Method and apparatus for providing continuous voice and call communications between a data network and a telephony network
US6674713B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 23, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jan 6, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 23, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04M7/1255
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus are provided for providing continuous voice and call communications between a data network and a telephony network. In one configuration, a first gateway controller that receives the communications from the data network is coupled multiple sessions to a gateway that couples the communications to the telephony network. When the in-use session fails, the communications are automatically switched over from this session to the another session, while maintaining the voice and call communications without interruption, and while ensuring that all messages generated by the gateway are sent to the gateway controller. In another configuration, first and second gateway controllers are designated as Active and Standby. Each of the gateway controllers maintains one or more sessions in communication with the gateway. When the Active gateway controller fails or operator requests a gateway controller switchover, the communications are automatically switched so that communications are directed to the second gateway controller. Accordingly, fault-tolerant voice communication over a packet-switched data network, such as the Internet, is provided. Message queuing may be used to …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.