Symmetric EPLMN Database Synchronization for Dual-Subscription Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile communication devices with multiple subscriptions from the same network operator often experience asymmetric Equivalent Public Land Mobile Network (EPLMN) configurations, leading to suboptimal network selection and lower data communication rates due to incomplete or missing EPLMN databases across subscriptions.
Innovation Solution
The method involves receiving and comparing EPLMN databases across subscriptions, modifying incomplete databases by appending or copying entries from a complete database, and registering subscriptions with PLMNs offering higher data communication rates, ensuring symmetric EPLMN configurations and optimal network selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the network operator sends the EPLMN database to only one subscription, then the device complexity is reduced, but the data communication rate decreases due to asymmetric EPLMN configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges EPLMN database information across multiple subscriptions by having the second subscription receive and compare the EPLMN database from the first subscription, combining their EPLMN configurations to achieve symmetry and enable access to higher data rate networks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by having the second subscription receive a copy of the EPLMN database from the first subscription, compare it with its own database, and update its configuration based on the comparison, ensuring both subscriptions have access to complete EPLMN information
2Reliability
If the first subscription does not advertise the EPLMN database to other subscriptions, then the information security is improved, but the adaptability decreases due to asymmetric EPLMN configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the processor mediates between subscriptions by receiving, comparing, and distributing EPLMN database information, allowing subscriptions to adapt to equivalent PLMNs without direct advertising between subscriptions, thus maintaining security while enabling adaptability
3Reliability
If the second subscription registers with a lower data communication rate PLMN, then the network reliability is improved, but the energy consumption increases due to suboptimal network selection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the EPLMN configuration parameters of the second subscription by receiving and comparing the EPLMN database from the first subscription, updating its PLMN list to include equivalent high-speed networks, thereby enabling selection of higher data rate networks that reduce energy consumption while maintaining reliability
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments include methods implemented on a mobile communication device for acquiring service when the mobile communication device has a first subscription and a second subscription that belong to the same network operator. The methods may include receiving a first equivalent public land mobile network (EPLMN) database associated with the first subscription, determining whether a second EPLMN database associated with the second subscription is the same as the first EPLMN database, and modifying the second EPLMN database based on the first EPLMN database in response to determining that the second EPLMN database associated with the second subscription is not the same as the first EPLMN database.