JP7286989B2 - eUICC, communication control method, communication control program and communication system - Google Patents

Description

It relates to the technical field of eUICC (Embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card).

Traditionally, wireless communication devices such as smart phones are configured to utilize UICCs (Universal Integrated Circuit Cards) that provide access to wireless network services. A UICC is associated with a single "issuer" Mobile Network Operator (MNO) that programs and distributes the UICC.

Conventional UICCs also take the form of SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) cards that are inserted into wireless communication devices. For this reason, it is necessary to provide a SIM insertion slot in the wireless communication device, which hinders free product design of the wireless communication device and leads to an increase in the number of parts. Furthermore, when the user switches the carrier used (for example, when using the wireless communication device overseas), it is necessary to replace the SIM card.

On the other hand, the development of eUICC (embedded UICC), which does not require SIM replacement, is progressing. The eUICC manages one or more eSIMs (Embedded SIMs, electronic SIMs) and emulates the architecture of SIMs using eSIMs to enable wireless communication devices to access wireless network services. At this time, the eUICC cannot use multiple eSIMs at the same time, manages only one eSIM to be used as an active state, and manages the other eSIMs as a non-active state. Therefore, when switching the carrier to be used, it is necessary to switch the active/inactive state of the eSIM to be used. Under such circumstances, Patent Literature 1 discloses a technique for switching between eSIMs.

Japanese Patent No. 5816241

By the way, disconnection of communication with the currently used communication carrier can be considered as one of the triggers for switching the communication carrier in the wireless communication device. In such a case, it is desirable to switch the communication connection to a communication service provider with which communication connection is possible. For example, if the wireless communication device moves out of the communication range while communicating using the eSIM of carrier A and the communication is cut off, communication using the eSIM of carrier B, which is within the communication range automatically (with user permission).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a communication control device or the like that can easily realize switching to another telecommunications carrier when communication with one telecommunications carrier is cut off.

In order to solve the above problems, the invention according to claim 1 is an eUICC included in a wireless communication device, comprising storage means for storing an eSIM corresponding to a telecommunications carrier, and stored in the storage means Management means for managing whether an eSIM is in an active state or in an inactive state; requesting means for requesting, from the wireless communication device, connectability information regarding a communication service provider to which communication connection is possible based on the fact that the disconnection information indicated by the wireless communication device is received from the wireless communication device; eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means based on receiving connectability information indicating that connection is possible with the other telecommunications carrier different from the telecommunications carrier of confirmation means for confirming whether the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means by the confirmation means, and when the eSIM is in an inactive state, a first requesting means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit request data requesting transmission of a switching command to activate the inactive eSIM to the other communication carrier; , when receiving 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; is switched from the inactive state to the active state for the eSIM corresponding to the communication service provider.

The invention according to claim 2 is the eUICC according to claim 1, wherein when it is confirmed by the confirmation means that the eSIM corresponding to the other carrier is not stored in the storage means, a second requesting means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit to the other communication carrier request data requesting transmission of a creation command for storing the eSIM of the other communication carrier in the storage means; , creating 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; When the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means based on the creation command, the eSIM is managed as an inactive state, and the first request means performs the creation command based on the creation command. When the eSIM stored in the storage means is managed in an inactive state, request data for requesting transmission of the switching command to activate the eSIM corresponding to the other communication carrier is transmitted to the other communication service provider. The wireless communication device is requested to transmit to a carrier, and the management means responds to the one carrier when receiving the switching command transmitted from the other carrier. The eSIM is switched from the active state to the inactive state, and the eSIM corresponding to the other communication carrier is switched from the inactive state to the active state.

The invention according to claim 3 is the eUICC according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wireless communication device uses the communication equipment of the other communication carrier affiliated with the one communication carrier. and transmitting the request data.

The invention according to claim 4 is the eUICC according to claim 3, wherein the wireless communication device permits the eSIM corresponding to the one communication carrier to use the communication equipment of the other communication carrier. characterized in that the request data is transmitted via the communication equipment of the other telecommunications carrier when permission information indicating that the request data is described.

