eSIM Profile Switching via Trigger Events and Probability Thresholds

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mobile network operators face challenges in retaining users due to the inability to dynamically adapt to changing user needs and location-based service requirements, leading to potential switches to alternative operators, especially at territorial borders where roaming charges apply.

Innovation Solution

A method that utilizes embedded identity modules (eSIM or eUICC) to dynamically switch between mobile network operator profiles based on predefined trigger events and switching probabilities, which depend on user context and history, allowing for the transmission of switching information to modify connection conditions or tariffs, thereby incentivizing or preventing profile switches.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If users are tied to a single SIM profile, then network operator retention is improved, but user adaptability to changing needs and locations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork operator retentionVSAvoiduser adaptability to changing needs
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between different SIM profiles based on real-time trigger events (location, time, service type) rather than using a static single profile assignment. This allows the system to adapt to changing user needs while maintaining operational stability through automated decision-making algorithms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the active SIM profile parameter based on varying conditions such as geographic location, time of day, and service requirements. By monitoring these parameters and switching profiles accordingly, the system maintains both retention (through controlled switching) and adaptability (through condition-based profile selection)

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple mobile network operator profiles are stored in user equipment, then user adaptability and service optimization are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice optimization capabilityVSAvoidembedded identity module complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The embedded identity module automatically manages multiple SIM profiles through self-service mechanisms, including automated profile selection based on trigger events, dynamic switching without user intervention, and autonomous monitoring of service conditions. This reduces the perceived complexity for users while enabling advanced multi-profile functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces an intermediary management layer between the user and multiple SIM profiles, where automated algorithms mediate profile selection and switching decisions. This intermediary handles the complexity of managing multiple profiles internally while presenting a simplified interface to users

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If dynamic profile switching is enabled, then service level optimization is improved, but network operator revenue stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice level optimizationVSAvoidoperator revenue stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where network operators receive information about switching probabilities and trigger events. This allows operators to adjust tariffs and connection conditions dynamically, maintaining revenue stability by compensating for potential user switches with optimized pricing and service offerings

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating switching probabilities and preparing countermeasures (tariff adjustments, connection condition modifications) before actual profile switching occurs. This allows operators to proactively maintain revenue stability rather than reacting after users switch

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10271271B2Dynamically influencing the choice of a mobile network operator profile used by a user equipment comprising an embedded identity module
Publication Date: 2019.04.23 DEUTSCHE TELEKOM AG
  • US10271271B2 patent drawing
  • US10271271B2 patent drawing
  • US10271271B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for dynamically influencing the choice of a mobile network operator profile used by a user equipment connected to a telecommunications network includes: defining a plurality of trigger events and determining a switching probability for each trigger event, wherein the user equipment switches from the first mobile network operator profile to the second mobile network operator profile if the switching probability exceeds a predefined threshold. A switching related information is transmitted to the user equipment, the switching related information corresponding to information related to either a modification of the first mobile network operator profile, or to a modification of the second mobile network operator profile.