Abstract:
A virtual operator and method for performing authentication and service translation. The virtual operator assigns first and second identifiers to subscribers. The virtual operator updates the second identifier when the service provider corresponding to the second identifier changes. When the virtual operator receives a request for authentication, the virtual operator forwards the authentication request to a serving network for authentication. When the virtual operator receives a service request, the virtual operator selects, using network optimization criteria, a network to provide the requested service. The virtual operator translates network protocols when the network forwarding authentication or service request uses a network protocol different from the network performing authentication or the requested service.
Abstract:
A virtual operator and method for rating a charge for connecting to a network from a virtual operator and facilitating analysis of profitability of using a network. The virtual operator receives a Charge Detail Record in real time from a network the virtual operator is using for a service. The virtual operator calculates the current utilization of the network's resources using the received CDR. The virtual operator calculates a rate for connecting to the network, the rate corresponding to the virtual operator's current utilization of the network's resources. The virtual operator further calculates a cost for providing the service, the revenue for providing the service, and the profit based on the difference between the revenue for providing the service and the cost for providing the service.
Abstract:
A system that integrates the services offered by providers in the wireless communication industry. The system provides a seamless, efficient and realtime way to connect wireless communication services with other associated services, such as billing and rating engines. Additionally, the system is fully customizable and applicable with general industry standards. The system is also expandable and upgradable without the need to replace the overall infrastructure of the provider. The system, therefore, reduces the administrative costs related to billing and reduces the capital costs related to upgrading and maintaining the core infrastructure of the provider.
Abstract:
A system and method of real-time interconnect billing to facilitate invoicing and reconciliation between interconnected communication and service providers. The fully customizable, scalable, and network-based system rates and monitors costs, incorporates agreements between interconnected providers, invoices, bills, and reconciles to establish an accurate and cost-effective accounting of provider revenues and costs. The system is able to communicate with devices, networks, and interconnect providers to obtain, provide and exchange billing information and payments. The system updates subscriber accounts and alerts the home provider, subscribers, interconnect providers and users of these updates.
Abstract:
A bone screw is provided having a head and a shank with opposed first and second helical threads extending there around. In one embodiment, the shank has a proximal portion with a constant minor diameter, and a distal portion with a minor diameter that decreases in a proximal-to-distal direction to form a taper. The opposed first and second helical threads preferably define a thread depth that remains constant along the length of the shank. In an exemplary embodiment, a major diameter of the shank at a distal tip of the shank is equal to or less than the minor diameter of the proximal portion of the shank.
Abstract:
A network-based system and method that provides control of routing of communication signals from wireless communication devices of roaming subscribers of mobile communication service provider via an automated and intelligent network/system. The system provides real-time routing to preferred mobile communication service provider, which are affiliated with the home mobile communication service provider. The system improves the quality of service delivered to the roaming subscriber and increases potential revenues to the home mobile communication service provider by providing control over the roaming subscriber and preference use of the preferred mobile communication service provider.