WO2009071388A1

WO2009071388A1 - Method for exchanging data

Info

Publication number: WO2009071388A1
Application number: PCT/EP2008/064385
Authority: WO
Inventors: Horst Schmidt; Johann Schmidt; Christian Ehrenreich
Original assignee: Horst Schmidt; Johann Schmidt; Christian Ehrenreich
Priority date: 2007-12-05
Filing date: 2008-10-23
Publication date: 2009-06-11
Also published as: EP2220604A1; AT10406U1

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for exchanging target information (T1... n) between subscribers (X1... n) of a communication system (S) by means of communication units (K1... n), characterized by the following process steps: - transmitting a first transmission query (R1) initiated by a first communication unit (K1) of a first subscriber (X1) directed at a second communication unit (K2) of a second subscriber (X2) for the transmission of target information (T1... n), - disabling the output of the identification characteristic (Cx1) of the first communication unit (K1) of the first subscriber (X1) on the second communication unit (K2) of the second subscriber (X2), - verifying whether the second communication unit (K2) of the second subscriber (X2) initiates, or has initiated a second transmission query (R2) directed at the first communication unit (K1) of the first subscriber (X1), - in case of positive verification, or in case of a detection of alternating transmission queries (R1, R2) between the communication units (K1, K2) of the subscribers (X1, X2): notification of both subscribers (X1, X2) of the transmission queries (R1, R2) of the respective other subscriber (X1, X2).

Description

PROCEDURE FOR THE EXCHANGE OF DATA

The invention relates to a method for exchanging target information between users of a communication system by means of electronic communication devices, wherein each communication device of a subscriber is assigned an identification code, which also allows identification of the subscriber and wherein the target information, the identification identifier and / or content and / or any number of parameters, according to the preamble of claim 1 and to a communication device for carrying out this method according to claim 16 and to a corresponding communication system according to claim 19.

A variety of communication systems are known, which are set up for the purpose of data or information exchange between any number of initially mutually unknown participants.

In each case, the participants endeavor to exchange data or information with one of the other participants if there is a common interest, although in a large number of applications the data and information exchange should take place only if the participating participants can also be sure that the other participants in the data or information exchange are really interested.

The known communication systems of this type do not take this requirement into consideration, since they require the initiator of the data or information exchange to provide an initial announcement of data and information, for example by a data transmission request addressed to all or a multiplicity of users of the communication system also includes an identifier of the initiator, and additional data and information intended to persuade the other participants to respond to the data transfer request.

Since the identity identifiers contained in the data transfer request and any associated data and information are sensitive data, the risk of misuse of this data by other subscribers who obtain this data without being interested in is greater than if it were assumed can be that these other participants are interested in the data and in return also reveal their identity.

At the same time, for those users of the communications system receiving the communication request, it is not desirable to constantly be overwhelmed with data transfer requests without any real interest in accepting such a data transfer request.

Thus, there is a desire on both sides for an extensive secrecy of both the data transfer requests and the associated with the respective participants of the communication system data, in particular with respect to those participants of the communication system, which have interests other than the respective one data transmission request initiating participants, but without the possibility to transmit to any participant a data transfer request to lose.

A classic example of application of such a communication system are contact exchanges or contact meetings, whereby contact exchanges not only means for finding a partner in the private sense, so-called partner exchanges, but also in the commercial sense, so-called networking exchanges. The present invention will therefore be described with reference to a communication system for initiating such contacts. For the person skilled in the art, however, it will be apparent from the description that other possible applications are also conceivable which have the same requirements but are not explicitly mentioned.

The widespread use of modern communication media has opened up many new opportunities for finding a partner in the private and business sense. For example, in addition to classic cipher advertisements, the Internet or mobile networks provide a suitable communication platform in order to find a partner that is as close as possible to their own requirements (desired profile).

Although there are already a large number of such communication media for initiating contacts, the inhibition threshold for using them is still often considerable, since the use initially requires the disclosure of personal, both private and business data and information and an identity identifier in order to present itself to other contact users , This is often undesirable for many reasons, which will not be discussed here.

From DE 101 49 496 Al and DE 201 00 191 Ul electronic communication systems are known which make use of communication devices in the form of mobile phones. On the mobile phones software can be installed, which allows the Bluetooth standard or wireless local area communication systems communication between mobile devices, which are located in a respective predetermined detection radius. The detection range of current Bluetooth systems is around 10 m, however, a range of up to 100 m is expected for future Bluetooth systems.

When the software is activated, the mobile phone searches for other mobile phones in the detection range that have the same or a compatible software installed. Usually, the respective mobile phones are used several times, e.g. twice per minute, contact signals sent out to interact with corresponding other mobile phones. If a first mobile station has received contact signals from a second mobile telephone, an exchange of information, e.g. telephone numbers, photos, videos, music, and indicate to the respective user of the mobile phone that there is currently another mobile phone user in his or her vicinity who is also looking for a data or information exchange.

Since the short-range radio Bluetooth is independent of the mobile radio network (e.g., GSM) of a respective mobile phone, no expense is incurred by a network operator for a described exchange of information.

The software installed on the mobile telephones makes it possible to create desired profiles of a respectively sought communication system subscriber and exclude communication system users with certain undesirable features or areas of interest or communication devices / mobile phones with specific telephone numbers or identification identifiers from an information exchange from the outset. On the other hand, it is possible to create and store presentation information on the own communication device with which the respective participant of the communication system presents himself to the other participants of the communication system. Such configured mobile phones are set by default so that an exchange of information between two located in a common detection radius mobile phones only takes place when the stored on these mobile phones Profiles or presentation information match or at least partially match.

