JP2017192003A - Program, communication control method, communication control device, and communication control system - Google Patents

Abstract

A program, a communication control method, an apparatus and a system for avoiding concentration of communication load on one line network are provided. A communication control method is executed by a computer that connects to a plurality of line networks and controls communication between terminals via any one of the plurality of line networks, a process of determining whether or not a used bandwidth in a first transmission path between a first line network included in the plurality of line networks and a computer exceeds a threshold; If so, specifying processing for specifying a terminal that is assigned to use the first line network and that is not communicating with the specified terminal; and an instruction process for instructing switching to a second line network included in the plurality of line networks. [Selection drawing] Fig. 9

Description

  The present invention relates to a communication control technique in MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator).

  The MVNO provides a communication service to a user using a mobile network (hereinafter referred to as an MNO network) of an MNO (Mobile Network Operator). One MVNO may use a plurality of MNO network. In this case, the mobile terminal of the MVNO user can selectively use any MNO line network. The mobile terminal performs data communication via the MNO network in use.

  It is also conceivable to switch the MNO line network used by the mobile terminal according to the situation. A certain patent document describes a technique of switching a carrier used by a mobile terminal when the MVNO side determines that the network load received from the mobile terminal has reached a threshold value. This technology assumes correspondence to communication degradation when, for example, a mobile terminal changes location.

  However, not only communication degradation related to individual mobile terminals as in this technique, but also communication degradation affecting mobile terminals of many MVNO users can be considered.

JP 2014-90471 A JP 2011-15021 A

  In one aspect, an object of the present invention is to avoid concentration of communication load on one line network.

  A communication control method according to an aspect is a communication control method executed by a computer connected to a plurality of line networks and controlling communication between terminals via any one of the plurality of line networks, (A) a process for determining whether or not a used bandwidth in a first transmission path between a first line network and a computer included in the plurality of line networks exceeds a threshold; and (B) the used bandwidth When it is determined that the threshold value exceeds the threshold value, the use of the first line network is assigned, and a specifying process for specifying a terminal that is not communicating, and (C) the specified terminal as a line network used for communication Instruction processing for instructing switching from the first line network to a second line network included in the plurality of line networks.

  As one aspect, concentration of communication load on one line network can be avoided.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a network configuration example. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of excess transmission. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a response to an excess transmission amount. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of access to the content server. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of access to the content server. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a module configuration example of the MVNO control server. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a transmission path table. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a terminal table. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a main process (A) flow. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a processing flow of the mobile terminal. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of excess transmission. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of transmission performance deterioration. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the first throughput. FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the second throughput. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of how to handle an excess of transmission amount. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the first cell table. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a sequence for acquiring communication quality in the first cell. FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of the second cell table. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a sequence for acquiring communication quality in the second cell. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a line network table. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a sequence for acquiring communication quality in the first MNO line network. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a sequence for acquiring communication quality in the second MNO line network. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a main process (B) flow. FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a main process (B) flow. FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a first throughput specifying process flow. FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a second throughput specifying process flow. FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an MVNO control system. FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating a module configuration example of the MVNO control server. FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating a module configuration example of the user management server. FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a main process (C) flow. FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow of the user management server. FIG. 32 is a diagram showing a main processing (D) flow. FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a main processing (D) flow. FIG. 34 is a functional block diagram of a computer.

[Embodiment 1]
FIG. 1 shows a network configuration example. In this example, the MVNO uses a first MNO line network and a second MNO line network. An MVNO control server 101 and a content server 103 are connected to the MVNO network. The MVNO control server 101 performs communication control in MVNO. The content server 103 provides content to MVNO users.

  The MVNO network is connected to the first MNO network via the first transmission path. A first MNO control server 111 is connected to the first MNO line network. The first MNO control server 111 performs communication control in the first MNO. Further, the first MNO line network includes a plurality of first base stations 113. The first cell 115 is a range in which the mobile terminal 131 communicates with the first base station 113 by radio.

  The MVNO network is connected to the second MNO network via the second transmission path. A second MNO control server 121 is connected to the second MNO line network. The second MNO control server 121 performs communication control in the second MNO. Further, the second MNO line network includes a plurality of second base stations 123. The second cell 125 is a range in which the mobile terminal 131 communicates with the second base station 123 by radio.

  The mobile terminal 131 is a terminal used by MVNO users. The mobile terminal 131 may have usage authority for both the first MNO network and the second MNO network, and may have usage authority for only one MNO network. The mobile terminal 131 uses the MNO line network after receiving authentication regarding the use of either the first MNO line network or the second MNO line network.

  In FIG. 1, the mobile terminal 131a and the mobile terminal 131b have received authentication related to the use of the first MNO circuit network, and are using the first MNO circuit network. And the mobile terminal 131a exists in the 1st cell 115a which concerns on the 1st base station 113a, and is communicating via the 1st base station 113a. The mobile terminal 131b exists in the first cell 115b related to the first base station 113b, but does not perform communication.

  Similarly, the mobile terminal 131c and the mobile terminal 131d have received authentication related to the use of the second MNO circuit network, and are using the second MNO circuit network. And the mobile terminal 131c exists in the 2nd cell 125a which concerns on the 2nd base station 123a, and is communicating via the 2nd base station 123a. The mobile terminal 131d exists in the second cell 125b related to the second base station 123b, but does not perform communication.

  In this example, it is assumed that the authentication related to the use of the first MNO line network and the authentication related to the use of the second MNO line network are performed in the MVNO control server 101.

