Smartphone Data Sharing via Automatic Device Discovery

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current data sharing methods on electronic devices, such as smartphones, are complex and inefficient, requiring users to perform multiple operations to print, project, or share data, which reduces device usability.

Innovation Solution

A data sharing method that displays a graphical user interface allowing users to intuitively select objects for sharing, detecting operations to trigger processing options like printing, projection, or screen mirroring, and enabling communication services to discover and connect with nearby or cloud devices for seamless data processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the user follows the existing data sharing process (entering settings, searching for printers, installing applications), then the device can print or share data, but the operation process becomes complex and time-consuming

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

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically discovering available printers and sharing devices in the vicinity before the user initiates a data sharing request. The device pre-configures communication channels and prepares sharing options, so when the user selects an object to share, the process is already streamlined and ready for immediate execution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The electronic device automatically manages the data sharing process by self-discovering available devices, self-configuring connection parameters, and self-initiating communication protocols. The system eliminates the need for manual intervention in settings configuration and device search, allowing the user to simply select the desired sharing target from pre-presented options.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If the system provides multiple sharing options and device discovery features, then the functionality and versatility improve, but the interface complexity and number of operations increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata sharing functionalityVSAvoiduser interface complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The data sharing interface is segmented into distinct functional zones: an object selection area where users choose what to share, a device display area showing discovered sharing targets with their capabilities, and an action area with contextual operation buttons. This segmentation allows multiple sharing options and device types to be presented without overwhelming the user, as each element has a dedicated spatial location and clear function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system adds a spatial dimension to device discovery by visually representing the physical locations of sharing devices on a map or schematic layout. Instead of presenting devices as a flat list, the interface displays devices in their spatial context, allowing users to understand device positions and select targets based on both functional requirements and physical proximity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS11861247B2Data sharing method, graphical user interface, electronic device, and system
Publication Date: 2024.01.02 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • US11861247B2 patent drawing
  • US11861247B2 patent drawing
  • US11861247B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This application relates to the field of mobile communications, and in particular, to a technical solution of sharing data with a nearby device by using a wireless communications technology. In a method for printing a photo, a mobile phone first selects a to-be-printed photo, then discovers a nearby device by using the foregoing related wireless communications technology, and displays the discovered device such as a printer or a projector on the mobile phone; and then a user performs a tap operation on the discovered printer, so that one-tap printing can be implemented. In this way, printing efficiency of an electronic device is improved, and user experience is also improved.