assigned IEEE/packet-data or 802.11/packet-data address. As another possibility, the WLAN subscriber profile store 2967 may be indexed by the 802.11/packet-data or IEEE/packet-data address, or other unique identifier assigned to WLAN subscriber. In yet another option, the WLAN subscriber profile store 2967 may be indexed by the MIN, MDN, ESN, TLDN, or other indication of the public wireless network subscriber. Other indexing schemes are possible.

[0227] E. Wireless Local Area Network Controller Embodiment 2

[0228] In another exemplary embodiment, the wireless local area network controller (WLAN controller) is configured as PBX server 2804 coupled to the wireless access point 2758, and coupled to the WLAN subscriber profile store 2767. Referring to FIG. 28, a simplified block diagram of such WLAN controller configuration is shown integrated into the communication-diverter system 2810. The simplified block diagram shown in FIG. 28 is similar to the simplified block diagram shown in FIG. 27, except as described herein.

[0229] The PBX server 2804 is coupled to the wireless access point 2758 via a shared media access mechanism, such as an Ethernet connection. The PBX server 2804 may communicate with the wireless access point 2758 using an IEEE 802.3 or other wired local area network (wired-LAN) protocol. Alternatively, the wireless access point functionality may be integrated into the PBX server 2804. The wireless access point functionality may be integrated into the PBX server 2804, and thus, the portal functionality may be likewise integrated.

[0230] To provide WLAN subscribers with access to telecommunications services from the PSTN 18 and/or the public wireless network 14, the PBX server 2804 may act as a switch; routing communications between the WLAN subscriber's mobile stations 2764a and 2764b, the WLAN subscriber's fixed-access stations 2764c and 2764d, the PSTN 18, and the PSDN 2719. As with PBX 84, the PBX server 2804 is not connected to directly to the PSTN 18, but rather, is connected to a local SSP, such as SSP 88, via a primary rate interface (PRI), a basic rate interface (BRI), a multi-frequency connection, or some other type of connection. Alternatively, PBX server 2804 may be provided with SS7 signaling capability, and may be connected directly to PSTN 18 and to STP 72. Further, PBX server 2804 may be directly connected to the PSDN 2719 via an Ethernet or other shared access media mechanism.

[0231] In an exemplary embodiment, the PBX server 2804 includes (i) an IP controller 2850, (ii) a intelligent peripheral equipment (IPE) module 2852, (iii) a circuit-data telephony gateway (CDTG) 2854, and (iv) a packet-data telephony gateway (PDTG) 2856. In this configuration, the PBX server 2804 may operate as a gateway for communications exchanged between the WLAN subscribers' fixed-access and wireless stations, the PSTN 18, and the PSDN 2719.

[0232] i. IP Controller

[0233] The HP controller 2850 provides an interface for managing and configuring the PBX server 2804 with feature services for WLAN subscribers. Such feature services may include (i) assigning IP or other packet-data addresses to a WLAN subscriber's fixed-access and/or mobile stations; (ii) assigning direct dial numbers and/or abbreviated dialing extensions to the WLAN subscriber's fixed-access and/or mobile stations; and (iii) recording or programming an indication of one or more public wireless network subscribers that the WLAN subscriber designates to receive communications from.

[0234] The IP controller 2850 may comprise one or more circuit-board cards that may contain a TCP/IP controller, web server, and user interface for administering and configuring the PBX server 2804. The IP controller 2850 may be connected to, or integrated into the PBX server 2804. In a preferred embodiment, the IP controller 2850 may include a set of one or more IP controller cards installed in a Nortel Meridian PBX server. A Nortel Meridian 1 software application provides a graphical user interface that uses the IP controller cards for configuring the Nortel Meridian PBX server. Other software packages may provide the similar capability. For example, Nortel's Optivity Telephony manager provides a client-based graphical user interface, or a World Wide Web (web) interface for configuring the PBX server 2804. The details of PBX management may be found at Edwin E. Mier, IP-PBX Management: Piecing It All Together, VOICE2000, February, at 8, which is fully incorporated herein by reference.

[0235] ii. Intelligent Peripheral Equipment

[0236] Also included in the PBX server 2804 is the IPE module 2852, which controls how communications are directed to the WLAN subscribers. The IPE module 2852 typically includes one or more circuit-board cards containing a processor and a software application, or other set of programmable language instructions. The software application executed by the processor controls the transmission of communications destined for a WLAN subscriber, or more particularly, the WLAN subscriber's mobile and fixed-access stations, voice mail, e-mail, or any other communication end-device.

[0237] The IPE module 2852 may furnish the signaling and control services for signaling coordination, telephone number translations, host lookup, resource management, and signaling gateway services to the PSTN 18 and the public wireless network 14. In a preferred embodiment, the IPE module may be deployed as a set IP controller cards managed by a software application termed the Meridian Integrated Personal Call Director (MIPCD). The MIPCD provides a mechanism for assigning a single telephone number to the WLAN subscriber, even though the WLAN subscriber may use more than one telecommunication end-device. The single telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber by the IPE module 2852 allows seemingly transparent integration of the WLAN subscriber's assigned phone number into the local phone company's central office. Further, the MIPCD allows prioritized routing of communications to the WLAN subscriber's mobile stations 2764a and 2764b, fixed-access stations 2764c and 2764c, voice-mail, e-mail or other communication end-device. Thus, for communications that are directed to the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber, the IPE module 2852 determines which of the WLAN subscriber's end-devices to route communications to. Preferably, the routing is performed according to a pre-determined priority sequence. Although, other communication-directing schemes are possible.

[0238] iii. Circuit-Data Telephony Gateway

[0239] The PBX server 2804 also includes the circuit-data telephony gateway (CDTG) 2854, which provides for switching communications between the PBX server 2804 and the PSTN 18 and/or MSC 16, preferably using SS7 and IS-41 signaling systems, respectively. Like the IPE module 2852, the CDTG 2854 may include one or more circuit-board cards containing a processor and a software application, or other set of programmable language instructions executable by the processor. The CDTG 2854 may also include one or more ports, and one or more switches. However, the ports and switches may be provided in other elements of the PBX server 2804, for instance, in a trunking gateway. When executed by the processor, the CDTG 2854 controls the operations of the switches.

[0240] The CDTG 2854 typically interfaces with the PSTN 18 using the integrated services digital network (ISDN), basic rate interface (BRI) or primary rate interface (PRI). The CDTG 2854 may support other interfaces, as well. The CDTG 2854 may query the IPE module 2852 for the telephone numbers assigned to WLAN subscribers to determine how to switch communications destined for the WLAN subscriber's mobile station. For example, when a communication is terminated to the WLAN subscriber from the public wireless network 14, and the telephone number of the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a does not represent the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber, the CDTG 2854 suspends the communication, and queries the IPE module 2852 for an address, e.g., telephone number, to route the communication to. The IPE module determines the address for routing the communication to the WLAN subscriber, and returns the address to the CDTG 2854. The CDTG 2854 completes the communication to the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber by the IPE module. The CDTG 2854 then sends the communication to the packet-data telephony gateway 2856, which in turn connects the communication to the wireless access point 2758 for transmission to the WLAN subscriber.

[0241] iv. The Packet-Data Telephony Gateway

[0242] As part of the PBX server 2804, packet-data telephony gateway (PDTG) 2856 provides packet-switched connectivity between the PBX server 2804 and the PSDN 2719. In an exemplary embodiment, the PDTG 2856 provides the IP connectivity between the PBX server 2804 and the Internet, thereby allowing the PBX server 2804 to transmit and receive messages with other servers, such as the internetworking gateway 2741. Accordingly, the PDTG 2856 may exchange messages with internetworking gateway 2741 using SMTP, HTTP, FTP, FSP, MGCP, SIP, and/or some other protocol.

[0243] Additionally the PDTG 2856 may furnish VoP services, so that the WLAN subscriber may communicate over the WLAN, the Internet or other packet-switched data network. As such, the PDTG 2856 provides the translation and conversion tools for converting communications from the analog signals into packet-data communications for transmission over the WLAN, PSDN 2719 and/or other packet-data network. In a preferred embodiment, the translation and conversion tools of PDTG 2856 may transform circuit-switched network signaling into packet-switched data network signaling according to protocols such as H.323 IP, ATM, Q931, Q.933, voice-over frame relay signaling, or some other packet-switched data network telephony signaling.

[0244] To provide packet-switched connectivity and VoP services, the PDTG 2856 may include one or more circuit-board cards containing a processor, networking software, a network interface, and a software application or other set of programmable language instructions executable by the processor. The PDTG 2856, however, may be provided as a software application. In yet another example, the PDTG 2856 may exist as a standalone WLAN network element connected to the PBX server 2804. In another preferred embodiment, the PDTG 2856 comprises a Nortel Meridian Integrated Telephony Gateway (ITG).

[0245] In a preferred embodiment, the PDTG 2856 may also include an address translation unit that includes a database 2856a. The address translation unit maps the address, e.g., the telephone number, assigned to the WLAN subscriber with a packet-switched data address, e.g., an IP address. With such information, the PDTG 2856 may interface with the CDTG 2854 to connect communications destined the WLAN subscriber via the wireless access point 2758.

