Context-Aware Call Forwarding via a Second Communication Terminal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing call forwarding services require manual and complex configuration on the first communication terminal, leading to input errors and a tedious user experience, lacking flexibility and ease of use.

Innovation Solution

A method for managing call routing is implemented by a second communication terminal, using contextual information to activate or modify call forwarding without manual input, allowing flexible and adaptable configuration from a distance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual configuration is performed on the first communication terminal, then call forwarding can be set up, but the operation becomes tedious and error-prone due to complex code input

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of call forwarding configurationVSAvoidcomplexity of configuration procedure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a second communication terminal as an intermediary device that simplifies the configuration process. Instead of directly configuring the first terminal with complex codes, the user configures call forwarding rules on the second terminal, which then automatically manages the routing. This intermediary approach transforms a complex manual configuration into a simple rule-based system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements self-service by automatically managing call routing based on contextual information. Once the user defines the forwarding rule on the second terminal, the system autonomously monitors contextual conditions (such as terminal availability, network status) and automatically activates or deactivates call forwarding without requiring further user intervention or complex code input.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual configuration is required on the first terminal, then call forwarding can be activated, but user experience deteriorates due to need for physical proximity and repeated manual setup

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in call forwarding managementVSAvoiduser interaction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The second communication terminal serves as a remote control intermediary, allowing users to configure and manage call forwarding for the first terminal from any location. The user interacts with the second terminal (which they possess and can access remotely) rather than needing to be physically present at the first terminal, enabling flexible management without repeated manual setup.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the second terminal continuously monitors contextual information about the first terminal's status and automatically adjusts call routing accordingly. This feedback loop eliminates the need for repeated manual configuration, as the system adapts automatically based on real-time conditions such as terminal availability and network status.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Extent of automation

If call forwarding is managed through traditional services, then routing can be changed, but the process lacks flexibility and requires repeated manual intervention

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation of call routing managementVSAvoidflexibility of call forwarding service
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system achieves high automation by implementing self-service functionality where the second terminal automatically monitors contextual conditions and manages call routing without user intervention. The system autonomously activates, deactivates, or modifies call forwarding based on predefined rules and real-time contextual information, eliminating the need for repeated manual intervention while maintaining flexibility through user-defined routing rules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The call forwarding system becomes dynamic by automatically adapting to changing conditions. The second terminal continuously evaluates contextual information (such as terminal availability, network status, user preferences) and dynamically adjusts the call routing configuration in real-time, providing both automation and flexibility without requiring manual reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12587600B2Method for managing the routing of a call intended for a first communication terminal, method for routing said call and corresponding devices
Publication Date: 2026.03.24 ORANGE SA
  • US12587600B2 patent drawing
  • US12587600B2 patent drawing
  • US12587600B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and apparatus for call forwarding. Some communication services make it possible to transfer a telephone call intended for a communication terminal to another communication terminal. Such services are referred to as call forwarding services. The user seeking to avail of call forwarding must manually configure the forwarding of calls intended for their landline to the communication terminal of their choice. The configuration operations are performed directly on the landline and are tedious. There is thus a significant risk of input error. Furthermore, when the user seeks to end call forwarding, they must once again manually configure their landline. According to the method, call forwarding is activated according to fulfilment of activation conditions. Contextual information collection by the user's communication terminal is used to determine fulfilment of the activation conditions. Thus, such a solution offers flexibility, adaptability and ease of use for the user.