Web-Based Unified Communication Platform for Remote Device Control

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing browser-based solutions for controlling communication devices, such as desktop phones, are limited to basic audio input/output controls and do not allow users to perform advanced functions like call management or control communication devices remotely.

Innovation Solution

A web-based unified communication platform that integrates with multiple communication devices, enabling users to perform a wide range of functions, including call forwarding, hold, conferencing, and voice message recording, through a graphical user interface in a web browser, using bi-directional data binding and real-time call state data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If browser-based control is used for communication devices, then remote control capability is improved, but control functionality is limited to basic audio input/output only

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremote control capabilityVSAvoidcontrol functionality

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The audio input/output device is enhanced to provide both audio processing functions and communication device control functions. The device includes a processor that can identify communication devices and establish communication sessions, allowing a single device to perform multiple functions beyond basic audio input/output.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The audio input/output device serves as an intermediary between the user and the communication device. It mediates the control signals from the user through the web browser to the communication device, enabling remote control while maintaining the audio device's primary function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If audio input/output devices are used as extensions to communication devices, then basic call controls are enabled, but full communication device functionality cannot be accessed remotely

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecall control capabilityVSAvoidremote accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The audio input/output device is enhanced to provide both audio processing functions and communication device control functions. The device includes a processor that can identify communication devices and establish communication sessions, allowing a single device to perform multiple functions beyond basic audio input/output.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system adds a web-based interface dimension to the traditional audio device control model. Users can interact with communication device controls through a web browser, adding a new dimensional layer of accessibility without requiring physical presence at the communication device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of operation

If synchronized content manipulation in browser is implemented, then content control is improved, but call action control is not available

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontent control capabilityVSAvoidcall control functionality

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The audio input/output device is enhanced to provide both audio processing functions and communication device control functions. The device includes a processor that can identify communication devices and establish communication sessions, allowing a single device to perform multiple functions beyond basic audio input/output.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system merges content control capabilities with call control capabilities in a unified web-based interface. The same browser interface that allows manipulation of synchronized content also provides access to call control functions, combining previously separate functionalities into one integrated system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10834147B1Controlling communication devices using a web-based unified communications platform

Publication Date: 2020.11.10 8X8 INC

AI summary

Methods and systems for controlling a communication device using a web-based unified communication platform are provided. In one aspect, a method includes receiving initial call status data from notification services. The method includes configuring bi-directional data binding between the platform and call servers. The method also includes generating a call initiation request by providing parameters associated with the first communication device to the call servers and transmitting the call initiation request to the first communication device. The method also includes connecting, in response to the first communication device accepting the call initiation request, the first communication device to the platform to facilitate a call to a second communication device. The method also includes receiving updated call status data associated with the call. The method also includes providing action controls associated with the call to a first client device associated with a user via a graphical user interface in a web-browser.