Gesture-Based File Sharing Across Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing file sharing methods on portable devices are limited by the need for devices to be on the same network, running the same software, and having a short range, making it cumbersome to transfer files across different networks and platforms, especially on small form factor devices with limited user interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A system that enables file sharing by determining a catching device through inertial sensor events, allowing direct transfer if devices are proximate or via a server for longer-distance transfers, and supports any file type across different networks and software platforms using a web service and gesture-based interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If devices must be on the same network and run the same software for file sharing, then file transfer reliability is improved, but adaptability across different networks and platforms deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal file sharing system that works across different networks (WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular) and platforms (iOS, Android, Windows) by using a standardized protocol and server architecture. The system can function in multiple modes: direct peer-to-peer transfer when devices are proximate, server-mediated transfer when devices are remote, and automatic selection between these modes, making it adaptable to various networking scenarios while maintaining reliable file transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary component that mediates file transfers between devices on different networks or platforms. When direct device-to-device transfer is not possible (different networks or no proximity), the server acts as a middleman to receive files from one device and deliver them to the destination device, enabling cross-network and cross-platform file sharing while maintaining transfer reliability.
2Speed
If devices must be in proximity for direct file transfer, then transfer speed is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to manual network setup requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic file transfer mode selection that automatically adapts to the current situation. The system dynamically switches between direct peer-to-peer transfer mode (when devices are proximate for high speed) and server-mediated transfer mode (when devices are remote for ease of operation). This dynamic adaptation eliminates the need for manual network setup while maintaining optimal transfer speed based on device proximity and network conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the system to automatically determine the appropriate transfer mode and execute the file transfer without requiring manual network configuration from the user. The system self-services by detecting device proximity, selecting the optimal transfer path (direct or via server), and initiating the transfer automatically, thereby simplifying operation while maintaining high transfer speeds when conditions permit.
3Ease of operation
If a centralized server is used to maintain a directory of shared files, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a hybrid architecture that uses server-mediated file transfer only when necessary (when devices are on different networks or not in proximity), rather than requiring a full centralized server system for all transfers. This partial use of server infrastructure provides the ease of operation benefits for cross-network transfers while avoiding the complexity of a complete centralized system for local transfers, achieving a balance between operational simplicity and system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for transferring an object from a sending device to a recipient comprises determining at least one catching device associated with the recipient for receiving the object; receiving on the sending device a user gesture representing a flick of a displayed object; transferring the object from the sending device directly to the catching device of the recipient when the catching device is in proximity of the sending device; and when the catching device is not in proximity of the sending device, transferring the object to a server for forwarding the object to the recipient.