[0246] In an exemplary embodiment, the wireless access point 2758 is coupled to the PBX server 2804 via the PDTG 2856, preferably using an Ethernet connection. As described above, the WLAN subscriber may communicate with the WLAN via wireless access point 2758 using one or more mobile stations. The wireless access point 2758 also acts as a portal between the WLAN subscribers' mobile stations and the PBX server 2804. The wireless access point 2758 performs portal functions by providing address and protocol translation for communications exchanged between the wireless access point 2758 and the PBX server 2804. Alternatively, portal functionality may be integrated into the PBX server 2804. As another option, the portal may comprise a standalone WLAN network element, e.g., a bridge or gateway, interconnecting the PBX server 2804, and wireless access point 2758.

[0247] Preferably, the wireless access point 2758 translates communications between the 802.11/packet-data address format and the IEEE/packet-data address format for communications exchanged between the PBX server 2804 and the WLAN subscriber's mobile stations via the wireless access point 2758. As a node on the connected to the PBX server 2804, the wireless access point 2758 may be assigned its own IEEE/packet data address. In addition, the wireless access point 2758 may be assigned its own 802.11/packet-data address, or some variation thereof. As a result, the wireless access point 2758 may employ an address masquerade or network address translation application to differentiate the IEEE/packet-data and 802.11/packet-data address of the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a from the corresponding addresses of the wireless access point 2758 for communications addressed to the wireless access point 2758 for transmission to WLAN subscriber.

[0248] Such translations may be facilitated by a query of the WLAN subscriber profile store 2767, which may reside as database coupled to the PBX server 2804. As described in more detail below, the PBX server 2804, or some component thereof, may query the WLAN subscriber profile store 2767 for the WLAN subscriber record 2769 to retrieve the indication of the one or more public wireless subscribers designated by the WLAN subscriber. With the indication, the PBX server 2804 signals the public wireless controller, e.g., ISCP 2739, to direct communications destined for the designated public wireless subscribers to the PBX server 2804 for transmission to the WLAN subscriber.

[0249] F. Wireless Local Area Network Controller Embodiment 3

[0250] In another exemplary embodiment, the wireless local area network controller (WLAN controller) is configured as VoP network server 2907 coupled to the wireless access point 2758, and coupled to the WLAN subscriber profile store 2767. Referring to FIG. 29, a simplified block diagram of such WLAN controller configuration is shown integrated into the communication-diverter system 2910. The simplified block diagram shown in FIG. 29 is similar to the simplified block diagram shown in FIG. 27, except as described herein.

[0251] In an exemplary embodiment, the VoP network server 2907 may encompass a wired local area network server (wired-LAN server) 2705, for instance, an IEEE 802.3 LAN server running a Voice-over Packet-data (VoP) application, such as a Voice-over-Internet Protocol (VoIP) application. The VoP, VoIP or other voice-over-packet-switched data network application provides telecommunication services over packet-switched data networks, such as the Internet, to WLAN subscribers, and as such, is suitable for deployment in computer implemented telephony applications, such as CTI.

[0252] To facilitate communications outside the WLAN, the VoP network server 2907 may perform many of the same signaling tasks that take place in the PSTN 18, such as telephone number to switch translations, and call-connect and disconnect functions. For communications exchanged between the PSTN 18 and a WLAN subscriber, the VoP network server 2907 may translate the communications bearer-data and signaling into packet-data for transport to and from the WLAN subscriber. Further, for communications that originate and terminate within the domain of the VoP network server 2907, the VoP network server 2907 may perform the communication setup and tear down tasks necessary to transmit and receive the communications. To provide VoP telecommunication services, the VoP network server 2907 may further include (i) a signaling controller 2907a, (ii) a media gateway 2907b, and (iii) a media gateway controller 2907c.

[0253] i. Media Gateway

[0254] The media gateway 2907b provides an interface for the VoP network server 2907 to send and receive communications over a packet-switched data network, such as the Internet. The media gateway 2907b connects to the public wireless network 14, and the PSTN 18 to exchange the data content portion of the communication. Accordingly, the media gateway 2907b does not connect to the signaling systems of the PSTN 18 and/or the public wireless network 14. For such communication signaling, the media gateway 2907b supplies the signaling controller 2907a with information so that the signaling controller 2907a may formulate call processing instructions, and provide the actual signaling.

[0255] As an interface to the VoP network server 2907, the media gateway 2907b may consist of a software application running on the wired-LAN server 2705 or may be part of the VoP application. Alternatively, the media gateway 2907b may be conveniently included in dedicated telecommunication equipment, such as trunking gateways, cable modems, xDSL devices, and/or discreet packet-data telephones.

[0256] The tasks performed by the media gateway 2907b to provide communications may include communication origination; communication detection; analog to digital conversion of voice and other PSTN transmitted information, and creation of packet-data. The media gateway 2907b may also provide analog and/or digital voice compression, echo cancellation, silence suppression, and report generation.

[0257] A communication originated in the VoP network server 2907, and destined for a given PSTN or public wireless network subscriber is typically provided as a compressed data stream of information, which may conform to a number of coder-decoder (CODEC) encoding standards, such as ITU G.711 (PCM), ITU G.721 (ADPCM), ITU G.728 (LD-CELP), ITU G.729 (CS-ACELP), and ITU G.723.1 (Multirate CLEP). To transmit the communication to the given PSTN subscriber telephone, e.g., PSTN subscriber telephone 92, and/or public wireless network subscriber's mobile station, e.g., public wireless subscriber's mobile station 28, the media gateway 2907b converts, or decodes, the compressed data-stream into analog information. During the conversion process, the media gateway 2907b extracts the signaling information from the compressed data-stream.

[0258] The media gateway 2907b sends the signaling controller 2907a the signaling information so that the signaling controller 2907a may devise call-processing instructions to setup, maintain and tear down the call. In the case of connecting a call with the PSTN subscriber telephone 92, the signaling controller 2907a then signals SSP 88, via one or more STPs, with a request to terminate the call. If the PSTN subscriber telephone 92 is able to terminate the call, upon receipt of the proper signaling information, the signaling controller 2907a notifies the media gateway 2907b.

[0259] The media gateway 2907b then begins exchanging the communication's voice or data content to the PSTN subscriber telephone 92, coding and decoding the compressed as necessary. When the communication is complete, the media gateway 2907b notifies the signaling controller to tear down the call.

[0260] ii. Signaling Controller

[0261] The VoP network server 2907 also includes the signaling controller 2907a, which provides an interface for controlling the transmission of communication between the wired-LAN server 2705, elements of the PSTN 18, such as STP 30, and/or elements of the public wireless network 14, such as MSC 16. The signaling controller 2907a may comprise one or more processors, and one or more service logic modules for formulating call processing instructions, and for providing the switching connectivity between the VoP network server 2907 and the PSTN 18 and/or MSC 16, preferably using SS7 and IS-41 signaling systems, respectively. Alternatively, the signaling controller 2907a may be a software application running on the wired-LAN server 2705, or may be a number of software routines integrated into the VoP application.

[0262] iii. Media Gateway Controller

[0263] Like the signaling controller 2907a, the media gateway controller 2907c may comprise one or more processors, and one or more logic modules. Alternatively, the media gateway controller 2907c may be a software application running on the wired-LAN server 2705, or may be a number of software routines integrated into the VoP application. The media gateway controller 2907c manages the information exchange between the media gateway 2907b and the signaling controller 2907a. Through the use of its processors and logic modules, the media gateway controller may translate between a packet-switched data network address and a PSTN subscriber's telephone number so that the signaling controller and media gateway 2907b may send and receive communications from the PSTN. The media gateway controller 2907c may, likewise, employ similar translations so that the signaling controller 2709a and media gateway 2709b may coordinate communications between the VoP network server and the public wireless network 14. Wired-LAN database 2705a may facilitate the translations performed by the media gateway controller 2907c. For instance, if the wired-LAN database 2705a contains translation tables of the WLAN subscribers, the media gateway controller 2907c may query the wired-LAN database 2905a to obtain the translation information.

[0264] iv. Wireless Access Point

[0265] Preferably, the wireless access point 2758 is coupled to the VoP network server 2907, via the media gateway 2907b, preferably using an Ethernet connection. Since the wireless access point 2758 acts as portal between the WLAN subscribers' mobile stations, and the VoP network server 2907, the wireless access point 2758 provides address and protocol translation for communications exchanged between the wireless access point 2758 and the VoP network server 2907. Alternatively, the portal's functionality may be integrated into the VoP network server 2907. As another option, the portal may comprise a standalone WLAN network element, e.g., a bridge or gateway, interconnecting the VoP network server 2804, and wireless access point 2758.

[0266] For communications exchanged between the VoP network server 2804 and the WLAN subscriber's mobile stations via the wireless access point 2758, address translation between the 802.11/packet-data address format and the IEEE/packet-data address format may be performed by the wireless access point 2758. Further, the wireless access point 2758 may employ an address masquerade or network address translation application to differentiate the IEEE/packet-data and 802.11/packet-data address of the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a from the corresponding addresses of the wireless access point 2758 for communications addressed to the wireless access point 2758 for transmission to WLAN subscriber.

