Mobile Device Self-Activation via NFC and OCR Capture
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The process of self-activating a mobile device for wireless communication services after purchase can be frustrating and error-prone, especially when buyers need to manually locate and input unique identifying information without salesperson assistance.
Innovation Solution
An active mobile device captures unique identifying information, such as ICCID and IMEI, using methods like NFC, Bluetooth, camera-based OCR, or QR code scanning, and transfers it to an activation system to facilitate self-activation, potentially linking the new device to an existing user account with the carrier's network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual self-activation is used, then users can activate devices without salesperson assistance, but the process becomes frustrating and error-prone due to manual input requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables the mobile device to automatically capture and transfer its own identifying information (IMEI, ICCID, serial number) to the activation system without requiring manual user input. The device serves itself by extracting information from its own components and transmitting it automatically through wireless communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual input process (typing information into forms) with automated electronic information capture and transfer. The system uses wireless communication protocols and automated data extraction to substitute the manual mechanical action of typing with electronic automated processes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual information input is required, then users can activate devices purchased from non-carrier markets, but the process takes significant time and requires locating device information
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device is pre-configured with all necessary identifying information (IMEI, ICCID, serial number) stored in its memory and components before the activation process begins. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for users to manually locate and transcribe information during activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an automated intermediary process that acts as a bridge between the device's internal information storage and the carrier's activation system. This intermediary automatically extracts, formats, and transmits the device information, eliminating the need for manual information gathering and input.
3Extent of automation
If automated information capture is implemented, then activation process is simplified, but requires additional communication protocols and device capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages existing multi-functional capabilities already present in modern mobile devices, including wireless communication transceivers, memory storage, and processing units. These components serve multiple purposes: normal device operation, information storage, and automated activation communication, avoiding the need for dedicated specialized hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
An application installed on a mobile device currently activated for service with a mobile wireless communication network captures information uniquely identifying a currently unsubscribed mobile device. The unique information may be captured from the currently unsubscribed mobile device via any of several short range transfer mechanisms. The application transfers the captured information and other information used to activate the currently unsubscribed mobile device to an activation service of the mobile wireless communication network, and the service activates the currently unsubscribed mobile device. In another example, a self-activation portal system determines an identifier of an owner of an account associated with an identifier provided by a user of a mobile device to be activated for use with a mobile wireless service. The system sends a message to the account owner offering options to accept or decline the activation request.