Efficient integration and translation of value added services for converging networks using middleware platforms

Value added services known from legacy telecommunications networks are predominantly based on ITU's intelligent network (IN) definitions. Due to the forthcoming network convergence to IP-based networks and the tremendous growth of telecommunications markets these services have to be distributed over a wide range of heterogeneous hardware platforms. Nevertheless, the interconnection to existing circuit-switched networks has to be taken into account. This paper discusses different design aspects for a gateway between CORBA (Common Object Request Broker Architecture) and IN-based services and suggests a dynamic as well as a static approach. Ongoing studies will optimise and evaluate these approaches.