Self-Labeling Line Buttons for Multi-Call Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication systems limit call information presentation on telephone appliances to a single incoming call, regardless of the number of active calls, and do not provide supplemental information beyond Caller Line Identification (CLID) to users.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that send additional call-related information to telephone appliances, displayed in an abbreviated format on line buttons, which can be expanded to full details upon user selection, using call control messages and a contact information server for enhanced call handling and user experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If call information is displayed only on the common display area, then the display system remains simple, but multiple incoming calls cannot be distinguished and managed effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the display function into two segments: the common display area for detailed call information and self-labeling line buttons for call identification. This segmentation allows multiple calls to be distinguished on line buttons while maintaining a simple overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension for call information presentation by using self-labeling line buttons alongside the traditional common display area. This creates a multi-dimensional display system where call information can be accessed at different levels (button labels for quick identification, common display for details).
2Loss of information
If only CLID information is provided, then the information system remains simple, but users lack supplemental call-related information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-fetching and storing supplemental call-related information (caller name, email, address, etc.) from the contact information server before the user needs it. This allows comprehensive information to be available without increasing system complexity during call handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a contact information server as an intermediary that stores and provides supplemental call-related information. This intermediary handles the complexity of information management externally, allowing the telephone appliance to provide comprehensive information without internal complexity increases.
3Area of stationary object
If abbreviated format is used on line buttons, then space is conserved, but full call details are not immediately visible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a hierarchical information access system where abbreviated call information is displayed on line buttons (2D space-efficient display) while full call details are available in the common display area (expanded view). This multi-dimensional presentation solves both the space constraint and information completeness requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication system, comprising at least one telephone appliance having multiple line appearances selectable via associated self-labeling line buttons, and a switch for receiving an incoming call intended for a particular one of the line appearances and in response generating a message containing predetermined information and an indication of an associated one of the line buttons, whereupon the predetermined information is displayed in abbreviated format on the associated self-labeling line button.