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

The invention according to claim 6 is an eUICC communication control method that is included in a wireless communication device and has storage means for storing an eSIM corresponding to a telecommunications carrier, wherein the eSIM is stored in the storage means. and indicating that communication between the wireless communication device and one of the carriers corresponding to the active eSIM has been disconnected. a requesting step of requesting connectability information regarding a communication service provider to which communication connection is possible from the wireless communication device based on reception of disconnection information from the wireless communication device; An eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means based on reception of connectable information indicating that connection with the other telecommunications carrier different from the telecommunications carrier is possible. a confirmation step of confirming whether the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means by the confirmation step, and if the eSIM is in an inactive state, the inactive a first request step of requesting the wireless communication device to transmit to the other communication carrier request data requesting transmission of a switching command to activate the eSIM in the active state; In the managing 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 eSIM corresponding to the carrier is switched from the inactive state to the active state.

According to the seventh aspect of the invention, a computer having an eUICC , which is included in a wireless communication device and has storage means for storing an eSIM corresponding to a communication carrier, is activated with respect to the eSIM stored in the storage means. management means for managing whether the eSIM is in the active state or in the inactive state; requesting means for requesting connectable information on a communication service provider to which communication connection is possible from the wireless communication device based on information received from the wireless communication device; Confirming whether an eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means, based on the reception of connectable information indicating that connection with the different telecommunications carrier is possible. confirmation means, if the confirmation means confirms that the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means and the eSIM is in an inactive state, the inactive eSIM A communication control program that functions as first request means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit request data requesting transmission of the switching command to activate the switching command to the other communication carrier, When receiving 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 switches the eSIM corresponding to the one telecommunications carrier to the inactive state. The eSIM corresponding to the carrier is switched from the inactive state to the active state.

The invention according to claim 8 is a communication system having a wireless communication device and an eUICC included in the wireless communication device, wherein the eUICC includes storage means for storing an eSIM corresponding to a communication carrier; 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 is configured to manage the one communication carrier corresponding to the eSIM in the active state. disconnection information transmitting means for transmitting disconnection information indicating that communication with the one telecommunications carrier has been disconnected to the eUICC when it is detected that communication with the Further comprising request means for requesting connectability information regarding a communication service provider with which communication can be connected to the wireless communication device based on the reception of the disconnection information from the wireless communication device, wherein the wireless communication device further connectable information transmitting means for identifying a communication carrier with which communication connection is possible based on the request and transmitting connectable information indicating that connection is possible with respect to the identified communication carrier to the eUICC ; In addition, when the connectable information indicates that the communication connection is possible with respect to the communication carrier different from the one communication carrier, the eUICC supports the other communication carrier. confirmation means for confirming whether the eSIM to be used is stored in the storage means; and confirmation means confirms that the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier is stored in the storage means, and the eSIM is invalid. If it is in the active state, request the wireless communication device to transmit to the other communication carrier request data requesting transmission of a switching command to activate the eSIM in the inactive state. The wireless communication device further comprises first request means, wherein the wireless communication device comprises request data transmission means for transmitting the request data to the other communication carrier, and when receiving the switching command from the other communication carrier, , and transfer means for transferring the switching command to the eUICC , wherein the management means of the eUICC , when receiving the switching command transmitted from the other communication carrier, the one communication business The eSIM corresponding to the user is switched from the active state to the inactive state, and the other eSIM is switched from the inactive state to the active state.

According to the present invention, when the eSIM corresponding to one telecommunications carrier is in an active state and communication with the one telecommunications carrier is disconnected, another communication capable of connecting communication at that time Send request data to the carrier requesting transmission of a switching command to activate the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier, and when the switching command is received from the other telecommunications carrier, The eSIM corresponding to one telecommunications carrier is switched from an active state to an inactive state, and the eSIM corresponding to another telecommunications carrier is switched from an inactive state to an active state, resulting in disconnection of communication with one telecommunications carrier. If you do, you can easily switch to another carrier.

