Primary Device Hub for eUICC Profile Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for managing mobile communication subscriber information in embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Cards (UICCs) are inefficient, particularly when dealing with multiple devices, as they require individual profile downloads from network servers, leading to a burden on Mobile Network Operators and infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allows for the remote installation of profiles in multiple devices using a primary device as a central hub, where profiles are downloaded from a network server to the primary device and then distributed to other devices, reducing the need for individual connections to the network server.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If individual profile downloads are performed for each device from the network server, then each device can obtain its required profile information, but the burden on the Mobile Network Operator and network infrastructure increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a primary device as an intermediary between the network server and secondary devices. The primary device downloads profiles from the network server and then distributes them to multiple secondary devices via local communication (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cable connection). This intermediary approach reduces the direct burden on the network server by consolidating multiple download requests into a single download operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the profile distribution process into two distinct phases: (1) a bulk download phase where the primary device retrieves profiles from the network server, and (2) a local distribution phase where the primary device transfers profiles to secondary devices through direct communication channels. This segmentation separates the network-intensive operation from the distribution operation, reducing network infrastructure burden.
2Loss of time
If multiple devices connect individually to the network server for profile downloads, then each device receives accurate profile information, but the process becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the primary device download and store profile information in advance before distribution to secondary devices. This pre-fetching approach ensures that when secondary devices need profiles, the information is already available locally at the primary device, eliminating the need for each device to perform time-consuming individual downloads from the network server.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple profile download operations into a single bulk download operation performed by the primary device. Instead of having each secondary device independently connect to and download from the network server, all profile downloads are consolidated into one operation, significantly reducing the total time required and improving overall profile management efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If a centralized profile management system is implemented through a primary device, then profile distribution becomes more efficient and network load is reduced, but the complexity of the device system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the primary device universal by enabling it to perform multiple functions: acting as a profile download client from the network server, serving as a profile storage repository, functioning as a distribution server to secondary devices, and providing profile management capabilities. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single device, managing complexity while improving ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A terminal comprises a transceiver and at least one processor, which is configured to pair the terminal and a device comprising an embedded universal integrated circuit card, eUICC, obtain subscription information for the terminal and the device, transmit, to a profile management server via the transceiver, a request message for a profile corresponding to an identifier of the eUICC of the device based on the subscription information for the terminal and the device, receive, from the profile management server via the transceiver, the profile corresponding to the identifier of the eUICC of the device, wherein the profile corresponding to the identifier of the eUICC of the device includes a software packaging comprising at least one of a file system, an authentication key value or network access certification information, and transmit, to the device, the profile corresponding to the identifier of the eUICC of the device.