However, even if a high degree of coordination of the interaction-seeking communication system subscribers can already take place by means of such systems or a suitable preselection, the participants are forced to create their own profile together with identification code and make it available to others and on the other hand one in each case Participants who have received presentation information from another participant, provided they are interested in it, are now forced to take the first step and reveal their concrete interest in closer communication.

In any case, a disclosure of the interest in a data exchange of a first subscriber to a second subscriber of such a communication system is accompanied by a disclosure of the identity identifier and / or further sensitive data of the first subscriber.

However, the disclosure of such related to the first participant, provided for another (destination) participants data, hereinafter referred to as target information, however, for the reasons mentioned above (data protection) undesirable.

The target information contains as minimum information the identification code of the respective subscriber and can the further comprise a content and / or any number of parameters.

The transmission of sensitive data or target information of the first participant could lead to an abuse of the information contained therein by the second participant, especially if the second participant is not interested in data exchange with the first participant.

In many cases, however, the respective communication system subscriber not only wants to prevent the misuse of his target information in the best possible way, but also does not disclose his interest in data exchange with the other subscribers, since in many cases, especially in the business sector, a data transfer request can already be misinterpreted in the circles involved and It must therefore be ensured that the data transfer requests are communicated to the participants involved only if they wish each other to exchange data and exchange information. But also in the private sector, the participants are usually interested in the fact that data transfer requests will be announced to the other participants only if they are also interested in a data and information exchange with the initiator of the data transfer request.

The present invention is therefore based on the object to provide a method and a communication device or a communication system by which a largely anonymized data transfer request between participants of a communication system and against the misuse of personal data largely protected exchange of target information between the respective communication devices of Participants can take place. According to the invention this object is achieved by a method having the characterizing features of claim 1 and a communication device according to claim 16 and a communication system according to claim 19.

An inventive method for exchanging target information between participants of a communication system by means of electronic

Communication facilities, each one

Communication device of a subscriber is assigned an identification identifier, which also allows identification of the subscriber and wherein the target information comprises the identification identifier and / or a content and / or any number of parameters is characterized by the following method steps:

Transmission of a first transmission request for transmitting target information initiated by a first communication device of a first subscriber and directed to a second communication device of a second subscriber,

Inhibiting the output of the identification identifier of the first communication device of the first subscriber on the second communication device of the second subscriber,

Preferably inhibiting the output of the content and / or at least one parameter of the target information of the first communication device of the first user on the second communication device of the second user,

Checking whether the second communication device of the second subscriber has initiated or already initiated a second transmission request directed to the first communication device of the first subscriber, - If there is a positive check or if mutual transmission requests are established between the communication devices of the subscribers: Notification of both subscribers about the transmission requests of the respective other subscriber.

Thus, by means of the method according to the invention, a largely anonymized data transmission request between subscribers of a communication system and exchange of target information between subscriber communication devices that is largely protected against the misuse of personal data can take place, since a notification of the presence of transmission requests or an exchange of target information occurs only when a presence of mutual transmission requests has been detected. Since the transmission requests or the target information are often personal or business offers which contain very sensitive data, the method according to the invention offers considerable advantages in terms of data protection.

By after positive verification or determination of mutual transmission requests between the communication devices of the participants an output of the identifiers of the participants on the communication device of the other participant takes place, the desired between the participants data exchange is made possible or the two participants can all or at least a part, depending on the system setting, exchange the target information.

It should be noted at this point that the identification identifier of a communication device according to the invention also includes the identification of a subscriber allows.

In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that, if the check is positive or if mutual transmission requests are established between the subscribers, output of the content and / or at least one parameter of the target information takes place on the communication devices of the respective other subscriber. In this way, the purpose of the transfer requests to the respective participants is substantiated in more detail.

The notification about the presence of mutual transmission requests and / or the output of some or all of the target information on the communication devices of the subscribers takes place simultaneously in a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention. In this way, a hierarchieloser, equal exchange of data to the communication facilities of each interested participants are made.

In an alternative embodiment variant of the method according to the invention, it is provided that the transmission of the first transmission request or the target information directed by the first communication device to the second communication device takes place via an intermediate administrative entity, preferably a control center of a communication system operator. In this way, transfer and administrative advantages can be achieved. In particular, it is possible by interposition of an administrative entity, manipulations of a method according to the invention exporting, installed on the respective communication device communication software or an unauthorized Disclosure of transmission requests or target information to prevent individual participants of the communication system.

In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is further provided that the transmission request or target information transmitted by the first communication device is at least partially on the communication device of the first subscriber and / or on the second communication device of the second subscriber and or on one of the communication devices different storage instance is stored. By optionally storing transmission requests or target information, the method according to the invention can be made flexible in accordance with a respective field of application. The storage of transmission requests or target information also makes it possible to repeat or adapate the transmission requests or target information (for example, a renewed transmission of a previously unsuccessful transmission request or target information to a respective subscriber could be useful if this contacted subscriber has changed his own target information or the parameters contained therein in the meantime).

Independently of a positive or negative check as to whether there are two-way transmission requests between two communication devices, it can be provided in a specific embodiment of the method according to the invention that, after the transmission of the data initiated by the first communication device of the first subscriber to the second communication device of the second subscriber directed first transmission request already a content and / or at least one parameter of the target information of the first participant on the second communication device of the second participant output (while the ID of the first party remains hidden). In this way, the second subscriber is informed that another subscriber of the communication system is interested in exchanging data with him, without, however, revealing his identity or details of the contact.

In the embodiment of the method according to the invention, many possibilities are conceivable, which in each case bring advantages in terms of storage economy and process efficiency or speed.

For example, it is possible to check whether the second communication device of the second subscriber initiated or already initiated a second transmission request directed to the first communication device of the first subscriber, on the side of the first communication device or on the side of the second communication device or on pages a different review body to the communication devices.

