Audio Proximity Data Sharing for Mobile Interoperability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile device to mobile device data transfer methods are limited by device type, operating system, and hardware platform compatibility, and lack effective security mechanisms, making them vulnerable to eavesdropping.
Innovation Solution
Audio proximity-based data sharing method using speakers and microphones to establish a secure connection between mobile devices, allowing data transfer through a wireless network, with encryption and public key infrastructure for security, enabling interoperability across disparate devices and platforms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing mobile device to mobile device data transfer methods are used, then data sharing is enabled, but interoperability across disparate devices and platforms is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an audio-based intermediary communication layer that mediates between disparate mobile devices. Instead of requiring direct hardware compatibility between devices, the audio channel serves as a universal mediator that carries discovery and connection information, enabling interoperability across different device types and operating systems through a common acoustic interface
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes traditional mechanical contact-based or radio-frequency based direct connection mechanisms with an acoustic field-based communication mechanism. By using audio signals to carry data and establish connections, the system replaces complex hardware-dependent mechanisms with a more universal acoustic interface that can be implemented across diverse devices
2Reliability
If existing mobile device to mobile device data transfer methods are used, then data sharing is enabled, but security mechanisms are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the security verification function from the data transfer process itself and places it in the audio-based discovery and connection establishment phase. By using audio communication to first verify device identity and establish trusted connections before any data transfer occurs, the system separates security verification from data transmission, making it harder for eavesdroppers to intercept both the connection establishment and data
3Ease of operation
If NFC hardware is used for device connection, then direct sensing capability is achieved, but device hardware requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, complex NFC hardware with inexpensive audio components (speakers and microphones) that are already present in most mobile devices. The audio-based system uses readily available acoustic fields instead of specialized near-field communication hardware, significantly reducing the hardware barrier to entry while maintaining operational capability for device discovery and connection
Data Source
AI summary
At least two mobile devices introduce one another and select data for transfer to and receipt by at least one receiving mobile device using audio communications. Each of the devices uses its speaker(s) and its microphone to introduce and select the data. Once secure audio communications are confirmed between the devices, the selected data is acquired by the at least one receiving mobile device using audio communications or a different out-of-band communication wired or wireless network.