Meta-Search Web Service for P2P Device Discovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing peer-to-peer (P2P) networks are primarily used for file sharing and face legal issues related to protected works, limiting their application in gaming and business collaborations, and lack efficient methods for discovering and establishing collaboration sessions between end-user devices.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for discovering potential collaborators on a P2P network using a seeker device that registers, performs identity provisioning, searches for potential collaborators based on user-defined criteria, and initiates collaboration sessions through Web services and P2P networking software, allowing for applications like VoIP and gaming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If P2P networks are used for file sharing, then direct peer-to-peer communication is enabled, but legal issues arise related to protected works
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends P2P network functionality beyond file sharing to include collaboration applications such as VoIP, online gaming, and business collaborations. The system enables multiple application types to run over the same P2P infrastructure, making the network universally applicable while avoiding illegal uses through controlled application selection
2Productivity
If traditional P2P networks are used, then direct peer discovery is possible, but efficient collaboration session establishment is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a meta-search web service as an intermediary layer that facilitates peer discovery and collaboration session establishment. This mediator translates traditional P2P discovery into web service interactions, enabling efficient session setup without requiring complex direct peer-to-peer discovery mechanisms while maintaining the underlying P2P architecture
3Ease of operation
If P2P networks lack discovery mechanisms, then network simplicity is maintained, but collaboration session establishment becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical P2P discovery mechanisms with web service-based discovery. By substituting the direct peer-to-peer discovery process with standardized web service interactions, the system improves ease of operation while managing complexity through established web service protocols and meta-search architectures
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect of the present invention, a system for discovering potential devices on a peer-to peer (P2P) network is provided. The system includes a seeker device and a plurality of potential devices operatively connected to the P2P network. Each of the plurality of potential devices is associated with one or more identity files. Each of the identity files comprising a plurality of searchable elements. One or more of the plurality of potential end-user devices post their one or more identity files on the P2P network. The seeker device searches the P2P network to discover one or more of the plurality of potential devices based on the one or more identity files of the plurality of the potential devices. The seeker device initiates a collaboration session with the one or more potential devices. The collaboration session may be independent of the P2P network.