Network management server for managing multiple operating modes of a conferencing network with different sets of policies

US8149262B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• FREEPORT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. · US

Inventors

• Richard Tucker · Lancaster, US
• Gregory J. McGreevy · Great Falls, US
• Joseph A. Sorenson · Lincoln, US
• Timothy J. Ebben · Spring Park, US
• Kevin A. Job · Monticello, US
• Jan M. Timmer · Ashburn, US
• Sergio J. Delhoyo · Leesburg, US
• John McGreevy · Oranmore, IE

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 2, 2008
• Grant date: Apr 3, 2012
• Expiry date: Feb 2, 2031

Classification

• Technology area (CPC H): Electricity
• CPC primary: H04N7/181
• WIPO field: Audio-visual technology
• WIPO sector: Electrical engineering

Abstract

A method, system, and computer program product are disclosed to manage multiple operating modes in a video conferencing network under which different sets of policies can operate. The system is a network management server, also referred to herein as the ELASTIC GATEKEEPER™, that includes a Conference Management System, which selectively implements one or more different sets of operating policies. The Conference Management System is integrated and linked with a gatekeeper, which is responsible for setting up calls that are using end point alias addresses. The gatekeeper works with the Conference Management System to control access to network resources. Upon receiving a request to access a call, the gatekeeper passes the request to the Conference Management System for its approval. The Conference Management System has access to a robust set of policies, a detailed description of the network resources, and an awareness of the current System Operational Mode upon which to base a decision about the conditions and resources that can be granted to the requested call.