US20200053226A1

US20200053226A1 - System and method for programmatic device connectivity

Info

Publication number: US20200053226A1
Application number: US16/545,985
Authority: US
Inventors: Chetan Chaudhary; Evan Cummack; Brian Tarricone
Original assignee: Twilio Inc
Current assignee: Twilio Inc
Priority date: 2016-05-23
Filing date: 2019-08-20
Publication date: 2020-02-13
Also published as: US11076054B2; US20180332179A1; US10440192B2; US10063713B2; US20170339283A1; US20200329157A1; US20210314447A1

Abstract

A system and method for programmatically managing device connectivity to a network that includes provisioning connectivity devices with an account of a communication platform, where for a set of the connectivity devices, provisioning includes uniquely associating network operating identifiers of each of the connectivity devices with a corresponding programmatic device resource in the communication platform, setting communication metering properties in a programmatic connectivity plan resource in the communication platform and associating the connectivity plan resource to at least a subset of the device resources of the connectivity devices, and activating network communication status of the connectivity devices; servicing communications from the connectivity devices; and programmatically managing the communications from the connectivity devices through at least the device resources and the connectivity plan resources.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/042,823, filed on 23 Jul. 2018, which is a continuation of and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/602,809, filed on 23 May 2017, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/340,333, filed on 23 May 2016, both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates generally to the communication field, and more specifically to a new and useful system and method for programmatic device connectivity in the communication field.

BACKGROUND

More and more devices are becoming network enabled. Personal computing devices such as phones, tablets, watches, and laptops may be accompanied with SIM cards or other mechanisms to connect to a carrier network. However, such connectivity is not limited to personal computers. The internet of things trend has led to various devices like gas meters, cars, and other devices to use internet connectivity. Developing and managing such connectivity devices can be complicated and expensive. In some cases, an individual will have to establish a new long-term contract with a telecomm provider to activate usage. This is not only cumbersome but can be impractical for some applications where the data usage is very low. There are numerous barriers that act as hurdles for developers and companies. Thus, there is a need in the communication field to create a new and useful system and method for programmatic device connectivity. This invention provides such a new and useful system and method.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a system of a preferred embodiment;

FIG. 2 is an exemplary representation of an API response to a request to a device usage resource;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart representation of a method of a preferred embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart representation of processes of provisioning a connectivity device;

FIG. 5 is an exemplary representation of an API response to a request to a device resource;

FIG. 6 is an exemplary representation of enabled capabilities of a connectivity plan resource;

FIG. 7 is an exemplary representation of usage limits of a connectivity plan resource;

FIG. 8 is an exemplary communication flow diagram for activating a connectivity device;

FIG. 9 is an exemplary communication flow diagram of offering programmable communications using a callback URI;

FIG. 10 is an exemplary communication flow diagram of forwarding communications to an outside service; and

FIG. 11 is an exemplary communication flow diagram for deactivating a connectivity device.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention is not intended to limit the invention to these preferred embodiments, but rather to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use this invention.

