JP2020136730A - Communication control apparatus, communication control method, communication control program, and communication system - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a communication control apparatus and the like that can easily switch to another communication carrier when communication with a communication carrier is disconnected.SOLUTION: If communication with a communication carrier is disconnected when an eSIM corresponding to the communication carrier is active, request data for requesting transmission of a switching command to activate an eSIM corresponding to another communication carrier is transmitted to the other communication carrier capable of communication connection at that time. When the switching command is received from the other communication carrier, the eSIM corresponding to the communication carrier is switched from an active state to an inactive state, and the eSIM corresponding to the other communication carrier is switched from the inactive state to the active state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Regarding the technical field of eUICC (Embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card).

Conventionally, wireless communication devices such as smartphones are configured to use UICCs (Universal Integrated Circuit Cards) that provide access to wireless network services. The UICC is associated with a mobile network operator (MNO), a single "issuer" that programs and distributes the UICC.

Further, the conventional UICC takes the form of a SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card inserted into a wireless communication device. Therefore, it is necessary to provide the SIM insertion port in the wireless communication device, which hinders the free product design of the wireless communication device and leads to an increase in the number of parts. Further, when switching the communication carrier used by the user (for example, when using a wireless communication device overseas), it is necessary to replace the SIM card.

On the other hand, the development of eUICC (embedded UICC) that does not require replacement of SIM is in progress. The eUICC manages one or more eSIMs (Embedded SIM, electronic SIM), emulates the architecture of the SIM, and then uses the eSIM to allow wireless communication devices to access wireless network services. At this time, the eUICC cannot use a plurality of eSIMs at the same time, and manages only one eSIM to be used as an active (ACTIVE) state and manages the other eSIMs as an inactive (NON-ACTIVE) state. Therefore, when switching the telecommunications carrier to be used, it is necessary to switch the active / inactive state of the eSIM to be used. Under such circumstances, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for switching eSIM.

Japanese Patent No. 5816241

By the way, one of the triggers for switching the communication carrier in the wireless communication device is to disconnect the communication with the communication carrier in use. In such a case, it is desirable to switch the communication connection to a telecommunications carrier capable of connecting the communication. For example, if the wireless communication device disconnects due to moving out of the communication range while communicating using the eSIM of the communication carrier A, the communication using the eSIM of the communication carrier B within the communication range It is desirable to switch automatically (with the permission of the user).

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a communication control device or the like that can easily switch to another telecommunications carrier when communication with one telecommunications carrier is disconnected.

In order to solve the above problems, the invention according to claim 1 is a communication control device included in a wireless communication device, which is stored in a storage means for storing an eSIM corresponding to a communication carrier and the storage means. Communication between the management means for managing whether the eSIM in the active state is in the active state or the inactive state and the communication carrier corresponding to the eSIM in the active state and the wireless communication device is disconnected. From the requesting means for requesting connectable information about a telecommunications carrier capable of connecting to the wireless communication device based on the disconnection information indicating that the wireless communication device is received from the wireless communication device, and from the wireless communication device. Based on the reception of connectable information indicating that it is possible to connect to the other telecommunications carrier different from the one telecommunications carrier, the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is the storage means. When the confirmation means for confirming whether or not the eSIM is stored in the storage means and the confirmation means confirm that the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means and the eSIM is in an inactive state. The first requesting means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit the request data requesting the transmission of the switching command for setting the inactive eSIM to the active state to the other communication carrier. When the management means receives the switching command transmitted from the other communication carrier, the management means switches the eSIM corresponding to the one communication carrier from the active state to the inactive state, and at the same time, The eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is characterized by switching from the inactive state to the active state.

The invention according to claim 2 is the communication control device according to claim 1, and it has been confirmed by the confirmation means that the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is not stored in the storage means. In this case, the second request is to request the wireless communication device to transmit the request data requesting the transmission of the creation command for storing the eSIM of the other communication carrier in the storage means to the other communication carrier. The management means further includes means and a creation means for storing the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier in the storage means when the creation command transmitted from the other telecommunications carrier is received. Manages the eSIM as an inactive state when the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means based on the creation command, and the first requesting means sends the creation command. Based on this, when the eSIM stored in the storage means is managed as an inactive state, the request data requesting the transmission of the switching command that sets the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier into the active state is the other. When the wireless communication device is requested to transmit to the telecommunications carrier, and the management means receives the switching command transmitted from the other telecommunications carrier, the management means sends the switching command to the one telecommunications carrier. The corresponding eSIM is switched from the active state to the inactive state, and the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is switched from the inactive state to the active state.

