Server-Mediated Mobile Device Discovery via Personal Attributes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for exchanging contact information between mobile devices are limited by hardware compatibility issues, security constraints, and the need for direct communication between similar devices, restricting the ability to discover and share personalized information across different brands and networks.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows mobile devices to discover each other by personal attributes, using a server to facilitate the exchange of contact information over the internet, bypassing Bluetooth limitations by utilizing cellular networks and networked storage, enabling bidirectional communication and sharing of personalized data such as photos and social profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Bluetooth technology is used for direct device-to-device communication, then security and privacy are maintained through passkey authentication, but hardware compatibility issues and brand limitations restrict communication between different mobile devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary component that mediates communication between mobile devices. Instead of direct peer-to-peer Bluetooth communication, devices communicate through the server which handles authentication, profile exchange, and data transfer. This intermediary approach maintains security through centralized authentication while enabling universal compatibility across different device brands and models.
2Adaptability or versatility
If direct ad hoc communication between similar branded devices is used, then compatibility is maintained, but the ability to exchange personalized information and discover users by attributes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a network dimension to the traditional direct device communication model. By introducing server-mediated communication over internet protocols, the system enables exchange of personalized information such as user profiles, photos, and social network data that cannot be transmitted through standard Bluetooth ad hoc modes. This dimensional expansion allows rich information exchange while maintaining broad device compatibility.
3Reliability
If Bluetooth security protocols requiring passkeys are implemented, then privacy is protected, but user interaction becomes cumbersome and limits spontaneous social discovery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary authentication by having users register with the server in advance, providing email addresses and authentication credentials before actual device discovery and interaction. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for real-time passkey exchange during spontaneous social encounters, as authentication is pre-established through the server, thereby maintaining privacy while significantly improving ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
User mobile devices are equipped to discover each other through an ad hoc network, based on their location and proximity or based on mobile network reporting to one another. Locations may be reported through global positioning methods and cross-referenced by other users. Following discovery and consent, the mobile devices are connected to one another via various means, other than the ad hoc network, and utilize functions provided by services such as SMS, E-mail, chat/instant messaging, multimedia, or video. The users may be members of a common social network, and can thereby exchange social network attributes.