Smart Mirror

Abstract

A smart mirror comprises at least one large touchscreen-enabled smart mirror mounted on at least one frame, wherein the smart mirror is configured to support large-screen video chat, wherein the other participant to the video chat is provided full-size on the smart mirror's screen. When not in use as a video chat device, the present invention may utilize one or more cameras to create a mirror effect on the smart mirror's screen.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 509,866 filed on May 23, 2017, the disclosure of which, including any materials incorporated by reference therein, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]The present invention relates generally to a smart mirror and video chat system. More particularly, the present invention concerns a smart mirror capable of supporting full-size renderings of at least one participant to a video chat.BACKGROUND[0003]Today's technological advances provide consumers with enhanced ways to communicate with their families and friends, especially when they are separated by great distances. Various apps, like Skype® and Facetime®, allow users to see the faces of the other parties on a small display screen during conversations. Unfortunately, such an experience does not fully substitute for face to face contact, because the other party's image is so small. Wha...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011]The present invention comprises an electronic or digital mirror (“smart mirror”), generally although not exclusively a full-length or large smart mirror, that may support a video chat system wherein full-size renderings of at least one participant are displayed on the screen of the smart mirror. In some embodiments, the digital mirror may take pictures (freeze frames) and record videos of whoever is standing in front of it. For example, the present invention may be used when video chatting from one mirror to another and when using compatible devices. Furthermore, the present invention may make it possible to see the whole person or likeness of the other participant to a video chat, via a reasonable sized image, so a user may feel as though the other party to the video chat is just across the room.

[0012]The present invention's mirrors may be of any size, including but not limited to three illustrative size embodiments. By way of illustration and not limitation, the present invention may provide for a rectangular, full-length mirror that may stand on its own accord or be hung on a wall. Moreover, the present invention may provide for a full-length oval mirror that may also be mounted on a stand or hung on a wall. The present invention may provide for one or more fasteners that may be used to attach the mirrors to a stand's pivot, so they may be adjusted to provide the best possible view of the other party. There is also a smaller square version, which may be held in one's hand like a giant tablet. Cameras, speakers, and light strips may be built into the digital frames of at least one mirror. A charging port with a detachable cord, and a docking station for the sleek, wireless remote may be also part of the frame. The present invention's mirror may transform into a touch screen with a keyboard when it is turned on, allowing pictures and videos to be tagged and time stamped when they may be captured. Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth functionality allow the pictures and videos to saved and uploaded directly onto social media sites.

[0014]The unique features of this product will provide the following benefits for consumers everywhere: it may serve as a mirror when not in use; it may provide the same functionality as a tablet or smartphone; it may make persons far away, like soldiers overseas, business travelers and distant family members, seem closer, when they are able to see full-sized images of the parties while conversing; it may be able to capture and save screen shots and videos that be helpful when tracking a person's weight loss or to document conference calls; and it may be used to create and preserve memories from special occasions like weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, birthday parties, and anniversary celebrations; and, because the frame is also digital, it may also be changed to fit the decor of the room with colors and styles preset in the mirror, as well as provide other benefits.

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, such an experience does not fully substitute for face to face contact, because the other party's image is so small.

While this disclosure does provide for a video chat using a larger image, its reliance on projector technology makes it incompatible with some video chat needs.

While this disclosure does generally provide for a larger video chat, it fails to provide for a smart mirror.

As may be seen, various attempts have been made to solve the problems which may be found in the related art but have been unsuccessful.

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