  FIG. 2 shows a state in which the transmission amount in the first transmission path exceeds the threshold value. When the transmission amount on the first transmission path exceeds the threshold, the possibility of a communication failure occurring in the mobile terminal 131 using the first MNO line network increases.

  In the present embodiment, among mobile terminals 131 using the first MNO line network, those that are not communicating are switched to use the second MNO line network. In this example, the mobile terminal 131b is instructed to use the second MNO network.

  As shown in FIG. 3, when the mobile terminal 131b uses the second MNO network, the first transmission path is not used in the communication of the mobile terminal 131b. Similar to the mobile terminal 131b, if the other mobile terminals 131 that have used the first MNO circuit network use the second MNO circuit network, the excess transmission amount will be solved.

  FIG. 4 shows a sequence when the mobile terminal 131b accesses the content server 103 before switching the MNO network. When the mobile terminal 131b transmits a content request to the content server 103 (S401), the content request reaches the content server 103 via the first MNO line network and the MVNO network.

  When the content server 103 receives the content request (S403), the content server 103 transmits the content to the mobile terminal 131b (S405).

  The content is transmitted via the MVNO network and the first MNO line network. The mobile terminal 131b receives the content (S407).

  FIG. 5 shows a sequence when the mobile terminal 131b accesses the content server 103 after switching the MNO line network. When the mobile terminal 131b transmits a content request to the content server 103 (S501), the content request reaches the content server 103 via the second MNO network and the MVNO network.

  Upon receiving the content request (S503), the content server 103 transmits the content to the mobile terminal 131b (S505).

  The content is transmitted via the MVNO network and the second MNO network. Then, the mobile terminal 131b receives the content (S507). If the MNO line network is switched as described above, the transmission load on the first transmission path is reduced in this way.

  Here, an example in which the transmission amount exceeds in the first transmission path has been described, but when the transmission amount exceeds in the second transmission path, the other MNO line network may be switched in the same manner. In addition to exceeding the transmission amount in the first transmission line or the second transmission line, it is possible to cope with the transmission amount exceeding in the first MNO line network or the second MNO line network. This is the end of the description of the outline of the present embodiment.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the MVNO control server 101 will be described. FIG. 6 shows a module configuration example of the MVNO control server 101. The MVNO control server 101 includes a transmission unit 601, a reception unit 603, a determination unit 605, a specification unit 607, an instruction unit 609, an authentication unit 611, an update unit 613, an acquisition unit 615, a transmission path table storage unit 621, and a terminal table storage unit 623. A first cell table storage unit 625, a second cell table storage unit 627, and a network table storage unit 629.

  The transmission unit 601 transmits various data. The receiving unit 603 receives various data. The determination unit 605 determines whether or not the used bandwidth in the first transmission path between the first MNO line network and the MVNO network exceeds a threshold value. The identifying unit 607 identifies the mobile terminal 131 that is using the first MNO network and is not communicating when it is determined that the used bandwidth exceeds the threshold. The instruction unit 609 instructs the identified mobile terminal 131 to switch the MNO line network to be used. The authentication unit 611 performs authentication related to use of the first MNO line network and authentication related to use of the second MNO line network. The update unit 613 updates the terminal table. The acquisition unit 615 acquires various types of quality information.

  The transmission path table storage unit 621 stores a transmission path table. The transmission path table will be described later with reference to FIG. The terminal table storage unit 623 stores a terminal table. The terminal table will be described later with reference to FIG. The first cell table storage unit 625 stores the first cell table. The first cell table will be described later with reference to FIG. The second cell table storage unit 627 stores the second cell table. The second cell table will be described later with reference to FIG. The line network table storage unit 629 stores a line network table. The line network table will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The transmission unit 601, the reception unit 603, the determination unit 605, the specification unit 607, the instruction unit 609, the authentication unit 611, the update unit 613, and the acquisition unit 615 described above are hardware resources (for example, FIG. 34) and processing described below. This is realized using a program that causes a processor to execute.

  The transmission path table storage unit 621, terminal table storage unit 623, first cell table storage unit 625, second cell table storage unit 627, and network table storage unit 629 described above use hardware resources (for example, FIG. 34). Realized.

  FIG. 7 shows an example of the transmission path table. The transmission path table has a record corresponding to the transmission path. The record of the transmission path table has a field for storing the maximum bandwidth and a field for storing a threshold value.

  The first record shown in the figure indicates that the first transmission path is permitted to use a maximum bandwidth of 10 Gbps (gigabit per second), and it is determined that the transmission amount is exceeded using 8 Gbps as a threshold.

  The second record shown in the figure indicates that the second transmission path is also allowed to use a maximum bandwidth of 10 Gbps, and it is determined that the transmission amount is exceeded using 8 Gbps as a threshold.

  FIG. 8 shows an example of the terminal table. The terminal table in this example has a record corresponding to the mobile terminal ID. The terminal table record includes a field for storing a mobile terminal ID, a field for storing presence / absence of use authority of the first MNO circuit network, a field for storing presence / absence of use authority of the second MNO circuit network, and use It has a field for storing the line network and a field for storing the status type.

  It is assumed that the authority to use the first MNO line network and the authority to use the second MNO line network are set in advance before starting the main process. In the case of a terminal having the authority to use the first MNO line network and the authority to use the second MNO line network, the line to be used is changed according to the situation. When only one of the right to use the first MNO line network and the right to use the second MNO line network is provided, the MNO line network having the right to use is used. The state type is either a communication state or a standby state. The state type is also changed according to the situation. The state of the mobile terminal 131 is notified from the mobile terminal 131 to the MVNO control server 101, for example. Alternatively, the first MNO control server 111 and the second MNO control server 121 may notify the MVNO control server 101 of the state of each mobile terminal 131.

