UE SoR Information Segmentation for Updated PLMN Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for managing Steering of Roaming (SoR) information in User Equipment (UE) result in maintaining two instances of SoR information, one in the Mobile Equipment (ME) and another in the USIM, leading to potential camping on non-preferred public land mobile networks and revenue loss.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for managing SoR information in UE, where a first portion of the information is stored in the ME based on an indication in the SoR information, and a second portion is stored in either the ME or the USIM, with retention and deletion rules based on switch-off or USIM removal events to ensure the use of an updated OPLMN list.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If SOR information is maintained in both ME and USIM, then information redundancy is achieved, but device complexity and potential for using outdated information increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments SOR information into two distinct portions: a first portion containing indication information (list type indicator, HPLMN indication) stored in ME, and a second portion containing the actual OPLMN list that may be stored in either ME or USIM depending on the indication. This segmentation allows the system to maintain necessary redundancy while reducing overall complexity through clear division of responsibilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic storage location determination based on the list type indicator in the first portion of SOR information. When the indicator specifies ME storage, the second portion is stored in ME; when it specifies USIM storage, the second portion is stored in USIM. This dynamic approach optimizes the balance between reliability and complexity by adapting storage location to specific information types.
2Reliability
If SOR information is updated in both ME and USIM, then information consistency is improved, but loss of information occurs during power cycles or USIM removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by storing indication information (the first portion of SOR information) in the ME before any potential USIM removal or power cycle occurs. This indication information contains instructions on where the second portion of SOR information should be stored. By having this preliminary indication in place, the system can reconstruct the complete SOR information after power cycles or USIM removal, preventing information loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the ME reads the list type indicator from the first portion of SOR information stored in ME, and based on this feedback, determines whether to retrieve the second portion from ME or USIM. This feedback loop ensures the system always accesses the correct and most up-to-date SOR information regardless of power cycles or USIM removal events.
3Reliability
If legacy OTA mechanisms are used to update SOR information in USIM, then security is improved, but update speed and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the SOR information update process into two parts: secure indication information (first portion) that can be efficiently transmitted and stored in ME, and the actual OPLMN list (second portion) that maintains secure storage in USIM when required. This segmentation allows the system to benefit from both secure legacy OTA updates for the second portion and efficient direct updates for the first portion in ME, achieving a balance between security and update speed.
Data Source
Figure 1
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. The present disclosure relates to method for managing Steering of Roaming (SoR) information in a User Equipment (UE) (110). The method includes receiving the SoR information from a Home Public Land Mobile Network (HPLMN) (107) and storing a first portion of the SoR information.