eUICC Dynamic Operator Configuration Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional eUICCs in IoT terminals have a linear lifecycle with irreversible characteristics, making it difficult to modify operator configurations or update application and data functions, limiting user flexibility in switching between operator networks.

Innovation Solution

An operator configuration processing method and system that allows eUICCs to acquire and assemble operator configurations from a subscription management platform, enabling users to switch between operator networks by transmitting and verifying operator configurations, and assembling them into executable applications and file systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If eUICC uses a linear lifecycle with irreversible characteristics, then security and stability are improved, but flexibility and ability to modify operator configurations are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity and stabilityVSAvoidflexibility to modify operator configurations
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a dynamic configuration mechanism that allows the eUICC to transition from a static, irreversible lifecycle to a flexible, updatable system. The configuration data can be remotely updated via OTA (Over-The-Air) technology, enabling the eUICC to adapt to different operator networks and service requirements while maintaining its physical security characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent separates the eUICC into two independent components: the secure element (physical chip) and the configuration data (software/firmware). This segmentation allows the secure element to maintain its irreversible, secure characteristics while the configuration data can be freely updated and modified, resolving the contradiction between security and flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Stability of the object's composition

If eUICC is welded or packaged in communication modules, then integration and stability are improved, but ability to determine issuing place and modify operator configuration is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration stabilityVSAvoidability to modify operator configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a configuration management system as an intermediary between the user and the eUICC. This system includes a configuration server that stores multiple operator configurations and a management entity that handles the update process. The intermediary enables remote configuration updates without requiring physical access to the welded eUICC, thus maintaining integration stability while improving operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical/physical method of configuration modification (which would require opening the terminal and accessing the eUICC) with an electronic/remote method. Configuration updates are transmitted via wireless communication (OTA) and written to the eUICC through standardized interfaces, eliminating the need for physical disassembly while maintaining secure integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If conventional eUICC lifecycle is irreversible, then security against unauthorized modification is improved, but user ability to switch operator networks is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection against unauthorized modificationVSAvoidability to switch operator networks
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic configuration update mechanism that allows authorized changes to operator network settings. The system includes authentication and authorization protocols that ensure only legitimate updates are applied, maintaining security while enabling users to switch between operator networks as needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses configuration data files that can be copied from a configuration server to the eUICC. These configuration files contain operator network parameters, APN settings, and service profiles. The copying mechanism allows multiple configuration versions to be stored and switched between, enabling network switching while maintaining a secure, immutable core eUICC structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentEP3337219B1Carrier configuration processing method, device and system, and computer storage medium
Publication Date: 2020.07.15 ZTE CORP
  • EP3337219B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3337219B1 patent drawingFigure 3~5
  • EP3337219B1 patent drawingFigure 6

AI summary

Disclosed are a carrier configuration processing method, device and system, and computer storage medium. The method comprises: acquiring, by an embedded universal integrated circuit card (eUICC), a carrier configuration transmitted by a subscription management platform; and assembling, by the eUICC and in an allocated storage space, an executable application and file system according to the acquired carrier configuration.