Multi-SIM Cellular Connectivity Unit for Vehicle Split Billing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Multi-SIM connectivity solutions for vehicles are costly and inflexible, particularly for split billing scenarios, as they require additional hardware and are limited by the need for multiple Mobile Network Operator contracts, which can lead to low user acceptance due to compatibility issues with existing SIM contracts.
Innovation Solution
A method and unit for in-car cellular connectivity that uses multiple subscriber identification modules associated with different Mobile Network Operators, configuring multiple Access Point Name interfaces for network registration and data transport, allowing for flexible and cost-effective Multi-SIM connectivity by leveraging 5G capabilities for untrusted non-3GPP access and using a networking processor to manage up to N network connections over IP sessions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If DSDA approach is used to enable simultaneous communications for split billing, then billing flexibility is improved, but hardware complexity and costs increase due to requiring additional cellular connectivity hardware and RF antennas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple Access Point Name interfaces into a single cellular modem, allowing multiple network subscriptions to share common hardware resources. This consolidation enables split billing functionality without requiring separate modem hardware for each subscription, thus reducing overall hardware complexity while maintaining billing flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The single cellular modem is designed to handle multiple Access Point Name interfaces simultaneously, making it a multi-functional device that can support multiple network subscriptions and billing arrangements. This universal capability allows the system to achieve DSDA-like functionality through software configuration rather than through multiple dedicated hardware components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If DSDA approach is used for split billing, then billing flexibility is improved, but the solution is not scalable and costs are significant
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple APN interfaces into a single modem architecture, the patent reduces the bill of materials and manufacturing complexity. This approach eliminates the need to manufacture and install multiple separate modem units, thereby reducing per-vehicle costs while maintaining the ability to support split billing arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal modem design that supports multiple APN interfaces creates a scalable solution that can be manufactured once and deployed across multiple vehicle models and markets. This multi-functional capability reduces development and manufacturing costs compared to creating separate modem solutions for different billing scenarios.
3Device complexity
If Multi-APN approach with single SIM is used, then hardware costs are reduced, but connectivity is limited to a single Mobile Network Operator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the Multi-APN approach by enabling the single modem to handle multiple SIM cards simultaneously through multiple APN interfaces. This enhancement maintains hardware simplicity while adding the versatility to connect to multiple Mobile Network Operators, thus resolving the limitation of the traditional Multi-APN approach.
4Ease of operation
If Carrier-of-Choice approach is used, then user acceptance is improved, but the vehicle manufacturer must have Multi-APN based split-billing contracts with many MNOs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal modem architecture that natively supports multiple SIM cards and Multiple Access Point Name interfaces simultaneously. This capability allows the system to accommodate Carrier-of-Choice arrangements where users can select their preferred network operator, while the hardware is designed to handle multiple operator contracts through a single unified interface, reducing contract management complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention is related to a method for providing mobile connectivity in a vehicle (200) with a cellular connectivity unit (201) using a first subscriber identification module (203) associated with a first subscription for a first Mobile Network Operator and at least a second subscriber identification module (207, 208) associated with a second subscription for a second Mobile Network Operator. A first Access Point Name interface (206) and at least one further Access Point Name interface (210, 211) are configured (101), wherein both the first Access Point Name interface (206) and the at least one further Access Point Name interface (210, 211) are related to the first subscriber identification module (203). The first Access Point Name interface (206) is used (102) for network registration and data transport of the cellular connectivity unit (201) assigned to the first subscriber identification module (203). The at least one further Access Point Name interface (210, 211) is used (103) for network registration and data transport of the cellular connectivity unit (201) assigned to the second subscriber identification module (207).