Service Access Configuration via Brokered Settings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face complexity and inflexibility when dealing with multiple service contracts from different providers, and existing solutions restrict the ability to switch service providers without replacing end user equipment.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allow a service broker to configure generic end user equipment by transmitting access settings to enable a chosen service provider to access and control the equipment, allowing flexibility in service provider selection without the need for new equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a service broker provides a package of services with predetermined service providers, then the user has a single contract and simplified access, but the user is restricted to receiving only the services provided as part of the package with no flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments service management into two layers: the service broker manages access settings and user contracts, while the end user equipment stores and manages service provider-specific configuration data. This segmentation allows the service broker to simplify user access without restricting service provider choices, as the equipment can store multiple provider configurations independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The end user equipment is pre-configured with storage capability for multiple service provider configuration data before the user subscribes to any service. This preliminary preparation enables flexible service provider selection later, as the equipment already has the necessary structure to accommodate different providers without requiring reconfiguration.
2Reliability
If end user equipment is branded by a service provider to enable control and configuration, then the service provider can commission and control the equipment, but the equipment cannot be re-used by a different service provider should the user switch suppliers
Solution Approach 1:
The end user equipment is designed with universal compatibility to work with multiple service providers. It includes storage for configuration data from different providers and can switch between them by loading the appropriate configuration set, eliminating the need for provider-branded equipment while maintaining reliable provider control through configuration management.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of physical branding that ties equipment to a single provider, the system uses configurable data copies that can be loaded into the equipment. Each service provider's configuration data is stored as a separate set, allowing the same physical equipment to be 'copied' to different providers by loading different configuration sets, enabling both control and reusability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple service providers offer services through separate contracts with different terms and conditions, then each service provider can maintain their own control and pricing, but the user faces confusion and difficulties managing several contracts
Solution Approach 1:
The service broker acts as an intermediary between the user and multiple service providers. The broker consolidates contract management and presents a unified interface to the user, while the end user equipment stores configuration data from multiple providers. This intermediary layer reduces user-facing complexity while preserving access to diverse service providers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges multiple service provider contracts into a single user interface managed by the service broker. The end user equipment consolidates configuration data from multiple providers into one storage location, allowing the user to manage all service contracts through a single point of access rather than dealing with separate provider interfaces.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for configuring end user equipment 106, 107. A service broker 105 may transmit access settings to an access node 102 where the access settings are for a predetermined service provider 110. The access settings may be transmitted to end user equipment 107 so that the predetermined service provider 110 can access the end user equipment 107 in order to configure the end user equipment 107 to receive a service provided by the service provider 110.