Power Supply Module Integrating SIM for IoT Device Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face complexity in managing subscriptions and configuring communicating devices to access long-range communication networks, particularly for devices without screens or limited input/output devices, and there is a need for a simplified method to ensure continuous network access.
Innovation Solution
A method where a power supply module, such as a battery, authenticates with the device's security element upon power distribution, configuring access rights to a communication network that remain valid as long as the device is powered, and invalidates access when residual energy falls below a threshold, eliminating the need for manual subscription management and configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual subscription management and device configuration are implemented, then network access control is secure and managed, but user operation complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the subscription management function with the power supply module. The SIM card is integrated into the battery, combining two previously separate components (power supply and network access subscription) into a single unified module. This allows users to simply replace the battery to manage both power and network access, eliminating complex manual configuration while maintaining secure access control through the embedded security element.
2Adaptability or versatility
If security elements are integrated into separate modules, then security management is flexible and controllable, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the security element (SIM card) with the power supply module into a single integrated unit. This merger reduces the number of separate components that need to be managed and connected, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving the flexibility of security management through the embedded security element that can be activated or deactivated based on power supply status.
3Reliability
If access rights are permanently configured in the device, then network access is guaranteed, but security risks increase when power supply is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic access rights that are contingent on the power supply status. The security element's network access rights are automatically activated when the power supply module is properly inserted and deactivated when removed or compromised. This dynamic approach ensures network access is guaranteed when legitimate power is supplied while automatically mitigating security risks when the power supply is compromised or replaced unauthorized.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the power supply module continuously communicates its status to the security element. The security element monitors whether the power supply is legitimate and active, and accordingly adjusts the network access rights. This feedback loop ensures that access rights are maintained only when the power supply is valid, automatically revoking access when the power supply is removed or compromised, thus balancing access guarantee with security protection.
Data Source
Figure 1~3c
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
The invention relates to a technique for managing a right of access to a service for a communicating device (20). A security element (22) of the device authenticates a security element (12) of an electrical power supply module (10) subsequent to a detection of a start of distribution of electrical energy to the device so as to power it electrically. These security elements are then associated. The security element of the power supply module then configures the security element of the device, the latter having, once configured, a right of access to a valid service allowing it to access the service and this right of access remaining valid as long as the device is powered by this electrical power supply module.