1. Overview

A method and system for programmatic device connectivity functions to enable connected devices to be programmatically controlled, monitored, and/or otherwise managed. The method and system preferably enable a programmatic approach to managing cellular-connected IoT (Internet of Things) devices, phones, tablets, and other computing devices, and enabling the ability to program each call, text, and/or data packet. The method and system are preferably implemented in connection with distributed SIM cards (i.e. subscriber identity module cards) that operate with one or more mobile cores used in providing data, SMS/MMS messaging, voice, and other communication channels. The SIM cards are preferably programmatically managed from a communication platform, which may enable various administrative interfaces including an administrator dashboard and/or programmatic interfaces. Programmatic interfaces can include an API, application logic processing routines, callback events, and/or other suitable programmatic interfaces.
The system and method are preferably implemented by a communication platform. The communication platform is preferably a multi-tenant platform where users are managers of different implementations using the programmatic cellular connectivity capabilities of the system and method. In one variation, the communication platform is an independent computing platform that provides functionality in cooperation with a cellular network. In another variation, the communication platform is a component of a cellular network system.
As one potential benefit, the system and method may enable simplified management of device connectivity. The system and method offer remote provisioning and ordering of SIM cards. This can be particularly applicable when managing multiple devices. In one application, a business may utilize the communication platform of the system and method to manage a fleet of worker phones. The business could control activation/deactivation of worker-used phones, define custom functionality, programmatically augment functionality, and/or collect data on usage. In another application, a deployment of IoT devices could use a communication platform's implementation of the system and method for a unified data plan for the IoT devices that simplifies the deployment, addition of devices, and/or billing.
As another potential benefit, the system and method can facilitate offering a programmable mobile network, wherein various processes of a communication network can be programmatically controlled and customized. Where traditional wireless customers are limited to standard features of a carrier, a programmable wireless network could offer opportunities for any entity to build custom rules and features that are enabled within their network. Additionally such customization can be compatible out of network. While a phone number may or may not be associated with a SIM card connectivity device, the origin phone number during outbound calls could be dynamically set through the communication platform. Additionally, the routing of communications to a destination address could additionally be dynamically set. In one example, a business could use this to setup customized internal routing options for a fleet of workers. For example, the system and method could provide an easy approach to setting up custom phone numbers that when dials are routed to different departments. For example, a company could configure an implementation where dialing one directs the caller to one department, and dialing two to another department. Furthermore, these customized routing rules can be customized per SIM card.
As another potential benefit, the system and method may enable a command communication channel that can be utilized for machine-to-machine communications. The command communication channel can be useful for IoT and other device applications.
The method and system can be applied to a variety of use cases. Generally, the system and method is implemented in a multitenant platform that serves multiple entities. Through the platform, the various entities may apply the method and system to their own particular use cases.
In one exemplary use of the system and method, a business may want to provide its employees with company managed phones. SIM cards can be provisioned for all employees through the system and method. Depending on the needs of the business, different features may be enabled.
In one implementation, the system and method can be used in monitoring usage. In another implementation, the system and method could be used to simulate a virtual carrier. The connected devices can be set to appear to be connected to the business's own carrier, wherein the actual carrier is transparent to the end user.
In another implementation, the system and method can be used for remotely activating, suspending, and/or deactivating devices. This can be useful with a dynamic work force where people join and leave.
In another implementation, the system and method could be used for automatically encrypting all communications or communications matching particular properties (e.g., communications between employees or with customers). The programmatic capabilities can detect messages and/or communications satisfying some condition, and the message or communication could be encrypted or otherwise converted.
In another implementation, the system and method could be used to set custom data or communication rules. For example, particular endpoints may be whitelisted or blacklisted for a device. Similarly, some websites and/or network-accessed services can be blocked for internet data communications.
In another implementation, the system and method could be used to build custom features such as changing what phone number is associated with a device based on various conditions such as the location of the device or the time of day. The phone number used to call a worker may change based on location, which may be useful for contextually making a worker available.
In another implementation, the system and method could be used to bridge different communication channels. For example, an SMS sent to a fellow employee may be converted to an IP message using a private IP messaging channel of the business.
While the system and method can be used for more traditional phone communication use cases, the system and method could additionally be beneficial to alternative device communication challenges such as building an internet of things device. SIM cards could be provisioned for a set of different computing devices. In one aspect, the system and method can make provisioning of a SIM card for a device a straightforward procedure for a developer or manufacturer. The system and method can be used to enable simple distribution of IoT devices because of a streamlined provisioning process. The developer or manufacturer of the IoT product can provision a SIM for a device. Then, when a customer or the IoT device is ready to be used, the SIM card could be activated with a data usage plan set by the customer or the developer. The developer and the customer can be alleviated of contacting a carrier and setting up a new carrier subscription. The system and method can additionally enable highly customizable usage plans. Some IoT products use very little data, and a data plan could be assigned to that device accordingly through the system and method.
The system and method could alternatively be used for other use cases. The examples described herein are to provide illustrative scenarios that leverage some possible capabilities of different implementations of the system and method.