Also, the storage of the first transmission request together with the target information of the first subscriber does not necessarily have to take place on the first communication device assigned to it, but can-provided sufficient anonymity-also be performed on a storage instance other than the first communication device, e.g. be performed on the second communication device of the currently contacted second subscriber or on the communication devices of the two participants higher-level storage instance.

As a preferred method option, it is provided that the first communication device of the first participant in Negative check or in the absence of mutual transmission requests a negative acknowledgment, which is preferably created by the second communication device of the second subscriber receives. In this way, a quick feedback on the first transmission request is given and the first participant can decide better about his further procedure or about a possible initiation of further transmission requests.

In the case of a negative check or in the absence of mutual transmission requests between the communication devices on the first communication device of the first subscriber, in a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention at least the identifier of the contacted second communication device of the second subscriber, preferably the entire target information, held stored on the first communication device or on a different Vorhalteinstanz.

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the mutual notification about the presence of transmission requests and / or the output of the identifiers and / or the content and / or the parameters of the target information on the communication devices of the respective participants takes place only if at least one Parameter of the target information of the first subscriber matches a parameter of the target information of the second subscriber. Since the parameters can be used to define (or implicitly exclude) properties of searched subjects or objects, a mutual notification of the presence of transmission requests and / or the output of the identifiers and / or the content and / or the parameters of the Target information on the Communication devices of two participants are allowed only if there is a minimum or maximum match between them.

In a further development of the method according to the invention, only those parameters of the target information are output or displayed on the communication devices of the participants, which coincide with the parameters of the target information of the respective other participant, while the non-matching parameters are hidden on the communication devices. In the case of parameters which do not correspond to one another, none of the subscribers therefore learns of the transmission request from the other subscriber. This measure also secures sensitive information of the respective participants of the communication system and is desirable in terms of data protection.

Instead of implicitly excluding unwanted properties of searched subjects or objects by (formulated as required) parameters, it is also possible to explicitly exclude such unwanted properties. In a specific embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is therefore provided that exclusionary parameters can be defined, if present in the target information of one of the subscribers, the mutual notification of the presence of transmission requests and / or the output of the identification identifiers and / or content and / or one or more of the parameters on the communication devices of the respective other participant is prevented in any case.

In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the communication between the communication devices takes place via short-range Communication systems, preferably via Bluetooth standard. In this way, a fast and free communication between the participants of the communication system according to the invention can take place.

It is also possible that the communication between the communication devices takes place via the Internet. In this way, the method according to the invention can be opened to a broad class of subscribers, who can also be far apart.

Claim 16 is directed to a communication device comprising a processor, a transmitting / receiving unit and optionally a memory device, αui> or

ei'en oer _" ) rj 'going' claims ^" Ib ec \ r ^J n: εt ^■ "erer.de

is irstallicLt.

In preferred embodiments, the communication device is a mobile terminal, preferably a Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone or even an Internet-capable PC.

Claim 19 is directed to a communication system comprising any number

Communication devices according to one of claims 16-18.

The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments. Showing:

Fig.l is a schematic representation of an inventive

KommunikationsSystems Figure 2 is a schematic representation of the components of a communication device according to the invention A schematic representation of a first

Interaction step between two inventive

communication facilities

4 shows a schematic representation of a second

Interaction step between two inventive

communication facilities

5 shows a schematic representation of a third

Interaction step between two inventive

communication facilities

6 shows a schematic representation of a fourth

Interaction step between two inventive

communication facilities

In Fig.l schematically a communication system S with a plurality of participants Xi ... _{n is} shown. Each of the subscribers Xi _{... n} has a communication device Ki ... nr which an identification code Cχi ... _{n is} assigned. The identification code Cχi ... _n can be, for example, the telephone number or the name of the respective subscriber Xi _{... n} or the communication device Ki ... _{n assigned to} it, or else a photo, an IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) - number or other unique identifier, such as a MAC address of a network card. But it is also possible that the identification code contains technical information, such as the Mac address and the name of the associated subscriber.

It is essential that the identification code Cχi _{... n} is information which allows a clear assignment to a respective subscriber Xi _{... n of} the communication system S or to its communication device Ki _{... n} . If in the following presented inventive method so of "identifiers" is mentioned, it does not have to necessarily be technical device identifiers which have been assigned to the communication devices K _{1 ... n} factory, but this may also be other information that allow a clear identification of the participants Xi _{... n} . In practice, the identification code will therefore consist of a technical identification identifier, which enables the identification of the communication devices K _{1... N} in the communication system S and a non-technical identification code which provides the subscribers X _{1... N} the immediate and rapid identification of the other Participant X _{1 ... n} allows.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the communication devices Ki ... _n are mobile processor-controlled terminals. Mobile terminals are preferably mobile phones. Likewise, however, the communication devices Ki _{... n} may also be laptops, organizers or various handheld devices (eg "PDAs") as well as fixedly installed PCs.

The structure of a communication device Ki _{... n} is shown schematically in Fig.2. In this case, the communication device Ki _{... n} comprises a processor P together with a memory device M which is preferably associated therewith and which provides storage space for different data sets, in particular for target information Ti _{... n} . An installable on the communication device Ki _{... n}

Communication software SW can be obtained, for example, via the Internet, MMS, separate data carriers or other communication devices Ki _{... n} , whereby a standard installation of the communication software SW on the communication device Ki _{... n} can be provided. In the case of a mobile telephone, the communication device K _{1... N} has a transceiver unit SE with a radio interface in accordance with Bluetooth WLAN or other standard and is able to communicate with other communication devices K _1. Independently of a mobile radio network of the respective mobile radio operator. _n communicate in direct radio communication. For example, in the case of a personal computer, the communication device has network cards that enable communication over the Internet.

