Anonymous Communication via Search Query Matching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing communication systems fail to enable anonymous connections between networked users based on common search queries without registration, specific software installation, or interoperability issues, limiting serendipitous interactions on fleeting interests.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method and system using HTTP communication, JavaScript, and Java Applets that allow users to connect anonymously by matching search queries, eliminating the need for user registration and software installation, and ensuring firewall compatibility through client-initiated communication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If users register and join groups or communities to communicate, then communication capability is improved, but user anonymity and system complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication capabilityVSAvoidregistration and group management
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the communication matching function from traditional group-based systems. Instead of requiring users to join groups or communities, the system directly matches users based on their search queries. This removes the intermediate layer of group membership while preserving the core communication capability, thereby simplifying the system structure and maintaining user anonymity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a server as an intermediary that facilitates communication matching without requiring user registration. The server receives search queries, matches users with similar queries, and enables direct communication between them. This intermediary approach eliminates the need for complex group management systems while maintaining effective communication capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Speed

If instant messaging applications are used for communication, then communication speed is improved, but interoperability and ease of operation deteriorate due to proprietary protocols

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication speedVSAvoidinteroperability
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal communication platform that works across different users and search engines without requiring proprietary instant messaging applications. The system uses standard web technologies (HTML, JavaScript, Java Applets) that are universally supported by web browsers, enabling interoperability while maintaining fast communication through direct user matching based on search queries.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If standalone applications are required for communication, then communication functionality is improved, but ease of operation and accessibility worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication functionalityVSAvoidsoftware installation requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables the communication system to leverage existing web browser capabilities and Java runtime environments that are already present on most user devices. The Java Applet technology allows the communication functionality to be delivered through the web browser without requiring separate standalone applications or additional software installation, making the system self-sufficient and easily accessible.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8996562B2Computer-implemented method and system for enabling anonymous communication between networked users based on common search queries
Publication Date: 2015.03.31 WARREN PETER
  • US8996562B2 patent drawing
  • US8996562B2 patent drawing
  • US8996562B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer-implemented method and system for enabling anonymous communications between networked users based on common search queries is disclosed. The present invention relates to a computer-implemented system and method for receiving a first search query from a first user, receiving a second search query from a second user, at least the first user or the second user being unidentified, determining if the first search query and the second search query fit within a match criteria, and establishing a communication link between the first user and the second user if the first search query and the second search query fit within the match criteria.