  FIG. 9 shows a main process (A) flow. The determination unit 605 identifies the use bandwidth in the first transmission path (S901). For example, the MVNO control server 101 measures the used bandwidth. Alternatively, the first MNO control server 111 may be inquired about the used bandwidth.

  The determination unit 605 determines whether or not the used bandwidth in the first transmission path exceeds the threshold (S903). If it is determined that the use bandwidth in the first transmission path does not exceed the threshold, the process returns to the process shown in S901 and the above-described process is repeated.

  On the other hand, when determining that the used bandwidth in the first transmission path exceeds the threshold, the specifying unit 607 specifies one mobile terminal 131 (S905). For example, one record is specified according to the order of records in the terminal table.

  The identifying unit 607 determines whether or not the mobile terminal 131 is using the first MNO line network (S907). Specifically, the determination is performed based on the used network stored in the record.

  If it is determined that the mobile terminal 131 is not using the first MNO line network, the process returns to S905 and the above-described process is repeated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the mobile terminal 131 is using the first MNO line network, the identifying unit 607 determines whether or not the mobile terminal 131 is in a communication state (S909). Specifically, the determination is performed based on the state type stored in the record.

  If it is determined that the mobile terminal 131 is in a communication state, the process returns to the process shown in S905 and the above-described process is repeated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the mobile terminal 131 is not in a communication state, that is, if the mobile terminal 131 is in a standby state, the specifying unit 607 grants the right to use the second MNO circuit network to the mobile terminal 131. It is determined whether it has (S911). Specifically, the determination is performed based on the right to use the second MN network stored in the record.

  If it is determined that the mobile terminal 131 does not have the authority to use the second MNO line network, the process returns to S905 and the above-described process is repeated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the mobile terminal 131 has the authority to use the second MNO line network, the instruction unit 609 instructs the mobile terminal 131 to switch the MNO line network. Specifically, the transmission unit 601 transmits an instruction to switch the MNO line network to the mobile terminal 131 (S913). The switching instruction may include designation of a switching destination MNO network.

  Thereafter, the receiving unit 603 receives an authentication request regarding the switching destination MNO network from the mobile terminal 131 (S915). Then, the authentication unit 611 executes authentication processing related to the switching destination MNO network (S917). The authentication process is according to the prior art. When the authentication process is completed, the transmission unit 601 transmits the authentication result to the mobile terminal 131 (S919).

  The update unit 613 updates the terminal table (S921). Specifically, the used line network in the record of the mobile terminal 131 is changed to a switching destination MNO line network. And it returns to the process shown to S901 and repeats the process mentioned above.

  FIG. 10 shows a processing flow of the mobile terminal 131. The mobile terminal 131 determines whether an instruction to switch the MNO line network has been received (S1001). If it is determined that the MNO line network switching instruction has not been received, the processing of S1001 is repeated.

  If it is determined that an instruction to switch the MNO line network has been received, the mobile terminal 131 switches the access point (S1003). When the switching destination MNO line network is designated, it may be switched to the MNO line network. The process of switching access points is based on the conventional technology. The mobile terminal 131 holds an IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity), an APN (Access Point Name), etc. corresponding to each MNO network.

  The mobile terminal 131 transmits an authentication request regarding the use of the switching destination MNO network to the MVNO control server 101 (S1005). The authentication request procedure is also based on the prior art. When the mobile terminal 131 receives the authentication result from the MVNO control server 101 (S1007), the mobile terminal 131 returns to the process shown in S1001 and repeats the process described above.

  According to the present embodiment, it is possible to avoid concentration of communication load on one MNO line network. Therefore, there is an aspect that can suppress the occurrence of congestion.

  In addition, since the mobile terminal 131 is specified on the condition that the user has authority to use the switching destination MNO circuit network, it is not necessary to give a useless instruction to a terminal that cannot switch the MNO circuit network.

[Embodiment 2]
In this embodiment, an example in which the MNO line network is not switched when it is estimated that the throughput in the mobile terminal 131 is deteriorated will be described.

  The outline of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In the example of FIG. 11, when the amount of transmission exceeds the first transmission path, the mobile terminals 131e and 131f that are using the first MNO line network and are not communicating become targets for switching.

  FIG. 12 shows a state after switching. In this example, it is assumed that the transmission performance is deteriorated in the mobile terminal 131e. In this embodiment, switching is performed only when the transmission performance does not deteriorate. Therefore, when the first throughput expected when the candidate mobile terminal 131 uses the first MNO circuit network is smaller than the second throughput expected when the mobile terminal 131 uses the second MNO circuit network, The mobile terminal 131 is instructed to switch to the second MNO line network.

  The first throughput will be described with reference to FIG. For example, in the case of the mobile terminal 131e, the wireless bandwidth in the first cell 115c to which the mobile terminal 131e belongs, the free bandwidth of the first MNO network in which MVNO can be used, and the free bandwidth in the first transmission path Based on this, the first throughput is identified. Specifically, the minimum bandwidth among these bandwidths corresponds to the first throughput. As the radio bandwidth in the first cell 115c, the one measured by the mobile terminal 131g communicating with the first base station 113c is used.

