Mobile Device Self-Provisioning via Temporary Activation Code
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for activating mobile communication devices are time-consuming and error-prone, requiring users to manually provide activation information over the phone or through other cumbersome processes, leading to lengthy delays and complications in initial activation and subsequent service management.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows mobile communication devices to collect user information and send provisioning requests directly to a provisioning authority using a temporary activation code, enabling real-time self-activation and service management without the need for external assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional telephone-based activation methods are used, then users can activate mobile devices, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device performs self-activation by automatically collecting its own identification information, generating provisioning requests, and communicating with the provisioning authority without requiring user intervention or external assistance. This eliminates manual data entry errors and reduces activation time significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device pre-collects all necessary activation information (device ID, IMEI, ICID) during manufacturing or initial setup, and stores it in ready-to-use format. When activation is needed, the device immediately transmits this pre-prepared information to the provisioning authority, eliminating the need for users to gather and input data during activation.
2Ease of operation
If manual activation processes are used, then users can obtain activation codes, but the process involves multiple steps and external communication
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device autonomously performs the entire activation sequence: collecting device identification information, formulating provisioning requests, transmitting them to the provisioning authority, receiving responses, and completing activation. This self-service capability dramatically simplifies the user experience while managing the complexity internally within the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple separate activation steps (information collection, request generation, transmission, response processing) into a single integrated self-provisioning process executed by the mobile device. This merging of functions into one unified process reduces the perceived complexity for users while maintaining comprehensive activation capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If point-of-sale activation by sales personnel is used, then users receive activation assistance, but users must wait during the activation process
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device performs activation independently without requiring sales personnel or other external assistants. The device automatically executes the provisioning process, eliminating the need for users to wait while someone else operates the activation system on their behalf.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device has all necessary activation information prepared in advance and can immediately initiate the provisioning process upon power-up or user request. This pre-prepared state enables instant activation without requiring users to wait for external personnel to gather information or initiate the process.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of provisioning services for a mobile communication device are disclosed. A provisioning request including provisioning information and specifying a provisioning operation and a first communication service is prepared on the mobile communication device and sent to a provisioning system. Processing of the provisioning request is dependent upon whether or not a second communication service has been activated for the mobile communication device. If the mobile communication device is outside a coverage area of a wireless communication network when a provisioning request is prepared, the request is stored at the mobile communication device and sent to the provisioning system when the mobile communication device enters the coverage area. The provisioning system preferably manages service provisioning for multiple services, any of which may be hosted by different service providers.