2. System for Programmatic Device Connectivity

As shown in FIG. 1, a system for programmatic device connectivity can include a communication platform 110, at least one connectivity device 120, and a mobile core 130.
The communication platform 110 is preferably a multitenant service platform. The communication platform 110 can enable multiple distinct accounts, sub-accounts, or other entities to utilize the platform independently. Generally, the accounts using the communication platform 110 will be implementing some functionality that will serve a plurality of end users. For example, a business may create an account within the communication platform 110 so that they can use the programmable device connectivity features as an IT solution for the employees of the company. In another example, an IoT device company may use the communication platform 110 to provide the connectivity to their devices. In a preferred implementation, the communication platform 110 can facilitate a set of communication capabilities such as PSTN calls, IP/SIP based voice or video calls, SMS or MMS messaging, IP messaging, third party communication channel integrations, notifications, internet data communications, and/or other communication operations. The communication platform 110 can include an API service 112, an event callback system 114, and/or application logic processing system 116.
The API service 112 functions as a programmatic interface for managing and interacting with configuration and operational management of connectivity devices. The API service 112 is preferably a RESTful API but may alternatively be any suitable API such as SOAP or custom protocol. The RESTful API works according to an application layer request and response model. An application layer request and response model may use an HTTP-based protocol (HTTP or HTTPS), SPDY, or any suitable application layer protocol. Herein, HTTP may be used, but should not be interpreted as being limited to the HTTP protocol. HTTP requests (or any suitable request communication) to the communication platform no preferably observe the principles of a RESTful design. RESTful is understood in this document to describe a Representational State Transfer architecture as is known in the art. The RESTful HTTP requests are preferably stateless, thus each message communicated contains all necessary information for processing the request and generating a response. The API service 112 can include various resources, which act as API endpoints that can act as a mechanism for specifying requested information or requesting particular actions. The resources can be expressed as URI's or resource paths. In one exemplary instance, a GET request (or other suitable method of an application layer protocol request) can be transmitted to a URI specifying a particular API resource. The response to the request can include properties of the specified resource. In another exemplary instance, a POST request (or other suitable method of an application layer request) can be transmitted to a URI specifying a particular resource. Properties of that request can initialize some action and/or change in data within the communication platform. Different resources can expose different channels to information and/or control of the communication platform and the managed connectivity devices. In one variation, the API service 112 can expose a device resource, device usage resource, a connectivity plan resource, a commands resource, and/or other resources used in programmatically managing and interacting with connectivity devices 120.
The device resource functions to represent a physical connectivity device capable of connecting to a wireless network. As described below, a physical connectivity device is preferably a SIM card used by a computing device in authenticating with a cellular network. An individual device resource is preferably created for each connectivity device 120. A device resource can have a number of properties that can be set and used to augment operation of an associated connectivity device.
The device resource will preferably include various identifying properties such as a unique identifier and/or a friendly name.
The device resource can additionally include a status property. The status property can indicate the current operating state of the associated connectivity device. The status will impact capabilities and metering of the connectivity device. In one variation, the different possible statuses can include “new”, “ready”, “active”, “suspended”, “deactivated”, “canceled”, “scheduled”, and/or “updating”. Other statuses could alternatively be used.
During a ‘new’ status, the connectivity device is waiting to be activated so that it can join the network. A connectivity device could exist in new status indefinitely at no charge. After transitioning to read or active, the connectivity status can preferably not return to new.
During a ‘ready’ status, the connectivity device can connect to the network and is capable of consuming network resources in accordance with its connectivity plan, but no monthly fee will be charged. Once the connectivity device has consumed some threshold of data (e.g., 250 KB of data) and/or some time window has passed (e.g., three months), the connectivity device can be transitioned automatically to active status. In one exemplary use case, a connectivity device could be set to a ready status when a manufacturer is shipping their product using connectivity device to a customer if the manufacturer is not sure when the device will begin active use.
During an ‘active’ status, the connectivity device can connect to the network and is preferably capable of consuming network resources in accordance with its connectivity plan.
During a ‘suspended’ status, the connectivity device can be blocked from connecting to the network.
During a ‘deactivated’ status, the connectivity device can be blocked from connecting to the network. After some time window (e.g., 72 hours), the connectivity device can be transitioned automatically to the terminal status canceled. This status can be used when a customer never wants the connectivity device to reconnect (for example a phone or IoT device has been lost or stolen).
A ‘canceled’ status can be a terminal status, and the connectivity device can be blocked from connecting to the network and can no longer be reactivated.
During a ‘scheduled’ status, an upstream network operator may be temporarily unable to update the status of this connectivity device. During this state, the connectivity device status will preferably be automatically updated to the requested status when the upstream network operator resumes accepting transactions.
During an ‘updating’ status, the connectivity device is in the process of being asynchronously updated. While the connectivity device is updating, it may not be possible to modify some fields. A status callback URI can be used during changes in status.
Some of the statuses will be read only, but some may be set or requested programmatically. Setting the status property of a device resource can be used as a mechanism for requesting a transition of the connectivity device to a new status. Exemplary mutable statuses can include the “ready”, “active”, “suspended”, and “deactivated” statuses. Accordingly, the device resource can be used for activating, suspending, or deactivating a connectivity device through an API request to the appropriate device resource.