[0267] Such translations may be facilitated by a query of the WLAN subscriber profile store 2767, preferably using an Ethernet connection, or other shared medium access mechanism. As described in more detail below, the VoP network server 2804, or some component thereof, may query the WLAN subscriber profile store 2767 for the WLAN subscriber record 2769 to retrieve the indication of the one or more public wireless subscribers. With the indication, the VoP network server 2804 signals the public wireless controller, e.g., ISCP 2739, to direct communications destined for the designated public wireless subscribers.

12. Communication Diverting Method

[0268] The integrated wireless telecommunications network described above advantageously allows for a communications diverting method that diverts communications destined for one or more of the public wireless subscribers to a subscriber in the private wireless network. Referring to FIG. 30, a simplified flow diagram showing the method for directing the transmission of communications destined for public wireless network subscribers to a WLAN for transmission to a WLAN subscriber is shown. The method includes registering the WLAN subscriber with the WLAN 3101. In response to the WLAN subscriber registering, the WLAN controller sends a signaling message to the public wireless network controller to direct communications destined for one or more public wireless subscribers to the WLAN for transmission to the WLAN subscriber 3103. Responsive to the signaling message, the public wireless network controller directs communications destined for the one or more wireless subscribers to the WLAN for transmission to the WLAN subscriber 3105.

[0269] FIG. 30 also shows the method for terminating the directing the transmission of communications destined for public wireless network subscribers to a WLAN for transmission to a WLAN subscriber. The method includes de-registering the WLAN subscriber with the WLAN 3102. In response to the WLAN subscriber de-registering, the WLAN controller sends a signaling message to the public wireless network controller to terminate directing the transmission of communications destined for one or more public wireless subscribers to the WLAN for transmission to the WLAN subscriber 3104. Responsive to the signaling message, the public wireless network controller terminates directing the transmission of communications destined for the one or more wireless subscribers to the WLAN for transmission to the WLAN subscriber 3106.

[0270] A. Wireless Local Area Network Registration and De-Registration

[0271] Like public wireless network subscribers, WLAN subscribers must register with the WLAN to originate and receive communications. Further, WLAN subscribers must register before the WLAN controller will send to the public wireless controller the signaling message for directing the transmission of communications destined for the one or more public wireless subscribers to the WLAN. Registering the WLAN subscriber 3101, in the simplest form, may include merely “associating” the WLAN subscriber with the WLAN. Additionally, registration also may include “logging” into the WLAN controller. Registration may employ secure connection services such as IEEE 802.11 Wired Equivalency Privacy (WEP), security system identification (SSID), or extensible authentication protocol (EAP). While similar to other wireless formats, registering with the WLAN may involve a different process than registering with a public wireless network, as described above.

[0272] The process of registration of the WLAN subscriber may be illustrated with reference to FIG. 31. FIG. 31 is a simplified communication flow diagram showing the WLAN subscriber registering with the WLAN using the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a, after the mobile station 2764a (i) powers up, (ii) exits from sleep mode, (ii) enters the coverage area of the WLAN, or (iv) otherwise notifies the WLAN of its presence. The communication flows described herein with respect to FIG. 31 are described with reference to FIG. 27, and based on the WLAN complying with the IEEE 802.11 protocol. It is to be understood that other WLAN protocols may also be used.

[0273] First, the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a senses the wireless medium, and if the medium is free, i.e. no other station currently transmitting, then the mobile station 2764a transmits a request for synchronization information 3201 from a wireless access point, such as wireless access point 2758. On the other hand, if the wireless medium is busy, the mobile station 2764a delays transmission for a period of time before re-requesting the synchronization information. Alternatively, the mobile station 2764a may request the synchronization information from another mobile station when the WLAN is operating in ad-hoc mode.

[0274] Mobile station 2764a may receive the synchronization information by passive scanning 3203a, i.e. mobile station 2764a receives a Beacon Frame containing the synchronization information from the wireless access point 2758. Alternatively, mobile station 2764a may receive the synchronization information from the wireless access point 2758 by using an active scanning schema 3203b. The active scanning schema may be accomplished by transmitting Probe Request frames, and then waiting for a Probe Response frame from the wireless access point 2758.

[0275] Second, after the mobile station 2764a is synchronized with wireless access point 2758, the mobile station “authenticates” with the WLAN. To authenticate, the mobile station 2764a exchanges frames, or packet-data, with the wireless access point 2758 that eventually results in the mutual verification of identity of each other. When the mobile station 2764a attempts to authenticate with the wireless access point 2758, the mobile station 2764a sends an authentication request 3205. In response and upon proper identity verification, the wireless access point sends the mobile station 2764a an authentication response 3207 containing an indication of whether the association is successful or unsuccessful. Since IEEE 802.11 provides for the Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) security measure, mobile station 2764a and the wireless access point 2758 may mutually authenticate with each other using WEP. It should be recognized other privacy services such as SSID, and EAP may be used. The benefits and risks for employing privacy mechanisms may depend on accessible content of WLANs, and the subscriber-types. For instance, in-airport flight times accessible by subscriber-travelers may not require encryption mechanisms. On the other hand, a business entity giving WLAN access to a subscriber-consultant may require privacy mechanisms to secure access to confidential data.

[0276] Third, once the mobile station 2764a mutually authenticates with wireless access point 2758, the WLAN subscriber then associates with the WLAN. If, however, either the mobile station 2764a or the wireless access point 2758 do not mutually authenticate, then the wireless access point 2758 de-authenticates or otherwise denies WLAN access to the WLAN subscriber. The wireless access point 2758 will invoke de-authentication when the WLAN subscriber presents incorrect credentials or authentication settings; fails applied IP and medium access control (MAC) layer filters; or otherwise supplies invalid identification information.

[0277] In the process of associating, the WLAN subscriber using mobile station 2764a exchanges information with the wireless access point 2758 to which the mobile station 2764a is also authenticated. As part of the association process, the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a sends an association request 3209. The association request 3209 includes sending the IEEE 802.11 or some other format packet-data (802.11/packet-data) address of the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a. The association request also includes the 802.11/packet-data address of the wireless access point 2758

[0278] In response to the association request, the wireless access point 2758 sends the mobile station 2764a an association response 3211. The association response 3211 contains either a “successful” or an “unsuccessful” result. Upon “successful” association, the response includes an association identifier that notifies the mobile station 2764a that the WLAN had data ready to send to it.

[0279] Once associated, the WLAN subscriber is capable of transmitting and receiving communications, and the WLAN controller may signal the public wireless network controller. Ideally, the capability of transmitting and receiving communications extends to the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a. Additionally, the capability of transmitting and receiving communications may extend to the WLAN subscriber's other wireless and fixed-access communication devices.

[0280] When roaming or otherwise out the coverage area of a particular wireless access point, to transmit and receive communications with other wireless access points, the mobile station 2764a may “re-associate” with the other wireless access points, with or without disassociating with wireless access point 2758. In the re-association process, the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a transmits a re-association request 3213 to another wireless access point, such as wireless access point 3258, which the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a will re-associate. The re-association request 3213 includes (i) the 802.11/packet-data address of the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a, (ii) the 802.11/packet-data address of the wireless access point 2758a, and (iii) the 802.11/packet-data address of the wireless access point 2758. In response to the re-association request, the wireless access point 2758a sends the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a a re-association response 3215 that includes a “successful” or an “unsuccessful” re-association request result, and a second association identifier.

[0281] Once re-associated, the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a is capable of communicating with the wireless access point 3258, and with wireless access point 2758, if still associated with wireless access point 2758. Preferably, the capability of transmitting and receiving communications may extend to the WLAN subscribers other wireless and fixed-access communication devices.

[0282] FIG. 31 also shows a WLAN subscriber de-registering with the WLAN. With reference to FIG. 31, the association between the wireless access point and the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a may be terminated by either de-authentication or by disassociation. To disassociate, either the wireless access point or mobile station 2764a transmits a disassociation notification message 3217. If the WLAN subscriber desires to disassociate with more than one wireless access point, the disassociation notification message 3217 may be broadcast to multiple wireless access points, such as wireless access point 2758 and 3258. Included in the disassociation notification message 3217 is (i) the 802.11/packet-data address of the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a, (ii) the 802.11/packet-data address of wireless access point or points to which the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a is currently associated; and (iii) if necessary, the broadcast 802.11/packet-data address. Upon receipt of the disassociation notification message 3217, the wireless access point or points disassociate, with no response sent to the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a.

[0283] To de-authenticate, the wireless access point 2758 or mobile station 2764a transmits a de-authentication notification message 3219. The de-authentication notification message 3219 is transmitted to the wireless access points in the WLAN, such as wireless access points 2758 and 3258. Included in the de-authentication message 3219 is (i) the 802.11/packet-data address of the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a, (ii) the 802.11/packet-data address of wireless access point to which the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764 is currently authenticated; and (iii) the broadcast 802.11/packet-data address. Upon receipt of the de-authentication message 3219, the wireless access point and mobile station 2764a de-authenticate, and like disassociation, no response is sent to the WLAN subscriber's mobile station. After de-authentication, partial disassociation, or complete disassociation, the WLAN subscriber may no longer exchange communications with the WLAN. Further, upon de-authentication, partial disassociation, or complete disassociation, the WLAN controller may signal the public wireless controller to terminate directing the transmission of communications destined for the one or more public wireless subscribers to the WLAN for transmission to the WLAN subscriber.