The invention according to claim 3 is the communication control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wireless communication device is a communication facility of the other communication carrier which is affiliated with the one communication carrier. It is characterized in that the request data is transmitted via.

The invention according to claim 4 is the communication control device according to claim 3, wherein the wireless communication device uses the communication equipment of the other communication carrier in the eSIM corresponding to the one communication carrier. When the allowable information indicating that is permitted is described, the request data is transmitted via the communication equipment of the other communication carrier.

The invention according to claim 5 is the communication control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wireless communication device transmits the requested data via an access point of a wireless LAN.

The invention according to claim 6 is a communication control method by a communication control device included in a wireless communication device and provided with a storage means for storing an eSIM corresponding to a communication carrier, and is stored in the storage means. The management process for managing whether the eSIM in the active state is in the active state or the inactive state, and the communication between the communication carrier corresponding to the eSIM in the active state and the wireless communication device are disconnected. Based on the fact that the disconnection information indicating the above is received from the wireless communication device, the request process for requesting the connectable information regarding the telecommunications carrier capable of connecting the communication to the wireless communication device, and the above Based on the reception of connectable information indicating that it is possible to connect to the other telecommunications carrier different from one telecommunications carrier, the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is used as the storage means. When it is confirmed by the confirmation step of confirming whether the eSIM is stored and the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means by the confirmation step, and the eSIM is in an inactive state. The first request step of requesting the wireless communication device to transmit the request data requesting the transmission of the switching command for setting the inactive eSIM to the active state to the other communication carrier. Including, in the management step, when the switching command transmitted from the other telecommunications carrier is received, the eSIM corresponding to the one telecommunications carrier is switched from the active state to the inactive state, and the said. The eSIM corresponding to another telecommunications carrier is characterized by switching from the inactive state to the active state.

The invention according to claim 7 relates to an eSIM in which a computer included in a wireless communication device and included in a communication control device including a storage means for storing an eSIM corresponding to a communication carrier is stored in the storage means. A management means for managing whether it is in an active state or an inactive state, disconnection information indicating that communication between the communication carrier and the wireless communication device corresponding to the eSIM in the active state has been disconnected. Is received from the wireless communication device, and is a requesting means for requesting connectable information about a communication carrier capable of connecting communication to the wireless communication device, the one communication carrier from the wireless communication device. Whether the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means based on the reception of the connectable information indicating that the connection with the other telecommunications carrier different from the above is received. When it is confirmed by the confirmation means for confirmation and the confirmation means that the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means, and the eSIM is in an inactive state, the inactive state is reached. A communication control program that functions as a first requesting means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit request data requesting transmission of a switching command that activates eSIM to the other communication carrier. When the management means receives the switching command transmitted from the other telecommunications carrier, the management means switches the eSIM corresponding to the one telecommunications carrier from the active state to the inactive state, and at the same time, the eSIM corresponds to the one telecommunications carrier. The eSIM corresponding to another telecommunications carrier is characterized by switching from the inactive state to the active state.

The invention according to claim 8 is a communication system having a wireless communication device and a communication control device included in the wireless communication device, and the communication control device stores an eSIM corresponding to a communication carrier. The wireless communication device includes means and a management means for managing whether the eSIM stored in the storage means is in an active state or an inactive state, and the wireless communication device corresponds to the eSIM in the active state. When it is detected that the communication with the communication carrier is disconnected, the disconnection information transmitting means for transmitting the disconnection information indicating that the communication with the one communication carrier is disconnected is provided to the communication control device. Based on the reception of the disconnection information from the wireless communication device, the communication control device further provides a requesting means for requesting connectable information regarding a telecommunications carrier to which communication can be connected to the wireless communication device. The wireless communication device identifies a communication carrier to which communication can be connected based on the request, and provides connectable information indicating that the specified communication company can be connected to the communication control device. The communication control device further includes a connectable information transmitting means for transmitting to the above, indicating that communication can be connected to the other telecommunications carrier whose connectable information is different from that of the one telecommunications carrier. If so, a confirmation means for confirming whether the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means, and the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier are stored in the storage means by the confirmation means. When it is confirmed that the eSIM is in an inactive state and the eSIM is in an inactive state, request data for requesting transmission of a switching command for setting the inactive eSIM in the active state is sent to the other telecommunications carrier. The wireless communication device further includes a first requesting means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit the request data, and the wireless communication device includes a request data transmission means for transmitting the request data to the other communication carrier and the other other. When the switching command is received from the communication carrier, the transfer means for transferring the switching command to the communication control device is further provided, and the management means of the communication control device transmits from the other communication carrier. When the switching command is received, the eSIM corresponding to the one telecommunications carrier is switched from the active state to the inactive state, and the other eSIM is switched from the inactive state to the active state. It is characterized by.