The device resource can additionally include a connectivity plan reference which functions to set a connectivity plan for the connectivity device. The connectivity plan reference is preferably a unique identifier of a connectivity plan resource.
The device resource can additionally include callback references that function to define actions or functionality that is invoked on different events. The callback references are preferably used in connection with the event callback system 114. The callback references are more preferably callback URIs (Universal Resource Identifier) such as a URL (Universal Resource Locator) to a webserver hosting application logic. There can be different types of callback references for different aspects of the connectivity device. Preferably, there is one that can be set for each mode of communication such as voice, messaging, and data. Different callback references may additionally be set for incoming versus outgoing or other suitable aspects of connectivity. There could be a voice callback URI, a messaging callback URI, a data callback URI, a command callback URI, and the like. The voice callback URI can be used for PSTN, SIP, or other forms of synchronous communications. The messaging callback URI can be for SMS, MMS, and/or IP messages. Additionally there could be a status callback URI that is used during changes in status of the connectivity device. A callback method property could additionally be set for each callback URI so that application layer protocol communications can use appropriate methods. For example, when using an HTTP-based protocol (e.g., HTTP/HTTPS), GET or POST can be specified for each callback reference.
The device usage resource can be used to programmatically access usage of the connectivity device as shown in the exemplary device usage resource of FIG. 2.
The connectivity plan resource functions to at least partially specify operational capabilities and permissions and also the metering and billing options of the connectivity device. The connectivity plan can include various properties that can be used to set capabilities of the connectivity devices. Capabilities such as data communications, SMS messages, MMS messages, PSTN calls, national roaming, international roaming and other capabilities could be enabled, disabled, capped/limited, and/or otherwise controlled. As one additional property, a billing mode could be set through the connectivity plan resource. A billing mode can set different ways in which connectivity devices are metered and/or billed. In a pooled billing mode all the usage of a connectivity devices associated with the connectivity plan are summed (i.e., pooled) when billing, evaluating progress against pricing tiers, evaluating usage limits, and/or assessing usage. In an individual billing mode, usage of connectivity devices associated with the connectivity plan are treated individually.
Alternative architectures of programmatic resources could alternatively be used. As an exemplary alternative, the connectivity plan could be directly specified within the device resource. As another exemplary alternative, the callback references and capabilities could be specified in the connectivity plan resource.
The API service 112 may additionally include a commands resource that can be used to create and access machine-to-machine communications. A command resource can be used for sending a data message to the connectivity device. In one implementation, message content can be transmitted through an SMS protocol. However, any suitable medium of communication or protocol could be used. The command resource can be used in delivering inbound communications. Outbound messages could be handled differently. As mentioned above, a device resource could specify a command callback, which would make an asynchronous application layer request to the command callback URI with outbound command or message communications.
The event callback system 114 can function to enable event triggers or webhooks to be activated in response to different state changes or events. Event callbacks may be triggered at particular stages of a communication. When an event callback condition is satisfied, a configured event is executed. The event could be an internal operation, a callback event, or any suitable action. An internal operation can be a closed action that may not be fully exposed to an account holder. A URI callback event preferably includes making an application layer protocol communication to an external resource located at the specified URI. A callback event may alternatively be configured by account for any suitable event such as when a connectivity device 120 is activated, when a communication associated with a device is received, or any suitable condition. Callback URIs may be setup to retrieve application logic to synchronously manage a communication.
The application logic processing system 116 may enable business logic to be defined through an executable document. Preferably, application logic is specified through a structured document. In one variation, a markup language document can be used in specifying a set of instructions and conditions that can be sequentially executed. The application logic may be retrieved from a remote server. For example, the event callback system 114 may retrieve application logic from a URI, which is then processed in association with a conversation. Application logic may alternatively be stored within the communication platform 110.
The connectivity device 120 functions as a connectivity destination or endpoint for communications. In a preferred implementation, the connectivity device of the system can be a SIM card or subscriber identity module card. The SIM card when used with a telecommunications module can authenticate a device as a subscriber and participant on a network. The connectivity device can be a SIM card, as one knowledgeable in the art would understand. The SIM card could include a unique serial number (e.g., integrated circuit card identifier (ICCID)), international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) number, and/or other information such as service access credentials, PIN numbers, and the like. In one implementation, SIM cards can be distributed in combination with activation codes, wherein the activation codes can be communicated with the communication platform and used by the communication platform for altering the status of the connectivity devices. In other variations, the connectivity devices could be other types of devices such as phones, tablets, or other suitable devices. Such devices will preferably include a SIM card, integrated SIM data, or otherwise be capable of connecting to a network.
A mobile core 130 is the set of network infrastructure used in facilitating communications with the device. In one implementation, a network carrier with the mobile core 130 could be implementers of the system and can integrated the mobile core 130 with the communication platform. In an alternative implementation, the mobile core 130 can be enabled through an outside partner, and the system could include a mobile core 130 interface such that the communication platform 110 can interface with an outside mobile core 130. For example, the communication platform may interface with multiple carrier networks, where the devices have communications using the carrier networks as at least an intermediary resource for communications. Communications are preferably routed through the communication platform for at least a subset of communication types.

