Programmable SIM Management Platform for IoT Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for managing network connectivity in IoT devices and other computing devices are complex and costly, often requiring long-term contracts with telecommunication providers, which is impractical for low-data applications and poses barriers for developers and companies.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for programmatic device connectivity using a multitenant communication platform that enables programmatic management of SIM cards, allowing for remote provisioning, customized connectivity plans, and dynamic control of device status, routing, and encryption, facilitating simplified management and customization of cellular connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional telecommunication provider contracts are used for device connectivity, then network connection is established, but complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary platform that acts as a mediator between devices and telecommunication providers. This platform handles contract management, provisioning, and connectivity operations programmatically, eliminating the need for direct complex interactions with multiple providers while ensuring reliable network connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform provides universal connectivity management capabilities that work across multiple telecommunication providers and device types. It consolidates provider-specific complexities into a single multi-functional interface, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable connections.
2Reliability
If long-term contracts are established with telecommunication providers, then stable connectivity is achieved, but flexibility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The platform implements dynamic connectivity management where plans, providers, and device configurations can be changed programmatically at any time. This allows stable connectivity to be maintained through automated management while enabling flexible adaptation to changing requirements without being locked into rigid long-term contracts.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary provisioning and configuration actions through automated workflows before devices are deployed. This allows connectivity plans to be pre-configured and adjusted based on predicted needs, providing both stability through advance planning and flexibility through programmatic modification capabilities.
3Reliability
If manual activation processes are used for each device, then proper provisioning is ensured, but time and operational efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical activation processes with automated programmatic systems. APIs and automated workflows substitute for manual clicking and configuration, ensuring provisioning accuracy through validated automated processes while dramatically increasing activation speed and operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service provisioning where devices and connectivity plans are automatically configured and activated through programmatic interfaces without human intervention. This maintains reliability through automated validation while maximizing productivity by eliminating manual operations entirely.
4Adaptability or versatility
If customized connectivity plans are implemented, then specific needs are met, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The platform segments connectivity plans into modular, configurable components that can be independently customized and combined. This allows specific device needs to be met through selective configuration of plan elements while keeping the overall system manageable through standardized modular building blocks rather than monolithic complex configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for programmatically managing device connectivity to a network that includes provisioning connectivity devices with an account of a communication platform, where for a set of the connectivity devices, provisioning includes uniquely associating network operating identifiers of each of the connectivity devices with a corresponding programmatic device resource in the communication platform, setting communication metering properties in a programmatic connectivity plan resource in the communication platform and associating the connectivity plan resource to at least a subset of the device resources of the connectivity devices, and activating network communication status of the connectivity devices; servicing communications from the connectivity devices; and programmatically managing the communications from the connectivity devices through at least the device resources and the connectivity plan resources.