  The second throughput will be described with reference to FIG. For example, in the case of the mobile terminal 131e, the wireless bandwidth in the second cell 125c to which the mobile terminal 131e belongs, the free bandwidth of the second MNO circuit network in which MVNO can be used, and the free bandwidth in the second transmission path Based on this, the second throughput is identified. Specifically, the minimum bandwidth among these bandwidths corresponds to the second throughput. As the radio bandwidth in the second cell 125c, the one measured by the mobile terminal 131h communicating with the second base station 123c is used.

  FIG. 15 shows a correspondence example in the present embodiment. In this example, it is assumed that the first throughput in the mobile terminal 131e is larger than the second throughput. In this case, the mobile terminal 131e is not instructed to switch. On the other hand, it is assumed that the first throughput in the mobile terminal 131f is smaller than the second throughput. In this case, the mobile terminal 131f is instructed to switch. Similar to the mobile terminal 131f, if the MNO line network is switched at a certain degree of the mobile terminal 131, the excess transmission amount will be solved.

  Here, an example in which the transmission amount exceeds in the first transmission path has been described, but when the transmission amount exceeds in the second transmission path, the other MNO line network may be switched in the same manner. In addition to exceeding the transmission amount in the first transmission line or the second transmission line, it is possible to cope with the transmission amount exceeding in the first MNO line network or the second MNO line network. This is the end of the description of the outline of the present embodiment.

  Next, a method for acquiring communication quality in each cell in the MVNO control server 101 will be described.

  FIG. 16 shows an example of the first cell table. The first cell table in this example has a record corresponding to the first cell. The record of the first cell table has a field for storing the first cell ID, a field for storing the radio bandwidth, and a field for storing the communication state.

  For example, the illustrated first record indicates that the wireless bandwidth in the first cell 115 identified by the ID “C001” is “50 Mbps (megabits per second)” and the communication state is “good”. .

  Similarly, the second record indicates that the radio bandwidth in the first cell 115 identified by the ID “C002” is “384 Kbps (kilobits per second)” and “congestion” occurs.

  FIG. 17 shows a sequence for acquiring communication quality in the first cell 115. The mobile terminal 131g specifies the ID of the first cell 115 to which it belongs (S1701). When the mobile terminal 131g starts communication via the first base station 113c, the mobile terminal 131g measures quality related to wireless communication with the first base station 113c. Specifically, the mobile terminal 131g measures the wireless bandwidth and the communication state (S1703). Then, the mobile terminal 131g transmits the first cell ID, the radio bandwidth, and the communication state to the MVNO control server 101 (S1705).

  The first cell ID, the radio bandwidth, and the communication state reach the MVNO control server 101 via the first MNO line network and the MVNO network.

  When the reception unit 603 of the MVNO control server 101 receives the first cell ID, the wireless bandwidth, and the communication state (S1707), the acquisition unit 615 associates the wireless bandwidth with the first cell ID in the first cell table. And the communication state is recorded (S1709).

  The same applies to the second cell 125. FIG. 18 shows an example of the second cell table. The second cell table in this example has a record corresponding to the second cell 125. The record of the second cell table has a field for storing the second cell ID, a field for storing the radio bandwidth, and a field for storing the communication state.

  For example, the illustrated first record indicates that the wireless bandwidth in the second cell 125 identified by the ID “C101” is “50 Mbps” and the communication state is “good”.

  Similarly, the second record indicates that the wireless bandwidth in the second cell 125 identified by the ID “C102” is “512 Kbps” and “congestion” occurs.

  FIG. 19 shows a sequence for acquiring communication quality in the second cell 125. The mobile terminal 131h identifies the ID of the second cell 125 to which it belongs (S1901). When the mobile terminal 131h starts communication via the second base station 123c, the mobile terminal 131h measures quality related to wireless communication with the second base station 123c. Specifically, the mobile terminal 131h measures a radio bandwidth and a communication state (S1903). Then, the mobile terminal 131h transmits the second cell ID, the radio bandwidth, and the communication state to the MVNO control server 101 (S1905).

  The second cell ID, the radio bandwidth, and the communication state reach the MVNO control server 101 via the second MNO line network and the MVNO network.

  When the reception unit 603 of the MVNO control server 101 receives the second cell ID, the wireless bandwidth, and the communication state (S1907), the acquisition unit 615 associates the wireless bandwidth with the second cell ID in the second cell table. The communication state is recorded (S1909).

  It is assumed that the MVNO control server 101 always acquires the communication quality in each cell according to the procedure described above.

  Next, a method for acquiring communication quality in each MNO line network in the MVNO control server 101 will be described.

  FIG. 20 shows an example of the line network table. The line network table has a record corresponding to the MNO line network. The record of the line network table has a field for storing a free bandwidth and a field for storing a communication state. The free bandwidth indicates the free bandwidth that can be used by the MVNO.

  For example, the illustrated first record indicates that the free bandwidth that can be used by the MVNO in the first MNO circuit network is “50 Gbps” and the communication state in the first MNO circuit network is “good”.

  Similarly, the second record indicates that the available bandwidth that can be used by the MVNO in the second MNO line network is “30 Gbps” and the communication state in the second MNO line network is “good”.

  FIG. 21 shows a sequence for acquiring communication quality in the first MNO line network. The transmission unit 601 of the MVNO control server 101 transmits a quality inquiry of the first MNO circuit network to the first MNO control server 111 (S2101). The quality inquiry is transmitted via the MVNO network and the first MNO line network.

