Method and apparatus for dynamically routing calls in an intelligent network

Abstract

A method, apparatus and system for dynamically routing selected calls through an intelligent switched telephone network are described. The method leverages the resident switching power in the Public Switched Telephone Network by departing from the Advanced Intelligent Network (AIN) call model while adhering to the basic principles of ISUP common channel signaling to introduce new flexibility in call routing. Using the method, calls can be efficiently routed and rerouted through the network. Control of a call can be effected by either the called party or the calling party. The method can be practised using either a virtual switching point (VSP) or an ISTP. The VSP is a physical mode in the signaling plane of the network and a virtual node in the switching plane. Calls are routed to the VSP using dedicated trunk groups which may be loop-back ISUP trunks or inter-switch ISUP trunks. Calls are routed to the dedicated trunk groups using standard routing translation tables and methods. The advantage is a new level of flexibility in call routing control that permits the rapid introduction of new services which include features that could not be efficiently accommodated using prior methods of call routing.