Audio Shortcode Transfer for Asynchronous Mobile Data Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data communication methods for mobile devices are cumbersome, require specific hardware, are not user-friendly, and lack asynchronous capabilities, particularly in environments where devices are offline or have limited connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A system for transmitting and receiving data using audibly unique audio signals, encoded with globally unique shortcodes, allowing for peer-to-peer communication between co-located devices and asynchronous data transfer via mobile telecommunications networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If QR codes are used for data embedding, then data capacity is improved, but visibility size and recognition difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual optical recognition systems (QR codes, bar codes) with acoustic recognition systems (audio signals). The mechanical/optical system of cameras and visual processing is substituted with acoustic transducers (microphones, speakers) and audio processing, enabling data transfer through sound waves instead of light reflection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of data encoding from spatial/visual domain (2D patterns requiring visual acuity and camera focus) to temporal/acoustic domain (time-varying sound signals). This parameter transformation allows data to be perceived through a different sensory modality, eliminating the need for close visual inspection and camera alignment.
2Ease of operation
If RFID tags are used for passive code reading, then user behavior tolerance is improved, but hardware availability and creation simplicity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the acoustic data transfer system universally applicable across all mobile devices by using standard audio output (speaker) and input (microphone) components that are universally present in smartphones and other mobile devices. This multi-functional approach allows any device with audio capabilities to both send and receive data, eliminating the need for specialized RFID hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables devices to serve themselves as both transmitters and receivers of data through their own audio components. A device can generate audio signals through its speaker and capture them through its microphone, or receive audio from another device's speaker, creating a self-sufficient data transfer system without requiring external specialized hardware.
3Productivity
If traditional data transfer services are used, then data transfer capability is improved, but asynchronous operation and offline functionality worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by allowing devices to store audio data locally and transfer it at a later time when the receiving device is available. Data can be prepared and held in the device's memory or audio output buffer, ready for transmission whenever the target device comes within range or becomes available, enabling asynchronous operation without requiring both devices to be online simultaneously.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, user-friendly data communication without requiring additional hardware, supports offline data transfer, and allows for secure, audibly confirmed transactions.
Implementation Method 1
a transmitter configured to transmit the signal for audible reproduction
Implementation Method 2
a receiver configured to receive an audio signal detected by a microphone
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to systems for communicating data. In particular, systems for communicating data to and from mobile devices are described. One system involves the use of a server to store the association between a shortcode and the data. A user device can be used to transmit the shortcode to a second user device. The second user device can then access the association at the server to access the data. The shortcode is transmitted via an audibly unique signal between the two devices. Further devices, systems, and methods for redeeming vouchers, transferring money, unlocking content on a device, and authenticating transactions all using audio are also disclosed. A method for managing data communication on a mobile device is further disclosed. In addition, a system for asynchronous transmission of the data is disclosed by use of reserving a shortcode at a server before the shortcode is associated with data.