Virtual network solution for SMS message exchange between GSM and ANSI (TIA/EIA 41) networks

Abstract

Systems and methods for exchanging a short message service (SMS) message between networks operating in accordance with different standards. An intermediary system operates between a first network operating in accordance with a first standard and a second network operating in accordance with a second standard. A routing information request for an SMS message is received, at the intermediary, from the first network and the intermediary sends, in response to the routing information request, an acknowledgement message to the first network. The SMS message is thereafter received at the intermediary and an acknowledgement of receipt of the SMS message is generated in the intermediary and then sent to the first network. The SMS message is then sent from the intermediary to the second network. In a preferred embodiment, the intermediary is an entity distinct from the first and second networks, but operates as a virtual MSC from the perspective of the first and second networks.

1 . A method of exchanging a short message service (SMS) message between networks operating in accordance with different standards, comprising: 
 providing an intermediary system that operates between a first network operating in accordance with a first standard and a second network operating in accordance with a second standard;    receiving, at the intermediary system, a routing request for an SMS message from the first network;    sending, from the intermediary system in response to the routing request, an acknowledgement message to the first network;    receiving the SMS message at the intermediary system;    generating, in the intermediary system, an acknowledgement of receipt of the SMS message, and sending the acknowledgement of receipt to the first network; and    sending the SMS message from the intermediary system to the second network,    wherein the intermediary system is an entity distinct from the first and second networks.    
   
   
       2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the first network operates in accordance with GSM standards.  
   
   
       3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the second network operates in accordance with ANSI standards.  
   
   
       4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the intermediary system emulates a mobile switching center operating in accordance with GSM standards.  
   
   
       5 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the routing request is an SS7 MAP message in accordance with GSM standards.  
   
   
       6 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising performing a Global Title Translation lookup operation to determine to which entity the SMS message should be sent.  
   
   
       7 . The method of  claim 6 , wherein when the SMS message is directed to a mobile station operating in the second network, the SMS message is routed to the intermediary system.