Automated Blind Date Matching System for Online Dating Platforms

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current online dating systems lack efficient mechanisms for users to initiate and manage blind dates, often relying on manual matching processes that can be time-consuming and may not effectively match users based on their preferences.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that includes a Blind Date Request (BDR) feature, allowing users to submit date requests with selected calendar dates and locations, and an instant date feature that filters and presents potential matches based on user-defined criteria, enabling users to send invitations and manage responses within the system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual matching processes are used in online dating systems, then users can control the matching process, but the process becomes time-consuming and less efficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematching efficiencyVSAvoidmatching process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically performs matching operations without requiring manual intervention from users. The blind date request system autonomously matches users based on their profiles and preferences, eliminating the need for manual matching while maintaining user control over the process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical matching processes with automated computer-based algorithms. The system uses digital processing to match users based on their profiles, replacing what would otherwise be manual review and selection processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If automated matching is implemented, then matching efficiency improves, but users lose control over the matching process

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematching efficiencyVSAvoiduser control over matching
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides feedback to users about the matching process by displaying matched users' profiles and allowing users to review and select from automated matches. This feedback mechanism maintains user control while preserving the efficiency benefits of automated matching.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The matching system dynamically adjusts based on user interactions and preferences. Users can modify their preferences and the system adapts the matching algorithm accordingly, ensuring that automated matching remains aligned with user intentions and control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Measurement precision

If users are rejected from blind dates, then matching accuracy is maintained, but user experience deteriorates due to lack of additional opportunities

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematching accuracyVSAvoiduser experience degradation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system prepares multiple match options in advance and provides them to users who receive rejections. By having additional potential matches ready, the system cushions against the harmful effect of rejection and maintains positive user experience while preserving matching accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows users to discard rejected matches and recover by presenting new potential matches. Users can move on from unsuccessful matches without negative consequences, and the system continuously provides new opportunities based on updated user preferences and availability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

Data Source

PatentUS9495391B1System and method for initiating social interactions between users in a network environment
Publication Date: 2016.11.15 MATCH GROUP AMERICAS LLC
  • US9495391B1 patent drawing
  • US9495391B1 patent drawing
  • US9495391B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method is provided in one example embodiment and includes receiving a request from a first user to browse a pool of date requests, where each of the date requests is associated with a potential match in a computer-implemented matching system and includes at least one of a calendar date and a location. The method further includes presenting to the first user information regarding the potential match associated with one of the date requests, and sending a date invitation to the potential match associated with the particular one of the date requests.