  When the first MNO control server 111 receives the quality inquiry of the first MNO line network (S2103), the first MNO control server 111 measures the free bandwidth and the communication state of the first MNO line network that can use the MVNO (S2105). Then, the first MNO control server 111 transmits the free bandwidth and communication state of the first MNO circuit network that can use the MVNO to the MVNO control server 101 (S2107). The available bandwidth and communication status of the first MNO circuit network that can use the MVNO are transmitted via the first MNO circuit network and the MVNO network.

  When the receiving unit 603 of the MVNO control server 101 receives the free bandwidth and the communication state of the first MNO line network that can use the MVNO (S2109), the acquisition unit 615 stores the record of the first MNO line network in the line network table. The free bandwidth and the communication state of the first MNO network that can use the MVNO are recorded (S2111).

  FIG. 22 shows a sequence for acquiring communication quality in the second MNO line network. The transmission unit 601 of the MVNO control server 101 transmits a quality inquiry of the second MNO circuit network to the second MNO control server 121 (S2201). The quality inquiry is transmitted via the MVNO network and the second MNO network.

  When the second MNO control server 121 receives the quality inquiry of the second MNO line network (S2203), the second MNO control server 121 measures the free bandwidth and communication state of the second MNO line network that can use the MVNO (S2205). Then, the second MNO control server 121 transmits to the MVNO control server 101 the available bandwidth and the communication state of the second MNO network that can use the MVNO (S2207). The available bandwidth and communication status of the second MNO circuit network that can use the MVNO are transmitted via the second MNO circuit network and the MVNO network.

  When the receiving unit 603 of the MVNO control server 101 receives the free bandwidth and communication state of the second MNO line network in which MVNO can be used (S2209), the acquisition unit 615 records the second MNO line network record in the line network table. The free bandwidth and the communication state of the second MNO network that can use the MVNO are recorded (S2211).

  It is assumed that the MVNO control server 101 always acquires the communication quality in each MNO line network according to the procedure described above.

  In the present embodiment, the MVNO control server 101 executes the main process (B) instead of the main process (A). FIG. 23 shows a main process (B) flow. The processing shown in S901 to S911 is the same as in the case of FIG.

  The instruction unit 609 identifies the first cell ID and the second cell ID to which the mobile terminal 131 identified in S905 belongs (S2301). For example, the instruction unit 609 inquires of the mobile terminal 131 about the first cell ID and the second cell ID, and acquires the first cell ID and the second cell ID. The mobile terminal 131 identifies a nearby first base station 113 based on the strength of the radio wave received from the first base station 113 and returns a first cell ID corresponding to the first base station 113. Similarly, the mobile terminal 131 identifies a nearby second base station 123 based on the strength of the radio wave received from the second base station 123, and returns a second cell ID corresponding to the second base station 123. .

  The instruction unit 609 may inquire only about the first cell ID. In that case, the second cell ID corresponding to the first cell ID is specified. Similarly, the instruction unit 609 may inquire only about the second cell ID. In that case, the first cell ID corresponding to the second cell ID is specified. It is assumed that the correspondence between the first cell ID and the second cell ID is set in advance.

  Alternatively, the MVNO control server 101 inquires the first MNO control server 111 about the first cell ID to which the mobile terminal 131 belongs, and inquires the second MNO control server 121 about the second cell ID to which the mobile terminal 131 belongs. Also good.

  Subsequently, the instruction unit 609 executes a first throughput specifying process (S2303). In the first throughput specifying process, the first throughput is specified. The first throughput specifying process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The instruction unit 609 executes the second throughput specifying process (S2305). In the second throughput specifying process, the second throughput is specified. The second throughput specifying process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The instruction unit 609 determines whether the first throughput is smaller than the second throughput (S2307). When it is determined that the first throughput is not smaller than the second throughput, the processing returns to the processing shown in S905 and the above-described processing is repeated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the first throughput is smaller than the second throughput, the process proceeds to the process of S913 illustrated in FIG.

  The processing shown in S913 to S921 is the same as in the case of FIG. Then, the processing returns to S901 illustrated in FIG. The description of the main process (B) ends.

  FIG. 25 shows a first throughput specifying process flow. The instruction unit 609 specifies the radio bandwidth in the first cell 115 to which the mobile terminal 131 belongs based on the first cell table (S2501). Specifically, the wireless bandwidth corresponding to the first cell ID specified in S2301 of FIG. 23 is read.

  The instruction unit 609 reads the free bandwidth of the first MNO line network that can use the MVNO from the line network table (S2503). Further, the instruction unit 609 specifies an available bandwidth in the first transmission path (S2505). For example, the MVNO control server 101 measures the free bandwidth. Alternatively, the first MNO control server 111 may be inquired about the available bandwidth.

  The instruction unit 609 specifies the minimum bandwidth among the wireless bandwidth corresponding to the first cell ID, the free bandwidth of the first MNO network that can use the MVNO, and the free bandwidth in the first transmission path (S2507). ). The minimum bandwidth corresponds to the first throughput. When the first throughput specifying process is completed, the process returns to the caller's main process (B).

  FIG. 26 shows a second throughput specifying process flow. The instruction unit 609 specifies the radio bandwidth in the second cell 125 to which the mobile terminal 131 belongs based on the second cell table (S2601). Specifically, the radio bandwidth corresponding to the second cell ID specified in S2301 of FIG. 23 is read.

  The instruction unit 609 reads the free bandwidth of the second MNO line network that can use the MVNO from the line network table (S2603). Further, the instruction unit 609 specifies an available bandwidth in the second transmission path (S2605). For example, the MVNO control server 101 measures the free bandwidth. Alternatively, the second MNO control server 121 may be inquired about the available bandwidth.

