User identification module (sim) power supply control method and apparatus, device, and storage medium

Abstract

This disclosure provides a method, apparatus, device, and storage medium for controlling the power supply of a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM). The SIM power supply control method is executed by a terminal, which includes a first SIM and a card slot for inserting a second SIM; wherein the first SIM is an embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) integrated into a preset function module of the terminal; the method includes: determining the on / off state of the first Subscriber Identity Module (SIM); and setting operating parameters of a power supply module shared by the first SIM and the second SIM according to the on / off state of the first SIM, wherein the operating parameters are used for supplying power from the power supply module to the first SIM and / or the second SIM.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of electronic technology, and in particular to a power supply control method, apparatus, device and storage medium for a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM). Background Technology

[0002] An embedded SIM (Embedded Subscriber Identity Module, eSIM) is a SIM that is integrated with other functional devices within a terminal.

[0003] A physical SIM, or Physical Subscriber Identity Module (pSIM), is a SIM card that can be inserted and removed by the user. Typically, a terminal has a SIM card slot, and the pSIM can be inserted into the terminal or removed from the slot based on the user's actions.

[0004] In some scenarios, terminals support both eSIM and pSIM, but due to hardware differences, eSIM and pSIM have different power supply requirements. However, relevant power supply technologies do not finely differentiate between eSIM and pSIM power supply, which may lead to power security issues and / or negative impacts on the SIM card. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure presents a SIM power supply control method, apparatus, device, and storage medium.

[0006] The first aspect of this disclosure provides a power supply control method for a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM), executed by a terminal, the terminal including a first SIM and a card slot for inserting a second SIM; wherein the first SIM is an embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) integrated on a preset function module of the terminal; the method includes:

[0007] Determine the on / off state of the first user identification module (SIM);

[0008] Based on the switch state of the first SIM, the operating parameters of the power supply module shared by the first SIM and the second SIM are set, wherein the operating parameters are used for the power supply module to supply power to the first SIM and / or the second SIM.

[0009] Based on the above scheme, determining the on / off state of the first user identification module (SIM) includes:

[0010] Read the basic input / output GPIO status configured by the management modules of the first SIM and the second SIM;

[0011] The switch state of the first SIM is determined based on the GPIO state.

[0012] Based on the above scheme, the step of controlling the operating parameters of the power supply module shared by the first SIM and the second SIM according to the switch state of the first SIM includes at least one of the following:

[0013] The power supply voltage of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM;

[0014] Based on the on / off state of the first SIM, the on / off state of the hot-swap function of the second SIM is set; wherein, the power supply module is specifically used to supply power according to the on / off state and the hot-swap state of the second SIM;

[0015] The power supply target of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM.

[0016] Based on the above scheme, setting the power supply voltage of the power supply module according to the switch state of the first SIM includes:

[0017] When the first SIM is in the enabled state, the power supply voltage of the power supply module is set to the first voltage;

[0018] or,

[0019] When the first SIM is in the off state, the power supply voltage of the power supply module is set to the second voltage;

[0020] Wherein, the first voltage is the operating voltage jointly supported by the first SIM and the second SIM; the second voltage is the operating voltage supported by the second SIM alone.

[0021] Based on the above scheme, setting the hot-swap function on / off state of the second SIM according to the on / off state of the first SIM includes:

[0022] When the first SIM is in the active state, the hot-swapping function of the second SIM is set to be in the off state;

[0023] or,

[0024] When the first SIM is in the off state, the hot-plug function of the second SIM is enabled.

[0025] Based on the above scheme, setting the power supply object of the power supply module according to the switch state of the first SIM includes:

[0026] When the first SIM is in the powered-on state, the power-down procedure is invoked to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the second SIM;

[0027] or,

[0028] When the first SIM is in the off state, the power-down procedure is invoked to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the first SIM.

[0029] Based on the above scheme, the method further includes:

[0030] When the terminal is powered on, the management module is initialized;

[0031] After the management module is initialized, the terminal information of the terminal is read;

[0032] Based on the terminal information, configure the GIPO status configured by the management module.

[0033] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a power supply control device for a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM), the power supply control device being used in a terminal, the terminal including a first SIM and a card slot for inserting a second SIM; wherein the first SIM is an embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) integrated on a preset function module of the terminal; the device includes:

[0034] The determination module is used to determine the on / off state of the first user identification module (SIM).

[0035] The setting module is used to set the operating parameters of the power supply module shared by the first SIM and the second SIM according to the switch state of the first SIM, wherein the operating parameters are used for the power supply module to supply power to the first SIM and / or the second SIM.

[0036] Based on the above scheme, the determining module is specifically used to read the basic input / output (GPIO) states configured in the management modules of the first SIM and the second SIM; and to determine the switch state of the first SIM based on the GPIO states.

[0037] Based on the above scheme, the setting module is configured to perform at least one of the following:

[0038] The power supply voltage of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM;

[0039] Based on the on / off state of the first SIM, the on / off state of the hot-swap function of the second SIM is set; wherein, the power supply module is specifically used to supply power according to the on / off state and the hot-swap state of the second SIM;

[0040] The power supply target of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM.

[0041] Based on the above scheme, the setting module is specifically used to set the power supply voltage of the power supply module to a first voltage when the first SIM is in the on state; or, when the first SIM is in the off state, set the power supply voltage of the power supply module to a second voltage.

[0042] Wherein, the first voltage is the operating voltage jointly supported by the first SIM and the second SIM; the second voltage is the operating voltage supported by the second SIM alone.

[0043] Based on the above scheme, the setting module is specifically used to set the hot-swapping function of the second SIM to be disabled when the first SIM is in the enabled state; or, when the first SIM is in the disabled state, set the hot-swapping function of the second SIM to be enabled.

