Remote UICC Provisioning for Harsh Environment M2M Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
In machine-to-machine communications, embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Cards (UICCs) in harsh environments make it difficult for subscribers to switch between mobile network operators without replacing the entire device, as these cards are not physically replaceable.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a memory and a controller that manages content and memory allocation on UICCs by generating and transmitting encrypted packages with configuration data, allowing for remote provisioning and management of UICC content and memory, enabling seamless switching between mobile network operators without physical card replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the UICC is embedded in the communication device for machine-to-machine communications, then the device can operate in harsh environments, but the subscriber cannot physically replace the UICC to switch between mobile network operators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical system of UICC card swapping with an electronic/remote provisioning system. The embedded UICC cannot be physically accessed or replaced, but its functionality can be changed remotely through electronic configuration updates delivered over the air, allowing operator switching without physical intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a remote provisioning system as an intermediary between the subscriber and the embedded UICC. This intermediary system enables configuration changes and operator switching by delivering update packages remotely, bridging the gap between the immutable embedded UICC and the need for flexible operator switching.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the UICC is made physically replaceable, then the subscriber can switch between mobile network operators, but the device cannot maintain reliable operation in harsh environments where physical access is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for physical UICC replacement by substituting it with remote electronic provisioning. The UICC remains embedded and protected in harsh environments, while its configuration can be changed remotely through electronic updates, maintaining both reliability and adaptability.
3Reliability
If the UICC is embedded and not physically replaceable, then the device maintains reliability in harsh environments, but the subscriber must replace the entire device to change operators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex physical process of device replacement with a simple remote electronic configuration update. Instead of requiring subscribers to replace entire devices, the system delivers update packages remotely that reconfigure the embedded UICC for the new operator, dramatically simplifying the switching process.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote provisioning system acts as an intermediary that enables operator switching without device replacement. It delivers configuration updates to the embedded UICC, allowing the subscriber to change operators while keeping the same device, thus reducing the complexity associated with device replacement.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the UICC is physically replaceable, then the subscriber can switch operators, but physical access to the device is required which is difficult in harsh environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical operation of physically accessing and swapping the UICC card with a remote electronic provisioning system. Configuration changes and operator switching are performed remotely through electronic updates delivered over the air, eliminating the need for physical access to the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote provisioning system serves as an intermediary that enables operator switching without requiring physical access to the device. It delivers configuration updates remotely, bridging the gap between the need for operator switching and the inaccessibility of embedded UICCs in harsh environments.
Data Source
AI summary
A system that incorporates the subject disclosure may include, for example, a system for receiving a request to modify a universal integrated circuit card, generating a package comprising configuration data for modifying the universal integrated circuit card, encrypting the package with a transport key to generate an encrypted package, transmitting the encrypted package to a communication device communicatively coupled to the universal integrated circuit card to provision the universal integrated circuit card, and providing a mobile network operator trusted service manager system information relating to the configuration data to enable the mobile network operator trusted service manager system to manage content and memory allocation of the universal integrated circuit card. Other embodiments are disclosed.