Patent EP-0358408-A2 (EP)
Inventor: AZIZI ALIREZA
IPC: H04Q3/00
Filed: 1989-08-31
Abstract: A system invention for an intelligent network architecture for implementing applications and information services, and providing services capabilities in a distributed fashion is disclosed. The concept behind the invention is of universal flexibility through architectural diversity to distribute service functionality anywhere within the network. 
     This invention to implements both services and applications. The term service refers to a control arrangement involving a collection of service capabilities which are bundled in a meaningful manner and which have been tariffed by the Network Service Provider. The term application refers to an untariffed control process which utilizes a collection of tariffed service capabilities implemented using Computer Inquiry-III ONA concepts. Applications can be implemented by the Network Service Provider, by customers, or by third party service providers. 
     In this invention, a programmable Application Management Control Layer (AMC) is introduced into the network architecture to implement the applications processes. This layer is comprised of two environments: the ASME and ASCE. The processes within this layer provide control of both network and non-­network service elements to perform application-specific work. A network operating system provides network services, control, connectivity and communications. It binds the environments together to implement a distributed application. This network operating system is termed the Network Services Environment (NSE). Billing is provided in a flexible manner, in either a usage sensitive manner for the service element resources utilized or through fixed charges, or both. 
     The NSE is capable of providing resources and computing interworking services required to network the service elements together at session time. The term interwork relates to the capability of each protocol layer of the interface of one element to communicate with the corresponding layer of the interface of the connected element. 
     The NSE is provided with several types of broker functions. The first type of broker selects a service application provider based on criteria established by the user. The second type of broker, locates and reserves service elements in response to a request from the ASCE process which identifies its resource needs. Combined with Open Network Architecture principles, this network design supports the needs of both third party service providers and network service providers. The third type of broker is automatically invoked by the intelligent network to provide interworking services to network together all required resources at run time.   
     When combined with expert systems technology, the network can be arranged to utilise learning system technology to improve the quality of service over time with experience. 
     The advantage of this invention is that it implements a virtual network providing enriched services and applications by networking multiple service elements under control of an applications control process. Network services and service capabilities support the intelligent network described herein.