According to the present invention, when the eSIM corresponding to one telecommunications carrier is active and the communication with the one telecommunications carrier is disconnected, other telecommunications that can be connected at that time. When request data is sent to the carrier requesting the transmission of the switching command that activates the eSIM corresponding to the other carrier, and the switching command is received from the other carrier. The eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is switched from the active state to the inactive state, and the eSIM corresponding to another telecommunications carrier is switched from the inactive state to the active state, so that the communication with one telecommunications carrier is disconnected. If so, it is possible to easily switch to another telecommunications carrier.

It is a block diagram which shows the outline structure example of the mobile terminal 1 which concerns on this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the outline structure example of the IC chip C mounted on the eUICC 16 which concerns on this embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the relationship between the control module and eSIM which concerns on this embodiment. It is a figure which shows the outline configuration example of the communication system by the mobile terminal 1 and the network operator which concerns on this embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the sequence diagram at the time of communication disconnection of a mobile terminal 1, eUICC 16 and a network operator which concerns on this embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the sequence diagram at the time of communication disconnection of a mobile terminal 1, eUICC 16 and a network operator which concerns on modification 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the sequence diagram at the time of communication disconnection of a mobile terminal 1, eUICC 16 and a network operator which concerns on modification 2. FIG.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiment described below is an embodiment when the present invention is applied to an eUICC provided in a mobile terminal.

First, the configuration and functional outline of the mobile terminal 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1 and the like.

[1. Configuration of mobile terminal 1]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration example of the mobile terminal 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the mobile terminal 1 is configured to include a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, a wireless communication unit 13, a display unit 14, an input unit 15, an eUICC 16 and the like, and these components are via a bus 17. To be connected to each other. The mobile terminal 1 is, for example, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like.

The control unit 11 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like. The storage unit 12 is composed of a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory. The OS (Operating System) and middleware are stored in the ROM or the storage unit 12. Further, the storage unit 12 stores an application program (“application”) installed in the mobile terminal 1. The application can be downloaded from, for example, a predetermined server.

The wireless communication unit 13 has an antenna and is responsible for processing related to wireless communication performed with the base station of the communication carrier. The display unit 14 has, for example, a touch panel type display panel, and controls the display on the display panel and receives operation instructions from the user. The input unit 15 has an operation button for inputting an operation instruction from the user, and outputs a signal corresponding to the operation button to the control unit 11. The eUICC 16 stores and manages a plurality of eSIMs, and controls communication with a plurality of telecommunications carriers.

[2. Configuration of eUICC16]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration example of an IC chip C mounted on the eUICC 16 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the IC chip C includes a CPU 161 and a RAM 162, a flash memory 163, an I / O circuit 164, and the like, and these components are connected to each other via a bus 165.

The RAM 162 stores, for example, data temporarily required for the OS, middleware, and various applications to function.

The flash memory 163 is, for example, a NOR type flash memory, and stores an OS, middleware, applications, and the like. Further, the flash memory 163 stores an eSIM including a communication control program for the eUICC to operate as a control module, a communication profile, and the like. The communication profile is a group of files in which information necessary for communication (for example, IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity), MSISDN (Mobile Subscriber Integrated Services Digital Network Number), etc.) is described.

The I / O circuit 164 is responsible for communication with other components of the mobile terminal 1.

The CPU 161 operates the eUICC as a control module by executing a communication control program.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the control module and the eSIM. In the present embodiment, the eUICC stores, manages, and controls three eSIMs (eSIM (1), eSIM (2), and eSIM (3)). Each eSIM corresponds to a telecommunications carrier (referred to as a "network operator"). For example, the eSIM (1) corresponds to the network operator (1), the eSIM (2) corresponds to the network operator (2), and the eSIM (3) corresponds to the network operator (3). The control module holds state information indicating whether each eSIM is in the ACTION state or the NON-ACTIVE state.

