SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING INFORMATION RELATING TO A CALLING INSTRUMENT

Abstract

A system for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols includes: at least one data base; each respective data base of the at least one data base being coupled with at least one coupled network of the plurality of networks; each respective data base cooperating with at least one coupled network to store the information substantially when the calling instrument begins communicating in the at least one coupled network.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to telecommunication systems, and especially to locating calling units operating within or among a plurality of telecommunication networks using a plurality of communication protocols.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Wireless phone calls, including wireless emergency E9-1-1 calls, may be placed using several different networks employing several different communication protocols. Phone instrument manufacturers are producing calling instruments having capabilities for communicating using more than one protocol. By way of example and not by way of limitation, some calling units or instruments are configured for dual-mode operation in an Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA) Network (UMAN) or Global Area Network (GAN) and also in a Radio Access Network (RAN). A UMAN/GAN-capable calling instrument may be able to effect communications, by way of example and not by way of limitation, in a Wi-Fi network, a Bluetooth network or another unlicensed wireless network. A RAN-capable calling instrument may be able to effect communications in a cellular radio access network such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a cellular GSM (Group Speciale Mobile; or Global System for Mobile communications) network.

It may be useful for some called parties to be able to determine location of a calling party during a call. One such situation, by way of example and not by way of limitation, is when a caller places an emergency E9-1-1 call. Known location information is preferably used to route E9-1-1 calls to an appropriate Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP; sometimes referred to as a Public Safety Answering Position) near the origin of the call. The same information may be used by the PSAP to support the emergency response to the call, such as dispatching fire, police or emergency medical personnel and equipment and for call back to the call originator if necessary. However, origin of a special number call is often not known when the call is placed using a mobile phone.

If location information relating to a mobile phone provides only coarse mobile network cell-level granularity to an E9-1-1 PSAP, police or emergency service personnel may go to a location indicated for a particular phone number and find that they have arrived at a large office building or at a widespread college campus with no means available for locating the caller with greater accuracy. Valuable time may be spent in finding the particular locus of the caller to render the required assistance. Such delays can be life threatening in the case of emergency service calls.

Mobile Location Centers (MLCs) may include, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a Service Mobile Location Center (SMLC) operating with a particular network controller entity (e.g., a Base Station Controller (BSC) in a cellular telephone network) or may include a Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) associated with a GSM network. Location information provided by presently configured MLCs will not provide information relating to another network than the network in which the particular MLC is coupled.

If a calling instrument operates among a plurality of networks, and especially if the varied networks employ different communication protocols, a called party such as a PSAP may experience difficulty in obtaining up-to-date location information relating to the called instrument.

There is a need for a system and method for locating a caller placing a call handled in or among a plurality of networks using more than one communication protocol.

There are times when a broadcast system may be employed to provide information to calling instruments within a particular geographic area. By way of example and not by way of limitation, systems known as effecting a “reverse 9-1-1” function may be employed to convey emergency notifications to calling units within a particular geographic area affected by an emergency such as, by way of further example and not by way of limitation, a flood or a forest fire.

There may also be times when an investigative entity such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a police department may wish to ascertain movement, employment or other activities of a portable calling instrument over a period of time.

There is a need for a system and method for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks to identify whether a particular calling instrument is located within a predetermined geographic area.

There is a need for a system and method for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks to identify activities of a particular calling instrument over a period of time.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A system for locating a dual-mode telecommunication calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using two communication protocols, each respective network of the plurality of networks including at least one respective communication access unit coupled with a respective controller unit and a respective switching unit for routing communication to a called unit, includes: a data base coupled with each respective controller unit and with each respective switching unit. The data base cooperates with each respective controller unit to store location information substantially when the calling instrument begins communicating in the respective network coupled with the respective controller unit. The respective switching unit in the respective network coupled with the respective controller unit employs the location information to effect the locating.

A method for locating a dual-mode telecommunication calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using two communication protocols, each respective network of the plurality of networks including at least one respective communication access unit coupled with a respective controller unit and a respective switching unit for routing communication to a called unit, includes: (a) providing a data base coupled with each respective controller unit and with each respective switching unit; (b) operating the data base to cooperate with each respective controller unit to store location information substantially when the calling instrument begins communicating in the respective network coupled with the respective controller unit; and (c) operating the respective switching unit in the respective network coupled with the respective controller unit employing the location information to effect the locating.

A system for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols includes: at least one data base; each respective data base of the at least one data base being coupled with at least one coupled network of the plurality of networks; each respective data base cooperating with at least one coupled network to store the information substantially when the calling instrument begins communicating in the at least one coupled network.

A method for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols includes: (a) providing at least one data base coupled with at least one coupled network of the plurality of networks; and (b) operating the at least one data base to cooperate with the at least one coupled network to store the information substantially when the calling instrument begins communicating in the at least one coupled network.

