eSIM Module Reduces Device Size and Enhances Mechanical Resistance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing communication devices using ISO/IEC 7816 standardized links face inefficiencies and limitations in optimizing communication functions and mechanical resilience, particularly in portable electronic devices with multiple Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs).

Innovation Solution

The integration of an embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) with a processing unit, cryptographic module, communication modules, and memory areas, powered by a near-field communication module and modulator-demodulator circuits, which replaces multiple SIM cards and provides redundant power supply paths through ISO/IEC 7816 standardized links.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate SIM cards are used in portable devices, then communication versatility is improved, but device complexity and mechanical vulnerability increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication versatilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple SIM card functions into a single eSIM module that can store multiple subscriber profiles. This merging approach maintains communication versatility by allowing the device to switch between different network operators while reducing device complexity by eliminating the need for multiple physical SIM card slots and associated mechanical components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The eSIM module is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple SIM card functions simultaneously. It can store multiple subscriber identities and switch between them, providing universal communication capability across different network operators without requiring separate physical SIM cards for each operator

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate SIM cards are used, then communication functions are provided, but mechanical resistance and reliability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication functionsVSAvoidmechanical resistance

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By merging multiple SIM functions into a single integrated eSIM module, the patent eliminates the mechanical weaknesses of multiple separate SIM cards. The single module has fewer contact points and no moving parts, improving mechanical resistance to vibration, shock, and wear while maintaining full communication functionality across multiple network operators

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple SIM cards are implemented, then communication coverage is improved, but manufacturing costs and design complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication coverageVSAvoidmanufacturing costs

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent reduces manufacturing costs by merging multiple SIM card functions into a single eSIM module. This eliminates the need to manufacture and assemble multiple separate SIM card slots, contact pads, and shielding structures, while still providing comprehensive communication coverage across multiple network operators through software-based profile management

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Volume of moving object

If a single eSIM module is used, then device size is reduced, but power supply reliability may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidpower supply reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements redundant power supply paths that connect the eSIM module to multiple power sources before failures occur. This beforehand cushioning ensures that if one power path fails, alternative paths are already in place to maintain power supply reliability, eliminating the need for larger backup power components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

5Ease of operation

If removable SIM cards are used, then user flexibility is improved, but service continuity and security deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser flexibilityVSAvoidservice continuity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses software-based copying of subscriber profiles within the eSIM module, allowing users to switch between multiple network operators virtually without physical manipulation. This maintains user flexibility for choosing different networks while eliminating the service interruptions and security risks associated with removing and inserting physical SIM cards

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentEP3723002B1Electronic chip comprising communication interfaces

Publication Date: 2021.06.23 STMICROELECTRONICS (ROUSSET) SAS

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AI summary

This description relates to an electronic device comprising an electronic chip (4) having several interfaces (47, 48) standardized to ISO/IEC 7816.