[0284] B. Signaling Triggered by Registering with the WLAN

[0285] Referring back to FIG. 30, the process of the WLAN controller sending a signaling message to the public wireless network controller, to direct communications destined for one or more public wireless subscribers to the WLAN for transmission to the WLAN subscriber 3103 may be accomplished in a variety of ways. For example, with reference to FIG. 27, the WLAN controller 2704 may simply send a signaling message to the ISCP 2739 with an indication of the public wireless network subscribers that the WLAN subscriber designated to receive communications from. Then, the ISCP 2739 performs the necessary steps to have the communications forwarded to the WLAN subscriber. Alternatively, the WLAN controller 2704 and the ISCP 2739 may exchange multiple signaling messages so that communications destined for designated public wireless network subscribers are directed to the WLAN for transmission to the WLAN subscriber.

[0286] In an exemplary embodiment, the WLAN controller 2704 may send the signaling message using SS7, IS-41, IS-771, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP), or other standard or protocol. The WLAN controller 2704 may send the signaling message embedded in a transfer protocol message. For instance, the WLAN controller 2704 may send the signaling message using the SMTP, HTTP, FTP, and/or FSP.

[0287] As part of the signaling message, the WLAN controller 2704 sends the indication of the public wireless network subscribers that the WLAN subscriber designated to receive communications from. Depending on the indication type, e.g., the MIN of public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28, the process of sending the indication may include querying one or more databases, e.g., WLAN subscriber profile store 2769, to determine the indication to send. Since the WLAN subscriber may designate more than one public wireless network subscriber, the WLAN controller 2704 may send the indication for each designated public wireless network subscriber, or preferably, may send the indication as a composite of the designated public wireless network subscribers.

[0288] Depending on the configuration of the WLAN controller 2704, and the public wireless network controller, exchanging signaling messages from the WLAN controller 2704 to the public wireless network controller may be implemented in various ways. The signaling messages, whether a single message sent from the WLAN controller 2704 to public wireless network controller, or whether an exchange of messages sent between entities, may be described with reference to the following signaling message cases.

[0289] i. CASE 1: PBX to ISCP

[0290] With reference to FIG. 27, the signaling message sent from the WLAN controller 2704 to the public wireless network controller comprises sending a message with the indication of the designated public wireless network subscribers being the MIN of the mobile station of public wireless subscriber 28. In this case, the public wireless controller comprises the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32.

[0291] The WLAN controller 2704, e.g., a PBX server with IP connectivity or a VoP network server, sends to the internetworking gateway 2741 an SMTP e-mail message containing the MIN of the public wireless subscriber's mobile station 28; preferably sent via the packet-switched data network 2719. The WLAN controller 2704 may send the e-mail message using other transfer protocols. In a preferred embodiment, the e-mail may also contain the address of the WLAN subscriber. The address, however, may be discerned from the SMTP header and/or footer.

[0292] Upon receipt of the SMTP e-mail, the internetworking gateway 2741 strips the SMTP headers and footers, or otherwise parses from the e-mail the MIN of the mobile station 28 from and the address of the WLAN subscriber. The address of the WLAN subscriber may include the e-mail address of the WLAN subscriber, the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber or any other address associated with the WLAN subscriber.

[0293] After parsing the MIN of the mobile station 28, and the address of the WLAN subscriber, the internetworking gateway 2741 then exchanges signaling messages with the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32 to update the ISCP data record 2745 and/or HLR data-record 31. The exchange of signaling messages is preferably performed using the IS-41 signaling system. Included in the exchange of signaling messages is a signaling message containing the public wireless network subscriber's mobile station MIN, which is used for locating the public wireless subscriber's ISCP data record 2745 and/or HLR data-record 31. Once the public wireless subscriber's ISCP data record 2745 and/or HLR data record 31 is located, the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32 execute the proper service logic to update the forward-to address parameter in the ISCP data record 2745 and/or the HLR data record 31 to the address of the WLAN subscriber. Preferably, the forward-to address parameter in the ISCP data-record 2745 and/or HLR data record 31 is updated to reflect the telephone number of the WLAN subscriber. Alternatively, the internetworking gateway 2741, the ISCP 2739, and/or HLR 32 executes service logic to convert or translate the e-mail address of the WLAN subscriber into the telephone number of the WLAN subscriber, which then may be used to update the forward-to address parameter in the ISCP data-record 2745 and/or HLR data-record 31.

[0294] ii. CASE 2: PBX to ISCP

[0295] FIG. 32 is a simplified communication flow diagram showing the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller and a WLAN controller for directing the transmission of communications destined for public wireless subscribers to the WLAN sub scriber. The communication flows described herein with respect to FIG. 32 are described with reference to FIG. 28, and based on (i) the public wireless controller comprising an SCP, e.g., ISCP 2739 or WIN SCP 38; (ii) the WLAN controller comprising a PBX server 2804 coupled to a wireless access point 2758, and a WLAN subscriber profile store 2767, (iii) the WLAN controller complying with the IEEE 802.11 protocol, and (iv) the signaling protocol used to communicate with the SCP is IS-41.

[0296] After authenticating, mobile station 2764a associates with the wireless access point 2758, as described above. Responsive to the association, and acting as a portal to the WLAN, the wireless access point 2758 notifies by sending an association notification 3301 to the PBX server 2804b indicating that the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a has associated. In turn, the PBX server 2804 sends a TCAP Invoke (TCAP_I) message 3303 to ISCP 2739, via one or more STPs. The TCAP_I message 3303 carries in its parameter set (payload) an IS-41 LocationRequest (LOCREQ) message, which in turn carries the MIN of the mobile station of the designated public wireless network subscriber. Alternatively, the payload of the LOCREQ may include the MDN, ESN, telephone number, or other identifier for public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28.

[0297] In response, the ISCP 2739 sends a TCAP Return Result (TCAP_RR) message 3305 to the PBX server 2804. In the payload of TCAP_RR message 3305 is an IS-41 RemoteUserInteractionDirectiveInvoke (RUIDIR) message. The RUIDIR message directs the PBX server 2804 to supply a feature request. The PBX server 2804, in reply, sends a second TCAP_I message 3307 to the ISCP 2739. The payload of the second TCAP_I message 3307 includes an IS-41 RemoteUserInteractionDirectiveInvokeReturnResult (ruidir_rr) message. The ruidir_rr message contains a call forwarding unconditional (CFU) feature request. The PBX server 2804 may send other feature requests, such as call forwarding default (CFD), and call-forwarding no-answer (CFNA). As a parameter of the CFU feature request, the PBX server 2804 sends the ISCP 2739 a forward-to address. The forward-to address parameter, for example, may be the telephone number of assigned to the WLAN subscriber by the PBX server 2804. The forward-to address parameter, in the case, may also include the telephone number assigned to the PBX server, the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a, the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber's other wireless or fixed-access stations (not shown), or any other address associated with the WLAN subscriber.

[0298] Upon receipt of the second TCAP_I message 3307, the ISCP 2739 processes the ruidir_rr message containing the CFU feature request, and then updates the ISCP data record 2745 for to reflect the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber. The ISCP 2739 then sends the PBX server 2804 a second TCAP_RR message 3309 containing second RUIDIR message. The second RUIDIR message contains a confirmation of the feature request success or failure, and a new feature request. Upon receipt of the second TCAP_RR message 3309, the PBX server 2804 may terminate the signaling exchange by sending a third TCAP_I message 3311 containing a null ruidur_rr message. Optionally, TCAP messages may be continually exchanged between the ISCP 2739 and the PBX server 2804 until no more feature services updates are desired. Moreover, if the WLAN subscriber designates more than one public wireless network subscribers, the ISCP 2739 and PBX server 2804 may repeat the message exchange for each designated public wireless network subscriber. After the last exchange of RUIDIR/ruidir messages, the ISCP 2739 completes the signaling by sending the PBX server 2804 a third TCAP_RR message 3313 carrying the IS-41 loqreq_rr message.

[0299] With the forward-to address parameter of the ISCP data record 2745 reflecting the telephone number of the WLAN subscriber, the ISCP 2739 may issue an IS-41 QUALDIR message 3315 to update the VLR 33 that is referenced or integrated into the MSC 16. In this case, MSC 16 is the MSC that serves public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28, if the mobile station 28 is registered. If the public wireless network subscriber mobile station 28 is unregistered, the ISCP 2739 may instead issue the QUALDIR message 3317 to the HLR 32, which serves the public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28.

[0300] Upon receipt of the QUALDIR message 3315, MSC 16 updates forward-to address parameter in the VLR 33 to reflect the telephone number of the WLAN subscriber. MSC 16 then sends the ISCP 2739 a qualdir_rr message 3319 acknowledging the receipt of the service qualification information of the QUALDIR message. Like MSC 16, when the HLR 32 receives the QUALDIR message 3317, it processes the service qualification information and updates the forward-to address parameter in the HLR data-record 31 for to reflect the telephone number of the WLAN subscriber. After updating its data record for the public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28, the HLR 32 sends the ISCP 2739 a qualdir_rr message 3321 acknowledging the service qualification information.

[0301] The ISCP 2739, however, may not issue the QUALDIR message, but rather, wait for the MSC 16 to issue a REGNOT message (not shown) when communications destined for the public wireless subscriber's mobile station 28 arrive at MSC 16. In such case, the ISCP 2739 replies with a regnot_rr (not shown). Then, the ISCP 2739 and MSC 16 exchange the service qualification information as described above.

