Dual-SIM Mobility Switching for Non-Terrestrial Network Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for sharing spectrum between terrestrial and non-terrestrial communication networks are complex, increase overhead, and reduce scalability, particularly in areas with limited or no cellular or WiFi connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A device-driven method that enables terrestrial network operators to share their spectrum with non-terrestrial networks without integration, using dual-SIM dual-standby technology and embedded SIMs to manage access to non-terrestrial networks, with switching logic based on geographic location and availability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing methods for sharing spectrum between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks are used, then spectrum sharing is achieved, but device complexity and network overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The solution segments the network access by using separate SIM profiles (primary SIM for terrestrial network, secondary eSIM for non-terrestrial network) rather than integrating the networks. This allows independent operation of each network type while sharing spectrum resources, reducing the complexity of network integration while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the dual-SIM dual-standby device with automated switching logic) that mediates between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks. This intermediary handles the complexity of spectrum sharing and network selection, isolating the user device from direct network integration complexity.
2Ease of operation
If automated network switching is implemented, then ease of operation improves, but use of energy increases due to continuous monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The automated switching mechanism applies local quality by monitoring and switching based on specific local conditions (geographic location, signal availability, subscription status) rather than continuous global monitoring. The device only activates monitoring and switching functions when specific conditions are met (e.g., when entering a geographic region with non-terrestrial network coverage), reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dual-SIM dual-standby technology is used, then adaptability to multiple networks improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dual-SIM dual-standby device operates with self-service characteristics where the automated switching logic independently manages network selection based on pre-configured criteria (geographic regions, signal strength, subscription status). This self-service automation reduces the perceived complexity for users while maintaining multi-network adaptability, as the system manages itself without requiring user intervention.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method (300) includes determining that a user device (110) is located within a specified geographical region (170), and determining that the user device has an active subscription with a terrestrial network operator (132) operating a terrestrial communication network (130) within the geographical region, the terrestrial communication network associated with a primary profile (125) stored on a subscriber identity module (124a) of the user device. The method also includes, in response to determining that the user device is located within the geographical region and that the user device has an active subscription with the terrestrial network operator, receiving, from the terrestrial network operator, a secondary profile attached to the active subscription and associated with a non-terrestrial communication network (150). The method further includes storing the secondary profile on an embedded subscriber identity module (124b) on the user device, and communicating via the non-terrestrial communication network using the secondary profile.