Virtual SIM Marketplace Dynamic Provisioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional SIM cards are limited as they can only be provisioned by one provider, forcing users to choose bundled services rather than individual options, and require changes when traveling internationally, lacking flexibility in service selection and provider choice.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for dynamically provisioning a virtual SIM card that allows users to select services from multiple providers, using a virtual SIM marketplace to match user requests with available services and providers, enabling over-the-air provisioning of services to user equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional physical SIM card is used, then the device can connect to a cellular network, but the user is limited to one provider and bundled services cannot be customized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the traditional monolithic SIM card into multiple virtual SIM cards, each associated with different service providers or service types. This allows the UE to maintain multiple virtual SIMs simultaneously, enabling users to select and switch between different providers and services without being constrained by a single physical SIM card.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal SIM card system that can function with multiple providers and service types through virtualization. The virtual SIM card architecture enables a single physical SIM infrastructure to support multiple providers, service plans, and international networks, making the system multi-functional and adaptable to various service needs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If users subscribe to bundled cellular services, then connection is established, but individual services cannot be selected or customized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments bundled services into individual service components, allowing users to subscribe to specific services (e.g., voice, text, data) separately rather than being forced to accept complete bundles. Each virtual SIM can be configured with specific service subscriptions based on user needs and preferences.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic service provisioning where users can add, remove, or modify individual service subscriptions at any time. The system dynamically updates the virtual SIM configuration based on user selections, allowing flexible service customization without requiring complete re-subscription or complex manual configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If users travel internationally, then they need local services, but they must either buy expensive international plans or physically change SIM cards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of local SIM cards through the virtual SIM card system. Instead of physically obtaining and installing a local SIM card when traveling internationally, users can access virtual SIMs from local providers through the same device, eliminating the need for physical SIM card changes while providing access to local networks and services.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables users to pre-provision virtual SIM cards from multiple international providers before traveling. When abroad, users can immediately activate the appropriate virtual SIM without needing to physically obtain or configure a local SIM card, saving time and enabling seamless international service access.
4Productivity
If over-the-air provisioning is implemented, then service deployment is accelerated, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a marketplace server and virtual SIM management system as intermediaries between service providers and users. These intermediaries handle the complex tasks of virtual SIM provisioning, configuration, and management through automated over-the-air updates, simplifying the user experience while enabling rapid service deployment without requiring direct complex interactions between users and multiple providers.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for dynamically provisioning virtual subscriber identity modules (SIMS) to enable a user equipment (UE) to use a service from a service provider. The method can include a UE transmitting a user request to a virtual SIM marketplace. The virtual SIM marketplace can receive a plurality of service offers from a plurality of service providers. The virtual SIM marketplace can match details in the user request with offers made by the plurality of service providers. When a match is found, the virtual SIM marketplace can send user information from the user request to the matching provider. The provider can then send a SIM over-the-air (OTA) message to the UE. The UE can use the SIM-OTA message to enable the UE to provide a user device service on the provider's network.