Text Message Routing via Preference-Based Multi-Endpoint Forwarding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication networks limit text messages to being received only on a mobile phone, failing to provide flexibility for users to receive messages on multiple endpoint devices based on their preferences, such as time, sender identity, or priority levels.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allow users to specify preferences for forwarding text messages to various endpoint devices like cell phones, IP phones, and set-top boxes, enabling simultaneous or sequential delivery based on user-defined criteria, including time of day, sender identity, and priority levels, with sender input options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If text messages are limited to mobile phones only, then the system is simple and reliable, but the adaptability and user convenience are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The text messaging system is extended to support multiple endpoint devices beyond mobile phones, including fixed phones, set-top boxes, and personal computers. The system universally handles message routing to different device types based on user preferences, making the messaging service multi-functional and adaptable to various communication scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically routes text messages to different endpoint devices based on real-time user preferences, time of day, sender identity, and message priority. The message delivery destination is not fixed but dynamically determined by evaluating multiple criteria, allowing the system to adapt flexibly to changing user needs and contexts.
2Ease of operation
If multiple endpoint devices are supported with user preferences, then the adaptability and user convenience are improved, but the device complexity and system configuration are increased
Solution Approach 1:
Users self-configure their preferred endpoint devices and message routing preferences through the system interface. The system automatically processes these preferences and applies them to message routing without requiring manual intervention for each message, making the system easy to operate while managing the complexity through automated preference handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a preference management intermediary layer that sits between the message sender and multiple endpoint devices. This intermediary processes user preferences, evaluates message routing criteria, and automatically determines the appropriate destination device, simplifying the user experience while managing system complexity through centralized control logic.
3Extent of automation
If sender input is allowed for message forwarding, then the sender has more control, but the system complexity and processing requirements are increased
Solution Approach 1:
User preferences for message routing are pre-configured and stored in the system before messages are sent. When a message arrives, the system automatically matches it against pre-defined preferences and routing rules, enabling automated decision-making without complex real-time processing. The preliminary configuration of preferences simplifies the automated routing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where senders can provide input about message priority or intended recipient context, and the system automatically adjusts routing based on this feedback combined with user preferences. This feedback loop enables sophisticated automated routing decisions while maintaining system manageability through structured feedback processing.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for providing a text messaging service are disclosed. For example, the method receives a text message destined to a customer, and determines a preference of the customer for forwarding the text message, wherein the preference comprises a plurality of customer endpoint devices for receiving the text message. The method forwards the text message in accordance with a sender input, if the preference of the customer allows for processing of the text message in accordance with the sender input, and forwards the text message in accordance with the preference of the customer; if the preference of the customer does not allow sender input.