SIM Switch Module for eSIM and Physical Card Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication devices with embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) cards and physical SIM card slots lack efficient mechanisms for seamless switching between the two, leading to inflexible SIM card usage.
Innovation Solution
A switch module with first-class and second-class pins, a control pin, and a switch circuit that enables switching between eSIM and physical SIM cards based on a switching signal, allowing flexible selection and operation of either card.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a terminal device has both eSIM card and physical SIM card slot, then SIM card functionality is enhanced, but switching between the two cards becomes complex and inflexible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a switch module as an intermediary component between the processing module and the SIM cards. This switch module includes a switch circuit with multiple switching units that can selectively connect the processing module to either the eSIM card or the physical SIM card based on control signals. The intermediary switch module simplifies the overall switching mechanism while maintaining flexibility in card selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch circuit is segmented into multiple independent switching units, where each switching unit corresponds to a specific signal line. This segmentation allows independent control of each signal path, enabling precise switching between eSIM and physical SIM cards without affecting other signal transmissions. The segmented approach reduces complexity by breaking down the switching function into manageable, modular units.
2Reliability
If seamless switching between eSIM and physical SIM is implemented, then SIM card effectiveness is improved, but device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The switch module is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple signal types (data signals, clock signals, control signals) through a unified switching mechanism. The switch circuit can selectively connect the processing module to either SIM card type for various communication functions, making the structure versatile rather than requiring separate dedicated paths for different signal types. This multi-functionality reduces overall structural complexity while maintaining reliable switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch module serves as an intermediary that manages all connections between the processing module and both SIM cards. By centralizing the switching function in this intermediary component, the patent achieves reliable and seamless switching without distributing complex switching logic throughout the entire device structure. The intermediary approach consolidates complexity into a manageable module while ensuring reliable card selection.
Data Source
AI summary
A switch module, a terminal device, a method for controlling a terminal device. The switch module includes: a set of first-class pins configured to couple with a processing module; two sets of second-class pins, in which a first set of second-class pins is configured to couple with a first subscriber identification module (SIM) card, and a second set of second-class pins is configured to couple with a second SIM card; a first control pin coupled with a control output pin of the processing module and receive a switching signal; and a switch circuit, coupled with the first control pin, the first-class pills and two sets of second-class pins, in which the switch circuit is configured to turn on a path between the first-class pins and the first set of second-class pins or a path between the first-class pins and the second set of second-class pins according to the switching signal.