It is, therefore a feature of the present invention to provide a system and method for locating a caller placing a call handled in or among a plurality of networks using more than one communication protocol.

It is another feature of the present invention to provide a system and method for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks to identify whether a particular calling instrument is located within a predetermined geographic area.

It is yet another feature of the present invention to provide a system and method for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks to identify activities of a particular calling instrument over a period of time.

Further features of the present invention will be apparent from the following specification and claims when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which like elements are labeled using like reference numerals in the various figures, illustrating the preferred embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a system configured according to the teaching of the present invention deployed in a representative two-network arrangement.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating call routing for a system configured according to the teaching of the present invention deployed in a representative multi-network arrangement.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for locating a dual-mode telecommunication calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a system for collecting and providing information relating to a calling instrument operating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for collecting information relating to a calling instrument operating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For purposes of illustration, by way of example and not by way of limitation, the present invention will be discussed in the context of an emergency service network in the United States, commonly referred to as an E9-1-1 network. The teachings of the present invention are equally applicable, useful and novel in other calling systems including other special number calling systems, such as maintenance service networks, college campus security networks and other networks.

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components and circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the present invention.

When the terms “coupled” and “connected”, along with their derivatives, are used herein, it should be understood that these terms are not intended as synonyms for each other. Rather, in particular embodiments, “connected” is used to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact with each other. “Coupled” is used to indicated that two or more elements are in either direct or indirect (with other intervening elements between them) physical or electrical contact with each other, or that the two or more elements co-operate or interact with each other (e.g., as in a cause-and-effect relationship).

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a system configured according to the teaching of the present invention deployed in a representative two-network arrangement. In FIG. 1, a telecommunication system 10 includes an Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA) Network (UMAN) 12 and a Radio Access Network (RAN) 14. UMAN 12 may be embodied in, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a Wi-Fi network, a Bluetooth network or another type of UMA. RAN 14 may be embodied in, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a cellular network or a Personal Communication System (PCS) network employing any of several communication protocols including, by way of further example and not by way of limitation, Advanced Mobile Phone Service (AMPS), GSM or another protocol using Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) or another coding scheme. UMAN 12 and RAN 14 are configured for wireless communication with a wireless calling unit or instrument 16.

UMAN 12 includes an access unit 20 coupled with an Internet Protocol (IP) network 22. Access unit 20 facilitates communication between wireless communicating unit 16 and IP network 22. IP network 22 is coupled with a UMA Network Controller (UNC) 24. UNC 24 is coupled with a Mobile Switching Center (MSC) 30. MSC 30 is coupled with a communication network 32. Communication network 32 is coupled with a PSAP 34. MSC 30 is also coupled with a Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) 36 and a data base 38. UNC 24 is also coupled with data base 38.

PSAP 34 may be connected with GMLC 36 via an IP network 50 to permit communication between PSAP 34 and GMLC 36 without involving Communication network 32. PSAP 34 may be directly coupled with GMLC 36 via a direct connection 52 to permit communication between PSAP 34 and GMLC 36 without traversing an intervening network.

RAN 14 includes an access unit 40 that includes a radio antenna embodied in a radio tower 42 and a Base Transceiver Station (BTS) 44 coupled with radio tower 42. BTS 44 is coupled with a private network 46. Private network 46 may be embodied in, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a cellular network or a PCS network employing any of several communication protocols including, by way of further example and not by way of limitation, Advanced Mobile Phone Service (AMPS), GSM or another protocol using Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) or another coding scheme. Access unit 40 facilitates communication between wireless communicating unit 16 and private network 46. Private network 46 is coupled with a Base Station Controller (BSC) 48. BSC 48 is coupled with MSC 30. A Serving Mobile Location Center (SMLC) 49 may be coupled with one or both of UNC 24 and BSC 48. The alternate nature of providing and coupling SMLC 49 is indicated by presenting SMLC 49 and its couplings in dotted line format.

Calling unit 16 may wirelessly access UMAN 12 to place an emergency E9-1-1 call via access unit 20 to establish communication with PSAP 34 via IP network 22, UNC 24, MSC 30 and communication network 32. When placing the call with MSC 30, UNC 24 will also cooperate with data base 38 to enter and store location data relating to calling unit 16 in data base 38. In a preferred embodiment, location information will indicate identity and location of calling unit 16. Location preferably is indicated in latitude/longitude, Global Positioning System (GPS) or another system giving an XY location indication for calling unit 16. Identity of calling unit 16 is preferably indicated using a mobile station identifier such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, an MSISDN (Mobile Station Integrated Services Digital Network) number. When calling unit 16 ceases communicating in UMAN 12 such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, shutting off or roaming to another network than UMAN 12, UNC 24 will cooperate with data base 38 to location data relating to calling unit 16 from data base 38 to remove location data relating to calling unit 16 from data base 38 or otherwise cease providing location data relating to calling unit 16 from data base 38. Location data may be stored in data base 38 or otherwise retained to facilitate a later investigation application that may be employed to retrieve historical location data relating to calling unit 16.

