Subscriber Profile Management for Shared IMSI in Wireless Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication systems require users to manage multiple phone numbers for different devices, leading to confusion and complexity in number management, especially when devices need to switch between direct communication and cellular network access.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication system that allows multiple devices to share the same subscriber identification number, using a subscriber information module like eUICC, enabling seamless transition between direct communication and cellular network access by managing profile states and switching between profiles dynamically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple phone numbers are assigned to multiple devices respectively, then each device can independently access the cellular network, but the user experiences confusion and complexity in phone number management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple phone numbers under a single subscriber identification number (IMSI) by associating multiple MSISDNs with one IMSI in the HLR. This allows multiple devices to share one identity for network access while maintaining individual phone numbers for routing, thereby reducing user management complexity while preserving independent access capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the HLR that maps between the shared subscriber identification number and multiple device-specific phone numbers. This intermediary layer automatically handles the association and routing, eliminating the need for users to manually manage multiple numbers while ensuring reliable network access for each device.
2Ease of operation
If the same subscriber identification number is shared among multiple devices, then user management is simplified, but the system must handle complex profile state management and switching between devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where devices automatically detect and resolve conflicts when sharing a subscriber identification number. When one device connects to the network, other devices with the same IMSI automatically disconnect or enter a standby state without requiring manual user intervention or complex centralized coordination, thereby simplifying user management while managing profile state complexity through automated device-level logic.
3Ease of operation
If devices automatically switch between direct communication and cellular network access, then user experience is improved, but the system requires dynamic profile state management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic profile state management where the active device association with a shared subscriber identification number changes automatically based on real-time network conditions and device availability. The system dynamically updates the HLR to reflect which device is currently active, allowing seamless transitions between direct communication and cellular network access while improving user experience through automated switching.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system with a technology for Internet of Things (IoT). The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services. Subscriber profile management in a wireless communication system is disclosed. A method for operating a user device, the method comprises: determining a state change of a direct connection with another device; and controlling a state of a profile including the same subscriber identification number as a subscriber identification number assigned to the other device, according to the state change of the direct connection.