As shown in FIG. 4, the mobile terminal 1 provided with an eUICC that stores, manages, and controls three eSIMs (eSIM (1), eSIM (2), and eSIM (3)) includes a network operator (1) and a network operator (1). 2) It is possible to communicate with the network operator (3). However, the mobile terminal 1 cannot communicate with a plurality of network operators at the same time, and in principle, communicates only with a network operator corresponding to eSIM managed by the control module as an ACTIVE state. In other words, the control module manages only one eSIM as an ACTIVE state, and the other eSIMs are managed as a NON-ACTIVE state. The control module can switch the eSIM state when it receives a switching command transmitted from an SM (SM: Subscription Manager) server owned and managed by the network operator. That is, the control module cannot switch the eSIM state unless it receives a switching command from the SM server. Therefore, when it becomes necessary to switch the state of the eSIM (for example, when the communication with the network operator during communication is disconnected), the control module requests the SM server to send a switching command.

[3. Processing when communication is disconnected]
Next, using FIG. 5, when the communication between the mobile terminal 1 and the network operator (1) (the eSIM (1) is in the ACTIVE state) is disconnected, the communication between the mobile terminal 1 and the network operator (2) is performed. An example of processing when connecting will be described.

First, when the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 detects that the communication with the network operator (1) has been disconnected (step S101), the eUICC 16 provides disconnection information indicating that the communication with the network operator (1) has been disconnected. (Step S102). The notification is notified by, for example, EVENT_EVENT_DOWNLOAD_LOCATION_STATUS.

Upon receiving the notification, the control module (CPU161) of the eUICC 16 requests the mobile terminal 1 for information on the network operator that can be connected at that time (step S103). The request is made by, for example, a Proactive command (PROVIDE LOCAL INFORMATION).

Upon receiving the request, the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 identifies a network operator that can be connected at that time. Here, the control unit 11 detects that the network operator (2) can be connected (step S104). Next, the control unit 11 notifies the eUICC 16 of the connectability information indicating that the network operator (2) can be connected. The notification is given by, for example, TERMINAL RESPONSE.

Upon receiving the notification, the control module (CPU161) of the eUICC 16 confirms whether the eSIM (2) corresponding to the network operator (2) exists in the eUICC 16 (step S106). Any method can be adopted as the confirmation method. For example, (1) a method of registering profile information of each eSIM in a common file and collating using the common file, (2) a method of individually accessing and collating profile information of all eSIMs, and ( 3) It is possible to adopt a method in which profile information of all eSIMs is stored in the eSIM in the ACTIVE state, and the eSIM in the ACTIVE state is accessed and collated.

When the control module (CPU161) confirms that the eSIM (2) exists in the eUICC16, the control module (CPU161) then sends request data requesting the transmission of a switching command for switching the eSIM (2) to the ACTIVE state to the SM server of the network operator (2). Requests the mobile terminal 1 to transmit to (step S107).

Upon receiving the request, the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 transmits request data requesting transmission of a switching command for switching the eSIM (2) to the ACTIVE state to the SM server of the network operator (2) (step S108). ). Before transmitting the request data, the user of the mobile terminal 1 may be notified to switch the eSIM and permission may be obtained. Further, the request data may be transmitted by using the SM-SR (Subscription Manager Secure Routing) function of the SM server.

If roaming is possible, the request data may be transmitted using roaming. Specifically, when the profile information of the eSIM (1) describes, for example, that data transmission / reception (roaming) is permitted via the communication equipment of the network operator (2). The request data is transmitted via the communication equipment of the network operator (2). When roaming is used, the request data may be transmitted by SMS (Short Message Service). Further, the request data may be transmitted via the wireless LAN access point when the Internet can be connected to the wireless LAN (Local Area Network) access point. When using a wireless LAN, the request data may be transmitted by HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol).

Upon receiving the request data, the device of the network operator (2) transmits a switching command for switching the eSIM (2) in the NON-ACTIVE state to the ACTIVE state to the mobile terminal 1 (step S109).

When the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 receives the switching command, it transfers the switching command to the eUICC 16 (step 110).

Upon receiving the switching command, the control module (CPU161) of the eUICC 16 switches the state of the eSIM (1) from the ACTIVE state to the NON-ACTIVE state, and also switches the state of the eSIM (2) from the NON-ACTIVE state to the ACTIVE state ( Step 111).

Although not shown in FIG. 5, when the eSIM state is switched, the control module (CPU161) notifies the mobile terminal 1 that the switching is completed. In response to this, the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 connects the communication with the device of the network operator (2).