If calling instrument or unit 16 roams so as to establish communications with another access point (not shown in FIG. 1), after calling instrument or unit 16 successfully connects with a new access point new location information relating to calling instrument or unit 16 will be sent to database 38.

When communication is established between calling unit 16 and PSAP 34, PSAP 34 may inquire of GMLC 36 via MSC 30 as to location of calling unit 16. GMLC 36 will inquire of data base 38 regarding location of calling unit 16. Location information regarding calling unit 16 is stored in data base 38 because calling unit 16 is communicating within UMAN 12, and the stored location information is provided to PSAP 34. PSAP 34 may use the stored location information to timely and efficiently provide emergency services to a caller using calling instrument or unit 16. In addition or in the alternative, data base 38 may store location information relating to locus of access unit 20. Location information relating to locus of access unit 20 may be expressed in, by way of example and not by way of limitation, latitude/longitude, another X/Y locating scheme, an access point identification such as MAC (Media Access Control) address, street address or another locator, or a combination of such locators. In a situation in which calling instrument or unit 16 cannot provide information relating to its own location, such additional or alternate locating information may be employed to approximate a location for calling instrument or unit 16.

Calling unit 16 may instead wirelessly access RAN 14 to place an emergency E9-1-1 call via access unit 40 to establish communication with PSAP 34 via private network 46, BSC 48, MSC 30 and communication network 32. When placing the call with MSC 30, BSC 48 will also cooperate with data base 38 to enter and store location data relating to calling unit 16 in data base 38. In a preferred embodiment, location information will indicate identity and location of calling unit 16. Location preferably is indicated in latitude/longitude, Global Positioning System (GPS) or another system giving an XY location indication for calling unit 16. Identity of calling unit 16 is preferably indicated using a mobile station identifier such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, an MSISDN (Mobile Station Integrated Services Digital Network) number. When calling unit 16 ceases communicating in RAN 14 such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, shutting off or roaming to another network than RAN 14, BSC 48 will cooperate with data base 38 to remove location data relating to calling unit 16 from data base 38 or otherwise cease providing location data relating to calling unit 16 from data base 38. Location data may be stored in data base 38 or otherwise retained to facilitate a later investigation application that may be employed to retrieve historical location data relating to calling unit 16.

If calling instrument or unit 16 roams so as to establish communications with another access unit (not shown in FIG. 1), after calling instrument or unit 16 successfully connects with a new access unit new location information relating to calling instrument or unit 16 will be sent to database 38.

When communication is established between calling unit 16 and PSAP 34, PSAP 34 may inquire of GMLC 36 via MSC 30 as to location of calling unit 16. GMLC 36 will inquire of data base 38 regarding location of calling unit 16. Location information regarding calling unit 16 is stored in data base 38 because calling unit 16 is communicating within RAN 14, and the stored location information is provided to PSAP 34. PSAP 34 may use the stored location information to timely and efficiently provide emergency services to a caller using calling instrument or unit 16. In addition or in the alternative, data base 38 may store location information relating to locus of access unit 40. Location information relating to locus of access unit 40 may be expressed in, by way of example and not by way of limitation, latitude/longitude, another X/Y locating scheme, cell identification, cell-and-sector identification, street address or another locator, or a combination of such locators. In a situation in which calling instrument or unit 16 cannot provide information relating to its own location, such additional or alternate locating information may be employed to approximate a location for calling instrument or unit 16.

If GMLC 36 cannot find location information relating to communication instrument or unit 16 in database 38, GMLC 36 may employ traditional methods to ascertain a location for calling instrument or unit 16. By way of example and not by way of limitation, GMLC 36 may use a calling unit ID (such as MSISDN; Mobile Station ISDN number) or another identifier to query an HLR (Home Location Register) to obtain location information relating to MSC 30. GMLC 36 may then query MSC 30 to obtain location information relating to calling unit 16. No HLR is illustrated in FIG. 1; HLRs are understood by those skilled in the art of mobile telecommunication systems design.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating call routing for a system configured according to the teaching of the present invention deployed in a representative multi-network arrangement. In FIG. 2, a telecommunication system 110 includes an Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA) Network (UMAN) 112 and a Radio Access Network (RAN) 114. UMAN 112 may include, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a Wi-Fi network, a Bluetooth network or another type of UMA. RAN 114 may include, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a cellular network or a Personal Communication System (PCS) network employing any of several communication protocols including, by way of further example and not by way of limitation, Advanced Mobile Phone Service (AMPS), GSM or another protocol using Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) or another coding scheme. UMAN 112 and RAN 114 are configured for wireless communication with a wireless calling unit or instrument 116.