3. Method for Programmatic Device Connectivity

As shown in FIG. 3, a method for programmatic device connectivity of a preferred embodiment can include provisioning a connectivity device S110, servicing communications of the connectivity device S120, and programmatically managing the connectivity device S130. The method preferably functions to enable connectivity devices to be activated, deactivated, and/or otherwise managed. Additionally, the management of the connectivity devices can be facilitated through an interface of a communication platform and, more preferably, a programmatic interface such as an API. The programmatic interfaces could be used in augmenting communications of the connectivity device. By exposing a programmatic interface to the management of connectivity devices, services and applications can provided automated management of cellular connectivity of one or more devices. The connectivity devices are preferably SIM cards or SIM-enabled devices that use a SIM card in enabling connectivity to a cellular network. The method is preferably implemented by a system such as the one described above, but any suitable system may alternatively be used.
The method can be particularly applicable to managing a plurality of connectivity devices, wherein provisioning servicing, and managing are applied across multiple connectivity devices. Subsets of the multiple connectivity devices could be individually configured with distinct connectivity plans and customized functionality. The method could similarly be applied to a single connectivity device.
Block S110, which includes provisioning a connectivity device, functions to enroll and setup data connectivity for a device. A connectivity device is preferably provisioned with an account of a communication platform. The communication platform can be one as described above and is preferably a multitenant communication platform such that distinct entities could independently provision connectivity devices through the communication platform. A connectivity device is preferably any device with capability to authenticate with a telecommunications network and participate as a subscribed entity. More specifically, provisioning a connectivity device can include provisioning a SIM card. A SIM card can enable identification of a computing device connecting to a network, and communications described in the method can be SIM card originated communications. In SIM card originated communications, the computing device transmitting and receiving telecommunication signals is identified as an endpoint as prescribed by the SIM card. In alternative implementations, the connectivity devices can be computing devices with included SIM cards or have digital equivalent of a SIM card. For example, a connectivity device may not have a removable SIM card but have identifiers and set within software or hardware of the device.
In one variation, provisioning can include providing connectivity devices, wherein the operator of the method can manage a known supply of connectivity devices. In providing connectivity devices, the communication platform can have a set of pre-registered connect devices (e.g., SIM cards) with known identifiers. In one implementation, a set of SIM cards can be issued by a carrier network to the communication platform, wherein the issued SIM cards are managed by the mobile core of the carrier network in a way compatible with the method. In this variation, only SIM cards provided by the communication platform are capable of operation with the method. Alternatively or additionally, ad-hoc registration of connectivity devices can enable outside connectivity devices to be migrated and enrolled for use with the method.
Providing connectivity devices can additionally relate to the physical transfer of the connectivity devices to an account holder. In one variation, the communication platform or other outlets could sell the connectivity devices. In another variation, the communication platform could expose a programmatic provisioning API that enables ordering of SIM cards. For example, an API can be exposed enabling an entity to order new SIM cards programmatically. An API request could specify the number, the SIM card type, and an address for SIM card delivery. In one variation, the SIM cards can arrive ready for use. Alternatively, a SIM card may be provisioned once the user has the SIM card in hand. This may be used to onboard SIM cards that a user already possesses.
Provisioning a connectivity device preferably includes uniquely associating network operating identifiers of the connectivity device with a corresponding programmatic device resource S122, setting communication metering properties in a programmatic connectivity plan resource S124; and activating network communication status of the connectivity device S126 as shown in FIG. 4. The processes of blocks S122, S124, and S126 function to setup a connectivity device and transition the connectivity device to an active state where communication and metering can be executed. The connectivity plan resource and the device resource are preferably programmatic resources exposed through an API of the communication platform. Setting and augmenting of programmatic resources can preferably be facilitated through block S130. Additionally, as with block S130, programmatic resources may additionally be set or changed through any suitable interface such as a user interface exposed on a control portal on a website or application of the communication platform.
Block S122, which includes uniquely associating network operating identifiers of the connectivity device with a corresponding programmatic device resource, functions to setup endpoint access and link identity of a connectivity device with an account. The device resource, along with other associated resources, can define state and settings of an associated connectivity device as shown in an exemplary API information request of FIG. 5. Preferably, the network operating identifier is one of a SIM card. The identifier for a SIM card could be an integrated circuit card identifier (ICCID). The international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) and/or other network identifier may additionally or alternatively be associated with the device resource. In some variations, the SIM card can be associated with a phone number, which could additionally be associated with the device resource. In other variations, the phone number addressing can be provided through the communication platform. In this variation, a human facing endpoint address such as the phone number for the connectivity device can be set within the communication platform, wherein the actual device endpoint address can be transparent or a minor detail to the end user. The actual device endpoint address can be used internally, but a level of indirection is introduced so that a phone number is used to reference the device outside of the platform and mobile core, which functions to make device management more flexible. For example, the phone number used to access a device can be set and updated in real-time in block S130.
Block S124, which includes setting communication metering properties in a programmatic connectivity plan resource, functions to configure billing and/or usage limits for communications from connectivity devices. Preferably, the connectivity plan is abstracted away to its own programmatic resource in the communication platform. As discussed, the communication metering properties could additionally be properties of a device resource or represented in any suitable manner. In one variation, connectivity plan resources can be generated and then associated with a number of device resources. The act of associating a connectivity plan resource with a device resource, in one variation, can initialize or enable activation of the connectivity device. Prior to a device resource having a connectivity plan, the device is preferably restricted from activating.
The communication metering properties preferably relate to each available communication medium such as data usage, data machine-to-machine transmissions, SMS messages, MMS messages, PSTN voice calls, and/or other forms of communication. Additionally, the connectivity plan resource can define enabled capabilities and/or usage limits. Limits can relate to caps, tiered billing, rate limiting, and/or other forms of communication limits. Preferably, the metering properties will define the options used in measuring usage and generating a bill based on the measured usage. Setting communication metering properties in a programmatic connectivity plan resource can include setting communication metering modes, communication capabilities, communication limits, and/or other properties. These different properties may impact billing rates. Alternatively, billing rate properties can additionally be exposed for being defined.