1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a mobile terminal 1 according to this embodiment; FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of an IC chip C mounted on the eUICC 16 according to this embodiment; FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the relationship between the control module which concerns on this embodiment, and eSIM. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a communication system by a mobile terminal 1 and a network operator according to the present embodiment; FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a sequence diagram when communication between the mobile terminal 1, the eUICC 16, and a network operator according to the present embodiment is disconnected. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a sequence diagram when communication between the mobile terminal 1, the eUICC 16, and the network operator according to Modification 1 is disconnected. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a sequence diagram when communication between the mobile terminal 1, the eUICC 16, and the network operator according to Modification 2 is disconnected.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are embodiments in which the present invention is applied to an eUICC provided in a mobile terminal.

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

[1. Configuration of mobile terminal 1]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a mobile terminal 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the mobile terminal 1 includes 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. connected to each other. Note that the mobile terminal 1 is, for example, a mobile phone, a smart phone, a tablet terminal, or the like.

The control unit 11 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like. The storage unit 12 is configured by, for example, a nonvolatile memory such as a flash memory. The ROM or storage unit 12 stores an OS (Operating System) and middleware. The storage unit 12 also stores application programs (“applications”) installed in the mobile terminal 1 . Applications can be downloaded, for example, from a predetermined server.

The wireless communication unit 13 has an antenna and performs processing related to wireless communication with a base station of a communication carrier. The display unit 14 has, for example, a touch panel type display panel, and performs display control on the display panel and receives operation instructions from the user. The input unit 15 has operation buttons for inputting operation instructions from the user, and outputs signals corresponding to the operation buttons to the control unit 11 . The eUICC 16 stores and manages multiple eSIMs and controls communications with multiple carriers.

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

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 flash memory, and stores an OS, middleware, applications, and the like. The flash memory 163 also stores a communication control program for the eUICC to operate as a control module, an eSIM including a communication profile, and the like. A 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 the communication control program.

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

As shown in FIG. 4, a mobile terminal 1 equipped with an eUICC that stores, manages, and controls three eSIMs (eSIM(1), eSIM(2), and eSIM(3)) is operated by a network operator (1), a network operator ( 2), able 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 network operators corresponding to eSIMs managed by the control module in the ACTIVE state. In other words, the control module manages only one eSIM as ACTIVE state, and the other eSIMs are managed as NON-ACTIVE state. Note that the control module can switch the state of the eSIM when receiving a switching command sent from an SM (Subscription Manager) server owned and managed by a network operator. That is, the control module cannot switch the state of the eSIM without receiving a switch command from the SM server. Therefore, when it becomes necessary to switch the state of the eSIM (for example, when 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, referring to FIG. 5, when the communication between the mobile terminal 1 and the network operator (1) (eSIM (1) is in the ACTIVE state) is disconnected, the communication between the mobile terminal 1 and the network operator (2) is restarted. An example of processing for connection will be described.

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

Upon receiving the notification, the control module (CPU 161) of the eUICC 16 requests the mobile terminal 1 for information on network operators that can be connected at that time (step S103). The request is made, for example, by a proactive command (PROVIDELOCAL INFORMATION).

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

Upon receiving the notification, the control module (CPU 161) 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 for this confirmation method. For example, (1) a method of registering the profile information of each eSIM in a common file and collating it using the common file, (2) a method of individually accessing and collating profile information of all eSIMs, ( 3) It is possible to adopt a method of storing profile information of all eSIMs in an ACTIVE state eSIM, accessing the ACTIVE state eSIM, and checking the eSIM.

When the control module (CPU 161) confirms that the eSIM (2) exists in the eUICC 16, it then sends request data to the SM server of the network operator (2) to request transmission of a switching command to switch the eSIM (2) to the ACTIVE state. is requested to the portable 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 of the eSIM switching and permission may be obtained. Further, the requested data may be transmitted using the SM-SR (Subscription Manager Secure Routing) function of the SM server.