As described above, the flash memory 163 (an example of the "storage means") of the eUICC 16 (an example of the "communication control device") included in the mobile terminal 1 (an example of the "wireless communication device") according to the present embodiment is The eSIM corresponding to the network operator is stored, and the CPU 161 (an example of "management means", "requesting means", "confirming means", and "first requesting means") determines the eSIM stored in the flash memory 163. A network operator (1) (“one) that manages whether it is in the“ active ”state) or the NON-ACTIVE (“inactive”) state and corresponds to the eSIM (1) in the ACTION state. An example of a "communication operator") and a network operator capable of connecting to the mobile terminal 1 based on receiving disconnection information from the mobile terminal 1 indicating that the communication between the mobile terminal 1 and the mobile terminal 1 has been disconnected. The network operator requests the connectable information and receives the connectable information indicating that the mobile terminal 1 can connect to the network operator (2) (an example of "another communication carrier"). It is confirmed whether the eSIM (2) corresponding to (2) is stored in the flash memory 163, it is confirmed that the eSIM (2) is stored in the flash memory 163, and the eSIM (2) is inactive. When in the state, the mobile terminal 1 is requested to send the request data requesting the transmission of the switching command for setting the inactive eSIM (2) to the ACTIVE state to the SM server of the network operator (2). When the request is made and the switching command is received, the eSIM (1) is switched from the NON-ACTIVE state to the NON-ACTIVE state, and the eSIM (2) is switched from the NON-ACTIVE state to the ACTIVE state.

Therefore, according to the eUICC 16 of the present embodiment, when the eSIM (1) is in the ACTIVE state and the communication with the network operator (1) is disconnected, the network operator (2) capable of connecting the communication at that time. When the request data requesting the transmission of the switching command for setting the eSIM (2) to the ACTIVE state is transmitted and the switching command is received from the network operator (2), the eSIM (1) is changed from the ACTIVE state to NON-. Since the eSIM (2) is switched from the NON-ACTIVE state to the ACTIVE state while switching to the ACTIVE state, it is easy to switch to the network operator (2) when the communication with the network operator (1) is disconnected. can do. Further, since the eUICC 16 dynamically determines the disconnection of communication and requests the switching of the eSIM, the network operator or the like uses another method (location information, etc.) without imposing a burden on the user of the mobile terminal 1. It is possible to respond more quickly than determining the switching of eSIM.

Further, the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 according to the present embodiment is the communication equipment of the network operator (2) affiliated with the network operator (1) when transmitting the request data to the network operator (2). The request data may be transmitted via. Specifically, the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 describes the network operator (1) when the eSIM (1) describes the permissible information indicating that the communication equipment of the network operator (2) is permitted to be used. The request data may be transmitted via the communication equipment of 2). As a result, the request data can be transmitted even when the communication between the mobile terminal 1 and the network operator (1) is disconnected.

Further, when the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 according to the present embodiment transmits the request data to the network operator (2), the request data may be transmitted via the access point of the wireless LAN. .. As a result, the request data can be transmitted even when the communication between the mobile terminal 1 and the network operator (1) is disconnected.

[4. Modification example]
Next, a modified example of the above embodiment will be described. The modifications described below can be combined as appropriate.

[4.1. Modification 1]
In the above embodiment, when the eSIM (1) is used to communicate with the network operator (1) and the communication connection is disconnected, the network operator (2) capable of connecting to the communication at that time is used. The embodiment of connecting the communication with the network operator (2) by using the corresponding eSIM (2) has been described, but when the connection of the communication with the network operator (1) is disconnected, the network operator (2) An example of modification 1 in the case where communication with the network operator (3) is possible will be described.

In the first modification, the control module of the eUICC 16 manages the connection priority, which is the priority regarding the connection, for each network operator (eSIM). The connection priority may be set by the user of the mobile terminal 1 or may be set by the control module according to a predetermined rule set by the user or the like. For example, a network operator with a lower communication charge may have a higher connection priority, or a network operator with a stronger radio field strength may have a higher connection priority (in this case, the connection may be made each time the radio wave strength order is switched. The priority is also switched).

Here, using FIG. 6, when the communication between the mobile terminal 1 and the network operator (1) in the modification 1 (the eSIM (1) is in the ACTIVE state) is disconnected, the mobile terminal 1 and another network operator An example of processing when connecting the communication of is described. Since FIG. 6 is almost the same as FIG. 5, the changed portion will be mainly described here. Further, it is assumed that the first place is eSIM (1), the second place is eSIM (2), and the third place is eSIM (3).

In step S103, the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 detects a network operator that can be connected at that time when the eUICC 16 requests information about a network operator that can be connected at that time. Here, it is assumed that the network operator (2) and the network operator (3) have detected that they can connect (step S104A).

