Single-UICC USIM Switching for Multi-Network Smartphone Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern smartphones often have a single UICC, limiting their ability to efficiently access multiple wireless networks, such as private and public networks, without requiring complex modifications to network components.
Innovation Solution
A single UICC is provisioned with two unique sets of subscriber credentials as distinct USIMs, enabling efficient switching between networks based on priority and availability, using a USIM switching application to manage the transition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single UICC is used in a smartphone, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to access multiple wireless networks is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling a single UICC to host multiple USIM applications, allowing the device to access different wireless networks (public and private) through one card. The USIM switching application dynamically selects which USIM to use based on network availability and priority settings, making the single UICC serve multiple network access functions simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple USIMs are provisioned on a single UICC, then network access versatility is improved, but the switching management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The USIM switching application implements self-service by automatically monitoring network availability and autonomously selecting the appropriate USIM based on pre-configured priority settings. The system self-manages the switching process without requiring user intervention, automatically detecting when to switch between public and private networks based on signal availability and network policies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the USIM selection process adaptive and changeable in real-time. The switching application dynamically adjusts which USIM is active based on current network conditions, signal strength, and availability, rather than using a fixed selection. This allows the system to respond flexibly to changing network environments.
3Ease of manufacture
If network switching is implemented without infrastructure changes, then ease of deployment is improved, but the control over network selection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the network selection control function into the mobile device's USIM switching application, combining multiple control capabilities (network detection, USIM selection, priority management) into a single integrated system. This allows comprehensive network selection control to be implemented at the device level without requiring changes to network infrastructure, achieving both ease of deployment and operational control.
Data Source
AI summary
A user equipment (UE), comprising at least one processor may be configured to transmit a first attach request to a first wireless network based on a first subscriber identity module. The UE may determine that the first attach request was unsuccessful and may automatically activate a switching application to switch the UE from the first subscriber identity module to a second subscriber identity module based on the determination. The first and second subscriber identity modules are stored on a common universal integrated circuit card (UICC) associated with the UE. The UE may then transmit a second attach request to the first wireless network based on the second subscriber identity module.