On-demand eUICC Provisioning via Generic Configuration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for provisioning embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Cards (eUICCs) are time-consuming, prone to errors, and require extensive technical effort, as they necessitate pre-definition of all parameters and settings before manufacturing, leading to delayed 'time to market' and inflexible server allocations.

Innovation Solution

A method for on-demand customization using a generic configuration deployed via a generic provisioning server, where the secure element is initially configured with a generic setup that is adapted to a unique configuration upon first power-on, allowing for remote customization and data collection, reducing the need for pre-defined unique configurations during manufacturing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If all eUICC parameters and settings are pre-defined before manufacturing, then the eUICCs can be properly configured for specific server systems, but the time to market is extended and production flexibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveeUICC configuration accuracyVSAvoidtime to market
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by deploying a generic configuration on eUICCs before manufacturing, which includes basic functionality but lacks specific server system parameters. This allows production to proceed without waiting for customer-specific configuration details, while the unique configuration is automatically provisioned later when the eUICC is activated or first connects to a network, thus resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and time to market

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics by transitioning from a static pre-configured approach to a dynamic on-demand provisioning model. The eUICC starts with a generic configuration that can be dynamically updated with unique customer-specific settings after deployment, allowing the configuration to adapt based on actual usage scenarios and server system requirements, thereby reducing both lead time and configuration errors

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If eUICCs are customized with customer-specific settings before production, then server allocations can be optimized, but the process becomes labor-intensive and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveserver allocation flexibilityVSAvoidcustomization effort
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling the eUICC to automatically obtain and apply its unique configuration from a server system after deployment. Instead of requiring manual customization during manufacturing, the eUICC autonomously retrieves its specific configuration parameters when activated or first connects to a network, eliminating labor-intensive manual customization while maintaining full adaptability to different server systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by creating a standardized generic configuration that can be applied to all eUICCs regardless of their final destination or server system. This universal base configuration includes all necessary functional elements, which are then selectively customized with customer-specific parameters automatically, reducing manual effort while preserving adaptability across different deployment scenarios

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If eUICCs are produced early without complete configuration data, then production timelines are accelerated, but configuration errors increase and rework is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction speedVSAvoidconfiguration accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by providing a validated generic configuration that ensures basic functionality and correctness before deployment. This pre-configured baseline undergoes rigorous testing and validation, ensuring that the core configuration is error-free. The unique customer-specific parameters are then added automatically after deployment through controlled provisioning processes, maintaining both high production speed and configuration accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by establishing automated validation and verification mechanisms that check configuration accuracy during the on-demand provisioning process. When unique configurations are provisioned after deployment, the system validates that the configuration data is correct and complete before applying it to the eUICC, providing immediate feedback to prevent errors and reduce rework, thus maintaining both productivity and reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3684087A1On-demand provisioning of uiccs and server components
Publication Date: 2020.07.22 GIESECKE DEVRIENT MOBILE SECURITY GERMANY GMBH
  • EP3684087A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3684087A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3684087A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is directed towards a method for on-demand customization of a secure element using a generic configuration, which allows efficient provisioning of components to secure elements being embedded in mobile devices using a generic provisioning server. Likewise the present invention is directed towards a system for on-demand customization of a secure element in accordance with the suggested method. Moreover, a computer program product is suggested with instructions implementing the suggested method and operating the system.