[0302] iii. CASE 3: PBX to ISCP with Subscriber Query

[0303] FIG. 33 is a simplified communication flow diagram showing the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller and a WLAN controller for directing the transmission of communications destined for public wireless subscribers to the WLAN subscriber. The simplified communication flow diagram shown in FIG. 33 is similar to the communication flow diagram shown in FIG. 32, except as described herein.

[0304] In a preferred embodiment, WLAN subscriber associates with the wireless access point 2758, as described above. Responsive to the association, the wireless access point 2758 notifies the PBX server 2804 that WLAN subscriber has associated by sending an association notification 3401. Preferably, the wireless access point 2758 sends the association notification 3401 to the PBX server 2804 via the PDTG 2856. The association notification 3401 may be simply sending a flag or some other identifier to the PDTG 2856. The association notification 3401, however, may be more complex, e.g., sending the 802.11/packet-data address of WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a to the PDTG 2856.

[0305] In the more complex case, the PDTG 2856 may translate the 802.11/packet-data address of the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a into the telephone number assigned to WLAN subscriber. Further, the PDTG 2856 may perform one or more intermediate translations on the 802.11/packet-data address assigned to the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a, to yield an IEEE 802.3 or other format packet-data address (IEEE/packet-data address), which may be assigned to the WLAN subscriber. To facilitate the translations from 802.11/packet-data and/or IEEE/packet-data to WLAN subscriber telephone number, the PDTG 2856 may reference the IPE module 2852. Alternatively, the PDTG 2856 may reference the translation map in the PDTG database 2856a for the telephone number assigned to WLAN subscriber.

[0306] After determining the telephone number assigned to WLAN subscriber, the PDTG 2856 queries the WLAN subscriber profile store 2767 for the WLAN subscriber record 2769. The PDTG 2856 then parses WLAN subscriber record 2769 for the indication that corresponds to the one or more public wireless subscribers that the WLAN subscriber designated to receive communications from. With this indication, e.g., the MIN of the public wireless subscriber's mobile station 28, the PDTG 2856 then interfaces with the CDTG 2854, so that the CDTG 2854 may exchange the TCAP encapsulated IS-41 signaling messages with the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32. The exchange of TCAP encapsulated IS-41 signaling messages may occur as described in case two above, with the LOCREQ carrying the MIN of the public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28.

[0307] It should be realized that other messages and measures might be exchanged between the CDTG 2854, the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32 to facilitate the updating the forward-to address parameter in data-record of VLR 33 and HLR 32. For instance, for security purposes, any exchange of signaling messages may require security measures, such as personal identification numbers and other security codes for subscriber authentication, and transmission integrity. Further, to update the forward-to-address parameter in the HLR data-record 31 with the address assigned to the WLAN subscriber, the HLR 32 may make the corresponding public wireless subscribers' mobile stations inactive in the public wireless network or cancel the registration of the mobile stations in certain cells.

[0308] iv. CASE 4: PBX to Internetworking Gateway

[0309] FIG. 34 is a simplified communication flow diagram showing the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller and a WLAN controller for directing the transmission of communications destined for public wireless subscribers to the WLAN subscriber. Further, FIG. 34 is a simplified communication flow diagram showing the signaling that is sent from a WLAN controller comprising a PBX server 2804 to a public wireless controller over a packet-switched data network. The simplified communication flow diagram shown in FIG. 34 is similar to the communication flow diagram shown in FIG. 33, except as described herein.

[0310] After obtaining the indication of that corresponds to the one or more public wireless subscribers that the WLAN subscriber designated to receive communications from, the PDTG 2856 sends an IS-41 signaling message for updating feature services to the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32 via an internetworking gateway 2741. To initiate the update in feature services in the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32, PDTG 2856 may send the IS-41 signaling message embedded in an SMTP format e-mail message 3501 to the internetworking gateway 2741. Included in the embedded payload of the e-mail is an IS-41 LOCREQ signaling message, which contains the indication of the public wireless network subscriber that resulted from the parsing of the WLAN subscriber record 2769. In this case, the indication is the MDNs of the public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28.

[0311] The internetworking gateway 2741 strips the SMTP headers and/or footers and re-assembles, or otherwise parses, the IS-41 LOCREQ signaling message from the e-mail message 3501. The internetworking gateway 2741 then signals the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32 with the IS-41 LOCREQ message 3503 carrying the MDN of the designated public wireless subscriber's mobile station 28. The ISCD 2739 and/or HLR 32 processes the LOCREQ message and returns a RUIDIR message 3505 that directs the internetworking gateway 2741 to provide a feature request. The internetworking gateway 2741 then transforms the RUIDIR message into a second e-mail message 3507; the contents of which include the feature request. Next, the internetworking gateway 2741 sends the second e-mail message 3507 containing the transformed RUIDIR message to the PDTG 2856.

[0312] In reply, the PDTG 2856 sends a third e-mail message 3509 containing an ruidir_rr return message to the internetworking gateway 2741. The contents of the ruidir_rr message may include a CFU or a CFD feature service in which the forward-to address parameter reflects the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber. The internetworking gateway 2741 strips the e-mail headers and/or footers and re-assembles, or otherwise parses, the IS-41 ruidir_rr signaling message 3511. The internetworking gateway 2741 then signals the ISCP 2739 and/or the HLR 32 by sending the IS-41 ruidir_rr message 3511, which carries the CFU or CFD with the forward-to address parameter reflecting the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber.

[0313] The ISCP 2739 processes the CFU or CFD feature request and updates the forward-to address parameter in the ISCP data record 2745 to reflect the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber. Similarly, HLR 32 processes the CFU or CFD feature request and updates the forward-to address parameter in the HLR data record 31 to reflect the telephone number of the WLAN subscriber. The ISCP 2739 and/or the HLR 32 send the internetworking gateway 2741 a second RUIDIR message 3513 that contains the confirmation of the CFU or CFD feature request, and a request any additional feature requests. The internetworking gateway 2741 transforms the IS-41 RUIDIR signaling message into a fourth SMTP message 3515, and sends the fourth SMTP message 3515 to the PDTG 2856.

[0314] If no other feature request is desired, the PDTG 3256 terminates the exchange of signaling message by sending the internetworking gateway 2741 a fifth SMTP e-mail within an encapsulated null ruidir_rr message 3517. The internetworking gateway 2741 strips the e-mail headers and/or footers and re-assembles, or otherwise parses, the IS-41 null ruidir_rr message 3519. The internetworking gateway 2741 then signals the ISCP 2739 and/or the HLR 32 by sending the IS-41 null ruidir_rr message 3521. In response, the ISCP 2739 and/or the HLR 32 sends the internetworking gateway 2741 an IS-41 loqreq_rr to message 3521 to complete the signaling session. The internetworking gateway 2741 transforms the IS-41 loqreq_rr signaling message 3521 into a sixth SMTP message 3523, and sends the transformed signaling message to the PDTG 2856, which ends the signaling session with the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32.

[0315] v. CASE 5: PBX to Internetworking Gateway with Subscriber Query

[0316] FIG. 35 is a simplified communication flow diagram showing the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller and a WLAN controller for directing the transmission of communications destined for public wireless subscribers to the WLAN subscriber. The simplified communication flow diagram shown in FIG. 35 is similar to the communication flow diagram shown in FIG. 34, except as described herein.

[0317] In this case, the PDTG 2856 may send the IS-41 signaling messages to the internetworking gateway 2741 using SIP, e.g., Instant Messaging using SIP. Included in the content or payload of the first SIP Instant Message 3601 is the IS-41 LOCREQ signaling message that contains the indication of the public wireless network subscriber that resulted from the query of the WLAN subscriber record 2769. In this case, this indication is the direct dial telephone number of the mobile station of the designated public wireless network subscriber, e.g., mobile station 28.

[0318] The internetworking gateway 2741 parses the IS-41 LOCREQ signaling message from the Instant Message. The internetworking gateway 2741 then signals the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32 with the IS-41 LOCREQ message 3603 carrying the direct dial telephone number of the public wireless network mobile station 28. The ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32 processes the LOCREQ message and returns a RUIDIR message 3605 that directs the internetworking gateway 2741 to provide a feature request. The internetworking gateway 2741 then transforms the RUIDIR message 3605 into a second Instant Message 3607, the contents of which include the feature request.

[0319] The internetworking gateway 2741 sends the second Instant Message 3607 containing the transformed RUIDIR message to the PDTG 2856. Responsively, the PDTG 2856 sends a third Instant Message 3609 containing an ruidir_rr message 3611 to the internetworking gateway 2741. The contents of the ruidir_rr message 3611 may include a CFU feature service in which the forward-to address parameter reflects the IEEE/packet-data or 802.11/packet-data address assigned to, or otherwise associated, with the WLAN subscriber. The internetworking gateway 2741 parses the IS-41 ruidir_rr message 3611 and sends the ISCP 2739 and/or the HLR 32 the IS-41 ruidir_rr if message 3611.

