Virtual Communication Card Activation for Slim Terminal Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to implement wireless communication functions in terminal devices without physical communication card holders, while maintaining flexibility similar to traditional cards, due to space constraints and the need for slim, high-capacity designs.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a data file stored locally to obtain and activate communication card information, allowing the data file to function as a virtual communication card, eliminating the need for physical card holders and enabling flexible switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If physical communication card holders are used to implement wireless communication functions, then the terminal device can provide flexible switching similar to traditional communication cards, but the space occupied by PCB increases and the device cannot achieve slim design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the communication card functionality by storing card information (IMSI, Ki, etc.) in a data file within the terminal's memory. This virtual copy replaces the physical SIM card holder, maintaining all communication functions while eliminating the need for physical card insertion slots, thereby saving PCB space and enabling slimmer device design.
2Area of stationary object
If operator customization is used to implement wireless communication function without communication card holders, then the space on PCB is saved, but flexible switching similar to traditional communication cards cannot be implemented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching capability by allowing users to select and activate different virtual communication card data files at runtime. The system dynamically loads the selected card information into memory and activates corresponding communication functions, enabling flexible switching between multiple virtual cards without physical card holders, thus maintaining adaptability while saving PCB space.
3Ease of operation
If more hardware circuits are added to terminal devices to support more functions, then the operability and user experience improve, but the space occupied by PCB increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical card holders and card insertion slots with a software-based virtual card system. Communication card information is stored as data files in the terminal's memory, and the system uses software to manage card selection and activation. This substitution eliminates the need for physical card holder hardware circuits, reducing PCB space while maintaining full communication functionality and user experience.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method for implementing a virtual communication card, which is applied to a terminal device. The method includes: resolving a data file prestored locally to obtain communication card information carried in the data file; loading the data file when the data file is determined to be matched with communication card information to be used according to the communication card information; and activating the data file to be used as a virtual communication card when the data file is determined to be in an unregistered state. Embodiments of the present invention further provide an apparatus for implementing a virtual communication card.