UMAN 112 includes access units 120₁, 120₂, 120₃, 120_m coupled for call routing via an Internet Protocol (IP) network (not shown in FIG. 2; see IP network 22, FIG. 1). The indicator “m” is employed to signify that there can be any number of access units in telecommunication system 110. The inclusion of four access units 120₁, 120₂, 120₃, 120_m in FIG. 2 is illustrative only and does not constitute any limitation regarding the number of access units that may be included in a telecommunication system employing the present invention.

Access units 120₁, 120₂, 120₃, 120_m facilitate communication with a wireless communicating unit 116. Calls from access units 120₁, 120₂ may be placed with a UMA Network Controller (UNC) 124₁. Calls from access units 120₃, 120_m may be placed with a UMA Network Controller (UNC) 124_s. The indicator “s” is employed to signify that there can be any number of UNCs in telecommunication system 110. The inclusion of two UNCs 124₁, 124_s in FIG. 2 is illustrative only and does not constitute any limitation regarding the number of UNCs that may be included in a telecommunication system employing the present invention. UNCs 124₁, 124_s are coupled with a Mobile Switching Center (MSC) 130. MSC 130 is coupled for call routing with a receiving or called party such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, PSAP 134 via a communication network (not shown in FIG. 2; see communication network 30, FIG. 1). MSC 130 is also coupled with a Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) 136 and a data base 138. UNCs 124₁, 124_s are also coupled with data base 138.

RAN 114 includes access units represented in FIG. 2 by Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) 144₁, 144₂, 144₃, 144_n. The indicator “n” is employed to signify that there can be any number of BTSs in telecommunication system 110. The inclusion of four BTSs 144₁, 144₂, 144₃, 144_n in FIG. 2 is illustrative only and does not constitute any limitation regarding the number of BTSs that may be included in a telecommunication system employing the present invention.

BTSs 144₁, 144₂, 144₃, 144_n are coupled for call routing with MCS 130 via a private network (not shown in FIG. 2; see private network 46, FIG. 1). BTSs 144₁, 144₂, 144₃, 144_n facilitate communication with wireless communicating unit 116. BTSs 144₁, 144₂, 144₃, 144_n are coupled with a Base Station Controllers (BSC) 148₁, 148_r. The indicator “r” is employed to signify that there can be any number of BSCs in telecommunication system 110. The inclusion of two BSCs 148₁, 148_r in FIG. 2 is illustrative only and does not constitute any limitation regarding the number of BSCs that may be included in a telecommunication system employing the present invention. BSCs 148₁, 148_r are coupled with MSC 130 and with data base 138. GMLC 136 and data base 138 may be embodied in an integrally configured unit 139 if desired.

Calling unit 116 may wirelessly access UMAN 112 to place an emergency E9-1-1 call via an access unit 120₁, 120₂, 120₃, 120_m to establish communication with PSAP 134 via a UNC 124₁, 124_s and MSC 130. When placing the call with MSC 130, a UNC 124₁, 124_s will also cooperate with data base 138 to enter and store location data relating to calling unit 116 in data base 138. In a preferred embodiment, location information will indicate identity and location of calling unit 116. Location preferably is indicated in latitude/longitude, Global Positioning System (GPS) or another system giving an XY location indication for calling unit 116. Identity of calling unit 116 is preferably indicated using a mobile station identifier such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, an MSISDN (Mobile Station Integrated Services Digital Network) number. When calling unit 116 ceases communicating in UMAN 112, a UNC 124₁, 124_s involved in the call routing will cooperate with data base 138 to remove location data relating to calling unit 116 from data base 138 or otherwise cease providing location data relating to calling unit 116 from data base 138. Location data may be stored in data base 138 or otherwise retained to facilitate a later investigation application that may be employed to retrieve historical location data relating to calling unit 116.

Calling unit 116 ceasing communicating may be effected by calling unit 116 ceasing transmissions and or otherwise ending the extant call. Calling unit 116 ceasing communicating may also be effected by calling unit 116 roaming within UMAN 112 to effect changing connection from one access point 120₁, 120₂, 120₃, 120_m to another access point 120₁, 120₂, 120₃, 120_m. Another way that calling unit 116 may cease communicating may be effected by calling unit 116 roaming from UMAN 112 to RAN 114 to establish communication with MSC 130 via a BTS 144₁, 144₂, 144₃, 144_n.

If calling instrument or unit 116 roams so as to establish communications with another access point 120_m, after calling instrument or unit 116 successfully connects with a new access point 120_m new location information relating to calling instrument or unit 116 will be sent to database 138.

