Calendar-Based Call Forwarding Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in maintaining and updating multiple sets of call forwarding rules across different phones, leading to obsolete configurations and missed calls due to frequent location changes and forgetfulness.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows users to configure call forwarding patterns through an electronic calendar, integrating with a data network to automatically update voice network settings based on specified time periods, ensuring calls are forwarded to the appropriate destination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users manually configure multiple sets of call forwarding rules for each phone, then call forwarding functionality is provided, but the complexity of maintenance increases and errors occur due to frequent location changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple call forwarding configurations into a single unified rule set stored in a database. Instead of maintaining separate configuration sets for each phone, the system merges them into one centralized configuration that automatically adapts to different devices, reducing maintenance complexity while preserving adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates universal call forwarding rules that work across multiple different phones and devices. A single configuration rule can be applied universally to various devices, eliminating the need for device-specific manual configurations and reducing overall system complexity
2Reliability
If users frequently update call forwarding rules to match location changes, then call routing accuracy improves, but the time and effort required for maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring call forwarding rules in a database with associated device identifiers. When a phone needs to be configured, the system automatically retrieves and applies the appropriate pre-prepared rules, eliminating the need for real-time manual updates and reducing maintenance time while maintaining reliable call routing
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically selecting and applying the correct call forwarding configuration based on the phone's identifier. The configuration process serves itself by automatically matching devices with their appropriate rules without requiring user intervention, thus maintaining reliability while minimizing maintenance time
3Manufacturing precision
If users manually track and update call forwarding configurations, then configuration accuracy is maintained, but the system becomes prone to human error and obsolete rules
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the database stores and tracks call forwarding configurations associated with specific device identifiers. When a phone is configured, the system automatically retrieves the appropriate configuration based on the device ID, providing feedback assurance that the correct rules are applied. This automated feedback loop maintains configuration precision while eliminating manual tracking operations
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for forwarding communications, such as telephone calls over a voice network, are provided. A user accesses a data network to specify one or more rules for forwarding telephone calls. For example, the user may use an electronic calendar to specify patterns for forwarding their telephone calls. These patterns may include one or more rules for determining a forwarding pattern, and one or more time periods specifying when the pattern is effective. The rules are provided to a service center which provides configuration information to the voice network. The voice network then forwards calls based on the configuration information for the time periods specified by the user.