In a method according to the invention, it is possible, instead of an already mentioned automatically exchanged presentation information Ii ... _n or a preselection of the participants X ₁ ... _n , individual participants of interest Xi ... _n by means of the communication devices Ki _{. .. n} selectively address or send them a below discussed in more detail transmission request R ₁ according to the invention. In this case, the identification _code C _xl ... _{N of} the subscribers Xi... _N or the communication devices Ki... _{N could} also be visually visible numbers or character sequences to which a transmission request R ₁ can be addressed. Such a number or string could, for example, be made visible on stick or place cards at organized get-togethers for the participants Xi ... _{n of} the event. It may also be on the Internet apparent company name or fictitious, set up for this purpose Internet addresses of a company. Decisive here is the scope of target information T _{1 ... n} or presentation information I _{1 .. ^} , which the respective participant is willing to reveal previously unknown participants.

In any case, a first subscriber X _{1 of} the communication system S according to the invention is capable of being targeted by means of a first communication device K ₁ assigned to it to contact another subscriber X _{2... n} participating in the communication system S according to the invention by initiating a first transmission request R ₁ thereto.

Of course, it is also possible to perform the known from the prior art automated exchange of presentation information Ii _{... n} between the communication devices K _{1 ... n} and thus make a preselection among the participants Xi _{... n} . For this purpose, each participant X _{1... N} prepares presentation information Ii _{... N} on the memory device M of the communication device K _{1... N} assigned to it (FIG. This presentation information Ii ... _n can be created individually via a suitable user interface of the communication device Ki _n or also via an external computer and contains, for example, a photo, a video, text, music or a combination of these medial contents. The presentation information I ₁ ... n thus represents a sort of virtual business card and serves to present itself to the other participants X ₁ ... n as a person / participant / company with individual characteristics, areas of interest, etc. and possibly the interest to awaken the other.

Upon detection of a further communication device Ki _{... n} in the detection range of their own communication device Ki _{... n} takes place in an automatic manner a mutual exchange of presentation information I _{1 ... n} between the communication devices Ki _{... n} , where also the Identification _codes C _{xl ... n are} transmitted, but remain hidden.

In this case, selection criteria can be determined in a manner known per se, the presence of which is a basic condition for a mutual exchange of presentation information I _{1... N} between subscribers Xi _{n of} the communication system S represents. In this way, a personal desired profile can already be determined in advance and scanned only for those subscribers Xi _{... n} or for their communication devices Ki _{... n} , which correspond to the selection criteria set in each case, while participants X _{1 who} do not meet the selection criteria _{. .. n} or their communication facilities Ki _{... n} no exchange of presentation information Ii _{... n is} allowed. Also, certain telephone numbers or identifiers C _X i _{... n} of subscribers Xi _{... n} or their communication devices Ki _{... n be} excluded from a communication.

In the context of the present invention, it is important to note that the presentation information Ii _n of participants Xi ... _n usually contain only "neutral" information, that is to say any information intended for anyone else, and yet not specific thereto Interest in a specific subscriber Xi ... n the communication system S is expressed.

By contrast, the first transmission request Ri according to the invention is specifically initiated by the first subscriber Xi by means of the first communication device Ki with regard to a selected second subscriber X ₂ or a second communication device K ₂ .

The first transmission request Ri relates to a transmission of already mentioned target information Ti _{... n} between the two users X ₁ , X ₂ . The target information T _{1... N contains} , as minimum information, the identification identifier C _{xl... N of} the respective subscriber Xi _{... N} and may further include a content Pi and / or parameters Pi _n described in more detail below. It should be noted that the content of the target information Ti of the first subscriber Xi also the above-described, according to the prior art known presentation information Ii of the first subscriber Xi and / or the presentation information I _{2 of} the second subscriber X ₂ may comprise wholly or partly.

It is possible that in the course of a first transmission request Ri only the identification code C _X i of the first subscriber Xi is transmitted to the second subscriber X ₂ , while the other parts of the target information Ti of the first subscriber, ie the content and / or the Parameter Pi _{... n} are transmitted separately from the first transmission request R ₁ or depending on the response of the second communication device K _{2 of} the second subscriber X ₂ to the first transmission request Ri to the second communication device K ₂ .

Preferably, however, with the first transmission request Ri, the entire target information Ti of the first subscriber Xi is transmitted to the second communication device K ₂ without outputting it to the second communication device K ₂ . The second subscriber X ₂ thus experiences nothing about the first transmission request Ri or the target information Ti of the first subscriber Xi.

Like the first participant Xi, the second participant X _{2 also has} the option of initiating a second transmission request R _{2 together} with a target information T ₂ to the first communication device Ki of the first participant Xi by means of the second communication device K ₂ assigned to it.

According to the disclosure of the transmission requests R ₁ , R ₂ and an exchange of the target information T ₁ , T ₂ between the communication devices K ₁ , K _{2 of} the participants X ₁ , X ₂ but then, if in a check a mutual presence of transmission Requests R ₁ , R _{2 of} the communication devices K ₁ , K _{2 of} the participants X ₁ , X _{2 was} detected. The detailed procedure of the method according to the invention will be described using the example of a partner exchange which uses a communication system S according to the invention:

For example, is a first participant X ₁ of the communication system S in a dance hall, he can by means of its actively connected in a method of the invention the first communication device K ₁ by radio interface for further nodes Xi _{... n} search which _.. on their communication facilities Ki _n also operate a compatible communication software SW and are currently in the detection range of the first communication device K ₁ . As a result, it receives, for example, automatic feedback including (hidden) identifiers C _x2 - _n of five further participants X ₂ -X _n shown in FIG. ₁ or of their communication devices K ₂ -K _n in the form of individual presentation information I ₂ - I _n , which are displayed on a display of his communication device K ₁ or his mobile phone (which corresponds to the prior art, but does not necessarily have to be provided in the inventive method).

