Synchronization Server for Multi-Terminal Message Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing SMS messaging system is not compatible with multi-terminal systems where multiple terminals share the same identifier, leading to inefficient message distribution and resource consumption in the signaling plane.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a routing gateway and synchronization server to transmit messages intended for a recipient terminal to associated terminals sharing the same identifier, using synchronization messages and signaling protocols like IMAP, JMAP, OMA DS, or OMA NMS for data transport, and SIP, MAP, or NAS for signaling, allowing message retrieval by associated terminals from a synchronization server.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the conventional SMS messaging system is used for multi-terminal systems, then each terminal behaves independently without coordination, but this leads to incompatible message distribution and inability to share messages across terminals with common identifiers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a synchronization server as an intermediary component between the SMS messaging system and multi-terminal devices. This server receives messages from the conventional SMS system and distributes them to all terminals sharing a common identifier, enabling compatibility without modifying the core SMS infrastructure. The intermediary handles the coordination logic that was missing in the independent terminal approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the message distribution function into two independent parts: the conventional SMS messaging path for single-terminal communication, and a new synchronization path for multi-terminal distribution. This segmentation allows the existing SMS system to continue operating independently while adding multi-terminal capability through a separate mechanism that queries the synchronization server.
2Ease of operation
If distinct MSISDN identifiers are used for each recipient terminal to enable message distribution, then message routing becomes possible, but this conflicts with the multi-terminal system requirement of sharing a common identifier
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a new dimension to the identifier system by introducing a second layer of identification. Terminals continue to share the common MSISDN identifier in the traditional dimension, while the synchronization server operates in a new dimension by maintaining an internal mapping between the common identifier and individual terminal identifiers. This allows message routing based on the common identifier without requiring distinct MSISDNs for each terminal.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual copy of the message distribution mechanism. Instead of modifying the original SMS routing to handle multiple terminals with one identifier, the patent creates a parallel distribution path that copies messages from the SMS system and redistributes them through the synchronization server to all associated terminals, preserving the original identifier structure.
3Productivity
If a database is added to redirect messages to multiple terminals, then message distribution is enabled, but this increases system complexity and is incompatible with single common identifier systems
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization server is designed as a universal component that handles multiple functions: it acts as a message distribution server for multi-terminal systems, a query interface for terminals to check for new messages, and a coordination point that maintains compatibility with the conventional SMS system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
Terminals in the multi-terminal system perform self-service by periodically querying the synchronization server to check for new messages intended for their common identifier. This eliminates the need for continuous push notifications or complex real-time distribution mechanisms, allowing terminals to independently retrieve their messages without increasing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, a gateway, a synchronization server, a corresponding terminal and a system for transmitting a message intended for a first terminal, referred to as a destination terminal, from a second terminal, referred to as a source terminal, to at least one third terminal, referred to as an associated terminal, sharing a same identifier with the destination terminal. The method includes, following reception of the message by a gateway, transmitting from the gateway to a synchronization server the message by using a first signaling protocol and recovering by the at least one associated terminal the message intended for the destination terminal from the synchronization server by using a first synchronization message.