Research

Research

Current Research Project

Remote Dynamic eSIM Provisioning for Consumer Devices

Researcher, WINS Lab | January 2024 – Present
📍 Middle East Technical University, Ankara
Advisor: Prof. Dr. Ertan Onur

Research Overview

This research investigates the feasibility of a remotely provisioned eSIM system that can automatically switch carrier profiles through an adaptive algorithm, representing a significant advancement in mobile connectivity technology.

Research Objectives

Primary Goal: Develop a system that emulates the GSMA consumer architecture while leveraging IoT provisioning mechanisms for enhanced security and operational efficiency.

Key Innovation: Creating a solution that enables usage-based billing without long-term Mobile Network Operator (MNO) contracts, providing unprecedented flexibility for consumers.

Technical Approach

System Architecture

  • Remote Provisioning Protocol: Implementing secure over-the-air eSIM profile downloads
  • Adaptive Algorithm Development: Creating intelligent carrier selection based on usage patterns and network conditions
  • Security Framework: Leveraging IoT provisioning security mechanisms for consumer applications

Methodology

  • Simulation-Based Evaluation: Using advanced simulations to assess technical feasibility
  • Economic Viability Analysis: Evaluating cost-effectiveness and market potential of usage-based billing models
  • Performance Optimization: Analyzing system efficiency and user experience metrics

Technical Challenges Addressed

  1. Security Considerations: Ensuring secure profile switching without compromising device integrity
  2. Network Compatibility: Maintaining compatibility across different MNO infrastructures
  3. User Experience: Seamless carrier switching without user intervention
  4. Billing Integration: Implementing flexible usage-based billing systems

Research Significance

Industry Impact

  • Consumer Freedom: Eliminating the need for long-term carrier contracts
  • Market Innovation: Enabling new business models in telecommunications
  • Cost Optimization: Reducing consumer costs through dynamic carrier selection

Technical Contributions

  • Novel Architecture: Bridging consumer and IoT eSIM provisioning approaches
  • Algorithmic Innovation: Developing adaptive carrier selection algorithms
  • Security Enhancement: Improving security protocols for remote provisioning

Research Skills & Tools

Technical Competencies

  • eSIM Technology: Deep understanding of GSMA standards and IoT provisioning
  • Network Protocols: Analysis of cellular network architectures and communication protocols
  • Simulation Modeling: Advanced simulation techniques for system evaluation
  • Algorithm Development: Creating adaptive and optimization algorithms

Research Methods

  • Quantitative Analysis: Statistical evaluation of system performance
  • Simulation Studies: Computational modeling of network behaviors
  • Economic Modeling: Cost-benefit analysis of proposed solutions
  • Technical Validation: Proof-of-concept development and testing

Tools & Technologies

  • GSMA Specifications: Following industry standards for eSIM implementation
  • Network Simulation Tools: Modeling cellular network behaviors
  • Security Protocols: Implementing cryptographic solutions
  • Performance Analysis: Measuring system efficiency and reliability

Future Research Directions

Short-term Goals

  • Complete simulation-based feasibility study
  • Develop prototype implementation
  • Publish initial findings

Long-term Vision

  • Industrial collaboration for real-world testing
  • Patent applications for novel algorithms
  • Contribution to GSMA standardization efforts

Academic Contributions

This research is expected to contribute to the academic community through:

  • Conference Publications: Presenting findings at telecommunications conferences
  • Journal Articles: Submitting to peer-reviewed journals in mobile computing
  • Open Source: Releasing simulation tools and algorithms to the research community