The first participant X ₁ now has the possibility that the participants X ₂ -X _n corresponding presentation information I ₂ - to sift I _n and the matching of participants _n X ₂ -X to check with his personal wishes.

In the present example according to FIGS. 3-6, the first subscriber X ₁ decides to make contact with a second subscriber X ₂ (hereafter referred to as the subscriber), since the data shown in the presentation information I _{2 are} closest to this to agree with his. Alternatively, it can of course also be provided that no presentation information I ₂ -I _{n are} available and the participant X ₁ makes his decision to contact only on the basis of the appearance of the other participants X _{2 ... n} . In this case, the participants wear, for example, an anonymized identification tag on their clothing.

In order to establish contact, the first subscriber X ₁ transmits a first transmission request R ₁ to the second communication device K ₂ assigned to the second subscriber X ₂ by means of its communication device K ₁ via radio interface (see FIG. 3). Such a transmission of the first transmission request R ₁ to the second subscriber X ₂ can eg via actuation of a dedicated key of the first communication device K ₁ or by pressing a menu button on one of the communication software SW generated on a display of the first communication device K ₁ apparent user interface are initiated by the first subscriber X ₁ .

The target information contained in the first transfer request R ₁ T ₁ of the first subscriber X ₁ includes at least the identifier C _xl of the communication device K ₁ of the first subscriber X ₁ and may further comprise a content and / or any number of parameters Pi _{.. n} include.

Since the second subscriber X ₂ has not yet transmitted a second transmission request R ₂ to the first subscriber X ₁ at the time of transmission of the first transmission request R _{1 of} the first subscriber X ₁ , the received first transmission request R _{1 is} opposite to the first first participant X ₁ for the time being negatively acknowledged or rejected. The first subscriber X ₁ therefore receives on the display of his communication device K ₁ a negative acknowledgment created by the second communication device K ₂ , eg in the form of a text window (not shown).

It is essential here that at least the output of the identification _code C _{xl of} the first communication device K _{1 of} the first subscriber X ₁ on the second communication device K _{2 of} the second subscriber X _{2 is} prevented according to the invention. However, notification of the second communication device K _{2 of} the second subscriber X ₂ via the presence of an (anonymous) transmission request R directed to the second communication device K _{2 of} the second subscriber X ₂ is very possible, as described in more detail below.

In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, however, the entire target information T _{1 of} the first subscriber X _{1 is} concealed from the second subscriber X ₂ . Specifically, both a notification of the second subscriber X ₂ on the presence of a directed to the second subscriber X ₂ first transmission request R ₁ as well as the output of the identification _code C _xl the first communication device K _{1 of} the first subscriber X ₁ and the output of the the entire respective content and the parameter Pi _{... n} of the target information T _{1 of} the first subscriber X ₁ prevented.

The second subscriber X ₂ therefore does not know about the attempt to contact the first subscriber X ₁ , and the first subscriber X ₁ therefore also has no fears about a possible misuse of his target information T ₁ or the fact that he has a transmission request R ₁ put, cherish. Irrespective of this, the first transmission request R _{1 of} the first subscriber Xi is stored on the memory device M of the first communication device K ₁ shown in simplified form in FIG. It is sufficient in this case that only parts of the target information T _{1 of} the first subscriber X ₁ , but at least the identification _code C _{x2 of} the contacted second subscriber X ₂ or the second communication device K _{2 associated} therewith are kept stored.

As a result, on the side of the first communication device K ₁ continuously or at fixed intervals, it is checked whether the second communication device K _{2 of} the second subscriber X ₂ of interest also has a second transmission request directed to the first communication device K _{1 of} the first subscriber X ₁ R _{2 is} transmitted. It can also be provided that such a check only takes place if a further transmission request R ₂ ... _{N is} received on the side of the first communication device K ₁ (originating from a further communication device K ₂ .

If, according to FIG. 5, such a second transmission request R _{2 is} initiated by the second subscriber X ₂ (which is also the case for several hours, possibly even several days or weeks after initiation of the first transmission request R ₁ by the first subscriber X ₁ This can be registered by the communication software SW installed on the first communication device K ₁ , in that the identification _code C _x2 contained in the second transmission request R ₂ or in the target information T _{2 of} the second user X _{2 is} identical to the identification _code C _{x2 shown in FIG} Memory device M of the first communication device K _{1 is} compared to the negative acknowledgment of the first transmission request R ₁ stored identifier C _{x2 is} compared. Because the result If this check is positive, a mutual notification of both subscribers X ₁ , X _{2 takes place} via the transfer requests R ₁ , R _{2 of} the respective other subscriber Xi r X2.

Only at the time of the presence of mutual transmission requests R ₁ , R _{2 of} two communication devices K ₁ , K _{2 of} two participants X ₁ , X ₂ thus the target information T ₁ , T _{2 of} the participants X ₁ , X ₂ , in particular the identifiers C _xl , C _x2 mutually disclosed or output to the communication devices K ₁ , K _{2 of} the participants X ₁ , X ₂ (Fig.6). After mutual exchange of the target information T ₁ , T ₂ between the communication devices K ₁ , K _{2 of} the participants X ₁ , X ₂ arbitrary memory areas of the memory devices M of the communication devices K ₁ , K ₂ , eg the prepared on the wish list WL identification _code C _xl , C _x2 of the other participant X ₁ , X _{2 are} deleted.

In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, in the presence of a positive check, a mutual output of the entire target information T ₁ , T ₂ on the communication devices K ₁ , K _{2 of} the respective other subscriber X ₁ , X _{2 is} initiated. The output of the target information T ₁ , T ₂ on the communication devices K ₁ , K ₂ can be done, for example, in graphic or acoustic form.