The request data may be transmitted using roaming if roaming is possible. Specifically, if the profile information of the eSIM (1) describes, for example, that it is permitted to send and receive data (roaming) via the communication facilities of the network operator (2), Transmit the requested data via the communication facilities of the network operator (2). When using roaming, the request data may be transmitted by SMS (Short Message Service). Further, the request data may be transmitted via a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) access point if the Internet can be connected via the wireless LAN (Local Area Network) access point. Note that when using a wireless LAN, the request data may be transmitted by HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol).

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

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

When the control module (CPU 161) of the eUICC 16 receives the switching command, it switches the state of the eSIM (1) from the ACTIVE state to the NON-ACTIVE state, and switches the state of the eSIM (2) from the NON-ACTIVE state to the ACTIVE state ( step 111).

Although not shown in FIG. 5, the control module (CPU 161) notifies the portable terminal 1 that the switching is completed when the eSIM state is switched. In response to this, the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 establishes communication with the device of the network operator (2).

As described above, the flash memory 163 (an example of a "storage means") of the eUICC 16 (an example of a "communication control device") included in the mobile terminal 1 (an example of a "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”, “request means”, “confirmation means”, and “first request means”) activates the eSIM stored in the flash memory 163 ( An example of "active") state or a NON-ACTIVE (an example of "inactive") state, and the network operator (1) ("one (example of a telecommunications carrier) and a network operator that can connect to the mobile terminal 1 based on the reception of 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 based on requesting the connectable information and receiving the connectable information indicating that the connection with the network operator (2) (an example of "another carrier") is possible from the mobile terminal 1 Check whether eSIM(2) corresponding to (2) is stored in flash memory 163, confirm that eSIM(2) is stored in flash memory 163, and eSIM(2) is inactive state, the mobile terminal 1 is instructed to transmit to the SM server of the network operator (2) request data requesting transmission of a switching command to set the eSIM (2) in the inactive state to the ACTIVE state. When requested and receives a switching command, it switches from ACTIVE state to NON-ACTIVE state for eSIM(1) and switches from NON-ACTIVE state to ACTIVE state for eSIM(2).

Therefore, according to the eUICC 16 of the present embodiment, when the communication with the network operator (1) is disconnected while the eSIM (1) is in the ACTIVE state, the network operator (2) with which communication can be connected at that time , request data requesting transmission of a switching command to set eSIM (2) to the ACTIVE state, and when the switching command is received from the network operator (2), the eSIM (1) is changed from the ACTIVE state to the NON- Switching to the ACTIVE state and switching from the NON-ACTIVE state to the ACTIVE state for the eSIM (2) facilitates switching to the network operator (2) when communication with the network operator (1) is cut off. can do. In addition, since the eUICC 16 dynamically determines communication disconnection and requests switching of the eSIM, the network operator or the like can use 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 judging eSIM switching.

Further, when the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 according to the present embodiment transmits request data to the network operator (2), the communication equipment of the network operator (2) affiliated with the network operator (1) The request data may be transmitted via the . Specifically, the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1, when permission information indicating that use of the communication facility of the network operator (2) is permitted in the eSIM (1), the network operator ( The request data may be transmitted via the communication facility of 2). Thereby, even when the communication between the mobile terminal 1 and the network operator (1) is disconnected, the request data can be transmitted.

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

[4. Modification]
Next, a modification of the above embodiment will be described. Note that the modifications described below can be combined as appropriate.

[4.1. Modification 1]
In the above embodiment, when the communication connection is cut off while communicating with the network operator (1) using the eSIM (1), the network operator (2) with which the communication connection is possible at that time Although we have described an embodiment in which the corresponding eSIM (2) is used to connect communication with the network operator (2), when communication with the network operator (1) is disconnected, the network operator (2) And Modified Example 1 in which communication connection with the network operator (3) is possible will be described.

In Modified Example 1, the control module of the eUICC 16 manages the connection priority, which is the priority of 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, network operators with lower communication charges may have a higher connection priority, or network operators with stronger radio waves may have a higher connection priority (in this case, each time the order of radio wave strength changes, the connection priority may be higher). change the priority).

