Automatic SIM Selection for Dual-SIM Mobile Terminals

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Solution Overview

Problem

Dual SIM mobile terminals require cumbersome user manipulation to select the most cost-effective SIM, leading to potential unnecessary costs due to incorrect SIM selection during roaming services.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for automatically selecting a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) based on network selection criteria, detecting matching SIMs, and prompting user selection when no match is found, allowing seamless connection to the optimal network without manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual SIM selection is implemented, then user control over SIM choice is improved, but user convenience and operation simplicity deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSIM selection convenienceVSAvoidmenu manipulation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically selects the appropriate SIM card by detecting the current network environment and comparing it with stored network information for each SIM. The controller autonomously determines which SIM to use without requiring user intervention, making the system serve itself rather than requiring manual user input.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-stores network information (such as PLMN codes) for each SIM card in the memory before the selection is needed. This preliminary storage of data allows the controller to quickly compare current network conditions with stored information and make automatic selection decisions without requiring user input at the moment of selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If automatic SIM selection is implemented, then user convenience is improved, but risk of incorrect selection and unnecessary costs worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSIM selection automationVSAvoidcorrect SIM selection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors the current network environment and feeds this information back to the controller. The controller compares the detected network PLMN code with the stored network information for each SIM card, and based on this feedback comparison, automatically selects the SIM card that matches the current network conditions, ensuring reliable and accurate selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of SIM card selection (physically swapping cards or navigating menus) with an automated electronic system. The controller electronically detects network parameters, compares them with stored data, and automatically switches between SIM cards based on digital comparison results, eliminating human error in the selection process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If network selection criteria are made configurable, then adaptability to different user needs is improved, but device complexity worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork selection flexibilityVSAvoidconfiguration management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system allows users to pre-configure their network selection preferences and store this configuration data in memory before actual network selection is needed. Users can set up their preferred networks, countries, or selection criteria in advance, and the system stores these settings for automatic application when network selection is required, simplifying the user experience while maintaining configurability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP2544477B1Method and apparatus for selecting identity module of mobile terminal supporting plural identity modules
Publication Date: 2019.04.03 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP2544477B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2544477B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2544477B1 patent drawingFigure 3A

AI summary

A method and apparatus for selecting one of multiple identity modules attached to a mobile terminal is provided. The method includes selecting a network, detecting identity modules corresponding to the network, selecting one of the detected identity modules, and connecting to the network using the selected identity module. The identity module selection method enables automatic selection of one of multiple identity modules attached to a mobile terminal without cumbersome user manipulation.