Virtual SIM Card Management via Blockchain Encryption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional SIM cards are inflexible and costly, as they are physically embedded in devices and cannot be easily transferred or shared, limiting user convenience and increasing costs for devices like IoT devices that require multiple network access.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a virtual SIM (vSIM) platform using blockchain encryption, allowing users to create, manage, and transfer vSIM certificates across devices securely, enabling decentralized and flexible network access without physical SIM cards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional physical SIM cards are used, then network authentication is secure, but device flexibility and transferability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the SIM card functionality through software-based vSIM that replicates all authentication capabilities of a physical SIM card. The vSIM contains the same IMSI, ICID, and authentication keys, allowing it to function identically to a physical SIM while being transferable between devices through digital distribution, thus achieving both security and flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical physical SIM card system with a software-based virtual SIM system. Instead of physically inserting and removing SIM cards, the system uses digital delivery of vSIM profiles that can be instantly activated on multiple devices, eliminating mechanical constraints while maintaining cryptographic security through blockchain verification
2Productivity
If physical SIM cards are embedded in devices, then network access is reliable, but cost and complexity increase for multi-device access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal vSIM system where a single virtual SIM profile can serve multiple devices simultaneously. The vSIM platform allows one authenticated identity to be shared across different devices through digital distribution, enabling a single subscription to work on multiple phones, tablets, or IoT devices without requiring separate physical SIM cards for each device
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies of the SIM authentication credentials that can be distributed to multiple devices. Each device receives a vSIM profile that is a cryptographic copy of the authentication data, allowing simultaneous activation on multiple devices without the need for physical SIM duplication or complex provisioning procedures
3Ease of operation
If virtual SIM is implemented, then flexibility and cost are improved, but security against spoofing must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a blockchain-based intermediary layer that mediates between the vSIM distribution system and the network authentication system. The blockchain acts as a trusted intermediary that verifies the authenticity of vSIM profiles through cryptographic proof, preventing spoofing by ensuring that only legitimately distributed vSIMs can authenticate with the network
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous verification through blockchain technology that maintains the security of vSIM authentication throughout its lifecycle. The blockchain provides an immutable, continuously updated record of vSIM distribution and activation, allowing real-time verification of vSIM authenticity and preventing spoofing attempts at any point in time
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for using virtual subscriber identity modules (vSIMs) for client devices. A network device receives a selection of network services to be associated with a virtual subscriber identity module (vSIM); initiates creation of a blockchain including a vSIM certificate for the network services; associates the vSIM certificate with a user account; receives, from a client device associated with the user account, an access request for the vSIM certificate; activates, in response to the access request, the client device for access to the network services; and provides instructions to update the blockchain in response to the activating. Thus, the vSIM can be retrieved and used by any one of different devices associated with the user account or loaned to other users.