[0320] The ISCP 2739 processes the CFU feature request and updates the forward-to parameter in the ISCP data record 2745 to reflect the IEEE/packet-data or 802.11/packet-data address assigned to, or otherwise associated with, the WLAN subscriber. Similarly, HLR 32 processes the CFU feature request and updates the forward-to address parameter in the HLR data-record 31 to reflect the IEEE/packet-data or 802.11/packet-data address assigned to, or otherwise associated with, the WLAN subscriber.

[0321] The ISCP 2739 and/or the HLR 32 then sends the internetworking gateway 2741 a second RUIDIR message 3613 that contains the confirmation of the CFU feature request, and a new feature request. The internetworking gateway 2741 embeds the IS-41 RUIDIR message 3613 into a fourth Instant Message 3615, and sends the fourth Instant Message with the embedded RUIDIR message 3613 to the PDTG 2856.

[0322] If no other feature request is desired, the PDTG 3256 terminates the exchange of signaling message by sending the internetworking gateway 2741 a fifth Instant Message 3617 carrying a null ruidir_rr if message 3619. The internetworking gateway 2741 parses the IS-41 ruidir_rr message 3619, and then signals the ISCP 2739 and/or the HLR 32 by sending the IS-41 null ruidir_rr message 3619. In response, the ISCP 2739 and/or the HLR 32 sends the internetworking gateway 2741 an IS-41 loqreq_rr message 3621 to complete signaling session between the internetworking gateway 2741. The internetworking gateway 2741 transforms the IS-41 loqreq_rr message 3621 into a sixth Instant Message 3623, and sends the sixth Instant Message 3623 carrying the transformed locreq_rr message to the PDTG 2856, which ends the signaling session between the PDTG 2856 and the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32.

[0323] It should be realized that other instructions may be exchanged between the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32, the internetworking gateway 2741, and the PDTG 2856 to facilitate the updating forward-to address parameter in the ISCP data record 2745 and/or or the HLR data record 31 for the public wireless network subscriber's mobile station to reflect the IEEE/packet-data and/or 802.11/packet-data address of the WLAN subscriber. Further, for security purposes, any communications between the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32, the internetworking gateway 2741, and the PDTG 2856 may require digital signatures, and/or secure socket layer (SSL) or other high encryption mechanisms.

[0324] vi. CASE 6: VoP Network Server to ISCP

[0325] FIG. 36 is a simplified communication flow diagram showing the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller and a WLAN controller for directing the transmission of communications destined for the designated public wireless subscriber mobile station 28 that are to be forwarded to the WLAN subscriber. The communications flows described herein with respect to FIG. 36 are described with reference to FIG. 29, and based on (i) the public wireless controller comprising an SCP, e.g., ISCP 2739; (ii) the WLAN controller comprising VoP network-server 2907 coupled to wireless access point 2758, and the WLAN subscriber profile store 2767; and (iii) the WLAN controller complies with the IEEE 802.11 protocol. Further, the simplified communication flow diagram shown in FIG. 36 is similar to the communication flow diagram shown in FIG. 32, except as described herein.

[0326] The WLAN subscriber authenticates and associates with the wireless access point, as described above. In response to association, the wireless access point 2758 notifies the VoP network server 2907 that the WLAN subscriber mobile station 2764a has associated by sending an association notification 3701. The VoP network server 2907 sends a TCAP_I message 3703 to ISCP 2739, via one or more STPs. The TCAP_I message 3703 carries in its parameter set (payload) an IS-41 LOCREQ message that contains the indication of the designated public wireless network subscriber, e.g., the MIN of the public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28.

[0327] The ISCP 2739 sends a TCAP_RR message 3705 to the VoP network server 2907. In the payload of the TCAP_RR message 3705 is an IS-41 RUIDIR message, which directs the VoP network server 2907 to supply a feature request. In reply, the VoP network server 2907 sends to the ISCP 2739 a second TCAP_I message 3707 to the ISCP 2739 in which the payload contains an IS-41 ruidir_rr message. The ruidir_rr message contains a CFU feature request. The VoP network server 2907 may send other feature requests, such as CFD and CFNA. As part of the CFU feature request, the VoP network server 2907 sends the address assigned to the WLAN subscriber in the CFU's forward-to address parameter. The forward-to address parameter may contain the telephone number or IEEE/packet-data address associated with the VoP network server 2907; the telephone number, 802.11/packet-data address, or the IEEE/packet-data address associated with the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a; the telephone number, 8021.11/packet-data address, or the IEEE/packet-data address associated with of the WLAN subscriber's other wireless or fixed-access stations (not shown); and/or any other address associated with the WLAN subscriber.

[0328] Upon receipt of the second TCAP_I message 3707, the ISCP 2739 processes the ruidir_rr message containing the CFU feature request, and then updates the ISCP data record 2745 to reflect the address assigned to the WLAN subscriber. The ISCP 2739 then sends the VoP network server 2907 a second TCAP_RR message 3709 containing second RUIDIR message. The second RUIDIR message contains a confirmation of the feature request success or failure, and a new feature request. Upon receipt of the second TCAP_RR message 3709, the VoP network server 2907 may terminate the signaling exchange by sending a third TCAP_I message 3711 containing a null ruidur_rr message. Optionally, TCAP messages may be continually exchanged between the ISCP 2739 and the VoP Network server 2907 until no more feature services updates are desired. Moreover, if the WLAN subscriber designates more than one public wireless network subscribers, the ISCP 2739 and VoP network server 2907 may repeat the message exchange for each designated public wireless network subscriber. After the last exchange of RUIDIR/ruidir messages, the ISCP 2739 completes the signaling by sending the VoP network server 2907 a third TCAP_RR message 3713 carrying the IS-41 loqreq_rr message.

[0329] With the forward-to address parameter of the ISCP data record 2745 for public wireless network subscriber' mobile station 28 reflecting the address of the WLAN subscriber, the ISCP 2739 and the VoP network server 2907 may exchange signaling messages to update the VLR 33 and/or HLR 32 to reflect the address assigned to, or otherwise associated with, the public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28.

[0330] vii. CASE 7: VoP Network Server to ISCP/HLR with Subscriber Query

[0331] FIG. 37 is a simplified communication flow diagram showing the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller and a WLAN controller for directing the transmission of communications destined for the designated public wireless subscribers that are to be forwarded to the WLAN subscriber. Further, the simplified communication flow diagram shown in FIG. 37 is similar to the communication flow diagram shown in FIG. 36, except as described herein.

[0332] The WLAN subscriber authenticates and associates with the wireless access point, as described above. Preferably, the wireless access point 2758 notifies the VoP network server 2907 via the media gateway 2907b. To facilitate the notifying the VoP network server 2907, the wireless access point 2758 sends an association notification 3801 carrying the 802.11/packet-data address of the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a. The media gateway 2907b may translate the 802.11/packet-data address of the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a in the association notification 3801 into an intermediate IEEE/packet-data address for transmission to the media gateway controller 2907c. The media gateway 2907b, however, may not perform an intermediate translation.

[0333] The media gateway 2907b forwards the association notification 3801 to the media gateway controller 2907c so that the media gateway controller 2907c may translate the 802.11/packet-data or IEEE/packet-data address into the telephone number assigned to WLAN subscriber. To facilitate the translation from the 802.11/packet-data or IEEE/packet-data address, the media gateway controller 2907c send a query request to the VoP network server database 2705a for the telephone number that corresponds to the telephone number assigned to WLAN subscriber. Alternatively, the media gateway controller 2907c, itself, resolves the translation from the 802.11/packet-data or IEEE/packet-data address to the telephone number assigned to WLAN subscriber.

[0334] The VoP network server 2907, or more particularly, the media gateway controller 2907c, queries the WLAN subscriber profile store 2969 for the WLAN subscriber record 2967. The media gateway controller 2907c then parses the WLAN subscriber record 2969 for the indication that corresponds to the public wireless network subscribers' mobile station 28. With this indication, e.g., the MIN of the public wireless subscriber's mobile station 28, the media gateway controller 2907c then interfaces with the signaling controller 2907a, so that the signaling controller 29076a may exchange the TCAP encapsulated IS-41 signaling messages with the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32. The exchange of TCAP encapsulated IS-41 signaling messages may occur as described in case 6 above, except that the signaling controller 2907a exchanges the TCAP messages with the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32, and the LOCREQ message carries the MIN of the public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28.

[0335] viii. CASE 8: VoP Network Server to Internetworking Gateway

[0336] FIG. 38 is a simplified communication flow diagram showing the signaling that is exchanged between a public wireless controller and a WLAN controller for directing the transmission of communications destined for the designated public wireless subscribers that are to be forwarded to the WLAN subscriber. Further, the simplified communication flow diagram shown in FIG. 38 is similar to the communication flow diagram shown in FIG. 37, except as described herein.

[0337] After obtaining the query results from the WLAN subscriber profile record 2769, the media gateway 2907b sends a first SIP Instant Message 3901 containing an encapsulated IS-41 LOCREQ message 3903 to the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32 via internetworking gateway 2714. Alternatively, the media gateway 2907b may send the IS-41 LOCREQ message according to other protocols, such as the Media Gateway Control Protocol (MGCP). The IS-41 LOCREQ message 3903 contains the indication that corresponds to the public wireless network subscribers' mobile station 28 that resulted from the query of the WLAN subscriber profile record 2769.

