Secure Element Preferred Network Loading in LTE
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Solution Overview
Problem
In fourth-generation LTE networks, where all communications are IP-based and do not support SMS, there is no method to load a list of preferred networks into a secure element like a UICC card, hindering roaming capabilities for mobile terminals.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves requesting the opening of an IP channel between the telecommunications network and the secure element, downloading the list of preferred networks via this IP channel, and then instructing the mobile terminal to connect to one of these networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If SMS is used to load preferred networks into the secure element, then the secure element can be updated with network information, but this method is not compatible with LTE networks where all communications are IP-based
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the network side server communicates IP address information to the secure element through the existing IP channel, enabling the secure element to obtain preferred networks list without using SMS. This intermediary approach bridges the gap between LTE IP-based communication and the secure element's need for network information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the communication parameter from SMS-based text messaging to IP channel-based data transmission. By utilizing the IP channel that is already established for other network functions, the system adapts the preferred networks loading mechanism to work with LTE's IP-only architecture.
2Reliability
If an IP channel is opened between the network and secure element to download preferred networks, then the secure element can receive network information in LTE networks, but this requires additional channel establishment complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the IP channel multi-functional by using it for both existing network functions and the new preferred networks loading function. Instead of creating a dedicated channel for this purpose, the system leverages the IP channel that is already necessary for LTE communication, thereby avoiding additional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by establishing the IP channel for other network functions before utilizing it for downloading the preferred networks list. This approach ensures that the channel is already in place and does not add extra complexity to the overall system architecture.
3Ease of operation
If the secure element stores preferred networks list, then the mobile terminal can seamlessly roam to preferred networks, but the secure element needs additional memory and processing capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by downloading the preferred networks list from the network side server into the secure element's storage. This allows the secure element to store a copy of the network information locally, enabling fast access during roaming decisions without requiring complex real-time communication capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The secure element performs self-service by autonomously storing the preferred networks list and using it for roaming decisions without continuous network intervention. Once the list is downloaded, the secure element can independently make roaming decisions based on stored information, reducing the need for complex ongoing processing.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for loading a list of preferred networks into a secure element contained in a mobile terminal. The loading is accomplished when the secure element detects that it is in a roaming condition within a telecommunication network. The method consists of: i) asking (12) for an IP channel to be opened between the telecommunication network and the secure element, the request for opening originating with the secure element; ii) requesting (13) the loading of the list of preferred networks; iii) uploading (14) via the IP channel the list of preferred networks into the secure element; and iv) transmitting (16) a request by the secure element to the mobile terminal to use one of said preferred networks in said list.