Audio-Assisted File Sharing Using Server-Managed Session Keys

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for efficient file sharing between devices in close proximity with minimal user involvement, particularly in environments where direct communication links like speakers or cameras may not be available.

Innovation Solution

A file transfer system utilizing a server that generates session keys and uses audio or visual cues, such as 2D barcodes, to facilitate file transfer between devices without requiring direct communication means like speakers or cameras.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If audio or visual cues are used for file transfer, then user involvement is minimized, but device complexity increases due to server infrastructure requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser involvementVSAvoidserver infrastructure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a server as an intermediary between sender and receiver devices. The server hosts session keys and facilitates file transfer by mediating communication between devices that may not have direct communication capabilities. This resolves the contradiction by shifting complexity from individual devices to a centralized server, simplifying client-side operation while maintaining transfer capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If session keys are used for secure transfer, then transfer security is improved, but communication protocol complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetransfer securityVSAvoidcommunication protocol

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-generating and hosting session keys on the server before actual file transfer occurs. Devices retrieve these pre-prepared keys during transfer, eliminating the need for complex real-time key generation and exchange protocols. This approach maintains security while simplifying the communication protocol by separating key management from transfer execution.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If direct communication links like speakers or cameras are avoided, then device compatibility is improved, but communication reliability may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidcommunication reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical direct communication methods (speakers, cameras, NFC) with a network-based communication system. Devices communicate through standardized network protocols via the server, substituting physical/mechanical interaction with electronic data transmission. This improves compatibility across different device types while maintaining reliability through established network communication infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12573273B2Audio assisted file sharing

Publication Date: 2026.03.10 SOLTAN MEHDI FREDERIK

AI summary

In a method of file transfer a first request for generating a session is transmitted and a session identification (session-ID) of the generated session and a first public key associated with the session-ID is received. In response to receiving the first public key, one or more files are uploaded. In response to uploading the one or more files, a second public key is received. In response to receiving the second public key, a notification message is generated that the one or more files are uploaded. The notification message includes the second public key and the session-ID.