IoT Device Rental Licensing via Intermediary Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is currently no system in place for user-based licensing of IoT devices, which limits users' ability to rent these devices and purchase associated services without complex infrastructures and device-based licensing models.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system for licensing services associated with network-connectable devices, allowing users to rent devices and purchase services independently, with features like user identity verification, service compatibility determination, and license configuration based on device characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If device-based licensing is used for IoT devices, then service providers can sell services to particular consumers, but the infrastructure becomes very complex and mechanical/sensory capabilities are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a licensing server as an intermediary component that manages service licensing between device providers and consumers. The licensing server receives device identifiers, determines user identities, and issues service licenses without requiring complex infrastructure at the device level. This mediator approach simplifies the overall system while maintaining reliable service delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the licensing management functionality from the IoT devices themselves and places it in a separate licensing server. This separation removes the need for complex mechanical/sensory capabilities in the devices, as the licensing logic is externalized to a dedicated server that handles identity verification and license issuance independently.
2Adaptability or versatility
If users purchase IoT devices outright, then they become owners and can access additional services, but rental options are not available limiting market flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic licensing that adapts to different access models (ownership vs. rental). The system determines user identity based on device identifiers and rental status, then issues appropriate service licenses. This dynamic approach allows the same infrastructure to support both outright purchase and rental scenarios, providing market flexibility while maintaining operational simplicity through automated license management.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple service provider systems are used, then diverse services can be offered, but users must re-identify across multiple systems increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal licensing system that works across multiple service providers and device types. The licensing server uses a common device identifier (such as IMEI) to determine user identity and issue service licenses regardless of which service provider or device is involved. This universal approach enables diverse service offerings while simplifying identity verification into a single standardized process.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are methods and systems for the licensing of services associated with IoT devices that are under rental by users and/or that are shared between users. A comprehensive user-based licensing system connects services, users, and IoT devices with respect to licensing based on the particular context in which a device is being rented, one or more capabilities of the device being rented, availability of services for the particular device, and/or one or more characteristics of the user who is renting the device. The licensing system enables a user who is renting an IoT device to purchase one or more services associated with the device in conjunction with the rental.