Wireless Device Provisioning via Deferred Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for provisioning wireless communication devices are inefficient, leading to increased costs and complexity due to pre-configuration requirements, fragmentation of the market, and high royalty costs, while also failing to provide a comprehensive solution for stakeholders beyond subscribers and service providers.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for facilitating and monitoring the provisioning of configurable wireless devices, including a provisioning module to configure devices for operation with wireless service providers, a monitoring module to track provisioning activities, and a reporting module to provide information to parties involved in the value chain, such as device manufacturers and licensors, allowing for deferred royalty payments and improved revenue agreements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If devices are pre-configured with multiple wireless protocols at manufacture, then device compatibility with different protocols is improved, but device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the configuration process into two distinct phases: manufacturing phase (where only basic hardware is prepared) and activation phase (where specific protocol configurations are installed). This segmentation allows devices to be manufactured in a generic state and then customized later, reducing initial device complexity while maintaining protocol compatibility options.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary actions by preparing the device hardware and infrastructure for future configuration without actually installing the complex protocol software until activation. The device is pre-equipped with the capability to receive and install protocol configurations, but the actual protocol stacks are installed only when needed during activation, reducing initial complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If devices are pre-configured with multiple wireless protocols at manufacture, then device compatibility with different protocols is improved, but manufacturing and logistical costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the configuration process into two distinct phases: manufacturing phase (where only basic hardware is prepared) and activation phase (where specific protocol configurations are installed). This segmentation allows devices to be manufactured in a generic state and then customized later, reducing initial device complexity while maintaining protocol compatibility options.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal device platform that can be configured for multiple protocols through software rather than hardware variations. This universal approach allows a single manufacturing process to produce devices capable of supporting multiple protocols, eliminating the need for separate manufacturing lines for each protocol variant and reducing overall manufacturing costs.
3Device complexity
If software-configurable wireless devices are provided, then logistical complexity is reduced, but a comprehensive organizational model and value chain for provisioning is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary activation system that mediates between device manufacturers, wireless service providers, and end users. This intermediary platform handles the complex provisioning process, including device registration, service provider matching, configuration delivery, and activation. By centralizing these functions in an intermediary system, the patent reduces logistical complexity for individual stakeholders while providing comprehensive provisioning support across the entire value chain.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms throughout the provisioning process, including device status tracking, configuration verification, and activation confirmation. The intermediary system collects data from various stages of the value chain and uses this feedback to optimize provisioning operations, ensure proper device configuration, and maintain accurate records for billing and support purposes.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a system and method for facilitating and monitoring provisioning of wireless communication devices. Wireless devices are provided to an end user in an unconfigured state, capable of being configured for operation using one or more communication protocols. Upon receipt and validation of a provisioning request by the wireless device, for example by a server, the wireless device is securely provisioned for operation with a wireless service provider. Provisioning activities are monitored and information is generated in response to provisioning events, for example via a database. Portions of the information are made available to one or more wireless service providers or parties providing enabling technology of the wireless device. Such reports may be used to facilitate revenue agreements between various parties involved in providing and servicing the wireless device.