Next, the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 notifies the eUICC 16 of connectability information indicating that the network operator (2) and the network operator (3) can be connected (step S105A).

Upon receiving the notification, the control module (CPU161) of the eUICC 16 confirms whether the eSIM (2) corresponding to the network operator (2) and the eSIM (3) corresponding to the network operator (3) exist in the eUICC 16. , Select the eSIM with the highest priority (step S106A). Here, eSIM (2) and eSIM (3) exist, and eSIM (2) has a higher priority than eSIM (3), so eSIM (2) is selected.

Next, the control module (CPU161) of the eUICC 16 is portable so as to transmit the request data requesting the transmission of the switching command for switching the eSIM (2) selected in step S106A to the ACTIVE state to the SM server of the network operator (2). Request to terminal 1 (step S107A).

Since the flow after this is the same as that after step S108 in FIG. 5, the description thereof will be omitted.

Here, two cases after connection with the network operator (2) will be described.

First, the first case will be described. In the case where the connection is disconnected while the mobile terminal 1 is connected to the network operator (2), if it is possible to connect to the network operator (1) and the network operator (3) at that time, the priority is higher. It is assumed that the high eSIM (1) is switched to the ACTIVE state and connected to the network operator (1). On the other hand, if the network operator (1) cannot be connected at the time of disconnection and the network operator (3) can be connected, the eSIM (3) is switched to the ACTIVE state and the network operator (3) is connected. I decided to.

Next, the second case will be described. While the mobile terminal 1 is connected to the network operator (2), it can be connected to the network operator (1), for example, by re-entering the communication range of the network operator (1) having a higher connection priority than the network operator (2). In the case where it is detected, the eSIM (1) is switched to the ACTIVE state and connected to the network operator (1).

From the above two cases, the opportunity to switch the network operator (eSIM) is to detect the disconnection of communication and to connect with the network operator whose connection priority is higher than the network operator currently connected at that time. An example is to detect that it has become. Regardless of the trigger, as long as the situation in which the network operator can be connected to any of the network operators (1) to (3) continues, the connection of communication with any of the network operators can be guaranteed. Further, in the latter case, it is possible to always secure the connection with the network operator having a higher connection priority among the network operators who can connect at that time.

[4.2. Modification 2]
In the above embodiment, the eSIM (2) is stored in the flash memory 163 when the communication with the network operator (1) is disconnected and it is notified that the communication with the network operator (2) can be connected. However, in the second modification, the case where the eSIM (2) is not stored in the flash memory 163 will be described.

The second modification will be described with reference to FIG. 7. Since steps S101 to S106 in FIG. 7 are the same as those in FIG. 5, the description thereof will be omitted. Further, the second modification is different from the above embodiment (FIG. 5) in that steps S106-1 to S106-5 are performed after step S106. Further, since steps S106-5 are the same as the flow after step S107 in FIG. 5, the description thereof will be omitted.

In step S106 of FIG. 7, the control module (CPU161) of the eUICC 16 confirms whether or not the eSIM (2) corresponding to the network operator (2) exists in the eUICC 16, and if it confirms that it does not exist, the eSIM. Requests the mobile terminal 1 to transmit the request data requesting the transmission of the creation command for creating (2) to the SM server of the network operator (2) (step S106-1).

Upon receiving the request, the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 transmits request data requesting transmission of the eSIM (2) creation command to the SM server of the network operator (2) (step S106-2). In addition, before transmitting the request data, the user of the mobile terminal 1 may be notified to create the eSIM and permission may be obtained. Further, the request data may be transmitted by using the SM-SR function of the SM server.

As described in the above embodiment, the request data may be transmitted by using roaming when roaming is possible, or can be connected to the Internet via a wireless LAN access point. In that case, transmission may be performed via a wireless LAN access point.

When the device of the network operator (2) receives the request data, it transmits a command for creating the eSIM (2) to the mobile terminal 1 (step S106-3). The creation command includes data (eSIM (2) main body and other data) necessary for creating the eSIM (2).

When the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 receives the creation command, it transfers it to the eUICC 16 (step 106-4).

When the control module (CPU161) of the eUICC 16 receives the creation command, it creates the eSIM (2) and stores it in the flash memory 163 (step 160-5). Further, the control module (CPU161) puts the created eSIM (2) in the NON-ACTIVE state.

The flow after the end of step S160-5 in FIG. 7 is the same as the flow after step S107 in FIG.

