Automated File Transfer Path Selection for Mobile Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transferring files from a personal computer to a mobile communications device are tedious and require over-the-air traffic, lacking efficient access solutions.
Innovation Solution
An automated method and system that allow users to select and transfer files from a personal computer to a mobile communications device using various communication paths, including direct connections, wireless local area networks, short-range wireless communications, and wireless wide area networks, with automatic path selection based on availability and file characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If files are transferred using e-mail or Internet-accessible storage, then file transfer can be accomplished, but the process is tedious and requires over-the-air traffic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a file transfer system that acts as an intermediary between the personal computer and mobile communications device, providing multiple communication paths including direct connections through communication cables. This intermediary system automatically selects optimal transfer paths and manages the file transfer process, eliminating the need for users to manually choose between email, cloud storage, or direct connection methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects communication paths based on available connections and file characteristics. It can switch between different transfer modes (direct cable connection, wireless local area network, wireless wide area network) depending on what is currently available and most efficient, making the transfer process adaptive rather than static.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple communication paths are available for file transfer, then transfer flexibility increases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The file transfer system performs self-service by automatically detecting available communication paths and selecting the most appropriate one without requiring user intervention. The system autonomously manages the complexity of multiple communication options by implementing automatic path selection algorithms that evaluate connection availability, transfer speed, and file characteristics to determine the optimal transfer method.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the file transfer function into distinct communication path options (direct cable connection, wireless local area network, wireless wide area network), each with its own optimized handling. This segmentation allows the complex problem of multi-path selection to be broken down into manageable, independent transfer channels that can be evaluated and selected based on specific criteria.
3Speed
If direct connection is used for file transfer, then transfer speed increases, but user mobility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides universal file transfer capability by supporting multiple communication methods through a single integrated interface. Users can access the same file transfer functionality whether they prefer direct cable connections for speed or wireless options for mobility, as the system presents a unified interface that adapts to different connection types and user needs.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is described for transmitting files to a mobile communications device from an associated personal computer over one of a plurality of potential communication paths between the mobile communications device and the computer. The method includes receiving at the computer a user request that a selected file stored on the computer be transmitted to the mobile communications device; selecting a communications path from among the plurality of potential communication paths; and causing a copy of the selected file to be transmitted to the mobile communications device over the selected communication path.