[0338] Transparent to the media gateway, the internetworking gateway 2741 parses, or otherwise extracts, the IS-41 LOCREQ message 3903 from the first SIP Instance Message 3901. The internetworking gateway 2741 then sends the IS-41 LOCREQ message 3903 to the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32. The ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32 processes the LOCREQ message 3903, and returns an RUIDIR message 3905 that directs the media gateway 2907b to provide a feature request. Again transparent to the media gateway 2907b, the internetworking gateway 2941 then transforms the RUIDIR message 3905 into a second SIP Instant Message 3907 containing the feature request, and sends the SIP Instant message 3907 the media gateway 2907b.

[0339] In reply, the media gateway 2907b sends to the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32 via the internetworking gateway 2741 a third SIP Instant Message 3909 message containing an ruidir_rr message 3911. The contents of the ruidir_rr message 3911 may include a CFU feature service in which the forward-to address parameter reflects the address assigned to the WLAN subscriber. The internetworking gateway 2741, transparent to the media gateway 2907b, parses the IS-41 ruidir_rr message 3911 from the third SIP Instant Message 3909, and sends the IS-41 ruidir_rr message 3911 to the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32.

[0340] As in other cases, the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32 processes the CFU feature request and updates the ISCP data record 2745 and/or the HLR data-record 31, respectively, so that the forward-to address parameter reflects the address assigned to the WLAN subscriber. Then, the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32, via the internetworking gateway 2741, sends the media gateway 2907b a second IS-41 RUIDIR message 3913 that contains the confirmation of the CFNA feature request, and a new feature request. The internetworking gateway 2741 then transforms the IS-41 RUIDIR message 3913 into a fourth SIP Instant Message 3915, and sends the fourth SIP Instant Message 3915 to the media gateway 2907b.

[0341] If no other feature request is desired, the media gateway 2907b sends to the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32, via the internetworking gateway 2741, a fifth SIP Instant Message 3917 containing an IS-41 null ruidir_rr message 3919. Next, the internetworking gateway 2741 parses the IS-41 null ruidir_rr message 3919 from the fifth SIP Instant Message 3917, and forwards the IS-41 null ruidir_rr message 3919 to the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32. In reply, the ISCP 2739 and/or HLR 32, via the internetworking gateway 2741, sends to the media gateway 2907b a sixth SIP Instant Message 3921 containing an IS-41 locreq_rr message 3923. Upon receipt of the IS-41 locreq_rr message 3923, the signaling message exchange terminates.

[0342] C. Public Wireless Network Controller Directs Communications

[0343] Referring back to FIG. 30, the process of directing the transmission of communications destined for one or more public wireless network subscribers to the WLAN for transmission to the WLAN subscriber includes the public wireless network controller responding to the signaling message, and directing such communications to the WLAN. In response to the signaling sent or exchanged between the WLAN controller and the public wireless controller, the public wireless controller may direct the transmission of communications destined for the one or more public wireless network subscribers to the WLAN using a circuit switched network, such as a PSTN, and/or a packet-switched data network, such as the Internet.

[0344] An exemplary embodiment of directing the transmission of communications destined for the one or more public wireless network subscribers to the WLAN may be illustrated with reference to FIG. 27. When a communication destined for one of the public wireless network subscribers, arrives at a serving MSC, such as MSC 16, and the forward-to parameter in VLR 33 reflects the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber, the MSC 16 directs the originating system to forward the communication to that telephone number. Preferably, the communication is forwarded via the PSTN 18.

[0345] Alternatively, when a communication destined for the public wireless network subscriber arrives at MSC 16, MSC 16 may send the HLR 32 an IS-41 LOCREQ message. In response, the HLR 32 sends the originating system a locreq_rr message with the forward-to number parameter reflecting the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber. The originating system then forwards the communication to the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber.

[0346] Referring now to FIG. 28, directing the communication destined for one or more public wireless network subscribers, which the WLAN subscriber designated to receive communications from, may be illustrated by MSC 16 receiving a communication for public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28 from an originating system, such as the PSTN. When a communication destined for public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28 arrives at the MSC 16, the MSC 16 sends the HLR 32 an IS-41 LOCREQ message. In response, the HLR 32 sends the originating system a locreq_rr message carrying the forward-to number, which is the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber. The originating system then forwards the communication to the telephone number assigned to the PBX server 2804.

[0347] Upon receipt at the PBX server 2804, the circuit-data telephony gateway (CDTG) 2854 performs the signaling functions to connect the communication, possibly referencing the IPE module 2852 for phone number translation. The PDTG 2856 converts the signaling and content into packet-data for transport to the 802.11/packet-data or IEEE/packet-data address of the WLAN subscriber. The PDTG 2856 transmits the converted packet-data communication to the wireless access point 2758. As a portal to the WLAN, the wireless access point 2758 may translate the converted packet-data communication sent from the PDTG 2856 into an IEEE 802.11 packet-data communication. The wireless access point 2758 then transmits the IEEE 802.11/packet-data communication to the WLAN subscriber. The wireless access point 2758 preferably terminates the IEEE/packet-data communication to the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2764a. Otherwise, the communication may be directed to the WLAN subscriber's voice-mail, e-mail, pager or other service, if any.

[0348] In another exemplary embodiment, the process of directing a communication destined for one or more public wireless network subscribers, which the WLAN subscriber designated to receive communications from, may be described with reference to FIG. 29. For example, when a communication for public wireless network subscriber's mobile station 28 arrives at MSC 6, the MSC 16 sends the HLR 32 an IS-41 LOCREQ message. In response, the HLR 32 sends the originating system a locreq_rr message, with the forward-to number parameter reflecting the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber. The originating system then forwards the communication to the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber, via the PSTN 18 and the VoP network server 2907.

[0349] Upon receipt at the VoP network server 2907, the media gateway 2907a detects the communication and notifies the media gateway controller 2907c so that the media gateway controller 2907c may coordinate the signaling between the media gateway 2907b and the signaling controller 2907a. The signaling controller 2907a performs signaling functions to connect the communication with the PSTN 18. Then, the media gateway controller 2907c translates the telephone number assigned to the WLAN subscriber into the 802.11/packet-data or IEEE/packet-data address also assigned to the WLAN subscriber.

[0350] Next, the media gateway controller 2907c forwards the communication to the wireless access point 2758 for transmission to the WLAN subscriber. If the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2964a is actively connected with the wireless access point 2958, then the communication is terminated to the WLAN subscriber's mobile station 2964a. Otherwise, the communication may be directed to the WLAN subscriber's voice-mail, e-mail, pager or other service, if any.

[0351] In yet another embodiment, when a communication destined for the one or more public wireless subscribers, which the WLAN subscriber designated as a public wireless network subscriber to receive communication from, arrives at a serving MSC, such as MSC 16, the MSC 16 sends to the HLR 32 an IS-41 LOCREQ signaling message. With the HLR 32 programmed to forward communications to the 802.11/packet-data or IEEE/packet-data address assigned to the WLAN subscriber, the HLR 32 sends the MSC 16 a locreq_rr message that contains the packet-data address assigned to the WLAN subscriber in the forward-to address parameter. The communication is then forwarded to the packet-data address assigned to the WLAN subscriber. Preferably, the communication is forwarded directly from the MSC 16 to the VoP network server 2907.

[0352] When the VoP network server 2907 receives the communication, the media gateway 2907b detects the communication, and notifies the media gateway controller 2907c of the communication. The media gateway controller 2907c then intermediates the communication between the media gateway 2907b, and the MSC 16. The media gateway controller 2907c may intermediate the communication using the Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP) or other VoP transport protocol. Once the RTP session is setup, the media gateway controller 2907c informs the media gateway 4207b to begin communication with the MSC 16. The communication is then forwarded to the wireless access point 2758 for transmission to the WLAN subscriber.

13. Additional Flow Charts

[0353] FIGS. 39-41 are flow charts depicting functions carried out by a system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The system comprises a public wireless network subscriber profile store in a public wireless network, a public wireless network controller, and a wireless network controller. The public wireless network subscriber profile store would include for a public wireless network subscriber a public wireless network subscriber record, which would have a forward-to parameter settable to indicate an address to which communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber should be forwarded. The public wireless network controller would be for directing the transmission of communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber. And the wireless local area network controller would be for (i) associating a wireless local area network subscriber with a wireless local area network and (ii) directing the transmission of communications destined for the wireless local area network subscriber.

[0354] As shown in FIG. 39, at step 3980, the wireless local area network subscriber associates with the wireless local area network. At step 3982, in response to the wireless local area network subscriber associating with the wireless local area network, the wireless local area network controller then refers to a local profile record for the wireless local area network subscriber to determine the public wireless network subscriber whose communications should be forwarded to the wireless local area network subscriber and the wireless local area network controller then sends to the public wireless network controller at least one signaling message specifying as a forward-to address an address of the wireless local area network subscriber selected from the group consisting of a telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber, an e-mail address of the wireless local area network subscriber, an IEEE/packet-data address of the wireless local area network subscriber, and an 802.11/packet-data address of the wireless local area network subscriber, so as to cause the forward-to parameter for the determined public wireless network subscriber to be set to the specified forward-to address of the wireless local area network subscriber.