Here, with reference to FIG. 6, when the communication between the mobile terminal 1 and the network operator (1) in Modification 1 (eSIM (1) is in the ACTIVE state) is disconnected, the mobile terminal 1 and another network operator A processing example when connecting the communication will be described. Note that FIG. 6 is almost the same as FIG. 5, so here, the changed part will be mainly described. In addition, it is assumed that the connection priority is eSIM(1) at the first place, eSIM(2) at the second place, and eSIM(3) at the third place.

In step S103, when the eUICC 16 requests the information of the connectable network operator at that time, the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 detects the connectable network operator at that time. Here, it is assumed that network operator (2) and network operator (3) are detected to be connectable (step S104A).

Next, the control unit 11 of the mobile terminal 1 notifies the eUICC 16 of connectable information indicating that connection with the network operator (2) and the network operator (3) is possible (step S105A).

Upon receiving the notification, the control module (CPU 161) 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. , selects an eSIM with a higher priority (step S106A). Here, eSIM(2) and eSIM(3) exist, and since eSIM(2) has a higher priority than eSIM(3), eSIM(2) is selected.

Next, the control module (CPU 161) of the eUICC 16 causes the SM server of the network operator (2) to transmit request data requesting transmission of a switching command for switching the eSIM (2) selected in step S106A to the ACTIVE state. A request is made to the terminal 1 (step S107A).

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

Two cases will now be described for post-connection with network operator (2).

First, the first case will be explained. If the mobile terminal 1 is disconnected from the network operator (2) 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. Suppose a higher eSIM (1) is switched to the ACTIVE state to connect with the network operator (1). On the other hand, at the time of disconnection, it is impossible to connect to network operator (1), and if it is possible to connect to network operator (3), it switches eSIM (3) to the ACTIVE state and connects to network operator (3). I decided to.

Next, the second case will be explained. For example, while mobile terminal 1 is connected to network operator (2), it is possible to connect to network operator (1) by re-entering the communication range of network operator (1), which has a higher connection priority than network operator (2). is detected, the eSIM (1) is switched to the ACTIVE state and connected to the network operator (1).

From the above two cases, the trigger for switching the network operator (eSIM) is the detection of communication disconnection, and it is possible to connect communication with a network operator with a higher connection priority than the network operator currently connected at that time. An example is to detect that something has changed. Regardless of the trigger, as long as the state of being connectable with any one of the network operators (1) to (3) continues, the communication connection with any one of the network operators can be secured. Also, in the latter case, it is possible to always ensure connection with a network operator having a high connection priority among network operators that can be connected at that time.

[4.2. Modification 2]
In the above embodiment, eSIM (2) is stored in flash memory 163 when communication with network operator (1) is cut off and notification is made that communication with network operator (2) can be connected. Although the case where the eSIM(2) is stored in the flash memory 163 has been described in the modification 2, the case where the eSIM(2) is not stored in the flash memory 163 will be described.

Modification 2 will be described with reference to FIG. Note that steps S101 to S106 in FIG. 7 are the same as those in FIG. 5, so description thereof will be omitted. Modification 2 differs from the above-described embodiment (FIG. 5) in that steps S106-1 to S106-5 are performed after step S106. Further, the flow after step S106-5 is the same as the flow after step S107 in FIG. 5, so the explanation is omitted.

In step S106 of FIG. 7, the control module (CPU 161) of the eUICC 16 checks whether or not the eSIM (2) corresponding to the network operator (2) exists in the eUICC 16. The mobile terminal 1 is requested to transmit request data requesting transmission of a 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 to the SM server of the network operator (2) to request transmission of the eSIM (2) creation command (step S106-2). Before transmitting the request data, the user of the mobile terminal 1 may be notified that the eSIM will be created and permission may be obtained. Also, the requested data may be transmitted using the SM-SR function of the SM server.

As described in the above embodiment, the request data may be transmitted using roaming if roaming is possible, or the data may be transmitted via a wireless LAN access point to the Internet. In some cases, it may be transmitted via a wireless LAN access point.

When the device of network operator (2) receives the requested data, it transmits a command to create eSIM (2) to portable terminal 1 (step S106-3). Note that the creation command includes data necessary for creating the eSIM(2) (eSIM(2) body and other data).

