Metering in packet-based telephony networks

Abstract

One embodiment of the present invention facilitates efficient metering in a packet network environment by providing a single metering message, which contains sufficient information to provide the complete call tariff model for a particular call. The media gateway receiving the message can analyze the information provided in the message to determine how to provide metering pulses for all phases of the call, as well as any one-time charges, such as setup and add-on charges. Another embodiment of the invention provides a way for handling fractional pulse counts in an efficient manner. Yet another embodiment facilitates the handling of situations where charge intervals do not divide evenly into the phase duration of the phase associated with the call. In still another embodiment, the amount of information necessary to deliver the parameters of the call tariff model is minimized to reduce the overhead necessary for facilitating the metering process.

1 . A method for providing metering from a gateway in a packet network comprising:
 a) generating a message comprising a complete call tariff model for controlling all metering in association with a call; and   b) sending the message over a packet network to a media gateway supporting the call.   
     
     
         21 . A system for providing metering from a gateway in a packet network comprising:
 a) a packet interface to facilitate communication with a media gateway over a packet network; and   b) a control system associated with the packet interface and adapted to:
 i) generate a message comprising a complete call tariff model for controlling all metering in association with a call; and 
 ii) send the message over the packet network to the media gateway supporting the call.