Along with the output of the target information T ₁ , T ₂ , it may be provided that an online radio connection is established between the communication devices K ₁ , K _{2 of} the subscribers X ₁ , X ₂ . In this way, the way to a real getting to know the participants X ₁ , X _{2 is} opened.

Instead of outputting the entire target information T ₁ , T ₂ on the communication devices K ₁ , K _{2 of} the participants X ₁ , X ₂ in the presence of a positive verification, it is also possible that only a part of the target information T _1, T ₂ is outputted on the communication devices K _1, K ₂ of the other participant X _1, X. ₂ For example, only the identification _code C _x1 , C _{x2 of} the communication devices K ₁ , K _{2 of} the respective other subscriber X ₁ , X ₂ could be output or a photo corresponding to this identification _code C _x1 , C _x2 or another (multi-) media content or only _n selected parameter Pi ... -. In this way it is possible to provide "security classifications", by which particularly sensitive data of the user X _1, X ₂ prior to inspection by the other party, X _1, X ₂ for the time being - protected are.

In the case of the present exemplary embodiment of a communication system S serving for establishing a relationship, the subscribers X ₁ , X _{2 would} therefore only be informed about the person or the identity of the subscriber X ₁ , X _{2 of} interest, that is to say solely on the fact that the subscribers X ₁ , X _{2 are} interested in each other. The disclosure, which has concrete intentions of the respective participants X ₁ , X ₂ with respect to the other one (described in the content or in the parameters Pi ... _{n of} the target information T ₁ , T ₂ ), can be reserved or reserved for a later time are only revealed if both target information have the same parameters as described below.

Also, in the case of a described transmission of a first transmission request R ₁ directed from the first communication device K _{1 of} the first subscriber X ₁ to the second communication device K _{2 of} the second subscriber X ₂ , the output of the identification _code C _{xl of} the first subscriber X _{1 is} indeed inhibited be, but the event one Transmission of a transmission request Ri, optionally also a

Part of the target information T ₁ , already on the

Communication device K _{2 of} the second subscriber X ₂ documented or issued.

Applied to a communication system S for relationship initiation, the second participant X ₂ can be motivated, for example, to dwell on an organized get-together, since he now knows someone (an unknown) is interested in him. The disclosure of the identity or the identification identifier C _X i of the first subscriber Xi is of course only then effected when the second subscriber X _{2 in} turn directs a transmission request R ₂ to the communication device Ki of the first subscriber Xi.

It is understood that in the technical embodiment of the method according to the invention or in the administration of the communication software SW many variations are conceivable.

Thus, it is approximately possible to check whether the second communication device K ₂ of the second subscriber X ₂ addressed to the first communication device Ki of the first subscriber Xi second transfer request initiated R ₂ or already initiated, on the side of the first communication device Ki or on the part of the second communication device K ₂ or on the side of a verification entity other than the communication devices Ki, K ₂ , eg, a management device wirelessly or otherwise connected to the communication devices Ki, K ₂ .

In addition to a direct transmission of the transmission requests Ri, R ₂ and the target information Ti, T ₂ between the communication devices Ki, K ₂ , which in the present Method is preferred, it is of course also possible to make the addressed to the respective communication devices K ₁ , K ₂ transmission requests R ₁ , R ₂ or target information T ₁ , T ₂ via an intermediate administrative entity, such as a central office of a communication system operator , wherein instead of the Bluetooth interface, other channels or the regular mobile network for the transmission of the requests R ₁ , R ₂ and the target information T ₁ , T ₂ can be used.

The storage of the first transmission request R _{1 together} with the target information T _{1 of} the first subscriber X ₁ does not necessarily have to take place on its own first communication device K ₁ , but can-provided sufficient anonymity is ensured-also be different on a first communication device K ₁ Memory instance, for example, on the second communication device K _{2 of} the currently contacted second subscriber X ₂ or on the communication devices K ₁ , K ₂ parent storage instance done. In any case, the transmission request R ₁ or the target information T _{1 of} the first subscriber X _{1 must} not be prematurely output or displayed on the communication device K _{2 of} the second subscriber X ₂ .

In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, simultaneous notification of the presence of mutual transmission requests R ₁ , R ₂ and / or the output of part or all of the target information T ₁ , T _{2 is provided} on the communication devices K ₁ , K ₂ .

Alternatively, it is also conceivable to introduce arbitrary hierarchical structures between the participants X ₁ , X ₂ and the mutual output of the transmission requests R ₁ , R ₂ and the target information T ₁ , T ₂ on the Communication facilities K ₁ , K _{2 of} the participants X ₁ , X ₂ perform asynchronously.

It is also possible that by means of the first communication device K ₁ transmission requests Ri _{... n are directed} to a plurality of communication devices Ki _{... n} coming into question for closer contact. If the respective addressed communication devices Ki _{... n} have not in their turn transmitted a transmission request Ri ... _n to the communication device K ₁ initiating a respective transmission request Ri ... _n , at least the identification identifiers C _{xl..n remain} the addressed communication devices Ki _{... n} on the communication device K _{1 of} the subscriber X ₁ or stored on a different memory instance in the form of a wish list WL.

It should be noted that the aforementioned management, storage, verification, and provisioning entities may each be the same locally or functionally-defined entity.

Figure 2 shows, purely by way of example, as shown in the memory device M of the communication device K ₁ of the first subscriber X _1, three identification tags C _x2, C _X3, C _x5 which the communication devices K _2, K _3, K _5, the subscriber X _2, X ₃ , X ₅ correspond, are stored in the form of a wish list WL.