[0044] Based on the above scheme, the setting module is specifically used to call the power-down procedure to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the second SIM when the first SIM is in the on state; or, when the first SIM is in the off state, call the power-down procedure to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the first SIM.

[0045] Based on the above scheme, the device further includes:

[0046] An initialization module is used to initialize the management module when the terminal is powered on.

[0047] The reading module is used to read the terminal information of the terminal after the management module is initialized;

[0048] The configuration module is used to configure the GIPO status configured by the management module based on the terminal information.

[0049] A third aspect of this disclosure provides a terminal, including:

[0050] Memory used to store processor-executable instructions;

[0051] The processor is connected to the memory;

[0052] The processor is configured to execute the power supply control method for the user identification module (SIM) provided by any of the foregoing technical solutions.

[0053] The fourth aspect of this disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implement the power supply control method for the user identification module (SIM) provided in any of the technical solutions of the first aspect.

[0054] The technical solution provided by the embodiments of this disclosure sets the operating parameters of the power supply circuit shared by the first SIM and the second SIM according to the switching state of the first SIM. By setting the operating parameters of the power supply circuit, the interruption of the first SIM's operation caused by excessive power supply voltage of the power supply module and / or hot-swapping of the second SIM is reduced, thereby improving power safety and the working performance of the first SIM.

[0055] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0056] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0057] Figure 1 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a power supply control method for a SIM according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure;

[0058] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a power supply control method for a SIM according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure;

[0059] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a power supply control method for a SIM according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure;

[0060] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a power supply control method for a SIM according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure;

[0061] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a power supply control method for a SIM according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure;

[0062] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a power supply control method for a SIM according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure;

[0063] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a power supply control method for a SIM according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure;

[0064] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a power supply control method for a SIM according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure;

[0065] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the power supply control device for a SIM as shown in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure;

[0066] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a terminal shown in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0067] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with the present invention. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of the invention as detailed in the appended applications.

[0068] This disclosure provides a power supply control method for a SIM, executed by a terminal, the terminal including a first SIM and a card slot for inserting a second SIM; wherein the first SIM is an embedded user identification module (eSIM) integrated on a preset function module of the terminal.

[0069] like Figure 1 As shown, the power supply control method for the SIM may include:

[0070] S110: Determine the on / off state of the first SIM;

[0071] S120: Based on the switch state of the first SIM, set the operating parameters of the power supply module shared by the first SIM and the second SIM.

[0072] The terminal includes, but is not limited to: mobile phones, tablets, wearable devices, in-vehicle devices, smart home devices and / or smart office devices.

[0073] The device has an eSIM and a slot for inserting / removing a pSIM card.

[0074] The preset function module can be various function modules. For example, the eSIM can be integrated with the Near Field Communication (NFC) chip of the terminal, that is, the preset function module includes but is not limited to NFC.

[0075] Because eSIM is integrated with other functional modules, its own security capabilities may be limited. For example, the maximum voltage supported by eSIM may be less than the maximum voltage supported by pSIM.

[0076] For example, the terminal has a card slot for installing a pSIM. The pSIM includes, but is not limited to, a standard SIM, a mini SIM, and a micro SIM. These three types of pSIMs have different sizes. Typically, a standard SIM is larger than a mini SIM, and a mini SIM is larger than a micro SIM.

[0077] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the switch status information of the first SIM is determined, and the operating parameters of the power supply module are controlled based on the switch status of the first SIM.

[0078] The power supply module may include at least: a power supply circuit, the input terminal of which can be connected to the power supply of the terminal, and the output terminal of the power supply module, which can be connected to the first SIM and the second SIM respectively.

[0079] The operating parameters are used to control the operation of the power supply module.

[0080] For example, the operating parameters include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following:

[0081] The power supply voltage output by the power supply module;

[0082] The power supply object of the power supply module;

[0083] The power supply module's voltage transformation coefficient for the input voltage; for example, if the input voltage provided by the terminal's system power supply to the power supply module is greater than the power supply voltage required by the power supply module, then the required power supply voltage is achieved by stepping down the voltage. Alternatively, if the input voltage provided by the terminal's system power supply to the power supply module is less than the power supply voltage required by the power supply module, then the required power supply voltage is achieved by stepping up the voltage; the magnitude of this step-up and step-down is determined by the voltage transformation coefficient.

[0084] The power supply module is connected to the working circuit.

[0085] Does the power supply module support the hot-swappable function of pSIM?

[0086] The on / off state of the first SIM may include:

[0087] The first SIM is in the active state; when active, the first SIM is functional, meaning it can be used for terminal communication.

[0088] The first SIM is in the off state; in the off state, the first SIM cannot work, that is, the first SIM cannot be used for terminal communication.

[0089] For example, S120 may include: when the first SIM is in an enabled state, setting the operating parameters of the power supply module according to the power supply requirements and / or supported power supply parameters of the first and second SIMs. For example, based on the power supply voltage supported by the first SIM and the power supply voltage supported by the second SIM, the smaller power supply voltage supported by the first and second SIMs may be used as the power supply voltage of the power supply module. As another example, if a power supply safety issue arises due to the power supply requirements of either the first or second SIM, the operating parameters of the power supply module may be adjusted to reduce the power supply safety issue.

[0090] In summary, the SIM power supply control method provided in this disclosure sets the operating parameters of the power supply circuit shared by the first SIM and the second SIM according to the switching state of the first SIM. By setting the operating parameters of the power supply circuit, the interruption of the first SIM's operation caused by excessively high power supply voltage of the power supply module and / or hot-swapping of the second SIM is reduced, thereby improving power safety and the working performance of the first SIM.

