Remote UICC Provisioning for MNO Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
In machine-to-machine communications, embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Cards (UICCs) in devices like automobile engines or streetlights cannot be easily replaced or re-provisioned, making it difficult for subscribers to switch to different mobile network operators (MNOs) without replacing the entire device.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allows for the detection of unprovisioned UICCs in communication devices, presenting options for selecting new MNOs, transmitting credential information to enable communication services with the chosen MNO, and facilitating peer-to-peer provisioning to switch between MNOs without replacing the UICC.
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 and maintain structural integrity, but the subscriber cannot easily switch to another MNO without replacing the entire device
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the provisioning function from the physical UICC by introducing a remote provisioning server that can update credentials remotely. The UICC is segmented into storage elements that can be reconfigured without physical replacement, allowing the embedded card to maintain structural integrity while enabling flexible MNO switching through remote credential updates.
Solution Approach 2:
A remote provisioning server acts as an intermediary between the subscriber and the embedded UICC. This mediator enables credential updates to be transmitted remotely to the embedded UICC, allowing MNO switching without physical access to the device or replacement of the UICC, thus resolving the contradiction between embedded reliability and operational flexibility.
2Ease of operation
If the UICC is made removable for easy switching between MNOs, then the subscriber can physically swap SIM cards, but the device cannot be used in harsh environments where removable components are not easily accessible
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the UICC functionality into a permanently embedded physical component and a remotely updateable credential component. The embedded UICC maintains the device's structural integrity and environmental resistance, while the credential data can be updated remotely to enable MNO switching, combining the advantages of both removable and embedded designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physically removing and inserting UICCs with an electronic/remote provisioning system. Credentials are transmitted and updated electronically through communication interfaces, eliminating the need for physical manipulation of the UICC while maintaining the ability to switch MNOs.
3Ease of operation
If the embedded UICC is configured to be re-provisioned remotely, then the subscriber can switch MNOs without replacing the device, but additional provisioning infrastructure and security mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The provisioning server implements universal functionality that can serve multiple devices and multiple MNOs through a single infrastructure. The system uses standardized protocols and interfaces that work across different devices and network operators, reducing the need for device-specific or operator-specific provisioning infrastructure and minimizing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system that incorporates teachings of the subject disclosure may include, for example, a method for detecting, by a first device including a least one processor and a first Universal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC), a second device having a second UICC, detecting, by the first device, that the second UICC is unprovisioned, selecting, by the first device, one of a plurality of selectable options, where the selection identifies a first network operator selected from a plurality of network operators, receiving, by the first device, first credential information of the first network operator, and transmitting, by the first device, to the second device the first credential information for enabling the second device to facilitate establishment of communication services with network equipment of the first network operator according to the first credential information. Other embodiments are disclosed.