When communication is established between calling unit 116 and PSAP 134, PSAP 134 may inquire of GMLC 136 via MSC 130 as to location of calling unit 116. GMLC 136 will inquire of data base 138 regarding location of calling unit 116. Location information regarding calling unit 116 is stored in data base 138 because calling unit 116 is communicating within UMAN 112, and the stored location information is provided to PSAP 134. PSAP 134 may use the stored location information to timely and efficiently provide emergency services to a caller using calling instrument or unit 116. In addition or in the alternative, data base 138 may store location information relating to locus of an access unit 120_m. Location information relating to locus of an access unit 120_m may be expressed in, by way of example and not by way of limitation, latitude/longitude, another X/Y locating scheme, an access point identification such as MAC (Media Access Control) address, street address or another locator, or a combination of such locators. In a situation in which calling instrument or unit 116 cannot provide information relating to its own location, such additional or alternate locating information may be employed to approximate a location for calling instrument or unit 116.

Calling unit 116 may instead wirelessly access RAN 114 to place an emergency E9-1-1 call via a BTS 144₁, 144₂, 144₃, 144_n to establish communication with PSAP 134 via a BSC 148₁, 148_r and MSC 130. When placing the call with MSC 130, a BSC 148₁, 148_r will also cooperate with data base 138 to enter and store location data relating to calling unit 116 in data base 138. In a preferred embodiment, location information will indicate identity and location of calling unit 116. Location preferably is indicated in latitude/longitude, Global Positioning System (GPS) or another system giving an XY location indication for calling unit 116. Identity of calling unit 116 is preferably indicated using a mobile station identifier such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, an MSISDN (Mobile Station Integrated Services Digital Network) number. When calling unit 116 ceases communicating in RAN 114 such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, shutting off or roaming to another network than RAN 114, a BSC 148₁, 148_r involved in the extant call will cooperate with data base 138 to remove location data relating to calling unit 116 from data base 138 or otherwise cease providing location data relating to calling unit 116 from data base 138. Location data may be stored in data base 138 or otherwise retained to facilitate a later investigation application that may be employed to retrieve historical location data relating to calling unit 116.

Calling unit 116 ceasing communicating may be effected by calling unit 116 ceasing transmissions and or otherwise ending the extant call. Calling unit 116 ceasing communicating may also be effected by calling unit 116 roaming within RAN 114 to effect changing connection from one BTS 144₁, 144₂, 144₃, 144_n to another BTS 144₁, 144₂, 144₃, 144_n. Another way that calling unit 116 may cease communicating may be effected by calling unit 116 roaming from RAN 114 to UMAN 112 to establish communication with MSC 130 via an access point 120₁, 120₂, 120₃, 120_m.

If calling instrument or unit 116 roams so as to establish communications with another BTS 144_n, after calling instrument or unit 116 successfully connects with a new BTS 144_n new location information relating to calling instrument or unit 116 will be sent to database 138.

When communication is established between calling unit 116 and PSAP 134, PSAP 134 may inquire of GMLC 136 via MSC 130 as to location of calling unit 116. GMLC 136 will inquire of data base 138 regarding location of calling unit 116. Location information regarding calling unit 116 is stored in data base 138 because calling unit 116 is communication within RAN 114, and the stored location information is provided to PSAP 134. PSAP 134 may use the stored location information to timely and efficiently provide emergency services to a caller using calling instrument or unit 116. In addition or in the alternative, data base 138 may store location information relating to locus of a BTS 144_n. Location information relating to locus of a BTS 144_n may be expressed in, by way of example and not by way of limitation, latitude/longitude, another X/Y locating scheme, cell identification, cell-and-sector identification, street address or another locator, or a combination of such locators. In a situation in which calling instrument or unit 116 cannot provide information relating to its own location, such additional or alternate locating information may be employed to approximate a location for calling instrument or unit 116.

If GMLC 136 cannot find location information relating to communication instrument or unit 116 in database 138, GMLC 136 may employ traditional methods to ascertain a location for calling instrument or unit 116. By way of example and not by way of limitation, GMLC 136 may use a calling unit ID (such as MSISDN; Mobile Station ISDN number) or another identifier to query an HLR (Home Location Register) to obtain location information relating to MSC 130. GMLC 136 may then query MSC 130 to obtain location information relating to calling unit 116. No HLR is illustrated in FIG. 2; HLRs are understood by those skilled in the art of mobile telecommunication systems design.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for locating a dual-mode telecommunication calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks. In FIG. 3, method 200 for locating a dual-mode telecommunication calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using two communication protocols begins at a START locus 202. Each respective network of the plurality of networks includes at least one respective communication access unit coupled with a respective controller unit and a respective switching unit for routing communication to a called unit.

Method 200 continues with providing a data base coupled with each respective controller unit and with each respective switching unit, as indicated by a block 204.

Method 200 continues with operating the data base to cooperate with each respective controller unit to store location information substantially when the calling instrument begins communicating in the respective network coupled with the respective controller unit, as indicated by a block 206.

