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Charging in a communication system

  • US 20060234674A1
  • Filed: 04/04/2006
  • Published: 10/19/2006
  • Est. Priority Date: 12/22/2000
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A method for charging for services in a communication system comprising a charging entity and at least two connection support entities for providing resources to support a connection in the communication system, the method comprising:

  • detecting initiation of a connection for provision by the connection support entities;

    generating a charging identity at a first one of the connection support entities for identifying the connection to the at least two connection support entities;

    transmitting a first charging message from the first connection support entity to the charging entity, the message specifying a first tariff and including the charging identity;

    transmitting a second charging message from the second connection support entity to the charging entity, the message specifying a second tariff and including the charging identity;

    storing the first tariff and the second tariff, and during the connection the charging entity performing the steps of determining according to the first stored tariff a first charge for the support of the connection by the first connection support entity;

    determining according to the second stored tariff a second charge for the support of the connection by the second connection support entity; and

    periodically estimating a charge for the connection according to the first and second charges and comparing the estimate charge with the balance of an account to which the connection is to be charged.

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