Service Identifier Segmentation for SIM Profile Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
User devices may fail to connect to a network using only the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) when network changes occur, such as new MCC-MNC combinations are introduced, due to outdated software or lack of storage capacity for updates, leading to an inability to load profiles with new configuration parameters.
Innovation Solution
Storing a globally unique service identifier on SIM cards, separate from the IMSI, allows user devices to load profiles based on this identifier, enabling connection to the network even if the IMSI is not compatible with the new MCC-MNC combination, without requiring software updates on the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If user devices use IMSI to load profiles for network connection, then connection establishment is possible with existing network configurations, but the devices become unable to connect when network changes occur (new MCC-MNC combinations) due to outdated software or lack of storage capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the identification system by introducing a service identifier that is separate from the IMSI. The service identifier is stored in a dedicated file on the SIM card and is used specifically for profile loading and network connection, while the IMSI retains its authentication function. This segmentation allows the device to adapt to network changes through service identifier updates without requiring software updates or additional storage capacity for profile data.
Solution Approach 2:
The service identifier acts as an intermediary between the SIM card and the network profile loading mechanism. Instead of directly using the IMSI to load profiles, the system uses the service identifier as a mediator that points to the appropriate profile. This intermediary layer enables flexible profile management and network adaptation without modifying the device software or requiring the IMSI to change.
2Adaptability or versatility
If software updates are required on user devices to support new MCC-MNC combinations, then connection compatibility is improved, but devices with outdated software or insufficient storage capacity cannot connect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the network configuration identification function from the IMSI and places it in a separate service identifier stored on the SIM card. This extraction removes the dependency on device software updates and storage capacity, as the service identifier is self-contained on the SIM card and can be updated independently of the device firmware.
Solution Approach 2:
The SIM card provides self-service by storing the service identifier locally, eliminating the need for the user device to perform software updates or manage profile storage. The service identifier on the SIM card automatically enables the device to connect to networks with new MCC-MNC combinations without any user intervention or device-side modifications.
3Ease of manufacture
If the same service identifier is stored on all SIM cards associated with a service entity, then profile loading is simplified and connection is enabled, but the system must manage global uniqueness across all service entities
Solution Approach 1:
The service identifier serves multiple functions: it uniquely identifies the service entity, enables profile loading, and facilitates network connection. By making the service identifier universal across all SIM cards of a service entity, the system simplifies SIM card provisioning and profile management while maintaining global uniqueness through standardized allocation rules.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for establishing connections between user devices and a network are disclosed. A service identifier associated with a service entity may be determined. The service identifier may be determined by a user device and based on accessing a subscriber identity module (SIM) card associated with the user device. One or more configuration parameters associated with a communication service of the service entity may be determined based on the service identifier. A connection may be caused to be established between the user device and a network associated with the service entity based at least on the one or more configuration parameters.