  The instructing unit 609 specifies the minimum bandwidth among the wireless bandwidth corresponding to the second cell ID, the free bandwidth of the second MNO network that can use the MVNO, and the free bandwidth of the second transmission path (S2607). ). The minimum bandwidth corresponds to the second throughput. When the second throughput specifying process is completed, the process returns to the caller's main process (B).

  According to the present embodiment, communication deterioration due to switching of the MNO line network can be suppressed in each mobile terminal 131.

[Embodiment 3]
In the present embodiment, an example in which the functions of the MVNO control server 101 described in the first embodiment are shared by a plurality of servers will be described.

  FIG. 27 shows a configuration example of the MVNO control system. The MVNO control system in the present embodiment includes an MVNO control server 101 and a user management server 2701. Both the MVNO control server 101 and the user management server 2701 are connected to the MVNO network. The user management server 2701 bears the function of specifying the mobile terminal 131.

  FIG. 28 shows a module configuration example of the MVNO control server 101. The MVNO control server 101 includes a transmission unit 601, a reception unit 603, a determination unit 605, an instruction unit 609, an authentication unit 611, an acquisition unit 615, a transmission path table storage unit 621, a first cell table storage unit 625, and a second cell table storage. Section 627 and line network table storage section 629.

  FIG. 29 shows a module configuration example of the user management server 2701. The user management server 2701 includes a transmission unit 2901, a reception unit 2903, a specification unit 607, an update unit 613, and a terminal table storage unit 623.

  The transmission unit 2901 transmits various data. The receiving unit 2903 receives various data.

  The transmission unit 2901, the reception unit 2903, the specification unit 607, and the update unit 613 described above are realized by using hardware resources (for example, FIG. 34) and a program that causes a processor to execute processing described below.

  The terminal table storage unit 623 described above is realized using hardware resources (for example, FIG. 34).

  In the present embodiment, the main process (C) is executed in the MVNO control server 101. FIG. 30 shows a main process (C) flow. The processing shown in S901 and S903 is the same as in the case of FIG.

  If it is determined in S903 that the bandwidth used in the first transmission path exceeds the threshold, the transmission unit 601 transmits a specific request for the mobile terminal 131 to the user management server 2701 (S3001). The receiving unit 603 receives the mobile terminal ID from the user management server 2701 (S3003).

  In S913 to S919, the same processing as in FIG. 9 is performed based on the received mobile terminal ID.

  The transmission unit 601 transmits a terminal table update instruction to the user management server 2701 (S3005). Specifically, the transmission unit 601 instructs to change the used line network corresponding to the mobile terminal ID to the switching destination MNO line network. Thereafter, the receiving unit 603 receives an update completion response from the user management server 2701 (S3007). And it returns to the process shown to S901 and repeats the process mentioned above.

  FIG. 31 shows a processing flow of the user management server 2701. The identifying unit 607 determines whether or not the receiving unit 2903 has received a request for identifying the mobile terminal 131 (S3101).

  If the receiving unit 2903 determines that the request for specifying the mobile terminal 131 has been received, the specifying unit 607 specifies one mobile terminal 131 as in S905 of FIG. 9 (S3103). The identifying unit 607 determines whether or not the mobile terminal 131 is using the first MNO network as in the case of S907 in FIG. 9 (S3105).

  If it is determined that the mobile terminal 131 is not using the first MNO line network, the process returns to the process shown in S3103 and the above-described process is repeated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the mobile terminal 131 is using the first MNO circuit network, the identifying unit 607 determines whether the mobile terminal 131 is in a communication state, as in S909 of FIG. It is determined whether or not (S3107).

  If it is determined that the mobile terminal 131 is in a communication state, the process returns to the process shown in S3103 and the above-described process is repeated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the mobile terminal 131 is not in a communication state, that is, when the mobile terminal 131 is in a standby state, the specifying unit 607 performs the mobile terminal similarly to the case of S911 in FIG. It is determined whether 131 has the authority to use the second MNO circuit network (S3109).

  If it is determined that the mobile terminal 131 does not have the authority to use the second MNO line network, the process returns to the process shown in S3103 and the above-described process is repeated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the mobile terminal 131 has the right to use the second MNO circuit network, the specifying unit 607 returns the mobile terminal ID to the MVNO control server 101. Specifically, the transmission unit 2901 transmits the mobile terminal ID to the MVNO control server 101 (S3111). Then, the process returns to the process shown in S3101 and the above-described process is repeated.

  If it is determined in S3101 that the receiving unit 2903 has not received the request for specifying the mobile terminal 131, the specifying unit 607 determines whether the receiving unit 2903 has received an instruction to update the terminal table ( S3113). If the reception unit 2903 determines that the terminal table update instruction has not been received, the process returns to the process illustrated in S3101 and the above-described process is repeated.

  On the other hand, when the receiving unit 2903 determines that the terminal table update instruction has been received, the updating unit 613 updates the terminal table as in S921 of FIG. 9 (S3115). The update unit 613 transmits an update completion response via the transmission unit 2901 (S3117). Then, the process returns to the process shown in S3101 and the above-described process is repeated.

  According to this embodiment, the processing load of the server can be distributed.

[Embodiment 4]
In the present embodiment, an example will be described in which the functions of the MVNO control server 101 described in the second embodiment are shared by a plurality of servers.