[0091] In some embodiments, determining the on / off state of the first user identification module (SIM) includes:

[0092] Read the General Purpose Input / Output (GPIO) status of the management module configuration of the first SIM and the second SIM;

[0093] The switch state of the first SIM is determined based on the GPIO state.

[0094] The management module described herein may be a User Identifier Module (UIM), which may be an application layer module and may be used for the management of the first SIM and the second SIM.

[0095] For example, the management module can be used to manage the on / off states of the first SIM and the second SIM, manage the power-on and power-off of the first SIM and the second SIM, and / or manage the input / output (IO) commands of the first SIM and the second SIM.

[0096] For example, the management module can receive user input operations, select the SIM that is in the enabled state according to the user input operations, for example, preferentially select to use eSIM, and also query the contact information stored in the first SIM and / or the second SIM.

[0097] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the terminal reads the GPIO status configured by the management modules of the first SIM and the second SIM. The GPIO status can be the application programming interface (API) configured by the management module; the GPIO status of the API.

[0098] The GPIO state can reflect the on / off state of the first SIM. For example, if the GPIO state is in the first state, it means that the first SIM is in the on state; if the GPIO state is in the second state, it means that the first SIM is in the off state.

[0099] Therefore, in this case, the switch status of the first SIM can be easily determined by reading the GPIO status configured in the management modules of the first and second SIMs.

[0100] In some embodiments, controlling the operating parameters of the power supply module shared by the first SIM and the second SIM according to the switch state of the first SIM includes at least one of the following:

[0101] The power supply voltage of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM;

[0102] Based on the on / off state of the first SIM, the on / off state of the hot-swap function of the second SIM is set; wherein, the power supply module is specifically used to supply power according to the on / off state and the hot-swap state of the second SIM;

[0103] The power supply target of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM.

[0104] For example, in some embodiments, the on / off state of the first SIM determines whether the power supply module needs to set its power supply voltage according to the voltage supported by the first SIM.

[0105] Similarly, the on / off state of the first SIM affects the hot-swapping function of the second SIM, so the hot-swapping function of the second SIM can be set according to the on / off state of the first SIM.

[0106] The on / off state of the second SIM hot-swapping function will affect the power supply module when it detects the hot-swapping of the second SIM.

[0107] For example, if the first SIM is in the open state and the hot-swapping function of the second SIM is activated, it means that when the hot-swapping circuit detects the hot-swapping of the second SIM, it will change the power supply state of the power supply module. The change in the power supply state of the power supply module may interfere with the normal operation of the first SIM.

[0108] If the hot-swap function is activated, it indicates that the hot-swap circuit is operational. For example, if the hot-swap circuit is connected to the power supply circuit, inserting or removing the second SIM card may generate an interrupt signal for hot-swapping the second SIM. This interrupt signal may affect the power supply status of the power supply module. The power supply module's power supply status includes: the power supply module is supplying power to external devices or the power supply module is not supplying power to external devices. If the power supply module stops supplying power due to the hot-swapping of the second SIM, but the first SIM is still operational, the first SIM will be forced to stop working due to the power outage. Of course, this is just an example, and the actual implementation is not limited to this example.

[0109] For example, the hot-swap circuit may include a detection switch and a detection circuit; the detection switch has different switching states when the second SIM is inserted into or removed from the card slot. If the detection switch is closed, the detection circuit is closed, and if the detection switch is open, the detection circuit is open; or, if the detection switch is closed, the detection circuit is short-circuited, and if the detection switch is open, the detection circuit is on. The terminal's processing module (e.g., a central processing unit or microprocessor) can detect the insertion or removal of the second SIM from the card slot based on the abnormality of the electrical signal output by the detection circuit when it is on or off.

[0110] For example, if the detection switch is located on the detection circuit, closing the detection switch will close the detection circuit and make it conductive; opening the detection switch will open the detection circuit. If the detection switch is located on another circuit connected in parallel with the detection circuit, closing the detection switch will short-circuit the detection circuit; opening the detection switch will not short-circuit the detection circuit and will make it conductive.

[0111] like Figure 2 As shown, the power supply control method for the SIM may include:

[0112] S210: Determine the on / off state of the first SIM;

[0113] S220: When the first SIM is in the open state, the power supply voltage of the power supply module is set to the first voltage;

[0114] or,

[0115] S230: When the first SIM is in the off state, the power supply voltage of the power supply module is set to the second voltage;

[0116] Wherein, the first voltage is the operating voltage jointly supported by the first SIM and the second SIM; the second voltage is the operating voltage supported by the second SIM alone.

[0117] For example, the first SIM supports operation at the first voltage; the second SIM supports operation at both the first voltage and the second voltage.

[0118] That is, the first voltage and the second voltage are the common operating voltages of the first SIM and the second SIM, but the second operating voltage is an operating voltage supported solely by the second SIM. Providing the second voltage to the first SIM may cause malfunction of the first SIM, malfunction of the preset function modules integrated into the first SIM, or damage to the device.

[0119] The first voltage is different from the second voltage. If the power supply module provides the second voltage to the first SIM, the first SIM may not be able to work, or it may cause abnormalities in the first SIM and / or the preset functional modules integrated with the first SIM.

[0120] For example, the second voltage is higher than the first voltage. That is, the withstand voltage of the pSIM is higher than that of the eSIM. Thus, when the first SIM is in the powered-on state, the output voltage of the power supply module is the first voltage. Compared to directly outputting the second voltage, this reduces the damage of the second voltage to the first SIM and / or the preset functional modules integrated with the first SIM. For example, the maximum voltage value of the first voltage can be between 1.78 and 1.82V, specifically, the maximum voltage value of the first voltage can be 1.8V. The maximum voltage value of the second voltage can be between 2.8 and 3.2V, specifically, the maximum voltage value of the second voltage can be 3V.

