Network Switching via Temporary Operational Profile
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Solution Overview
Problem
Subscribers using a mobile network operator (MNO) face disruptions when moving to areas not covered by their MNO's signal but covered by another MNO's signal, leading to inability to continue communication during important calls, and there is a need for seamless switching back to the original MNO when its signal is restored.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that allow a user equipment (UE) to switch from a second operator network back to a first operator network when the first operator's signal is recovered, by using a temporary operational profile (OP) with a validity period, where the UE detects signal strength and re-accesses the first operator network before the validity period expires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the UE switches to a second operator network when the first operator network signal is lost, then communication continuity is maintained, but the UE cannot switch back to the first operator network when its signal is recovered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a temporary operational profile with a pre-defined validity period before the network switch occurs. The SM-DP allocates the temporary OP and validity period in advance, enabling the UE to automatically switch back to the first operator network before the temporary profile expires, thus resolving the inability to switch back while maintaining communication continuity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the operational profile temporary and time-limited rather than permanent. The validity period of the temporary OP creates a dynamic expiration mechanism that automatically enables the UE to revert to the original network, providing adaptive network switching capability based on signal recovery conditions
2Reliability
If the UE uses a temporary OP from a second operator network, then service availability is ensured in blind areas, but manual intervention is required to manage the temporary profile
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the UE to automatically manage the temporary operational profile through machine-to-machine communication. The eUICC autonomously receives the temporary OP and validity period, manages the profile lifecycle, and triggers automatic network switching back when the validity period expires or signal is recovered, eliminating manual intervention requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by establishing automatic monitoring mechanisms where the eUICC continuously checks signal conditions and validity period status. When the first operator network signal is recovered or the temporary OP expires, the system automatically triggers the switch-back process, providing closed-loop control without user involvement
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device for switching between networks, where the method includes, if a notification that a signal of a first operator network is lost is received from a user equipment (UE), sending a temporary operational profile (OP) request to a remote management platform of a second operator network; receiving a temporary OP and a validity period of the temporary OP; instructing the UE to detect signal strength of the first operator network, and accessing the second operator network using the temporary OP; and before the validity period of the temporary OP expires, if it is determined according to the signal strength of the first operator network that the signal of the first operator network is recovered, re-accessing the first operator network.