Method 200 continues with operating the respective switching unit in the respective network coupled with the respective controller unit employing the location information to effect the locating. Method 200 terminates at an END locus 210.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a system for collecting and providing information relating to a calling instrument operating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols. In FIG. 4, a telecommunication system 310 includes an Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA) Network (UMAN) 312, a Radio Access Network (RAN) 314 and an other mobile access network 315. UMAN 312 may be embodied in, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a Wi-Fi network, a Bluetooth network or another type of UMA. RAN 314 may be embodied in, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a cellular network or a Personal Communication System (PCS) network employing any of several communication protocols including, by way of further example and not by way of limitation, Advanced Mobile Phone Service (AMPS), GSM or another protocol using Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) or another coding scheme. Other mobile access network 315 may be embodied in the above technologies or in another mobile access technology. UMAN 312 is configured for wireless communication with wireless communication units or instruments 316₁, 316_m. RAN 314 is configured for wireless communication with wireless communication units or instruments 317₁, 317_n. Other network 315 is configured for wireless communication with wireless communication units or instruments 318₁, 318_p. The indicators “m”, “n” and “p” are employed to signify that there can be any number of communication units or instruments (sometimes referred to as calling units or instruments) in telecommunication system 310. The inclusion of two calling units 316_m, two calling units 317_n and two calling units 318_p in FIG. 4 is illustrative only and does not constitute any limitation regarding the number of calling units that may be employed in the telecommunication system of the present invention.

UMAN 312 includes an access unit 320 coupled with an Internet Protocol (IP) network 322. Access unit 320 facilitates communication between wireless communicating units 317_n and IP network 322. IP network 322 is coupled with a UMA Network Controller (UNC) 324. UNC 324 is coupled with a Mobile Switching Center (MSC) 330. MSC 330 is coupled with a communication network, a PSAP 34 and a Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) (not shown in FIG. 4; see, for example, communication network 32, PSAP 34, GMLC 36; FIG. 1). UNC 324 and MSC 330 are coupled with a data base 338. As will be understood by those skilled in the art of telecommunication system design, data base 338 may be embodied in a plurality of data bases, but is illustrated here as a single data base for ease of explanation.

RAN 314 includes an access unit 340 that includes a radio antenna embodied in a radio tower 342 and a Base Transceiver Station (BTS) 344 coupled with radio tower 342. BTS 344 is coupled with a private network 346. Private network 346 may be embodied in, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a cellular network or a PCS network employing any of several communication protocols including, by way of further example and not by way of limitation, Advanced Mobile Phone Service (AMPS), GSM or another protocol using Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) or another coding scheme. Access unit 340 facilitates communication between wireless communicating units 316_m and private network 346. Private network 346 is coupled with a Base Station Controller (BSC) 348. BSC 348 is coupled with MSC 330. BSC 348 is also coupled with data base 338.

Other network 315 includes an access unit 350 coupled with an Internet Protocol (IP) network 352. Access unit 350 facilitates communication between wireless communicating units 318_p and IP network 352. IP network 352 is coupled with an Access Controller (AC) 354. AC 354 is coupled with data base 338.

A calling unit 317_n may wirelessly access UMAN 312 to place a call via access unit 320 to establish communication with a called party (not shown in FIG. 4) via IP network 322, UNC 324 and MSC 330. When placing the call with MSC 330, UNC 324 will also cooperate with data base 338 to enter and store information relating to calling unit 317_n in data base 338. In a preferred embodiment, the stored information will indicate identity and location of calling unit 317_n. Location preferably is indicated in latitude/longitude, Global Positioning System (GPS) or another system giving an XY location indication for calling unit 317_n. Identity of calling unit 317_n is preferably indicated using a mobile station identifier such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, an MSISDN (Mobile Station Integrated Services Digital Network) number. The stored information may also indicate other data such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, the time at which calling unit 317_n begins communicating within UMAN 312 and the time at which calling unit 317_n ceases communicating within UMAN 312. When calling unit 317_n ceases communicating in UMAN 312 such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, shutting off or roaming to another network than UMAN 312, UNC 324 may cooperate with data base 338 to remove location data relating to calling unit 317_n from data base 338 or otherwise cease providing location data relating to calling unit 317_n from data base 338. Location data may be stored in data base 338 or otherwise retained to facilitate a later investigation application that may be employed to retrieve historical location data relating to calling unit 317_n. Time-related information pertaining to time that calling unit 317_n communicated with or within UMAN 312 may be retained in data base 338.

If calling unit 317_n roams so as to establish communications with another access point (not shown in FIG. 4), after calling unit 317_n successfully connects with a new access point new location information relating to calling unit 317_n can be sent to database 338.