[0121] For example, assuming the first SIM is integrated into the NFC, when the first SIM is in the enabled state, the power supply voltage of the power supply module shared by the first SIM and the second SIM is set to a first voltage. In this way, when the power supply supplies power to the first SIM and the second SIM separately, or simultaneously to the first SIM and the second SIM, it can provide the operating voltage required by the first SIM and / or the second SIM, and reduce the damage to the first SIM and / or the NFC integrated with the first SIM due to excessive voltage, thereby better protecting the eSIM and / or the NFC and extending the lifespan of the eSIM and / or the NFC.

[0122] like Figure 3 As shown, the power supply control method for the SIM may include:

[0123] S310: Determine the on / off state of the first SIM;

[0124] S320:

[0125] When the first SIM is in the enabled state, the hot-swapping function of the second SIM is disabled.

[0126] or,

[0127] S330: When the first SIM is in the off state, the hot-plug function of the second SIM is set to be in the on state.

[0128] The second SIM card can be inserted into and removed from the terminal's card slot, which can be used as a SIM card mounting slot.

[0129] The hot-swap function allows for the insertion and removal of a second SIM card without interrupting (or stopping) the system power supply to the terminal.

[0130] For example, when the second SIM is hot-swapped, if the terminal's system power supply is not interrupted, the power supply module shared by the first and second SIMs can be disconnected to reduce the impact of power instability caused by the sudden insertion or removal of the second SIM from the card slot on the electronic components inside the terminal.

[0131] However, if the first SIM is in the active state at this time, and the first and second SIMs share the same power supply module, if the hot-plugging of the second SIM is detected, the power supply module will be forced to stop supplying power, which will disconnect the power supply to the first SIM and thus affect the normal operation of the first SIM.

[0132] If the hot-swap function of the second SIM is enabled, the power supply to the power supply module can be restored after the second SIM is confirmed to be stably inserted or completely removed from the card slot. However, there is still a brief moment when the power supply to the first SIM, which is in the on state (or working state), is disconnected, thus affecting the normal operation of the first SIM.

[0133] Therefore, when the first SIM is in the off state and the hot-swapping function of the second SIM is enabled, it is equivalent to the power supply module supporting the hot-swapping of the second SIM. In this case, the power supply module needs to be controlled according to the hot-swapping of the second SIM. If the first SIM is in the off state and the hot-swapping function of the second SIM is enabled, the power supply module will start supplying power to the second SIM after the first SIM is stably inserted, without disconnecting the system power supply. After that, the second SIM can enter the working state, and the terminal does not need to perform a power on / off operation.

[0134] When the first SIM is active, the terminal can be assumed to be using the first SIM first. In order to maintain the stable operation of the first SIM, the hot-swapping function of the second SIM can be disabled.

[0135] In one embodiment, if the hot-swapping function of the second SIM is not enabled, the terminal will not detect the insertion or removal of the second SIM when it is inserted into the card slot, provided that the terminal's system power supply is not disconnected.

[0136] or,

[0137] In another embodiment, if the hot-swapping function of the second SIM is not enabled, the insertion of the second SIM is detected even when the terminal's system power supply is not disconnected. However, the power supply module is not automatically powered on by powering off and then on again. Instead, after detecting the insertion of the second SIM, the terminal's user interface (UI) displays a request to restart the terminal. If a restart operation is detected, the second SIM is powered on during the terminal restart process. If no user-input restart operation is detected, the inserted second SIM remains powered off and is not functional.

[0138] In some embodiments, setting the power supply object of the power supply module according to the switch state of the first SIM includes:

[0139] When the first SIM is in the powered-on state, the power-down procedure is invoked to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the second SIM;

[0140] or,

[0141] When the first SIM is in the off state, the power-down procedure is invoked to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the first SIM.

[0142] The power-down process here is a process that controls the power supply module to stop supplying power to the first SIM and the second SIM, that is, to power down (or disconnect) the first SIM and the second SIM.

[0143] For example, if the first SIM is in the on state, it means that the first SIM requires operating voltage. At this time, the terminal may not need to use the second SIM. Therefore, the power-down process can be used to control the power supply module not to supply power to the second SIM.

[0144] For example, if the first SIM is in a powered-off state, it means that the first SIM does not need to work or require operating voltage, so a power-down procedure is needed to power down the first SIM. At the same time, the terminal may need to use the second SIM, which can be powered on by calling a power-on procedure.

[0145] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0146] When the terminal is powered on, the management module is initialized;

[0147] After the management module is initialized, the terminal information of the terminal is read;

[0148] Based on the terminal information, configure the GIPO status configured by the management module.

[0149] The initialization management module may include, but is not limited to, starting the management module and setting the parameters of the management module.

[0150] After the management module is initialized, the management module will read the terminal information of the terminal, which may include at least one of the following:

[0151] The first piece of information indicates whether the terminal has an eSIM;

[0152] The second information indicates the configuration of the eSIM when the terminal has an eSIM; the second information may be eSIM configuration information, which can be used to determine whether the terminal enables the eSIM, and / or the eSIM enabling priority, etc.

[0153] For example, the configuration information may include: default configuration information and / or updated configuration information based on user settings.

[0154] The default configuration information indicates that eSIM should be enabled. Updating the configuration has higher priority than the default configuration information.

[0155] For example, if the management module does not read the updated configuration information, it can determine whether the eSIM is enabled based on the default configuration information. If the management module reads the updated configuration information, it determines whether the eSIM is enabled based on the updated configuration information.