The connectivity plan resource can expose different communication metering modes. The metering modes could be set by selecting from a set of offered metering modes such as a pooled mode and an individual mode. In a pooled mode, a usage from a set of devices can be measured and billed as a group. A pooled mode may be beneficial when there are a large number of devices, but each uses a small amount of data. In an individual mode, usage is measured on a per-device basis.
The connectivity plan may additionally include communication capability properties. A capability property can describe the network resources that a device is permitted to consume if they are available. For example, if a device is technically capable of roaming onto an international partner network, the capabilities property can define whether this is allowed and for which channels it is allowed. The capability property can include a set of different channels such as data, voice, messaging, commands, and/or other capabilities. Additionally each capability can be scoped to different areas of usage, which can include home usage, national-roaming, and international-roaming. Home scope enables connectivity on the home carrier network. National-roaming can enable roaming for carrier networks in the same country region. International-roaming can enable connecting through other carrier networks internationally. As one example shown in FIG. 6, a device may be permitted to roam using multiple channels on international networks but not other domestic networks, and the device may be prohibited from making machine-to-machine commands by defining a null command channel.
The connectivity plan may additionally include communication limits, which functions to enable restrictions to be placed on the volume of network resources consumed by the device. In one variation, a cap communication limit can be used to set an upper limit of usage. In a cap limit, an optional cap period may be used to automatically renew a cap. Caps can be placed for different channels such that voice, messaging, commands, and data may be individually limited. In one example shown in FIG. 7, a user may set a cap to limit a device to 50 MB of data and 30 minutes of voice calling per day, while allowing unlimited SMS messaging and commands. A cap property could additionally be used in setting finite, non-renewing usage limits. For, example, a device could be set so that it could only consume 2 GB of data over it's lifetime unless a new connectivity plan is created or if the device is deactivated and reactivated.
Block S126, which includes activating network communication status of the connectivity device, functions to enable a connectivity device for use with a network. Activating a connectivity device preferably involves some event that triggers transitioning a connectivity device from its current non-active state (e.g., a ready status, suspended status, etc.) to an active state. As shown in the exemplary scenario of FIG. 8, activating network communication status of the connectivity device can include receiving a programmatic request to activate the connectivity device and initiating activation of the connectivity device on the network. Activation on the network can take some amount of time that may prevent a readily available response to the activation request. Accordingly, the programmatic activation request can include a callback URI and/or a callback URI can be associated with connectivity device. For example, a status callback URI can be a property of the device resource. With a callback URI established, then activating the network communication status can additionally include transmitting an asynchronous status update on activation of the connectivity device to the status callback URI. The status callback URI can similarly be used for any status changes of a connectivity device. Preferably, an account will set the status callback URI to a managed URI such that a webserver of the account holder can detect status changes and take any appropriate actions.
Provisioning of the connectivity device will preferably include some registration process for associating a connectivity device and an account. In the variation, where the connectivity devices are provided by the communication platform, the network identifiers used for instructing a mobile core of how to interact with the connectivity devices can be established in the communication platform. A registration process can be used to map a convenient device identifier with the underlying identifier. Alternatively, the various network identifiers may be entered manually or looked up using some alternative mechanism.
In one variation, connectivity devices can be registered through a device identifier that accompanies a physical connectivity device. For example, a SIM card can be provided along with a uniquely associated activation code. The activation code can be used in registering and/or activating the SIM card. In this variation, provisioning the connectivity device can include providing SIM cards, where each SIM card is uniquely associated with a provided activation code; and receiving a registration request with a user-supplied activation code and generating the device resource. In this variation, the device resource characterizes configuration of the connectivity device identified through the user-supplied activation code. The network operating identifiers of the connectivity device can be searching for a connectivity device record with an associated activation code that corresponds to the user-supplied activation code. Setting of a connectivity plan resource and final activation can be completed once the connectivity device is registered with the account.
In another variation, connectivity devices can be preemptively associated with an account prior to the account holder having physical access to the connectivity devices. This can be used such that connectivity devices can be pre-registered and ready for activation upon receipt of the connectivity devices. This could be useful when an account holder has a use case where large volumes of connectivity devices will be used. This variation can include receiving an order for a connectivity device from the account of the communication platform, and, in association with fulfillment of the order of the connectivity devices, generating device resource accessible through a programmatic interface of the communication platform. Fulfillment of the order of the connectivity devices can mean the device resources are generated after confirming the order, during processing of the order, during shipment of the connectivity device, or at any point. In one variation, a placeholder device resource can be created immediately following an order of the connectivity device. Network operating identifiers could be associated with the device resource through registration facilitated by method operators. For example, the registration can be completed by the communication platform or a partner of the communication platform prior to shipment of the connectivity device. Alternatively, a device resource could be created after registration by the method operators. By pre-registering a connectivity device, an account holder could obtain faster access for configuring the connectivity devices for use. For example, once a device resource is established for the account, the account holder could begin setting a connectivity plan, requesting activation, or setting any operating properties of the device. Pre-registration can additionally lock the connectivity devices to use by that account, such that one would need access to the account to activate and/or use the connectivity devices.
As will be described below, the device resource and/or the connectivity plan resource can expose various operational options which can be used for introducing programmatic control of communications, custom communication rules like routing, and/or other features. These will be described in more detail in reference to block S130.
Block S120, which includes servicing communications of the connectivity device, functions to enable usage of the device. A mobile core is preferably used to facilitate the capabilities of a device. The SIM card is preferably used by a computing device such as a smart phone, computer, IoT device, or other suitable device in establishing network connection and sending/receiving communication. The device may be used for data downloading and uploading over the internet, SMS messaging, MMS messaging, IP messaging, voice calls, video calls, and/or other suitable channels of usage. Outbound and inbound communications can be made. Servicing communications preferably includes metering and measuring usage of the connectivity device. Metering can include measuring data usage, counting communications, counting time of synchronous communications, and/or creating a record of any suitable metric that may be used in limiting and/or billing of the usage.
