Smartphone Intercom Directory Access for Multi-Dwelling Call Initiation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing intercom systems lack efficient and user-friendly methods for initiating calls to recipients within premises, particularly in multi-dwelling environments, often requiring outdated paper directories and lacking integration with wireless communication technologies.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that wirelessly transmits intercom directory data to a smartphone, enabling a dynamic interface for call initiation, establishes calls over a hard-wired intercom system, and uses premises-attached terminals with integrated microphones for communication, allowing seamless voice and potentially video interactions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional paper directories and manual call initiation methods are used in intercom systems, then the system structure remains simple, but the ease of operation and user-friendliness deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecall initiation processVSAvoidsystem structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical paper directory system with a wireless electronic directory system. The server wirelessly transmits directory data to smartphones, and the system automatically processes call initiation requests, eliminating the need for manual paper-based operations and significantly improving ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a server as an intermediary component that mediates between the user's smartphone and the intercom system. The server receives call requests from smartphones, processes them, and establishes connections with the intercom system, simplifying the overall operation while managing system complexity centrally

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If wireless communication technology is integrated into intercom systems, then the ease of operation and communication capabilities improve, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication capabilitiesVSAvoidsystem integration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal server platform that handles multiple communication protocols and functions. The server can process voice calls, video calls, and data transmission through a single integrated system, allowing the intercom system to adapt to various communication needs without requiring separate specialized components for each function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The server acts as an intermediary that manages the complexity of wireless communication integration. It handles all wireless communications from smartphones, processes the data appropriately, and interfaces with the traditional intercom system, thereby improving adaptability while containing complexity within the server component

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12477086B2Voice intercom system and method therefor

Publication Date: 2025.11.18 MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS INC

AI summary

A voice intercom system and method therefor are disclosed. The method includes wirelessly transmitting intercom directory data to a smartphone. The intercom directory data facilitates generation, on the smartphone, of an intercom access directory interface having a plurality of call initiation selection options, each with respect to which a call to a respective call recipient can be attempted.