  In the present embodiment, the main process (D) is executed. FIG. 32 shows a main process (D) flow. The processing shown in S901 and S903 is the same as in the case of FIG. The processing shown in S3001 to S3003 is the same as in the case of FIG. The processing shown in S2301 to S2307 is the same as that in FIG. The process proceeds to the process of S913 illustrated in FIG.

  The processing shown in S913 to S919 is the same as in the case of FIG. The processing shown in S3005 and S3007 is the same as in the case of FIG. The process returns to S901 illustrated in FIG.

  According to this embodiment, the processing load of the server can be distributed.

  Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the functional block configuration described above may not match the program module configuration.

  Further, the configuration of each storage area described above is an example, and the above configuration is not necessarily required. Further, in the processing flow, if the processing result does not change, the processing order may be changed or a plurality of processes may be executed in parallel.

  The MVNO control server 101 and the user management server 2701 described above are computer devices, and as shown in FIG. 34, a memory 2501, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 2503, a hard disk drive (HDD: Hard Disk Drive). 2505, a display control unit 2507 connected to the display device 2509, a drive device 2513 for the removable disk 2511, an input device 2515, and a communication control unit 2517 for connecting to a network are connected by a bus 2519. An operating system (OS) and an application program for executing the processing in this embodiment are stored in the HDD 2505, and are read from the HDD 2505 to the memory 2501 when executed by the CPU 2503. The CPU 2503 controls the display control unit 2507, the communication control unit 2517, and the drive device 2513 according to the processing content of the application program, and performs a predetermined operation. Further, data in the middle of processing is mainly stored in the memory 2501, but may be stored in the HDD 2505. In the embodiment of the present invention, an application program for performing the above-described processing is stored in a computer-readable removable disk 2511 and distributed, and installed in the HDD 2505 from the drive device 2513. In some cases, the HDD 2505 may be installed via a network such as the Internet and the communication control unit 2517. Such a computer apparatus realizes various functions as described above by organically cooperating hardware such as the CPU 2503 and the memory 2501 described above and programs such as the OS and application programs. .

  The embodiment of the present invention described above is summarized as follows.

  The communication control method according to the present embodiment is a communication control method executed by a computer that is connected to a plurality of line networks and controls communication between terminals via any one of the plurality of line networks. (A) a process for determining whether or not the use bandwidth in the first transmission path between the first line network and the computer included in the plurality of line networks exceeds a threshold; and (B) the use When it is determined that the bandwidth has exceeded the threshold value, use of the first line network is assigned, and a specifying process for specifying a terminal that is not communicating, and (C) a line used for communication with the specified terminal. And an instruction process for instructing switching from the first line network to the second line network included in the plurality of line networks.

  In this way, concentration of communication load on one line network can be avoided. Therefore, there is an aspect that can suppress the occurrence of congestion.

  In the specifying process, the terminal may be specified on the condition that the user has authority to use the second network.

  In this way, it is not necessary to give a useless instruction to a terminal that cannot switch the line network.

  In the instruction process, when the first throughput expected when the identified terminal uses the first network is smaller than the second throughput expected when the terminal uses the second network. The terminal may be instructed to switch to the second network.

  In this way, communication degradation due to switching of the network can be suppressed in each terminal.

  In the instruction processing, the wireless bandwidth in the cell of the first circuit network to which the identified terminal belongs, the free bandwidth of the first circuit network that can be used in communication controlled by the computer, and the first transmission path The first throughput related to data transmission between the terminal and the computer via the first line network may be specified based on the free bandwidth in the network. Further, in the instruction processing, the wireless bandwidth in the cell of the second line network to which the terminal belongs, the free bandwidth of the second line network that can be used in communication controlled by the computer, and the second line network And determining the second throughput for data transmission between the terminal and the computer via the second circuit network based on the available bandwidth in the second transmission path between the computer and the computer Also good.

  In this way, the throughput when using each network can be expected more correctly.

  Further, the line network may be an MNO line network. Furthermore, the computer may be provided in an MVNO network.

  A program for causing a computer to perform the processing according to the above method can be created. The program can be a computer-readable storage medium such as a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, a magneto-optical disk, a semiconductor memory, or a hard disk. It may be stored in a storage device. Note that intermediate processing results are generally temporarily stored in a storage device such as a main memory.

  The following supplementary notes are further disclosed with respect to the embodiments including the above examples.

(Appendix 1)
A computer connected to a plurality of line networks and controlling communication between terminals via any one of the plurality of line networks,
A process of determining whether or not a use bandwidth in a first transmission path between a first line network included in the plurality of line networks and the computer exceeds a threshold;
When it is determined that the used bandwidth has exceeded the threshold value, a specifying process for specifying a terminal that is assigned to use the first network and is not communicating;
An instruction process for instructing the identified terminal to switch from the first line network to a second line network included in the plurality of line networks as a line network used for communication.

(Appendix 2)
The program according to claim 1, wherein in the specifying process, the terminal is further specified on the condition that the user has authority to use the second network.

(Appendix 3)
In the instruction processing, a first throughput expected when the specified terminal uses the first network is smaller than a second throughput expected when the terminal uses the second network The program according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the program instructs the terminal to switch to the second network.

(Appendix 4)
In the instruction processing, a radio bandwidth in a cell of the first network to which the identified terminal belongs, an available bandwidth of the first network that can be used in communication controlled by the computer, and the first Identifying the first throughput related to data transmission between the terminal and the computer via the first circuit network based on the free bandwidth in the transmission path;
Further, the wireless bandwidth in the cell of the second circuit network to which the terminal belongs, the free bandwidth of the second circuit network that can be used in communication controlled by the computer, the second circuit network, and the The second throughput relating to data transmission between the terminal and the computer via the second circuit network is specified based on the free bandwidth in the second transmission path to the computer. Program.