In one variation, the communication platform can facilitate exposing programmable communications when servicing communications. Exposing programmable communications can enable application logic to be applied in connection with one or more channels of communication. A communication can be synchronously processed according to associated application logic. Synchronous application logic can enable a communication to be controlled in real-time. For example, a call could be rerouted automatically or a message could be translated before being sent to a destination. Communication can alternatively be asynchronously processed, wherein application logic is executed outside of the communication flow. For example, a developer may want to receive a notification each time an outgoing communication is made from the device so asynchronous application logic could be implemented to notify an application server of the developer without blocking or stalling the outgoing communication.
Programmable communication can involve setting a callback URI for a connectivity device. Callback URIs are preferably properties of associated device resources. There could be distinct callback URIs for different channels of communication such as a data command callback URI, a SMS/MMS callback URI, a voice callback URI, and/or any suitable type of callback URI. Fallback callback URIs could additionally be configured. At different events the callback URI is processed and used to retrieve application logic. The application logic can then be processed. A callback may be a synchronous callback or an asynchronous callback.
When accessing a callback URI, an application layer protocol can be used in a request response model to retrieve media that specifies actions to be taken within the communication platform as shown in FIG. 9. An application layer protocol is preferably an HTTP-based protocol like HTTP or HTTPS, but may alternatively be SPDY or any suitable protocol. An application layer request can be made to the configured callback URI. That callback URI will generally direct the request to a server controlled by the entity managing the device, and will perform any suitable processing task to determine the response. Communication attributes are preferably sent with the application layer request such that an application server processing the application layer request can generate a dynamic response. The communication attributes can include the connectivity device identifier, a communication destination identifier (e.g., the endpoint the communication was directed to by the device), communication type, communication payload, and/or any suitable properties. Then a response message is received at the communication platform. The response message can include a document with a set of instructions that can be sequentially processed and executed by the platform. The response message may alternatively include media, which may be used in the communication. Callback URIs can be used for outbound communications that originate from the connectivity device. Instances of outbound communications can include receiving a communication originating from the connectivity device at the communication platform; transmitting an application layer protocol transmission to the configured callback URI of the device resource; and receiving a response with application logic; and processing message according to the application logic. Communication attributes such as communication destination can be communicated in the application layer protocol transmission such that the server handling the callback URI can use the attributes in generating dynamic application logic. Inbound communications to the connectivity device or to an endpoint mapped to the connectivity device can similarly include receiving a communication from an external communication, the communication directed to an endpoint associated with a device resource within the communication platform; transmitting an application layer protocol transmission to a communication callback URI of the device resource; receiving a response with application logic; and processing the communication according to the application logic. The application logic can include various capabilities such as communication routing instructions, playing media files, performing text-to-speech, recording communications, establishing conferences, setting up a call waiting, receiving user input or other suitable functionality.
Other mechanisms for programmable communications may additionally or alternatively be used. In one variation, communication routing rules could be configured and associated with a device resource such that outbound and/or inbound communications could be dynamically modified in accordance with the routing rules. Servicing a communication can directing communications according to communication routing configuration of the device resource. These routing rules could be programmatically configured through an API or set in a user interface of an account accessed control portal. For example, a mapping of destination endpoints could be used for associating device-provided destination endpoints with executed endpoints. In this way, outbound communications from a device can be automatically mapped to a set destination. This could be used in preventing outbound communications with particular endpoints. The destination endpoint mapping could additionally include mapping destination endpoints to origin endpoints that are to be used when contacting a destination endpoint. The origin endpoints are preferably endpoints allocated to the account for usage. In one exemplary use case, a user could dial different phone numbers on a phone and the method could automatically direct communications to different phone numbers and automatically simulate the communications from originating from a dynamically selected phone number. In one example, a business could easily enable company-wide shortcodes for company managed devices. The short codes could be customized per connectivity device. For example, each customer could be enabled to dial ‘1’ to reach their manager, ‘2’ for their regional HR representative, ‘3’ for regional IT support, and the like.
Routing rules could similarly be used for incoming calls. This can be particularly useful when a number of connectivity devices are being managed through the method. Inbound communications could be dynamically routed to appropriate connectivity devices.
The routing rule functionality could additionally or alternatively be implemented through application logic processing using the callback URI mechanism described above. An application server at a communication callback URI could render a response such as the one shown in FIG. 9, where the routing of the communication and/or mutation of the communication can be affected in any suitable manner. Highly customized logic could be used within the application server in determining the destination endpoint, the origin endpoint, and/or any other functionality in the application logic.
In a related variation to routing rules, the method could enable a device resource to be configured with communication-to-service routing, which can function to enable communications, in particular data messages, to be directly forwarded to an external host. Communication-to-service routing can be used in forwarding communications to an external database, data warehousing system, a cloud hosted data storage solution, and/or any suitable destination. This can be particularly applicable when the method is used by an account holder in managing connectivity of IoT devices. The IoT devices could be part of a sensor network using the network as a transport. This variation could be used in uploading data from the IoT devices to a particular destination. A communication-to-service routing variation can include: configuring credentials of an outside data destination service; receiving a data message originating from the connectivity device at the communication platform; and transmitting the data message to the configured data destination service using the configured credentials as shown in FIG. 10.
The method can additionally include enforcing policy when servicing communications. Enforcing policy can involve metering and billing for usage of a device. Devices are preferably metered according to the connectivity plan for the device. At the end of a billing period, a bill can be calculated and issued for the metered usage of one or more devices. Enforcing policy can additionally be used in restricting usage of the connectivity device. During new activity, the metered usage of the device (or device pool) can be compared to the caps in the connectivity plan to determine if the activity is permitted.
