IoT Services Architecture Dynamic IMSI Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication systems face limitations in dynamically managing subscriber identities and network services, particularly for IoT devices, as they rely on traditional SIM cards that require physical swapping and lack real-time service adjustments based on location, usage, and network performance.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of an eSIM (embedded SIM) with remote provisioning capabilities allows mobile devices to dynamically switch between subscriber profiles and network operators, enabling a global service provider network to manage and control data traffic, quality of service, and network performance through a centralized platform using switching logic and data inspection modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional SIM cards are used for subscriber identification, then device compatibility and network authentication are ensured, but physical swapping is required for network switching and real-time service adjustments are impossible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork switching capabilityVSAvoidphysical SIM card swapping
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical SIM card swapping system with an electronic remote provisioning system. The eUICC embedded in the device can be remotely configured and reprogrammed over-the-air to switch between different network operators and service profiles, eliminating the need for physical card removal and insertion. This substitution enables seamless network switching while maintaining device compatibility.

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

2Area of stationary object

If a single network operator is used for service provision, then service consistency is maintained, but geographical coverage and service availability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegeographical coverageVSAvoidmulti-network management
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal service provision system where a single network operator can provide services across multiple geographical locations by leveraging roaming agreements with other operators. The system dynamically selects appropriate network operators based on device location, ensuring continuous service availability. The eUICC stores multiple service profiles that can be activated based on geographical context, enabling seamless cross-border service delivery without requiring separate infrastructure in each region.

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

3Productivity

If manual service configuration is used for IoT devices, then setup simplicity is maintained, but real-time service adjustments and optimizations are impossible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice provisioning efficiencyVSAvoidremote service management
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service system where IoT devices automatically discover available network operators and services based on their location and requirements. The eUICC autonomously downloads and activates appropriate service profiles without manual intervention. The system continuously monitors network conditions and automatically switches between operators to optimize service quality and cost, enabling real-time adjustments while eliminating manual configuration overhead.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Adaptability or versatility

If traditional SIM cards are used for IoT devices, then device simplicity is maintained, but dynamic service switching and cost optimization are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice plan flexibilityVSAvoidembedded eUICC system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested architecture where the eUICC is embedded within the IoT device, and within the eUICC, multiple service profiles are nested. Each profile represents a different service plan or network operator configuration. The system can dynamically select and activate specific nested profiles based on current needs, enabling flexible service switching while keeping the overall device structure compact and integrated rather than adding external complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentEP3646627B1Internet of things services architecture
Publication Date: 2022.08.10 IBASIS INC
  • EP3646627B1 patent drawingFigure 1A
  • EP3646627B1 patent drawingFigure 1B
  • EP3646627B1 patent drawingFigure 2A

AI summary

According to at least one example embodiment, the present disclosure may be implemented in the form of a method or system for performing data traffic inspections and selecting an IMSI according to a switching logic. The example embodiment may include a data inspection module configured to inspect data requests from a mobile device assigned a first IMSI. The data inspection module may be further configured to determine data usage information of the mobile device from the inspected data requests. The example embodiment further includes a switching logic module communicatively coupled to the data inspection module. The switching logic module is configure to select a second IMSI associated with a second mobile network to assign to the mobile device, the selection of the second IMSI being at least partially based on the data service being requested by the mobile device.