As described above, the CPU 161 of the eUICC 16 (an example of the "second requesting means" and the "creating means") included in the mobile terminal 1 according to the modified example 2 is disconnected from the network operator (2) and is connected to the network. When it is confirmed that the eSIM (2) is not stored in the flash memory 163 when notified that the connection with the operator (2) is possible, the eSIM (2) is stored in the flash memory 163. When the mobile terminal 1 is requested to send the request data requesting the transmission of the creation command to the network operator (2) and the creation command transmitted from the network operator (2) is received, the eSIM (2) Is stored in the flash memory 163, the eSIM (2) is managed as the NON-ACTIVE state, and then the request data requesting the transmission of the switching command for setting the eSIM (2) to the ACTIVE state is sent to the network operator (2). When the mobile terminal 1 is requested to transmit the data and the switching command transmitted from the network operator (2) is received, the eSIM (2) is switched from the ACTIVE state to the NON-ACTIVE state, and the eSIM (2) is displayed. Switch from the NON-ACTIVE state to the ACTIVE state.

That is, when the control module (CPU161) of the eUICC 16 is notified that the communication with the network operator (1) is disconnected and the communication with the network operator (2) can be connected, the eSIM (CPU 161) is stored in the flash memory 163. When 2) is stored, the network operator (2) is requested to send a switching command to the eSIM (2), while the flash memory 163 does not store the eSIM (2). , The transmission request of the eSIM (2) creation command is made to the network operator (2), and after the creation of the eSIM (2) (including setting the NON-ACTIVE state) is completed, the eSIM (2) is sent. A transmission request for a switching command is made to the network operator (2).

Therefore, according to the eUICC 16 in the second modification, when the communication with a certain network operator is disconnected, the eSIM corresponding to the other network operator capable of communicating is not stored in the flash memory 163. Since the eSIM is stored in the flash memory 163 and managed in the NON-ACTIVE state, by having the network operator send a switching command for setting the eSIM corresponding to the other network operator to the ACTIVE state. , Communication with the network operator becomes possible.

1 Mobile terminal 11 Control unit 12 Storage unit 13 Wireless communication unit 14 Display unit 15 Input unit 16 eUICC
161 CPU
162 RAM
163 Flash memory 164 I / O circuit

Claims (8)

