Proximity-Based Ad-Hoc Data Sharing Interface

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for sharing small amounts of data between devices, such as smartphones and laptops, are inefficient and require external communication networks or complex processes like emailing or file saving.

Innovation Solution

A system for proximity-based ad-hoc data sharing using a short-range wireless communication system with intuitive interfaces, allowing data transfer between devices with a single click through cut-to-device, copy-to-device, or paste-from-device interfaces without relying on external networks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If data is shared using traditional methods (email or file saving), then data can be transferred between devices, but the process requires multiple steps and external communication networks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata sharing processVSAvoidtime required for data transfer
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the data sharing process into proximity detection, intuitive interface activation, and direct transfer phases. The clipboard monitoring component separately tracks copy/cut operations and automatically triggers transfer when another device is detected nearby, eliminating the need for users to navigate through email or file saving workflows.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by continuously monitoring the clipboard for copied or cut data in the background before user initiation. When another device is detected in proximity, the system pre-preves the transfer interface and automatically initiates the transfer process, eliminating the time users would otherwise spend manually selecting transfer methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If data is shared via email or file saving, then data transfer can be accomplished, but the process complexity increases with multiple steps

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer efficiencyVSAvoidnumber of steps in transfer process
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges proximity detection, clipboard monitoring, and data transfer initiation into a single integrated process. When another device is detected nearby, the intuitive interface automatically appears with transfer options already prepared, combining what would traditionally require separate actions (detecting available devices, selecting transfer method, initiating transfer) into one automatic workflow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides self-service by automatically detecting when data is copied or cut, identifying nearby devices, and initiating the transfer process without user intervention. The clipboard monitoring component continuously checks for copied data and automatically triggers the intuitive interface when conditions are met, eliminating the need for users to manually navigate through complex transfer procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional data sharing methods are used, then data can be transferred, but reliance on external communication networks is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata sharing capabilityVSAvoidindependence from external networks
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system introduces a local intermediary component that monitors the clipboard and manages device-to-device communication directly. This intermediary operates independently of external networks by detecting copied data locally, identifying nearby devices through wireless signals, and facilitating direct transfer between devices without routing through email servers or cloud storage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables convenient and efficient data transfer of small data items like URLs, contact information, and browser bookmarks between devices, reducing the number of steps required for users and eliminating the need for external networks.

Implementation Method 1

The first device may be configured to send a signal to the second device to determine whether the second device includes a system for proximity based ad-hoc data sharing across the first and second devices and to determine whether the first device is in range of communication of the second device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWireless communication signal transmission: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

A system for proximity based ad-hoc data sharing across devices with intuitive interfaces via a short range wireless communication system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShort-range wireless communication: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8824964B2System for proximity based ad-hoc data sharing across devices with intuitive interfaces
Publication Date: 2014.09.02 AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I L P
  • US8824964B2 patent drawing
  • US8824964B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for transferring data between devices with user via a short range wireless communication system is disclosed. The system may include a first device configured to activate an intuitive interface on the first device having a system for proximity based ad-hoc data sharing between the first device with an intuitive interface and at least a second device with an intuitive interface. Once, the first device is determined to be within range of a second device with proximity based ad-hoc data sharing, data may be received by the intuitive interface on the first device and data may be sent from the intuitive interface on the first device to an intuitive interface on the second device using an intuitive interface on the first device without relying on an external communication network. The data may be transferred with a single click to the receiving device in a paste-to format.