Remote SIM Profile Download for Mobile Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of mobile communication terminals face inconvenience in accessing services from different mobile carriers, particularly when traveling, due to the need for physical SIM cards and high roaming fees, and existing solutions do not offer efficient remote management of SIM modules.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for downloading and installing a SIM profile in real-time onto a UICC card, allowing terminals to select and manage communication services remotely through a profile server using access tokens and profile access keys, enabling seamless switching between SIM modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical SIM cards are used for accessing services from different mobile carriers, then network access is reliable, but user convenience deteriorates due to the need for physical card replacement and high roaming fees
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the SIM card functionality through a profile downloaded to the terminal. Instead of using a physical SIM card, the system downloads a profile package containing authentication credentials (IMSI, authentication keys) to the terminal's memory, enabling the terminal to authenticate with the mobile network as if it had a physical SIM card inserted. This virtual copying eliminates the need for physical card handling while maintaining network access reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical SIM card insertion and removal with an electronic/software-based system. The profile download mechanism uses data communication protocols to transfer authentication credentials electronically to the terminal, substituting the mechanical act of physically swapping SIM cards with an automated electronic process that can be initiated remotely by the user or system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple SIM profiles are stored in the terminal for different carriers, then service versatility is improved, but device complexity increases due to profile management overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality where the terminal automatically manages multiple SIM profiles without requiring user intervention for complex operations. The terminal includes a profile manager that automatically downloads, stores, selects, and switches between different carrier profiles based on user preferences or network conditions. This automation reduces the perceived complexity for users while maintaining the ability to access multiple carrier services.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic profile management where the terminal can actively switch between different SIM profiles based on changing conditions such as location, network availability, or user selection. The profile manager dynamically selects which profile to use for network authentication, allowing the terminal to adapt to different carrier environments without requiring manual reconfiguration or increasing operational complexity for the user.
3Ease of operation
If SIM profiles are downloaded remotely over the air, then ease of operation is improved by eliminating physical card handling, but security risks increase due to wireless transmission of authentication credentials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a secure transmission environment by establishing an encrypted communication channel between the profile server and the terminal before transmitting authentication credentials. The system uses secure data communication protocols that create a protected 'inert atmosphere' for data transmission, preventing unauthorized access or interception of the profile package during the download process. This secure channel ensures that sensitive authentication information is transmitted safely over the wireless interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a profile server as an intermediary between the mobile carrier and the terminal. This intermediary system manages the secure distribution of SIM profiles by authenticating terminals, preparing encrypted profile packages, and controlling the download process. The profile server acts as a trusted mediator that ensures only authorized terminals receive authentication credentials, thereby reducing security risks associated with direct wireless transmission while enabling convenient remote profile management.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for downloading a profile by a terminal and the terminal for performing the same are provided. The method includes acquiring information including an access token for transmitting a profile request to a profile server, transmitting a first message including the access token and a universal integrated circuit card (UICC) information of the terminal to the profile server, receiving a second message including a verification result from the profile server, and receiving a profile package corresponding to the access token from the profile server. The present disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system with a technology for internet of things (IoT). The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology.