Abstract: In a next generation packet based network a routing engine is used to determine the most cost effective route for a call from a caller/client subscriber to a call destination. The service manager or call agent softswitch, a call processor that controls the processing of calls, uses a table of softswitch node location information to determine the softswitch node in the service provider's network that is closest to the call destination. The location information related to the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) is also used to make this determination by providing the necessary location information on the call destination. The service manager the first receives the call then forwards the call through the packet backbone network of the service provider to the identified closest softswitch thereby reducing the need for use of the PSTN or another service provider's network.

Abstract: In a next generation packet based network a routing engine is used to determine the most cost effective route for a call from a caller/client subscriber to a call destination. The service manager or call agent softswitch, a call processor that controls the processing of calls, uses a table of softswitch node location information to determine the softswitch node in the service provider's network that is closest to the call destination. The location information related to the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) is also used to make this determination by providing the necessary location information on the call destination. The service manager the first receives the call then forwards the call through the packet backbone network of the service provider to the identified closest softswitch thereby reducing the need for use of the PSTN or another service provider's network.

Abstract: In a next generation network service manager or call agent softswitch, a call processor controls the processing of ineffective call attempts by using a plurality of predefined call treatment groups that specify a plurality of actions to be taken for specific call attempts. A call attempt may result in the playing of a tone or announcement, the routing of the call to an operator or other service or the playing of a tone and collection of digits from the call originator. Treatment groups may also contain secondary classmark distinctions that enable the playing of different tones, announcements or other treatment actions depending on the identity of the call originator. The duration of the tone or announcements can also be controlled using duration fields. The tone or announcement may be played by an announcement server or more effectively at a hub (“line”) gateway nearest the edge device from which the call originates thereby saving network resources.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for dry, mechanical separation of heavy and light materials dispersed in substances. The apparatus comprises a screened funnel through which the substance is introduced, a cylindrical tube mounted on support means and inclined to the vertical, means to spread the substances, within the cylinder a second screened opening through which heavy material passes and exit means for the light weight, waste material.