Location-Based Networking Session Area Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing location-based networking systems lack efficient methods to control and manage access to location-based group sessions, particularly in terms of time windows and group membership, which limits the flexibility and effectiveness of geofenced events.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that control session areas with predetermined time windows, allowing members of specific groups to join location-based group sessions via mobile equipment check-in, with features for notification, check-in procedures, and interaction capabilities within defined boundaries.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If location-based networking systems allow open access to group sessions, then user engagement and participation are improved, but access control and security management deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser engagementVSAvoidaccess control management
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-defining geofence boundaries, time windows, and group membership criteria before the networking session begins. Users must check in within the active time window while their mobile device is within the geofenced area, and the system verifies their membership in advance. This preliminary setup enables open participation during the event while maintaining controlled access through pre-established rules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If location-based networking systems implement strict access control, then security and authorization are improved, but ease of operation and user convenience deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess controlVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service by automatically verifying user credentials, checking device location against geofence boundaries, and validating time window compliance without requiring manual intervention. Users simply need to check in through their mobile device while within the designated area during the active time window, and the system handles all authorization checks autonomously, maintaining both security and convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If location-based group sessions are restricted to predetermined groups, then authorization and security are improved, but adaptability and flexibility of the system deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveauthorizationVSAvoidsystem flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies dynamics by allowing the geofence parameters (boundaries, time windows, participating groups) to be dynamically configured and adjusted before each networking session. Different groups can be assigned to different geofenced areas with specific time windows, and the system adapts to various event scenarios by modifying these parameters without changing the core authorization mechanism. This enables flexible event planning while maintaining group-based access control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9264874B2Method and apparatus for location based networking sessions
Publication Date: 2016.02.16 EVENTI LLC
  • US9264874B2 patent drawing
  • US9264874B2 patent drawing
  • US9264874B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In accordance with one example embodiment of the present invention a method comprises at least partially controlling the functionalities of a session area wherein said session area can be either in an active status or in a passive status according to at least one predetermined time window, said session area defining the boundaries for a location based group session event for members of one or more predetermined groups belonging to one or more social networks.