Block S130, which includes programmatically managing the connectivity device, functions to enable remote configuration of the connectivity device through an interface that can be integrated with other applications or services. The device resource and/or connectivity plan resource can be two programmatically-accessible resources through which operation and network connection of a connectivity device can be managed. As described above, callback URIs and application logic processing can be set through the device resource and/or connectivity plan resources to programmatically control or interact with communications. Preferably, properties of API resources such as the device resource and the connectivity plan resource can be read and/or updated to trigger changes. Additionally, a communication resource such as a command resource can be used for programmatically triggering communications originating and/or terminating at the connectivity device.
Additionally, the various configuration and activity of a connectivity device can be exposed through an interface. The interface can be a graphical user interface (e.g., a dashboard), wherein an administrator could review activity and make changes through a user interface. Alternatively or additionally, an API can be exposed and more specifically a REST API. Through API resources are preferably used to alter management of associated connectivity devices. An account holder could remotely augment the addressing of a connectivity device. For example, one or more endpoint may be routed to the connectivity device. The change in routing can be made in under a minute and may be changed multiple times. An account holder could alter callback URIs to update how event callbacks are triggered. The connectivity plan could be remotely altered to change billing and/or permissions.
The method may expose an interface for changing operating status of a connectivity device. This could be used to register, activate, suspend, deactivate, or set any suitable operating state. Registering preferably transitions a connectivity device to a ready state. Status changes can be set by an account holder through a user interface or a programmatic interface. In a programmatic interface, an API request can be submitted to an appropriate resource (e.g., the device resource) with a status property set to the newly desired status.
In one variation, activating a connectivity device can include receiving a programmatic request to activate a connectivity device and initiating activation of the connectivity device on the network as shown in FIG. 8. As discussed above, a status callback URI could be configured for a device resource or otherwise specified in the request, wherein activating a connectivity device can include transmitting an asynchronous status update on activation of the SIM card to the status callback URI. Once a connectivity device is activated, the device can connect to the network and participate in communications. Additionally, metering and/or billing can be activated for the connectivity device. In some cases, a status update may fail in which case the status callback URI will receive a message indicating the update failure.
In a related variation, deactivating a connectivity device can include receiving a programmatic request to deactivate a connectivity device and deactivating the connectivity device on the network as shown in FIG. 11. Deactivation preferably prevents communication and/or reactivation of the device. Suspending a device could be a similar process wherein the connectivity device could be reactivated.
During use of the connectivity device, the connectivity plan could be altered. Altering the connectivity plan can include receiving a programmatic request changing a current connectivity plan resource associated to the device resource to an updated connectivity plan and metering the connectivity device in accordance with the updated connectivity plan after changing the current connectivity plan. A connectivity plan could be changed by associating a new connectivity plan to the device resource. A connectivity plan could alternatively be changed by updating an existing connectivity plan resource associated with the device resource. As above, this could be facilitated through a user interface or a programmatic interface. As discussed above, a connectivity plan may enable changes to metering modes, enabled capabilities, usage limits, and/or other usage aspects. For example, the connectivity plan could specify a metering mode, an activation state of voice communication, an activation of message communication, an activation state of data connectivity, and a data limit.
In one variation, the method can expose a command API resource that is utilized for machine-to-machine communications. A command using SMS preferably issues commands in a text-based format and the content is arbitrary, wherein a developer can determine how the payload is used. Alternatively, MMS or alternative communication channels may be used to offer alternative payload formats. Commands, data communications, and/or other forms of communication can be initiated through a user interface and/or programmatic interface. Use of a command resource can include receiving a programmatic communication request to transmit data to a connectivity device and processing message transmission to the connectivity device. The communication request can specify the type of communication and the contents of the communication. The communication request can additionally include a status callback URI or the status callback URI may alternatively be specified in association with the device resource and/or connectivity plan. When a status callback URI is present transmission of a communication can additionally include transmitting an asynchronous status update on completion of processing message transmission. Preferably, the asynchronous status update will indicate successful transmission, but may alternatively indicate an error state or other outcomes of the attempted transmission.
The system and method of the preferred embodiment and variations thereof can be embodied and/or implemented at least in part as a machine configured to receive a computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions. The instructions are preferably executed by computer-executable components preferably integrated with the media intelligence platform. The computer-readable medium can be stored on any suitable computer-readable media such as RAMs, ROMs, flash memory, EEPROMs, optical devices (CD or DVD), hard drives, floppy drives, or any suitable device. The computer-executable component is preferably a general or application specific processor, but any suitable dedicated hardware or hardware/firmware combination device can alternatively or additionally execute the instructions.
As a person skilled in the art will recognize from the previous detailed description and from the figures and claims, modifications and changes can be made to the preferred embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of this invention defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A method comprising:

provisioning a first connectivity device and a second connectivity device with an account of a communication platform, the first connectivity device associated with first communication metering properties and the second connectivity device associated with second communication metering properties;

activating network communication status of the first connectivity device and the second connectivity device, after which communications received from the first connectivity device are serviced by the communication platform according to the first communication metering properties, and communications received from the second connectivity device are serviced by the communication platform according to the second communication metering properties;

receiving, from a computing device of an administrator of the account of the communication platform, a request to modify the first communication metering properties, wherein the request is received via an Application Programming Interface (API) exposed by the communication platform; and

modifying the first communication metering properties based on the request, yielding modified first communication metering properties, wherein modifying the first communication metering properties causes communications received from the first connectivity device to be serviced by the communication platform according to the modified first communication metering properties.