[0156] In some embodiments, the terminal does not have the default configuration at the factory. If the default configuration is not read after the first power-on, a prompt message can be output on the UI. This prompt message can be used to prompt the configuration information of the eSIM so as to generate the updated configuration information according to the user's configuration operation.

[0157] For example, in other embodiments, when it is determined that the terminal has an eSIM based on the first information, if reading the second information fails, for example, reading both the default configuration information and the updated configuration information fails, a prompt message can also be output on the UI. This prompt message can be used to provide configuration prompts for the eSIM's configuration information so that the updated configuration information can be generated based on the user's configuration operation; or, the terminal's power-on / off process can be re-executed to reduce reading errors caused by other anomalies when the terminal has the second information.

[0158] This disclosure proposes a device that supports free switching between pSIM and eSIM, which can meet both the user's dual needs for pSIM and eSIM, as well as the eSIM requirements of different operators.

[0159] Assume pSIM is SIM1 or card 1; eSIM is SIM2 or card 2. The eSIM is integrated into the NFC chip. When the terminal selects the eSIM, the power supply circuit shared by the eSIM and pSIM will still output a 3V voltage.

[0160] If the power supply circuit is directly connected to the NFC chip, there is a risk to the NFC's power supply safety, which may burn out the NFC chip. How can the software be implemented to safely and reliably limit the output to 1.8V to the NFC chip?

[0161] In some circuit designs, the eSIM power supply and SIM2 power supply share the same circuit. When SIM2 is not inserted (in eSIM mode), the L5C power supply acts as the power source for SIM2. When a SIM card is inserted, the L5C power supply automatically powers on; when no SIM card is inserted, the L5C power supply powers off. How can the software ensure proper power supply when eSIM is enabled?

[0162] If the hotswap function of SIM2 is not turned off in time, inserting the pSIM during the eSIM activation process will interrupt the use of eSIM and cause eSIM to malfunction.

[0163] In view of this, embodiments of the present disclosure provide an eSIM enabling security device to improve the operational stability of eSIM.

[0164] Since the eSIM is integrated into the NFC chip, its enabled status is checked during the UIM module initialization process. If the eSIM is enabled, the maximum voltage of the power supply circuit is limited to 1.8V, thereby ensuring that the maximum input voltage of the NFC chip is limited to 1.8V, thus reducing the risk of burning out the NFC chip.

[0165] In addition, based on the same principle, in the terminal initialization process, before powering on the SIM, the hot-swap function of the pSIM is configured according to the eSIM's enabled state.

[0166] If eSIM is enabled, hot-swapping is disabled, which limits the hot-swapping capability of pSIM to prevent pSIM insertion from triggering an interrupt signal and affecting the normal operation of eSIM.

[0167] Conversely, if eSIM is off, the maximum voltage needs to be set to 3V, because pSIM and NFC are powered independently and do not need to be limited to 1.8V. In addition, pSIM needs to have hot-swapping capability enabled so that card insertion and removal can be detected.

[0168] The voltage also needs to be limited during the operation of the eSIM switch. When the eSIM is turned on, the maximum voltage is set to 1.8V, and when the eSIM is turned off, the maximum voltage is set to 3V.

[0169] The eSIM power supply and SIM power supply share the same path to ensure the eSIM power supply process. If only the corresponding GPIO information is configured after enabling eSIM, the eSIM will not be powered.

[0170] Therefore, when switching eSIM via software without inserting pSIM, the software first calls the power-down procedure to power down the pSIM, and then calls the power-up procedure to power up the eSIM.

[0171] For example, power-on identification of the eSIM is performed according to the ISO / IEC 7816 protocol. This process ensures that the power supply voltage will not drop when the eSIM is working.

[0172] Similarly, when enabling eSIM, the pSIM hot-swapping function needs to be disabled, i.e., the hot-swapping capability of the pSIM needs to be limited. This way, even if the pSIM is hot-swapped during the eSIM activation process, it will not affect the normal operation of the eSIM.

[0173] Through the design of the embodiments of this disclosure, the voltage can be limited to 1.8V when the user operates the eSIM switch, reducing the risk of NFC chip burnout. At the same time, the power-down / power-on operation process can ensure effective power supply to the eSIM, and the hot-swapping capability can be disabled to ensure stable operation of the eSIM. In addition, the above protection measures are covered in the scenario during the power-on process.

[0174] Through the embodiments disclosed herein, eSIM enablement has a complete, secure, and reliable set of devices to ensure the stability and robustness of eSIM.

[0175] like Figure 4 As shown, this disclosure provides a power supply control method for a SIM, which may include:

[0176] S401: Terminal powered on;

[0177] S402: UIM module initialization;

[0178] S403: Read terminal information to determine whether eSIM is currently enabled; if yes, proceed to S404; otherwise, proceed to S407.

[0179] S404: Set the maximum voltage to 1.8V;

[0180] S405: Limits the actual output voltage to a maximum of 1.8V;

[0181] S406: The maximum input voltage for the NFC chip is 1.8V, and it is operating normally.

[0182] S407: Set the maximum voltage to 3V;

[0183] S408: pSIM maximum voltage is 3V;

[0184] S409: The NFC chip is powered independently and does not interfere with the pSIM.

[0185] like Figure 5 As shown, this disclosure provides a power supply control method for a SIM, which may include:

[0186] S501: Terminal powered on;

[0187] S502: UIM module initialization;

[0188] S503: Read terminal information to determine whether eSIM is currently enabled; if yes, proceed to S404; otherwise, proceed to S407.