A communication control device included in a wireless communication device.
A storage means for storing the eSIM corresponding to the telecommunications carrier,
A management means for managing whether the eSIM stored in the storage means is in the active state or the inactive state, and
Based on receiving disconnection information from the wireless communication device indicating that the communication between the communication carrier and the wireless communication device corresponding to the eSIM in the active state has been disconnected, the wireless communication device receives the disconnection information. A means of requesting connectable information about a telecommunications carrier that can connect to the communication,
Corresponds to the other telecommunications carrier based on receiving connectable information indicating that it is possible to connect to the other telecommunications carrier different from the one telecommunications carrier from the wireless communication device. A confirmation means for confirming whether the eSIM is stored in the storage means, and
When it is confirmed by the confirmation means that the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means and the eSIM is in the inactive state, the eSIM in the inactive state is placed in the active state. The first requesting means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit the request data requesting the transmission of the switching command to the other communication carrier.
With
When the management means receives the switching command transmitted from the other telecommunications carrier, the management means switches the eSIM corresponding to the one telecommunications carrier from the active state to the inactive state, and at the same time, the other A communication control device for eSIM corresponding to a telecommunications carrier, which switches from the inactive state to the active state. The communication control device according to claim 1.
When it is confirmed by the confirmation means that the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is not stored in the storage means, a creation command for storing the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier in the storage means is transmitted. A second requesting means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit the requested request data to the other communication carrier, and
When the creation command transmitted from the other telecommunications carrier is received, the creation means for storing the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier in the storage means, and
With more
When the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means based on the creation command, the management means manages the eSIM as an inactive state.
The first requesting means switches the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier into the active state when the eSIM stored in the storage means is managed as the inactive state based on the creation command. The wireless communication device is requested to transmit the request data requesting the transmission of the command to the other communication carrier.
When the management means receives the switching command transmitted from the other telecommunications carrier, the management means switches the eSIM corresponding to the one telecommunications carrier from the active state to the inactive state, and at the same time, the other A communication control device for eSIM corresponding to a telecommunications carrier, which switches from the inactive state to the active state. The communication control device according to claim 1 or 2.
The wireless communication device is a communication control device that transmits the request data via the communication equipment of the other communication carrier that is affiliated with the one communication carrier. The communication control device according to claim 3.
The wireless communication device is used when the eSIM corresponding to the one communication carrier describes the allowable information indicating that the communication equipment of the other communication carrier is permitted to be used. A communication control device characterized in that the request data is transmitted via the communication equipment of a business operator. The communication control device according to claim 1 or 2.
The wireless communication device is a communication control device characterized by transmitting the request data via a wireless LAN access point. A communication control method using a communication control device included in a wireless communication device and provided with a storage means for storing an eSIM corresponding to a communication carrier.
A management step for controlling whether the eSIM stored in the storage means is in the active state or the inactive state, and
Based on receiving disconnection information from the wireless communication device indicating that the communication between the communication carrier and the wireless communication device corresponding to the eSIM in the active state has been disconnected, the wireless communication device receives the disconnection information. A request process for requesting connectable information about a telecommunications carrier that can connect to the communication,
Corresponds to the other telecommunications carrier based on receiving connectable information indicating that it is possible to connect to the other telecommunications carrier different from the one telecommunications carrier from the wireless communication device. A confirmation step for confirming whether the eSIM is stored in the storage means, and
When it is confirmed by the confirmation step that the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means and the eSIM is in the inactive state, the eSIM in the inactive state is placed in the active state. The first requesting step of requesting the wireless communication device to transmit the request data requesting the transmission of the switching command to the other communication carrier.
Including
In the management step, when the switching command transmitted from the other telecommunications carrier is received, the eSIM corresponding to the one telecommunications carrier is switched from the active state to the inactive state, and the other A communication control method for switching an eSIM corresponding to a telecommunications carrier from the inactive state to the active state. A computer included in a communication control device included in a wireless communication device and provided with a storage means for storing an eSIM corresponding to a telecommunications carrier.
A management means for managing whether the eSIM stored in the storage means is in the active state or the inactive state.
Based on receiving disconnection information from the wireless communication device indicating that the communication between the communication carrier and the wireless communication device corresponding to the eSIM in the active state has been disconnected, the wireless communication device receives the disconnection information. A requesting means for requesting connectable information about a telecommunications carrier that can connect to the communication.
Corresponds to the other telecommunications carrier based on receiving connectable information indicating that it is possible to connect to the other telecommunications carrier different from the one telecommunications carrier from the wireless communication device. A confirmation means for confirming whether the eSIM is stored in the storage means,
When it is confirmed by the confirmation means that the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means and the eSIM is in the inactive state, the eSIM in the inactive state is placed in the active state. The first requesting means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit the request data requesting the transmission of the switching command to be transmitted to the other communication carrier.
It is a communication control program that functions as
When the management means receives the switching command transmitted from the other telecommunications carrier, the management means switches the eSIM corresponding to the one telecommunications carrier from the active state to the inactive state, and at the same time, the other A communication control program for switching from the inactive state to the active state of an eSIM corresponding to a telecommunications carrier. A communication system having a wireless communication device and a communication control device included in the wireless communication device.
The communication control device is
A storage means for storing the eSIM corresponding to the telecommunications carrier,
A management means for controlling whether the eSIM stored in the storage means is in the active state or the inactive state is provided.
The wireless communication device is
When it is detected that the communication with the one telecommunications carrier corresponding to the active eSIM is disconnected, the disconnection information indicating that the communication with the one telecommunications carrier is disconnected is transmitted to the communication. Equipped with a disconnection information transmission means to be transmitted to the control device
The communication control device is
Further provided with a requesting means for requesting connectable information regarding a telecommunications carrier capable of connecting communication to the wireless communication device based on receiving the disconnection information from the wireless communication device.
The wireless communication device is
Connectable information transmitting means that identifies a telecommunications carrier to which communication can be connected based on the request, and transmits connectable information indicating that the specified telecommunications carrier can be connected to the communication control device. With more
The communication control device is
When the connectable information indicates that communication can be connected to another telecommunications carrier different from the one telecommunications carrier, the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is the storage means. Confirmation means to confirm whether it is stored in
When it is confirmed by the confirmation means that the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means and the eSIM is in the inactive state, the eSIM in the inactive state is placed in the active state. Further provided with a first requesting means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit the request data requesting the transmission of the switching command to the other communication carrier.
The wireless communication device is
A request data transmission means for transmitting the request data to the other telecommunications carrier, and
A transfer means for transferring the switching command to the communication control device when the switching command is received from the other communication carrier.
With more
When the management means of the communication control device receives the switching command transmitted from the other communication carrier, the eSIM corresponding to the one communication carrier switches from the active state to the inactive state for the eSIM. A communication system characterized by switching from the inactive state to the active state of the other eSIM.

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