(Appendix 5)
The line network is an MNO line network;
The program according to any one of appendices 1 to 4, wherein the computer is provided in an MVNO network.

(Appendix 6)
Executed by a computer connected to a plurality of line networks and controlling communication between terminals via any one of the plurality of line networks;
A process of determining whether or not a use bandwidth in a first transmission path between a first line network included in the plurality of line networks and the computer exceeds a threshold;
When it is determined that the used bandwidth has exceeded the threshold value, a specifying process for specifying a terminal that is assigned to use the first network and is not communicating;
An instruction process for instructing the identified terminal to switch from the first line network to a second line network included in the plurality of line networks as a line network used for communication.

(Appendix 7)
A communication control device for connecting to a plurality of line networks and controlling communication between terminals via any one of the plurality of line networks,
A determination unit that determines whether or not a use bandwidth in a first transmission path between a first line network included in the plurality of line networks and the communication control device exceeds a threshold;
When it is determined that the use bandwidth exceeds the threshold value, a specifying unit that specifies a terminal that is assigned to use the first network and is not communicating;
A communication control apparatus comprising: an instruction unit that instructs the identified terminal to switch from the first line network to a second line network included in the plurality of line networks as a line network used for communication.

(Appendix 8)
A communication control system for connecting to a plurality of line networks and controlling communication between terminals via any one of the plurality of line networks,
A determination unit that determines whether or not a use bandwidth in a first transmission path between a first line network included in the plurality of line networks and the communication control system exceeds a threshold;
When it is determined that the use bandwidth exceeds the threshold value, a specifying unit that specifies a terminal that is assigned to use the first network and is not communicating;
A communication control system comprising: an instruction unit that instructs the identified terminal to switch from the first line network to a second line network included in the plurality of line networks as a line network used for communication.

101 MVNO control server 103 content server 111 first MNO control server 113 first base station 115 first cell 121 second MNO control server 123 second base station 125 second cell 131 mobile terminal 601 transmission unit 603 reception unit 605 determination unit 607 identification Unit 609 Instruction unit 611 Authentication unit 613 Update unit 615 Acquisition unit 621 Transmission path table storage unit 623 Terminal table storage unit 625 First cell table storage unit 627 Second cell table storage unit 629 Line network table storage unit 2701 User management server 2901 Transmission Part 2903 receiving part

Claims (8)

A computer connected to a plurality of line networks and controlling communication between terminals via any one of the plurality of line networks,
A process of determining whether or not a use bandwidth in a first transmission path between a first line network included in the plurality of line networks and the computer exceeds a threshold;
When it is determined that the used bandwidth has exceeded the threshold value, a specifying process for specifying a terminal that is assigned to use the first network and is not communicating;
An instruction process for instructing the identified terminal to switch from the first line network to a second line network included in the plurality of line networks as a line network used for communication. The program according to claim 1, wherein, in the specifying process, the terminal is specified on the condition that the user has authority to use the second network. In the instruction processing, a first throughput expected when the specified terminal uses the first network is smaller than a second throughput expected when the terminal uses the second network The program according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the terminal is instructed to switch to the second line network. In the instruction processing, a radio bandwidth in a cell of the first network to which the identified terminal belongs, an available bandwidth of the first network that can be used in communication controlled by the computer, and the first Identifying the first throughput related to data transmission between the terminal and the computer via the first circuit network based on the free bandwidth in the transmission path;
Further, the wireless bandwidth in the cell of the second circuit network to which the terminal belongs, the free bandwidth of the second circuit network that can be used in communication controlled by the computer, the second circuit network, and the 4. The second throughput relating to data transmission between the terminal and the computer via the second circuit network is specified based on an available bandwidth in a second transmission path to the computer. The listed program. The line network is an MNO line network;
The program according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the computer is provided in an MVNO network. Executed by a computer connected to a plurality of line networks and controlling communication between terminals via any one of the plurality of line networks;
A process of determining whether or not a use bandwidth in a first transmission path between a first line network included in the plurality of line networks and the computer exceeds a threshold;
When it is determined that the used bandwidth has exceeded the threshold value, a specifying process for specifying a terminal that is assigned to use the first network and is not communicating;
An instruction process for instructing the identified terminal to switch from the first line network to a second line network included in the plurality of line networks as a line network used for communication. A communication control device for connecting to a plurality of line networks and controlling communication between terminals via any one of the plurality of line networks,
A determination unit that determines whether or not a use bandwidth in a first transmission path between a first line network included in the plurality of line networks and the communication control device exceeds a threshold;
When it is determined that the use bandwidth exceeds the threshold value, a specifying unit that specifies a terminal that is assigned to use the first network and is not communicating;
A communication control apparatus comprising: an instruction unit that instructs the identified terminal to switch from the first line network to a second line network included in the plurality of line networks as a line network used for communication. A communication control system for connecting to a plurality of line networks and controlling communication between terminals via any one of the plurality of line networks,
A determination unit that determines whether or not a use bandwidth in a first transmission path between a first line network included in the plurality of line networks and the communication control system exceeds a threshold;
When it is determined that the use bandwidth exceeds the threshold value, a specifying unit that specifies a terminal that is assigned to use the first network and is not communicating;
A communication control system comprising: an instruction unit that instructs the identified terminal to switch from the first line network to a second line network included in the plurality of line networks as a line network used for communication.

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