Upon receiving the creation command, the control section 11 of the mobile terminal 1 transfers it to the eUICC 16 (step 106-4).

When the control module (CPU 161) of the eUICC 16 receives the creation command, it creates the eSIM(2) and stores it in the flash memory 163 (step 160-5). Also, the control module (CPU 161) puts the created eSIM (2) into the NON-ACTIVE state.

The flow after 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 request means” and the “creation means”) included in the mobile terminal 1 according to Modification 2 is disconnected from the network operator (2), and the network When it is confirmed that the eSIM (2) is not stored in the flash memory 163 when it is notified that the connection with the operator (2) is possible, the eSIM (2) is stored in the flash memory 163. When requesting the mobile terminal 1 to transmit request data requesting transmission of a creation command to the network operator (2) and receiving the creation command sent from the network operator (2), the eSIM (2) is stored in the flash memory 163, the eSIM (2) is managed as the NON-ACTIVE state, and then request data requesting transmission of a switching command to set the eSIM (2) to the ACTIVE state is sent to the network operator (2). When the switching command sent 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 switched from the ACTIVE state to the NON-ACTIVE state. Switch from the NON-ACTIVE state to the ACTIVE state.

That is, the control module (CPU 161) of the eUICC 16 stores the eSIM ( 2) is stored, the network operator (2) is requested to send a switching command to the eSIM (2). , send a request to send an eSIM (2) creation command to the network operator (2), and after completing the creation of the eSIM (2) (including setting it to the NON-ACTIVE state), send to the eSIM (2) A transmission request for a switching command is made to the network operator (2).

Therefore, according to the eUICC 16 in Modification 2, even if the flash memory 163 does not store eSIMs corresponding to other network operators with which communication is possible when communication with a certain network operator is disconnected, , since the eSIM is stored in the flash memory 163 and is managed in the NON-ACTIVE state, by having the network operator transmit a switching command to set the eSIM corresponding to the other network operator to the ACTIVE state , communication with the relevant 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 CPUs
162 RAMs
163 flash memory 164 I/O circuit

Claims (8)