[0189] S504: Disable pSIM hot-swapping function;

[0190] S505: Inserting or removing the pSIM will not generate an interrupt signal and will not affect the normal power supply of the eSIM;

[0191] S506: Enable hot-swap function for pSIM;

[0192] S507: Inserting or removing the pSIM triggers an interrupt signal. This interrupt signal may cause the power supply module shared by the eSIM and pSIM to temporarily stop supplying power.

[0193] like Figure 6 As shown, if eSIM is used, the power supply control method for a SIM provided in this disclosure embodiment may include:

[0194] S601: Enable eSIM command issuance;

[0195] S602: Invoke the UIM power down procedure to power down the pSIM;

[0196] S603: Set GPIO status;

[0197] S604: Set the maximum voltage to 1.8V;

[0198] S605: Invokes the UIM power-up procedure to power on the eSIM.

[0199] like Figure 6 As shown, if a pSIM is used, the power supply control method for a SIM provided in this embodiment of the disclosure may include:

[0200] S606: Enable eSIM command delivery;

[0201] S607: Invokes the UIM power-down procedure to power down the eSIM;

[0202] S608: Set GPIO status;

[0203] S609: Set the maximum voltage to 3V;

[0204] S605: Calls the UIM power-up procedure to power on the pSIM.

[0205] like Figure 7 As shown, if eSIM is used, the power supply control method for a SIM provided in this disclosure embodiment may include:

[0206] S710: Enable eSIM command delivery;

[0207] S720: Invokes the UIM power-down procedure to power down the pSIM;

[0208] S730: Set GPIO status;

[0209] S740: Maximum voltage is set to 1.8V;

[0210] S750: Invokes the UIM power-up procedure to power on the eSIM.

[0211] S760: Power supply identification of eSIM in accordance with ISO / IEC 7816 protocol.

[0212] like Figure 8 As shown, if eSIM is enabled, this embodiment of the disclosure provides a SIM power supply control method that may include:

[0213] S801: Enable eSIM;

[0214] S802: Invoke the UIM power down procedure to power down the pSIM;

[0215] S803: Set GPIO status;

[0216] S804: Disable pSIM hot-swapping function;

[0217] S805: Calls the UIM power-up procedure to power on the eSIM.

[0218] like Figure 8 As shown, if eSIM is disabled, the power supply control method for a SIM provided in this embodiment of the disclosure may include:

[0219] S806: Disable eSIM;

[0220] S87: Invoke the UIM power-down procedure to power down the eSIM;

[0221] S808: Set GPIO status;

[0222] S809: Enable hot-swap function for pSIM;

[0223] S810: Calls the UIM power-up procedure to power on the pSIM.

[0224] like Figure 9 As shown, this disclosure provides a power supply control device for a SIM, the power supply control device being used in a terminal, the terminal including a first SIM and a card slot for inserting a second SIM; wherein, the first SIM is an embedded user identification module (eSIM) integrated on a preset function module of the terminal.

[0225] like Figure 9 As shown, the power supply control device of the SIM includes:

[0226] The determination module 110 is used to determine the on / off state of the first user identification module SIM;

[0227] The setting module 120 is used to set the operating parameters of the power supply module shared by the first SIM and the second SIM according to the switch state of the first SIM, wherein the operating parameters are used for the power supply module to supply power to the first SIM and / or the second SIM.

[0228] In some embodiments, the determining module 110 and the setting module 120 may be program modules; the program modules can perform the above operations after being executed by the processor.

[0229] In other embodiments, the determining module 110 and the setting module 120 may be hardware-software combined modules; the hardware-software combined modules include, but are not limited to, programmable arrays, and the programmable arrays include, but are not limited to, field-programmable arrays and / or complex programmable arrays.

[0230] In some embodiments, the determining module 110 and the setting module 120 may be pure hardware modules; the pure hardware modules include, but are not limited to, application-specific integrated circuits.

[0231] In some embodiments, the determining module 110 is specifically used to read the basic input / output (GPIO) states of the management modules of the first SIM and the second SIM; and determine the switch state of the first SIM based on the GPIO states.

[0232] In some embodiments, the setting module 120 is configured to perform at least one of the following:

[0233] The power supply voltage of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM;

[0234] Based on the on / off state of the first SIM, the on / off state of the hot-swap function of the second SIM is set; wherein, the power supply module is specifically used to supply power according to the on / off state and the hot-swap state of the second SIM;

[0235] The power supply target of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM.

[0236] In some embodiments, the setting module 120 is specifically used to set the power supply voltage of the power supply module to a first voltage when the first SIM is in an on state; or, when the first SIM is in a off state, to set the power supply voltage of the power supply module to a second voltage.

[0237] Wherein, the first voltage is the operating voltage jointly supported by the first SIM and the second SIM; the second voltage is the operating voltage supported by the second SIM alone.

[0238] In some embodiments, the setting module 120 is specifically used to set the hot-swapping function of the second SIM to be disabled when the first SIM is in an enabled state; or, when the first SIM is in a disabled state, set the hot-swapping function of the second SIM to be enabled.

[0239] In some embodiments, the setting module 120 is specifically used to call a power-down procedure to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the second SIM when the first SIM is in the on state; or, when the first SIM is in the off state, call a power-down procedure to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the first SIM.

[0240] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes:

[0241] An initialization module is used to initialize the management module when the terminal is powered on.

[0242] The reading module is used to read the terminal information of the terminal after the management module is initialized;

[0243] The configuration module is used to configure the GIPO status configured by the management module based on the terminal information.

