Virtual SIM Management Platform for Multi-Network Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack a unified end-to-end system and methods for creating, distributing, and managing virtual SIM cards in conjunction with specific software and hardware configurations for mobile stations operating in multi-SIM, multi-active mode with Voice over IP (VoIP) capability, particularly with embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Cards (eUICCs).
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a mobile station with a secure mobile equipment and a backend server infrastructure that enables the secure provisioning, storage, display, usage, and management of virtual SIM cards, allowing users to download, manage, and use multiple concurrent virtual SIM cards through a user-friendly mobile application, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If physical SIM cards are used for multiple cellular networks, then network access capability is improved, but device complexity and user inconvenience increase due to carrying and managing multiple physical cards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements virtual SIM cards that are digital copies of physical SIM card functionality. These virtual SIM cards are stored in electronic form within the mobile device, allowing users to access multiple cellular networks without physically handling multiple SIM cards. The virtual SIM cards replicate all necessary authentication and network access features of physical SIM cards while eliminating the need to carry and manually switch between physical cards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical physical SIM card system with an electronic/virtual system. Instead of using physical plastic cards with metallic contacts that require manual insertion and ejection, the system uses software-based virtual SIM cards stored in electronic memory. This substitution eliminates mechanical handling operations and enables automated network switching through software control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple physical SIM cards are distributed to consumers, then network coverage and access are improved, but logistical complexity and costs for mobile network operators increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables distribution of virtual SIM card profiles electronically through digital channels such as application stores or direct downloads. Instead of physically manufacturing, packaging, and distributing plastic SIM cards through retail channels, operators can distribute virtual SIM profiles as digital files. This eliminates the entire physical supply chain including manufacturing plants, distribution centers, retail store inventory, and physical card replacement logistics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of SIM cards from solid plastic physical objects to electronic data files. This parameter change from physical to digital form fundamentally transforms the distribution model from complex physical logistics to simple electronic delivery, reducing operational complexity while maintaining network access capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If physical SIM cards are manufactured and distributed globally, then consumer access to local networks is improved, but environmental impact and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical SIM card manufacturing with digital file creation and distribution. Instead of producing billions of plastic cards annually through manufacturing processes that consume materials and generate waste, the system creates and distributes virtual SIM profiles as electronic data. This eliminates physical waste from discarded SIM cards and reduces the environmental footprint of manufacturing and disposal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms SIM cards from physical objects with material composition to electronic data without physical substance. This parameter change eliminates the entire material lifecycle including raw material extraction, manufacturing emissions, packaging waste, and disposal issues associated with physical SIM cards, while preserving all functional capabilities for local network access.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
Apparatuses, methods, and systems are provided for implementing a trusted subscription management platform. The platform allows the remote creation, distribution and management of virtual subscriber identity module cards stored in a plurality of concurrent embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Cards (eUICCs). The eUICCs may be virtualized through a secure software module integrated within a mobile station or in a distant server. These eUICCs may be deployed in both hardware and software instances within the mobile station (or the distant server). In some embodiments, use of the trusted subscription management platform provides a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) server module that facilitates the transmission of voice and data over Internet protocol services integrated within a phone application of the mobile station.