Fax Connector Routing for Fast, Secure Network Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing faxing methods are slow, expensive, and limited to black and white documents, with transmission over PSTN being costly and inefficient, while electronic methods lack security and compatibility with existing workflows.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for sending and receiving faxes using a fax connector and registration system over computer-based networks, with PSTN as a backup, ensuring ease of use, security, and cost-effectiveness, and compatibility with existing faxing workflows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fax transmission is performed over PSTN, then security and traceability are improved, but transmission speed and cost are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a fax server as an intermediary component that bridges PSTN and computer-based networks. The fax server receives faxes from the PSTN, converts them to electronic format, and routes them through the computer-based network to the destination. This intermediary approach allows the system to maintain the security and traceability of PSTN faxing while achieving the speed and efficiency of electronic network transmission.
2Reliability
If fax transmission is performed over PSTN, then security and traceability are improved, but transmission cost is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The fax server acts as a cost-reducing intermediary by routing transmissions through the computer-based network whenever possible. The system intelligently determines whether to use PSTN or electronic network based on destination capabilities, using PSTN only when necessary for security-critical or legacy destinations. This reduces overall transmission costs while maintaining security requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the transmission medium parameter from always using PSTN to selectively using either PSTN or computer-based networks. The system dynamically selects the transmission path based on destination capabilities, security requirements, and cost considerations. This parameter change enables cost reduction while maintaining necessary security through selective use of appropriate transmission channels.
3Speed
If electronic transmission methods are used, then transmission speed and cost are improved, but security and compatibility with existing workflows are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The fax server serves as a security-enhancing intermediary that processes electronic transmissions through the computer-based network while maintaining security standards. It provides authentication, encryption, and audit trail capabilities for electronic transmissions, thereby achieving both the speed of electronic networks and the security requirements of traditional faxing workflows.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fax machines are used, then compatibility with existing workflows is improved, but transmission speed and capability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal fax system that can operate in multiple modes: traditional PSTN faxing for legacy compatibility, electronic network faxing for speed, and a hybrid mode combining both. The fax server provides multi-functionality by supporting both PSTN and computer-based network protocols, allowing the system to adapt to different workflow requirements while achieving improved transmission speeds for compatible destinations.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiment of systems and methods for the sending, delivery or receiving of faxes are disclosed herein. In particular, certain embodiments include a fax connector that may be deployed at users' sites, and a fax registration system that may be deployed remotely from these users' sites. The fax connector can be accessed at a user's site over a computer-based network in order to perform functions associated with faxing, including sending, receiving and obtaining status on faxes. The fax connector deployed at a sending user's site communicates with the fax registration system to obtain destination data associated with a recipient user's fax connector and transmits the fax to the destination fax connector over the computer-based network based on the destination data obtained from the registration system. The fax can then be presented to the recipient at the recipient user's site.