[0244] Combination Figure 10 As shown in this embodiment of the disclosure, a terminal is provided, including:

[0245] Memory used to store processor-executable instructions;

[0246] The processor is connected to the memory;

[0247] The processor is configured to execute the power supply control method for the SIM (User Identification Module) provided by any of the aforementioned technical solutions, exemplarily executing... Figures 1 to 8 The power supply control method for the SIM is shown.

[0248] For example, terminal 700 may be a mobile phone, computer, digital broadcasting terminal, messaging device, game console, tablet device, medical device, fitness device, personal digital assistant, etc.

[0249] Reference Figure 10 The terminal 700 may include one or more of the following components: a processing component 702, a memory 704, a power component 706, a multimedia component 708, an audio component 710, an input / output (I / O) interface 712, a sensor component 714, and a communication component 716.

[0250] Processing component 702 typically controls the overall operation of terminal 700, such as operations associated with display, telephone calls, data communication, camera operation, and recording. Processing component 702 may include one or more processors 720 to execute instructions to complete all or part of the steps of the methods described above. Furthermore, processing component 702 may include one or more modules to facilitate interaction between processing component 702 and other components. For example, processing component 702 may include a multimedia module to facilitate interaction between multimedia component 708 and processing component 702.

[0251] Memory 704 is configured to store various types of data to support the operation of device 700. Examples of this data include instructions for any application or method operating on terminal 700, contact data, phonebook data, messages, pictures, videos, etc. Memory 704 can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage device or a combination thereof, such as static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic storage, flash memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0252] Power component 706 provides power to various components of terminal 700. Power component 706 may include a power management system, one or more power sources, and other components associated with generating, managing, and distributing power to terminal 700.

[0253] Multimedia component 708 includes a screen that provides an output interface between the terminal 700 and the user. In some embodiments, the screen may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) and a touch panel (TP). If the screen includes a touch panel, the screen may be implemented as a touchscreen to receive input signals from the user. The touch panel includes one or more touch sensors to sense touches, swipes, and gestures on the touch panel. The touch sensors may sense not only the boundaries of the touch or swipe action but also the duration and pressure associated with the touch or swipe operation. In some embodiments, multimedia component 708 includes a front-facing camera and / or a rear-facing camera. When the device 700 is in an operating mode, such as a shooting mode or a video mode, the front-facing camera and / or the rear-facing camera may receive external multimedia data. Each front-facing camera and rear-facing camera may be a fixed optical lens system or have focal length and optical zoom capabilities.

[0254] Audio component 710 is configured to output and / or input audio signals. For example, audio component 710 includes a microphone (MIC) configured to receive external audio signals when terminal 700 is in an operating mode, such as call mode, recording mode, and voice recognition mode. The received audio signals may be further stored in memory 704 or transmitted via communication component 716. In some embodiments, audio component 710 also includes a speaker for outputting audio signals.

[0255] I / O interface 712 provides an interface between processing component 702 and peripheral interface modules, such as keyboards, click wheels, buttons, etc. These buttons may include, but are not limited to, home buttons, volume buttons, power buttons, and lock buttons.

[0256] Sensor assembly 714 includes one or more sensors for providing state assessments of various aspects of terminal 700. For example, sensor assembly 714 may detect the on / off state of device 700, the relative positioning of components such as the display and keypad of terminal 700, changes in position of terminal 700 or a component of terminal 700, the presence or absence of user contact with terminal 700, orientation or acceleration / deceleration of terminal 700, and temperature changes of terminal 700. Sensor assembly 714 may include a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact. Sensor assembly 714 may also include a light sensor, such as a CMOS or CCD image sensor, for use in imaging applications. In some embodiments, sensor assembly 714 may also include an accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, pressure sensor, or temperature sensor.

[0257] Communication component 716 is configured to facilitate wired or wireless communication between terminal 700 and other devices. Terminal 700 can access wireless networks based on communication standards, such as WiFi, 2G, or 3G, or combinations thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 716 receives broadcast signals or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management system via a broadcast channel. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 716 also includes a near-field communication (NFC) module to facilitate short-range communication. For example, the NFC module may be implemented based on radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, Infrared Data Association (IrDA) technology, ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, Bluetooth (BT) technology, and other technologies.

[0258] In an exemplary embodiment, terminal 700 may be implemented by one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, or other electronic components to perform the methods described above.

[0259] In an exemplary embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including instructions is also provided, such as a memory 704 including instructions, which can be executed by a processor 720 of a terminal 700 to perform the above-described method. For example, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may be a ROM, random access memory (RAM), CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, and optical data storage device, etc.

[0260] This disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. When the instructions in the storage medium are executed by a computer's processor, the computer is able to perform the SIM power supply control method described in one or more of the foregoing technical solutions. When the processor executes the instructions, it is able to perform at least the following steps: determining the on / off state of a first user identification module (SIM); and setting operating parameters of a power supply module shared by the first SIM and a second SIM based on the on / off state of the first SIM, wherein the operating parameters are used for the power supply module to supply power to the first SIM and / or the second SIM.

[0261] Understandably, determining the on / off state of the first user identification module (SIM) includes:

[0262] Read the basic input / output GPIO status configured by the management modules of the first SIM and the second SIM;

[0263] The switch state of the first SIM is determined based on the GPIO state.

[0264] Understandably, the step of controlling the operating parameters of the power supply module shared by the first SIM and the second SIM according to the switch state of the first SIM includes at least one of the following:

[0265] The power supply voltage of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM;

[0266] Based on the on / off state of the first SIM, the on / off state of the hot-swap function of the second SIM is set; wherein, the power supply module is specifically used to supply power according to the on / off state and the hot-swap state of the second SIM;

[0267] The power supply target of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM.