In the case of a negative check or in the case of non-existence of mutual transmission requests R ₁ , R ₂ between the first communication device K ₁ and one of the communication devices K ₂ , K ₃ , K ₅ , the identifiers C _x2 , C _x3 , C _x5 are thus contacted Communication devices K ₂ , K ₃ , K ₅ filed, with all listed in the wish list WL Identification _codes C _x2 , C _x3 , C _x5 or communication devices K ₂ , K ₃ , K _5, a check is carried out with regard to a second transmission request R ₂ transmitted to the first communication device K ₁ .

As already mentioned, the target information T ₁ , T _{2 of} the transmission requests R ₁ , R ₂ can comprise any number of parameters P _{1... N} , in which further details for the desired contact with a respective subscriber Xi..n of the Communication system S, are formulated. The parameters Pi _{... n} can be based on properties of searched subjects or objects or of participants Xi _{.. n} .

Referring again to the present embodiment of a communication system for relationship initiation, the individually desired modalities of getting acquainted could be cited in the parameters P ₁ , P ₂ , P _n (thereby implicitly excluding the undesired modalities).

The male first subscriber X _{1 is} interested, for example, in a female second subscriber X ₂ and sends this a first transmission request R ₁ . Also, the second participant X _{2 is} interested in the first participant X ₁ and sends this a second transmission request R ₂ , so that a described determination of mutual transmission requests R ₁ , R ₂ comes about. Now has the male first participant X ₁ as a parameter Pχi _. i and Pχi _.2 formulated to search for a sports partner or a travel companion, while the female second participant X ₂ has formulated as parameter Pχ _2. i to search a partner, it may be provided according to the invention that a mutual notification of the presence the transmission requests R ₁ , R ₂ and / or the output of identifiers C _xl , C _x2 or other parts of the target information T ₁ , T ₂ or the parameter P _x ^ ₁ , Pχi.2 / - Pχ2.i is prevented on the communication devices K ₁ , K ₂ of the other subscriber Xi, X ₂ , although mutual transmission requests R ₁ , R ₂ are present.

In the presence of each other not appropriate parameters Pi _{... nr} example conflicting areas of interest or targets life, so no experiences of participants X _1, X ₂ from the transmission request R _1, R ₂ of the other participant X _1, X. ₂

However, the parameters P ₁ , P ₂ , P _{n of} the participants Xi _{... n} can be handled in various ways. Thus, it is by means of the inventive communication software SW also possible to perform the setting, that only a single for the occurrence of a mutual notification of two subscribers X _1, X ₂ formulated by the first subscriber X _1, parameter P _n with a second subscriber X ₂ formulated Parameter P _n must match (or be similar).

Likewise, a number or a percentage of the individually set by the participants X ₁ , X ₂ parameters Pi ... _{n could be} set, which agree with the parameters P ₁ ... _{n of} the respective participant X ₁ , X ₂ or must harmonize.

A further process option is that only those parameters P _{1 ... n} on the communication devices K _1, K ₂ which respectively fit interest subscriber X _1, X ₂ are output, which with the parameters Pi of each other _{... n} Subscriber X ₁ , X ₂ match, while the disagreeing parameters Pi _{... n} on the communication devices K ₁ , K _{2 are} hidden.

It is also possible for the participants X ₁ , X _{2 to} define parameters Pi _{... N} , in which In the target information T ₁ , T _{2 of} the respective other subscriber Xi, X _2, the mutual notification of the presence of transmission requests and / or the output of the identifiers and / or the content and / or one or more of the parameters on the communication devices the other participant is prevented. In this way, participants X ₁ , X ₂ with undesirable characteristics of a contact can be explicitly excluded.

Although it is used in the communication system S according to the invention

Communication devices Ki _{... n} preferably mobile terminals or mobile phones with a short-range communication interface is, however, may be at the communication facilities Ki _{... n} also specially designed for the purpose described terminals, which may also be installed stationary. Of course, commercially available PCs can also be provided as communication devices Ki ... n.

Also, as communication interfaces for working according to the inventive method

Communication facilities Ki _{... n} the Internet or other communication channels are used.

In order to enable a higher level of user comfort or an extended functionality of the communication devices K _{1... N} or of the communication software SW, the memory device M can also have an additional memory area Z, which can be used eg for the storage of received presentation information I _{1. n} other participants Xi _{... n} or for storing any additional data is provided. In summary, it can thus be stated that by means of the method or communication system according to the invention, a completely anonymized request for exchange of target information T _{1... N} between communication devices K _{1... N} of subscribers Xi _{... n can} take place, since an output of Target information Ti _{... n} at the communication device Ki _{... n of} a respective addressed subscriber Xi _{... n} takes place only when _two -way transmission requests R ₁ , R ₂ are present.

Claims

1. A method for exchange of target information (T _{1 ... n)} between subscribers (Xi ... _n) of a communications system (S) by means of electronic communication devices (K _{1 ... n),} each communication device (K _{1 ... n} ) of a subscriber (X _{1 ... n} ) an identification code (Cχi _{... n} ) is assigned, which also allows identification of the subscriber and wherein the target information (Ti _{... n} ) the identification _code (C _{xl ...} _n ) _{... n} ) and / or a content and / or any number of parameters (Pi ... _n ), characterized in that it comprises the following method steps:

- Transmission of a first communication device (K ₁ ) of a first participant

(X ₁ ), to a second communication device (K ₂ ) of a second subscriber

(X ₂ ), first transmission request (R ₁ ) for transmission of target information (Ti _{... n} ),

Inhibiting the output of the identification code (Cx ₁ ) of the first communication device (K ₁ ) of the first subscriber (X ₁ ) on the second communication device (K ₂ ) of the second subscriber (X ₂ ),

- Preferably inhibiting the output of the content and / or at least one parameter (Pi ... _n ) of the target information (T ₁ ) of the first communication device (K ₁ ) of the first subscriber (X ₁ ) on the second communication device (K ₂ ) of the second Participant (X ₂ ),

- Check whether the second communication device (K ₂ ) of the second subscriber (X ₂ ) one to the first communication device (K ₁ ) of the first subscriber (Xi) has initiated or already initiated a directed second transmission request (R ₂ ),

- In case of positive verification or determination of mutual transmission requests (Ri, R ₂ ) between the communication devices (Ki, K ₂ ) of the participants

(Xi, X ₂ ): notification of both participants (Xi, X ₂ ) via the transmission requests (Ri, R ₂ ) of the other party (Xi, X ₂ ).