[0355] In turn, at step 3984, upon receiving the at least one signaling message, the public wireless network controller sets the forward-to parameter in the public wireless network subscriber record to indicate the specified forward-to address of the wireless local area network subscriber, so as to indicate that communications destined to the public wireless network subscriber should be forwarded to the specified forward-to address of the wireless local area network subscriber.

[0356] FIG. 40 then assumes that the wireless local area network controller comprises a PBX server, that the address of the wireless local area network subscriber is a telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber, attributed to the wireless local area network subscriber by the PBX server, and that the PBX server also provides for disassociating the wireless local area network subscriber with the wireless local area network.

[0357] Thus, as shown in FIG. 40, at step 4000, the wireless local area network subscriber disassociates with the wireless local area network. At step 4002, in response to the wireless local area network subscriber disassociating with the wireless local area network, the PBX server then sends the public wireless network controller at least one further signaling message to cancel forwarding of communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber to the telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber. And at step 4004, the public wireless network controller then responsively cancels the forwarding of communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber to the telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber.

[0358] FIG. 41 next assumes that when the wireless local area network subscriber associates with the wireless local area network, the wireless local area network controller sends to the public wireless network controller at least one signaling message specifying as a forward-to address an address of the wireless local area network subscriber selected from the group consisting of a telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber, an e-mail address of the wireless local area network subscriber, an IEEE/packet-data address of the wireless local area network subscriber, and an 802.11/packet-data address of the wireless local area network subscriber. Further, the figure assumes that, in response to the at least one signaling message, the public wireless network controller sets the forward-to parameter in the public wireless network subscriber record to indicate the specified forward-to address of the wireless local area network subscriber, so as to indicate that communications destined to the public wireless network subscriber should be forwarded to the specified forward-to address of the wireless local area network subscriber.

[0359] As shown in FIG. 41, at step 4100, the wireless local area network subscriber disassociates with the wireless local area network. At step 4102, in response to the wireless local area network subscriber disassociating with the wireless local area network, the PBX server then sends the public wireless network controller at least one further signaling message to cancel forwarding of communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber to the address of the wireless local area network subscriber. And at step 4104, the public wireless network controller then responsively cancels the forwarding of communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber to the address of the wireless local area network subscriber.

[0360] Finally, FIG. 42 is a flow chart depicting a mobility management method in accordance with the exemplary embodiment. As shown in FIG. 43, at step 4200, a wireless local area network subscriber associates with a wireless local area network. At step 4202, in response to the wireless local area network subscriber associating with the wireless local area network, the wireless local area network sends at least one signaling message to a public wireless network controller to cause the public wireless network controller to set a forward-to parameter for at least one designated public wireless network subscriber to be a telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber. In turn, at step 4204, the public wireless network controller then responsively sets the forward-to parameter for the at least one designated public wireless network subscriber to be the telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber, so that communications destined for the at least one designated public wireless network subscriber will then be forwarded to the telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber.

[0361] Further, at step 4206, the wireless local area network subscriber disassociates from the wireless local area network. And at step 4208, in response to the wireless local area network subscriber disassociating from the wireless local area network, the wireless local area network sends at least one further signaling message to the public wireless network controller, to cancel forwarding of communications destined for the at least one designated public wireless network subscriber to the telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber. Further, at step 4210, the public wireless network controller responsively cancels the forwarding of communications destined for the at least one designated public wireless network subscriber to the telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber.

[0362] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention has been illustrated and described. It will be understood, however, that changes and modifications may be made to the invention without deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A system comprising:

a public wireless network subscriber profile store in a public wireless network, the public wireless network subscriber profile store including for a public wireless network subscriber a public wireless network subscriber record, the public wireless network subscriber record having a forward-to parameter settable to indicate an address to which communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber should be forwarded;

a public wireless network controller in the public wireless network, for directing the transmission of communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber; and

a wireless local area network controller for (i) associating a wireless local area network subscriber with a wireless local area network, and (ii) directing the transmission of communications destined for the wireless local area network subscriber,

wherein, in response to the wireless local area network subscriber associating with the wireless local area network, the wireless local area network controller refers to a local profile record for the wireless local area network subscriber to determine the public wireless network subscriber whose communications should be forwarded to the wireless local area network subscriber and the wireless local area network controller then sends to the public wireless network controller at least one signaling message specifying as a forward-to address an address of the wireless local area network subscriber selected from the group consisting of a telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber, an e-mail address of the wireless local area network subscriber, an IEEE/packet-data address of the wireless local area network subscriber, and an 802.11/packet-data address of the wireless local area network subscriber, so as to cause the forward-to parameter for the determined public wireless network subscriber to be set to the specified forward-to address of the wireless local area network subscriber, and

wherein, upon receiving the at least one signaling message, the public wireless network controller sets the forward-to parameter in the public wireless network subscriber record to indicate the specified forward-to address of the wireless local area network subscriber, so as to indicate that communications destined to the public wireless network subscriber should be forwarded to the specified forward-to address of the wireless local area network subscriber.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one signaling message carries both a mobile identification number (MIN) of the public wireless network subscriber and the address of the wireless local area network subscriber.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the address of the wireless local area network subscriber is a telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the local profile record contains a designation of at least the public wireless network subscriber, the designation having been provided by wireless local area network subscriber.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the public wireless network controller comprises a switch.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the public wireless network controller comprises a service control point (SCP).

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the public wireless network controller comprises a home location register (HLR).

8. The system of claim 1, further comprising a home location register (HLR), wherein the public wireless network controller references the HLR to determine where to direct the transmission of communications destined for public wireless network subscribers.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the wireless local area network controller comprises a switch.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the wireless local area network controller comprises an IEEE 802 compliant network server.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the wireless local area network controller comprises a wireless access point for associating wireless local area network subscribers, over an air interface, with the wireless local area network, and for transmitting the communications to the wireless local area network subscribers.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the wireless local area network controller comprises a mail server.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the wireless local area network controller comprises a Private Branch Exchange (PBX) server.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the address of the wireless local area network subscriber is a telephone member of the wireless local area network subscriber, the telephone number being attributed to the wireless local area network subscriber by the PBX server.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one signaling message comprises a signaling message selected from the group consisting of an SMTP message, an HTTP message, an FTP message, an FSP message, an MGCP message, and a SIP message.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein the address of the wireless local area network subscriber is a telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber.

17. A system comprising:

a public wireless network controller in the public wireless network, for directing the transmission of communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber; and

wherein, in response to the wireless local area network subscriber associating with the wireless local area network, the wireless local area network controller sends to the public wireless network controller at least one signaling message specifying as a forward-to address an address of the wireless local area network subscriber selected from the group consisting of a telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber, an e-mail address of the wireless local area network subscriber, an IEEE/packet-data address of the wireless local area network subscriber, and an 802.11/packet-data address of the wireless local area network subscriber, and

wherein the wireless local area network controller comprises a Private Branch Exchange (PBX) server,

wherein the address of the wireless local area network subscriber is a telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber, the telephone number being attributed to the wireless local area network subscriber by the PBX server,

wherein the PBX server also provides for disassociating the wireless local area network subscriber with the wireless local area network,

wherein, in response to the wireless local area network subscriber disassociating with the wireless local area network, the PBX server sends the public wireless network controller at least one further signaling message to cancel forwarding of communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber to the telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber, and

wherein, the public wireless network controller then responsively cancels the forwarding of communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber to the telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber.

18. A system comprising:

a public wireless network controller in the public wireless network, for directing the transmission of communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber; and

wherein the wireless local area network controller also provides for disassociating wireless local area network subscriber with the wireless local area network,

wherein, in response to a given wireless local area network subscriber disassociating with the wireless local area network, the wireless local area network controller sends the public wireless network controller at least one further signaling message to cancel forwarding of communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber to the address of the wireless local area network subscriber, and

wherein, the public wireless network controller then responsively cancels the forwarding of communications destined for the public wireless network subscriber to the address of the wireless local area network subscriber.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the at least one further signaling message comprises a signaling message selected from the group consisting of an SMTP message, an HTTP message, an FTP message, an FSP message, an MGCP message, and a SIP message.

20. A mobility management method comprising:

in response to a wireless local area network subscriber associating with a wireless local area network, the wireless local area network sending at least one signaling message to a public wireless network controller to cause the public wireless network controller to set a forward-to parameter for at least one designated public wireless network subscriber to be a telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber; and

the public wireless network controller responsively setting the forward-to parameter for the at least one designated public wireless network subscriber to be the telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber, so that communications destined for the at least one designated public wireless network subscriber will then be forwarded to the telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber

in response to the wireless local area network subscriber disassociating from the wireless local area network, the wireless local area network sending at least one further signaling message to the public wireless network controller, to cancel forwarding of communications destined for the at least one designated public wireless network subscriber to the telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber; and

the public wireless network controller responsively canceling the forwarding of communications destined for the at least one designated public wireless network subscriber to the telephone number of the wireless local area network subscriber.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the wireless local area network comprises a PBX server that attributes the telephone number to the wireless local area network subscriber, and wherein sending the at least one signaling message to the public wireless network controller comprises the PBX server sending the at least one signaling message to the public wireless network controller.

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Abstract