Active Test System for Remote eSIM Provisioning Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current test systems for mobile networks lack comprehensive and efficient methods to verify remote eSIM provisioning processes, particularly in ensuring seamless mobile network connectivity and service provision across various devices and networks.
Innovation Solution
An active test system and method that simulate end-to-end testing of remote eSIM provisioning by initiating, triggering, and downloading eSIM profiles on embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Cards (eUICCs) within test probes, utilizing SM-DP+ and SM-DS modules for secure and authenticated communication, and maintaining HTTPs or CAT_TP sessions over LTE/EPS for verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If comprehensive eSIM profile management and verification functions are added to test systems, then the verification capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test system is segmented into multiple specialized modules: test probe for device simulation, SM-DP+ module for profile management, SM-DS module for discovery, and HTTPs/CAT_TP session management components. Each module handles specific aspects of eSIM provisioning verification, distributing complexity across independent functional units that can be developed and maintained separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary components such as the test probe that mediates between the testing infrastructure and the eUICC, and the SM-DP+/SM-DS modules that act as intermediaries between the RSP platform and the eSIM profile. These intermediaries simplify the overall system architecture by providing standardized interfaces and abstraction layers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple eSIM profiles are downloaded and managed remotely, then the adaptability is improved, but the loss of time increases due to provisioning processes
Solution Approach 1:
The test system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring test profiles and preparing the test environment before actual provisioning tests. The SM-DP+ module pre-processes profile data and the system pre-establishes communication channels, reducing the time required during actual profile download and activation processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous monitoring and verification processes that run throughout the provisioning lifecycle. The test probe continuously monitors profile download, installation, and activation processes, while the system maintains persistent HTTPs or CAT_TP sessions to ensure uninterrupted communication, eliminating idle time and ensuring continuous useful action throughout the provisioning process.
3Reliability
If secure and authenticated communication protocols are implemented, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test system implements multi-functional communication modules that can operate with multiple protocols (HTTPs and CAT_TP) through unified interfaces. The SM-DP+ and SM-DS modules are designed to handle different communication scenarios using the same core architecture, reducing overall system complexity despite supporting multiple secure protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex manual configuration and verification processes with automated digital protocols. The secure communication is established through standardized HTTPs and CAT_TP protocols that automatically handle authentication, encryption, and session management, substituting manual security procedures with automated cryptographic mechanisms that are more efficient and less error-prone.
Data Source
AI summary
In a test method for verification of a remote eSIM provisioning process, an eSIM profile from an RSP platform (1) under test is ordered (8). After that, a download of the ordered eSIM profile from the RSP platform (1) is triggered (9). Then, the triggered eSIM profile is downloaded (9a) from the RSP platform (1) via an over the air interface to a target eSIM or eUICC (5) in a test probe (6). It is then verified whether the ordered, triggered and downloaded eSIM profile is correct. Such a test method enhances the capabilities of a test system for testing mobile networks with remote eSIM provisioning, while the network connectivity and services are continuously provided by eSIM swapping.