[0268] Understandably, setting the power supply voltage of the power supply module according to the switch state of the first SIM includes:

[0269] When the first SIM is in the enabled state, the power supply voltage of the power supply module is set to the first voltage;

[0270] or,

[0271] When the first SIM is in the off state, the power supply voltage of the power supply module is set to the second voltage;

[0272] Wherein, the first voltage is the operating voltage jointly supported by the first SIM and the second SIM; the second voltage is the operating voltage supported by the second SIM alone.

[0273] Understandably, setting the hot-swap function on / off state of the second SIM based on the on / off state of the first SIM includes:

[0274] When the first SIM is in the active state, the hot-swapping function of the second SIM is set to be in the off state;

[0275] or,

[0276] When the first SIM is in the off state, the hot-plug function of the second SIM is enabled.

[0277] Understandably, setting the power supply target of the power supply module according to the on / off state of the first SIM includes:

[0278] When the first SIM is in the powered-on state, the power-down procedure is invoked to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the second SIM;

[0279] or,

[0280] When the first SIM is in the off state, the power-down procedure is invoked to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the first SIM.

[0281] Understandably, the method also includes:

[0282] When the terminal is powered on, the management module is initialized;

[0283] After the management module is initialized, the terminal information of the terminal is read;

[0284] Based on the terminal information, configure the GIPO status configured by the management module.

[0285] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the appended applications.

[0286] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this disclosure is limited only by the appended application documents.

Claims

1. A power supply control method of a subscriber identity module (SIM), the method comprising: Performed by a terminal, the terminal including a first SIM and a card slot for inserting a second SIM; wherein the first SIM is an embedded user identification module (eSIM) integrated on a preset function module of the terminal; the method includes: Determine the on / off state of the first SIM; Based on the on / off state of the first SIM, the operating parameters of the power supply module shared by the first SIM and the second SIM are set, including: when the first SIM is in the on state, the hot-swapping function of the second SIM is set to be off; when the first SIM is in the off state, the hot-swapping function of the second SIM is set to be on. Specifically, the power supply module is used to supply power according to the on / off state of the hot-swap function of the second SIM and the hot-swap state of the second SIM; The operating parameters are used by the power supply module to supply power to the first SIM and / or the second SIM.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, Determining the on / off state of the first user identification module (SIM) includes: Read the basic input / output GPIO status configured by the management modules of the first SIM and the second SIM; The switch state of the first SIM is determined based on the GPIO state.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method of controlling the operating parameters of the power supply module shared by the first SIM and the second SIM according to the switch state of the first SIM includes at least one of the following: The power supply voltage of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM; The power supply target of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, The step of setting the power supply voltage of the power supply module according to the switch state of the first SIM includes: When the first SIM is in the enabled state, the power supply voltage of the power supply module is set to the first voltage; or, When the first SIM is in the off state, the power supply voltage of the power supply module is set to the second voltage; Wherein, the first voltage is the operating voltage jointly supported by the first SIM and the second SIM; the second voltage is the operating voltage supported by the second SIM alone.

5. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The step of setting the power supply object of the power supply module according to the switch state of the first SIM includes: When the first SIM is in the powered-on state, the power-down procedure is invoked to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the second SIM; or, When the first SIM is in the off state, the power-down procedure is invoked to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the first SIM.

6. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the terminal is powered on, the management module is initialized; After the management module is initialized, the terminal information of the terminal is read; Based on the terminal information, configure the GPIO state configured by the management module.

7. A power supply control device for a user identification SIM, characterized in that, The power supply control device is used in a terminal, the terminal including a first SIM and a card slot for inserting a second SIM; wherein the first SIM is an embedded user identification module (eSIM) integrated into a preset function module of the terminal; the device includes: The determination module is used to determine the switch state of the first SIM; The setting module is used to set the operating parameters of the power supply module shared by the first SIM and the second SIM according to the on / off state of the first SIM, including setting the hot-swapping function of the second SIM to be off when the first SIM is on, and setting the hot-swapping function of the second SIM to be on when the first SIM is off; wherein, the power supply module is specifically used to supply power according to the on / off state of the hot-swapping function of the second SIM and the hot-swapping state of the second SIM; The operating parameters are used by the power supply module to supply power to the first SIM and / or the second SIM.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, The determining module is specifically used to read the basic input / output (GPIO) states configured in the management modules of the first SIM and the second SIM; and to determine the on / off state of the first SIM based on the GPIO states.

9. The apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The setting module is configured to perform at least one of the following: The power supply voltage of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM; The power supply target of the power supply module is set according to the switch state of the first SIM.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The setting module is specifically used to set the power supply voltage of the power supply module to a first voltage when the first SIM is in the on state; or, when the first SIM is in the off state, set the power supply voltage of the power supply module to a second voltage. Wherein, the first voltage is the operating voltage jointly supported by the first SIM and the second SIM; the second voltage is the operating voltage supported by the second SIM alone.

11. The apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, The setting module is specifically used to call a power-down procedure to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the second SIM when the first SIM is in the powered-on state; or, when the first SIM is in the powered-off state, call a power-down procedure to stop the power supply module from supplying power to the first SIM.

12. The apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, The device further includes: An initialization module is used to initialize the management module when the terminal is powered on. The reading module is used to read the terminal information of the terminal after the management module is initialized; The configuration module is used to configure the GPIO state configured by the management module according to the terminal information.

13. A terminal, characterized in that, include: Memory used to store processor-executable instructions; The processor is connected to the memory; The processor is configured to perform a power supply control method for a user identification module (SIM) as provided in any one of claims 1 to 6.

14. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer-executable instructions that, when executed by a processor, implement the power supply control method for the user identification module SIM as provided in any one of claims 1 to 6.

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