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that in positive verification or determination of mutual transmission requests (Ri, R ₂ ) between the communication devices (Ki, K ₂ ) of the participants (Xi, X ₂ ) the identification identifiers (C _X i, C _x2 ) are mutually output on the communication devices (Ki, K ₂ ) of the subscribers (Xi, X ₂ ).

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at a positive check or when determining mutual transmission requests (Ri, R ₂ ) between the participants (Xi, X ₂ ) an output of the content and / or at least one parameter ( Pi ... _n ) of the target information (Ti _{... n} ) on the communication devices (Ki, K ₂ ) of the other participant (Xi, X ₂ ) takes place.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the notification of the presence of mutual transfer requests (R ₁ , R ₂ ) and / or the output of some or all of the target information (Ti, T ₂ ) on the Communication devices (K ₁ , K ₂ ) takes place simultaneously.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the transmission of the to the communication devices (K ₁ , K ₂ ) directed transmission requests (Ri, R ₂ ) and the target information (T ₁ , T ₂ ) via an intermediate administrative entity, preferably a control center of a communication system operator takes place.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the of the first communication device (K ₁ ) transmitted transmission request (R ₁ ) or target information (T ₁ ) at least partially on the communication device (K ₁ ) of the first Subscriber (Xi) and / or on the second communication device (K ₂ ) of the second subscriber (X ₂ ) and / or on a to the communication devices (K ₁ , K ₂ ) different storage instance is stored.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that after transmission of the first communication device (K ₁ ) of the first subscriber (X ₁ ) initiated to the second communication device (K ₂ ) of the second subscriber (X ₂ ) directed first transmission request (R ₁ ) already a content and / or at least one parameter (Pi _{.. n} ) of the target information (T ₁ ) of the first subscriber (X ₁ ) on the second communication device (K ₂ ) of the second subscriber (X ₂ ) is output.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the check whether the second communication device (K ₂ ) of the second subscriber (X ₂ ) to the first communication device (K ₁ ) of the first subscriber (X ₁ ) directed second transmission Request (R ₂ ) initiated or already initiated, on the side of the first communication device (K ₁ ) or on the side of the second communication device (K ₂ ) or on the side of the communication devices (K ₁ , K ₂ ) different verification instance is performed.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the first communication device

(K ₁ ) of the first subscriber (X ₁ ) in the negative check or in the absence of mutual transmission requests (R ₁ , R ₂ ) between the participants

(X ₁ , X ₂ ) receives a negative acknowledgment, which is preferably created by the second communication device (K ₂ ) of the second user (X ₂ ).

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that when negative check or in the absence of mutual transmission requests

(R ₁ , R ₂ ) between the communication devices (K ₁ , K ₂ ) on the first communication device (K ₁ ) of the first subscriber (X ₁ ) at least the identification code (Cχ ₂ ) of the contacted second communication device (K ₂ ) of the second subscriber (X ₂ ) is kept stored on the first communication device (K ₁ ) or on a different Vorhalteinstanz.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the mutual notification of the presence of transmission requests (R ₁ , R ₂ ) and / or the output of the identification identifiers (C _xl , C _x2 ) and / or the Content and / or the parameter (Pi ... _n ) of the target information (T _{1 ... n} ) on the communication devices (K ₁ , K ₂ ) of the other participant (X ₁ , X ₂ ) only if at least a parameter (P ₁ ... _n ) of the first subscriber (X ₁ ) with a parameter (Pi ... _n ) of the second subscriber (X ₂ ) matches.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that only those parameters (Pi ... _n ) on the communication devices (K ₁ , K ₂ ) of the participants (Xi, X ₂ ) are output, which with the parameters (P ... _n ) of the respective other subscriber (Xi, X ₂ ), while the non-matching parameters (Pi _{... n} ) are concealed on the communication devices (K ₁ , K ₂ ).

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that excluding parameters (Pi ... _n ) are provided, in their presence in the target information (Ti, T ₂ ) of one of the participants (Xi, X ₂ ), the reciprocal Notification of the presence of transmission requests (Ri, R ₂ ) and / or the output of the identifiers (C _X i, C _x2 ) and / or content and / or at least one parameter (Pi ... _n ) on the communication devices (Ki, K ₂ ) of the other participant (Xi, X ₂ ) is prevented.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the communication between the communication devices (Ki _{... n} ) via local area communication systems, preferably via Bluetooth standard.

15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the communication between the communication devices (Ki _{... n} ) via the Internet.

16. Communication device (Ki _{... n} ), comprising a processor (P), a transmitting / receiving unit (SE) and optionally a memory device (M), characterized in that H; '-e ^% K _^ mααnikationseinrichtung (K _{1 ... n} ) :: nc the -erfahrcnsε sited rte: mcm clci

Anspracht.

(SW) i _^ sf a. J e- ', K ,; ,

17. Communication device according to claim 16, characterized in that the communication device (Ki _{... n} ) is a mobile terminal, preferably a bluetoothfahiges mobile phone.

18. Communication device according to claim 16, characterized in that the communication device (Ki _{... n} ) is an Internet-capable PC.

19. A communication system (S) comprising any number of communication devices (Ki _{... n} ) according to any one of claims 16-18.