Dynamic IMSI Assignment for Mobile Roaming Cost Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile plans penalize users for roaming and overuse, leading to high charges, and current solutions like multiple SIM cards or programmable SIMs are either cumbersome or not integrated with Fixed Mobile Convergence (FMC) systems.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic IMSI assignment system that manages a pool of mobile subscriber identities, allowing selection based on location to reduce roaming and overuse charges, integrating with FMC to ensure seamless caller identification and resource sharing among employees.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple SIM cards are used to avoid roaming charges, then roaming costs are reduced, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple SIM card identities into a single SIM card by implementing a system where one SIM card can dynamically assume multiple IMSI identities. The server system manages a pool of IMSI identities and dynamically assigns them to the single SIM card based on location and usage patterns, eliminating the need for multiple physical SIM cards while maintaining the ability to avoid roaming charges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic identity assignment where the SIM card's IMSI identity is not fixed but can change based on real-time conditions. The system dynamically selects and assigns appropriate IMSI identities from a pool based on the device's current location, network conditions, and usage patterns, allowing the single SIM card to adaptively avoid roaming charges without manual intervention.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple SIM cards are used to avoid overuse charges, then overuse penalties are reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated system that monitors usage patterns and automatically switches between different IMSI identities on a single SIM card to avoid overuse charges. The server system continuously tracks data consumption and proactively assigns different identities before thresholds are reached, eliminating the need for manual SIM card swapping and providing self-service functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates continuous feedback loops where usage data is monitored in real-time, and this information feeds back into the identity selection algorithm. The server adjusts IMSI assignment based on accumulated usage patterns, ensuring that identities are switched optimally to avoid overuse charges while maintaining seamless operation for the user.
3Adaptability or versatility
If programmable SIM cards are used with physical programmers, then account reprogramming is enabled, but productivity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical SIM programming process with an electronic/digital system. Instead of using physical SIM programmers and manual card swapping, the system uses electronic communication between the mobile device and a remote server to dynamically assign and reassign IMSI identities, eliminating the need for physical programming hardware and manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal system where a single SIM card can serve multiple functions and identities that would traditionally require multiple specialized SIM cards. The server-based identity management system provides multi-functionality by allowing one SIM card to assume multiple roles across different carriers and locations, eliminating the need for device-specific or location-specific SIM cards.
4Adaptability or versatility
If each employee has multiple accounts for different countries, then roaming coverage is improved, but the number of accounts and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the identity management function from the physical SIM card. Instead of requiring employees to manage multiple physical SIM cards or accounts, the system segments the IMSI identity into a manageable pool on the server side, allowing dynamic assignment of appropriate identities based on location needs without increasing the number of physical cards or accounts employees must handle.
Data Source
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AI summary
This invention generally relates to mobile subscriber identities for mobile devices, and more particularly, to dynamic assignment of International Mobile Subscriber Identities (IMSIs) to reduce roaming and overuse charges. Instead of using a reprogrammable embedded Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card for remote activation of a device, mobile carrier charges, such as roaming and over limit usage fees, can be significantly reduced by reprogramming SIM cards dynamically from a pool of available mobile accounts. A smaller pool can be utilized to meet the needs of a large group, rather than a one-to-one association implemented within today's phones. Resource usage can be tracked and as one account reaches its maximum, a new account can be assigned to the mobile device to prevent overuse charges. Existing FMC concepts can insure single number inbound or outbound caller identification regardless of the name or number associated with the SIM card for the mobile device.