A calling unit 316_m may wirelessly access RAN 314 to place a call via access unit 340 to establish communication with a called party (not shown in FIG. 4) via private network 346, BSC 348 and MSC 330. When placing the call with MSC 330, BSC 348 will also cooperate with data base 338 to enter and store information relating to calling unit 316_m in data base 338. In a preferred embodiment, the stored information will indicate identity and location of calling unit 316_m. Location preferably is indicated in latitude/longitude, Global Positioning System (GPS) or another system giving an XY location indication for calling unit 316_m. Identity of calling unit 316_m is preferably indicated using a mobile station identifier such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, an MSISDN (Mobile Station Integrated Services Digital Network) number. The stored information may also indicate other data such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, the time at which calling unit 316_m begins communicating within RAN 314 and the time at which calling unit 316_m ceases communicating within RAN 314. When calling unit 316_m ceases communicating in RAN 314 such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, shutting off or roaming to another network than RAN 314, BSC 348 may cooperate with data base 338 to remove location data relating to calling unit 316_m from data base 338 or otherwise cease providing location data relating to calling unit 316_m from data base 338. Location data may be stored in data base 338 or otherwise retained to facilitate a later investigation application that may be employed to retrieve historical location data relating to calling unit 316_m. Time-related information pertaining to time that calling unit 316_m communicated with or within RAN 314 may be retained in data base 338.

If calling unit 316_m roams so as to establish communications with another access unit (not shown in FIG. 4), after calling unit 316_m successfully connects with a new access unit new location information relating to calling unit 316_m can be sent to database 338.

A calling unit 318_p may wirelessly access other network 315 to place a call via access unit 350 to establish communication with a called party (not shown in FIG. 4) via IP network 352 and AC 354. When placing the call, AC 354 will also cooperate with data base 338 to enter and store information relating to calling unit 318_p in data base 338. In a preferred embodiment, the stored information will indicate identity and location of calling unit 318_p. Location preferably is indicated in latitude/longitude, Global Positioning System (GPS) or another system giving an XY location indication for calling unit 318_p. Identity of calling unit 318_p is preferably indicated using a mobile station identifier such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, an MSISDN (Mobile Station Integrated Services Digital Network) number. The stored information may also indicate other data such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, the time at which calling unit 318_p begins communicating within other network 315 and the time at which calling unit 318_p ceases communicating within other network 315. When calling unit 318_p ceases communicating in other network 315 such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, shutting off or roaming to another network than other network 315, AC 354 may cooperate with data base 338 to remove location data relating to calling unit 318_p from data base 338 or otherwise cease providing location data relating to calling unit 318_p from data base 338. Location data may be stored in data base 338 or otherwise retained to facilitate a later investigation application that may be employed to retrieve historical location data relating to calling unit 318_p. Time-related information pertaining to time that calling unit 318_p communicated with or within other network 315 may be retained in data base 338.

If calling unit 318_p roams so as to establish communications with another access point (not shown in FIG. 4), after calling unit 318_p successfully connects with a new access point new location information relating to calling unit 318_p can be sent to database 338.

Data base 338 may be coupled with a broadcast system 360. Broadcast system 360 may include a recipient-selecting system such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation an Intellicast®(System 362 (a proprietary system of the assignee of the present application; “Intellicast®” is a registered trademark of Intrado, Inc.) coupled with a broadcast system 362. Broadcast system 360 may employ information such as location-indicating information contained in data base 338 relating to individual respective calling units 316_m, 317_n, 318_p to ascertain individual respective calling units 316_m, 317_n, 318_p which are located within a predetermined geographic area. Identified individual respective calling units 316_m, 317_n, 318_p may comprise a call list for broadcast system 360 to use for calling parties within the predetermined geographic area to warn the parties of an emergency or other condition. By such notice, people may be warned of, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a flood or forest fire approaching their area. Calling parties to warn of dangerous conditions is sometimes referred to as a “reverse 9-1-1” operation or system.

Data base 338 may be coupled with an investigation application 370. Investigation application 370 may involve, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a police investigation unit seeking to ascertain activities involving a particular calling unit 316_m, 317_n, 318_p over an identified time interval. Investigation application 370 may employ information such as time-indicating information contained in data base 338 relating to times a particular calling unit 316_m, 317_n, 318_p communicates with or within a respective network 312, 314, 315 to ascertain an operational history for the particular calling unit 316_m, 317_n, 318_p. Such historical usage information may aid investigators to determine movements of a suspect or other details relating to actions by a suspect under investigation. Additional information may be stored in data base 338 to further aid investigations of a user of a calling unit such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, numbers called by the calling unit, numbers from which the calling unit received calls and other information.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for collecting information relating to a calling instrument operating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols. In FIG. 5, a method 400 for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols begins at a START locus 402. Method 400 continues with providing at least one data base coupled with at least one coupled network of the plurality of networks, as indicated by a block 404.

Method 400 continues with operating the at least one data base to cooperate with the at least one coupled network to store the information substantially when the calling instrument begins communicating in the at least one coupled network, as indicated by a block 406. Method 400 terminates at an END locus 408.