An eUICC included in a wireless communication device,
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 active or inactive;
on the basis of receiving from the wireless communication device disconnection information indicating that communication between the one communication carrier corresponding to the active eSIM and the wireless communication device has been disconnected, to the wireless communication device a request means for requesting connectable information about a telecommunications carrier to which communication can be connected;
Based on receiving from the wireless communication device the connectable information indicating that the connection with the other communication carrier different from the one communication carrier is possible, corresponding to the other communication carrier 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 carrier is stored in the storage means and the eSIM is in an inactive state, the inactive eSIM is placed in the active state. a first request means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit request data requesting transmission of a switching command to the other communication carrier;
with
When receiving 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 switches the eSIM corresponding to the one telecommunications carrier to the inactive state. An eUICC characterized by switching from the inactive state to the active state for an eSIM corresponding to a carrier. The eUICC of claim 1, wherein
If the confirmation means confirms that the eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier is not stored in the storage means, sending a creation command to store the eSIM of the other telecommunications carrier in the storage means. a second requesting means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit requested data to the other communication carrier;
creating means for storing an eSIM corresponding to the other telecommunications carrier in the storage means when the creation command transmitted from the other telecommunications carrier is received;
further comprising
when the eSIM corresponding to the other communication carrier is stored in the storage means based on the creation command, the management means manages the eSIM as an inactive state;
The first request means switches the eSIM corresponding to the other communication carrier to the active state when the eSIM stored in the storage means is managed in the inactive state based on the creation command. requesting the wireless communication device to transmit request data requesting transmission of a command to the other carrier;
When receiving 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 switches the eSIM corresponding to the one telecommunications carrier to the inactive state. An eUICC characterized by switching from the inactive state to the active state for an eSIM corresponding to a carrier. An eUICC according to claim 1 or 2,
The eUICC , wherein the wireless communication device transmits the request data via the communication facility of the other telecommunications carrier affiliated with the one telecommunications carrier. The eUICC of claim 3,
When the eSIM corresponding to the one communication carrier describes permission information indicating that the use of the communication facility of the other communication carrier is permitted, the wireless communication device performs the communication with the other communication carrier. An eUICC characterized by transmitting the request data via the communication facility of an operator. An eUICC according to claim 1 or 2,
The eUICC, wherein the wireless communication device transmits the request data via a wireless LAN access point. A communication control method using an eUICC , which is included in a wireless communication device and includes storage means for storing an eSIM corresponding to a communication carrier,
a management step of managing whether the eSIM stored in the storage means is in an active state or in an inactive state;
on the basis of receiving from the wireless communication device disconnection information indicating that communication between the one communication carrier corresponding to the active eSIM and the wireless communication device has been disconnected, to the wireless communication device a requesting step of requesting connectable information about a telecommunications carrier to which communication can be connected;
Based on receiving from the wireless communication device the connectable information indicating that the connection with the other communication carrier different from the one communication carrier is possible, corresponding to the other communication carrier a confirmation step of confirming whether the eSIM is stored in the storage means;
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 an inactive state, the inactive eSIM is transferred to the active state. a first request step of requesting the wireless communication device to transmit to the other communication carrier request data requesting transmission of a switching command to
including
In the managing 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 A communication control method, characterized by switching from the inactive state to the active state for an eSIM corresponding to a telecommunications carrier. A computer having an eUICC included in a wireless communication device and having storage means for storing an eSIM corresponding to a communication carrier;
management means for managing whether the eSIM stored in the storage means is active or inactive;
on the basis of receiving from the wireless communication device disconnection information indicating that communication between the one communication carrier corresponding to the active eSIM and the wireless communication device has been disconnected, to the wireless communication device requesting means for requesting connectable information about telecommunications carriers to which communication can be connected;
Based on receiving from the wireless communication device the connectable information indicating that the connection with the other communication carrier different from the one communication carrier is possible, corresponding to the other communication carrier 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 carrier is stored in the storage means and the eSIM is in an inactive state, the inactive eSIM is placed in the active state. A first request means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit request data requesting transmission of a switching command to the other communication carrier,
A communication control program that functions as
When receiving 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 switches the eSIM corresponding to the one telecommunications carrier to the inactive state. A communication control program for switching an eSIM corresponding to a telecommunications carrier from the inactive state to the active state. A communication system having a wireless communication device and an eUICC included in the wireless communication device,
The eUICC is
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 an active state or an inactive state;
The wireless communication device
When it is detected that communication with the one communication carrier corresponding to the active eSIM is disconnected, the eUICC transmits disconnection information indicating that communication with the one communication carrier has been disconnected. comprising a disconnection information transmitting means for transmitting to
The eUICC is
Further comprising a request means for requesting connectable information regarding a communication service provider with which communication can be connected to the wireless communication device based on the reception of the disconnection information from the wireless communication device,
The wireless communication device
further connectable information transmitting means for identifying a communication carrier with which communication connection is possible based on the request and transmitting connectable information indicating that connection is possible with respect to the identified communication carrier to the eUICC ; prepared,
The eUICC is
when the connectable information indicates that the communication connection is possible with respect to the communication carrier different from the one communication carrier, the eSIM corresponding to the other communication carrier is stored in the storage means; a confirmation means for confirming whether it is stored in the
When it is confirmed by the confirmation means that the eSIM of the other carrier is stored in the storage means and the eSIM is in an inactive state, the inactive eSIM is placed in the active state. Further comprising a first request means for requesting the wireless communication device to transmit request data requesting transmission of a switching command to the other communication carrier,
The wireless communication device
request data transmission means for transmitting the request data to the other communication carrier;
transfer means for transferring the switching command to the eUICC when the switching command is received from the other communication carrier;
further comprising
The management means of the eUICC switches the eSIM corresponding to the one telecommunications carrier from the active state to the inactive state when receiving the switching command transmitted from the other telecommunications carrier, A communication system, wherein the another eSIM is switched from the inactive state to the active state.

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