It is to be understood that, while the detailed drawings and specific examples given describe embodiments of the invention, they are for the purpose of illustration only, that the system and method of the invention are not limited to the precise details and conditions disclosed and that various changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention which is defined by the following claims:

Claims

1. A system for providing information relating to a calling unit roaming within or among a plurality of communication networks; the system comprising: (a) at least one communication access unit for each respective network of said plurality of communication networks; said calling unit effecting communications via a respective communication access unit of said at least one communication access unit;(b) at least one controller unit coupled with each said respective network and with at least one switching unit; said at least one controller unit and said at least one switching unit cooperating to effect routing of communications to a called unit; and(c) at least one data base coupled with at least one selected controller unit of said at least one controller unit; a respective data base of said at least one data base cooperating with a respective controller unit of said at least one selected controller unit to enter said information in said respective data base substantially when said calling unit begins communicating in said respective network coupled with said respective controller unit.

2. A system for providing information relating to a calling unit roaming within or among a plurality of communication networks as recited in claim 1 wherein said information includes identity-indicating information for uniquely identifying said calling unit and at least one of location-indicating information relating to geographic location of said calling unit and time-indicating information relating to time said calling unit communicates with said respective network.

3. A system for providing information relating to a calling unit roaming within or among a plurality of communication networks as recited in claim 2 wherein said at least one data base is coupled with a broadcast system; said broadcast system employing said information for selectively providing at least one message to selected calling units in a predetermined geographic area.

4. A system for providing information relating to a calling unit roaming within or among a plurality of communication networks as recited in claim 2 wherein said at least one data base is coupled with an investigative unit; said investigative unit employing said information for ascertaining a connection history of said calling unit with said plurality of networks.

5. A system for providing information relating to a calling unit roaming within or among a plurality of communication networks as recited in claim 3 wherein said at least one data base is coupled with an investigative unit; said investigative unit employing said information for ascertaining a connection history of said calling unit with said plurality of networks.

6. A system for providing information relating to a calling unit roaming within or among a plurality of communication networks as recited in claim 2 wherein said calling instrument is a dual-mode calling unit configured for communicating using two communication protocols.

7. A system for providing information relating to a calling unit roaming within or among a plurality of communication networks as recited in claim 6 wherein one communication protocol of said two communication protocols is an unlicensed mobile access protocol.

8. A system for providing information relating to a calling unit roaming within or among a plurality of communication networks as recited in claim 7 wherein one communication protocol of said two communication protocols is a radio access network protocol.

9. A system for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols; the system comprising: at least one data base; each respective data base of said at least one data base being coupled with at least one coupled network of said plurality of networks; each said respective data base cooperating with said at least one coupled network to store said information substantially when said calling instrument begins communicating in said at least one coupled network.

10. A system for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols as recited in claim 9 wherein said information includes identity-indicating information for uniquely identifying said calling instrument and at least one of location-indicating information relating to geographic location of said calling instrument and time-indicating information relating to time said calling instrument communicates with said respective network.

11. A system for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols as recited in claim 10 wherein said at least one data base is coupled with a broadcast system; said broadcast system employing said information for selectively providing at least one message to selected calling instruments in a predetermined geographic area.

12. A system for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols as recited in claim 10 wherein said at least one data base is coupled with an investigative unit; said investigative unit employing said information for ascertaining a connection history of said calling instrument with said plurality of networks.

13. A system for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols as recited in claim 10 wherein one communication protocol of said plurality of communication protocols is an unlicensed mobile access protocol.

14. A system for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols as recited in claim 10 wherein one communication protocol of said plurality of communication protocols is a radio access network protocol.

15. A system for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols as recited in claim 13 wherein one communication protocol of said plurality of communication protocols is a radio access network protocol.

16. A method for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols; the method comprising: (a) providing at least one data base coupled with at least one coupled network of said plurality of networks; and(b) operating said at least one data base to cooperate with said at least one coupled network to store said information substantially when said calling instrument begins communicating in said at least one coupled network.

17. A method for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols as recited in claim 16 wherein said information includes identity-indicating information for uniquely identifying said calling instrument and at least one of location-indicating information relating to geographic location of said calling instrument and time-indicating information relating to time said calling instrument communicates with said respective network.

18. A method for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols as recited in claim 17 wherein said at least one data base is coupled with a broadcast system; said broadcast system employing said information for selectively providing at least one message to selected calling instruments in a predetermined geographic area.

19. A method for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols as recited in claim 17 wherein said at least one data base is coupled with an investigative unit; said investigative unit employing said information for ascertaining a connection history of said calling instrument with said plurality of networks.

20. A method for collecting information relating to a calling instrument communicating in or among a plurality of networks using a plurality of communication protocols as recited in claim 17 wherein one communication protocol of said two communication protocols is an unlicensed mobile access protocol, and wherein one communication protocol of said two communication protocols is a radio access network protocol.