Codec Capability Conversion for Cross-Network Video Calls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Communication between terminals connected to different types of networks, such as circuit-switched and IP networks, is hindered when the codecs on the terminals differ, as there is no established path for transmitting control information, preventing successful picture/speech communication.
Innovation Solution
A converting apparatus and method that converts call control information or decoding information between terminals, using a gateway device with transmitting/receiving units and a control information converter, to facilitate communication by translating between different codec ability information formats like DCI and SDP, enabling communication even when codecs differ.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If terminals connected to different network types use different codecs, then each terminal can be optimized for its specific network, but communication between terminals becomes impossible due to incompatible codec formats
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a converting apparatus that acts as an intermediary between terminals on different networks. This apparatus receives ability information from both terminals, converts it to a common format, and enables mutual recognition of codec capabilities. The converting apparatus mediates the communication by translating between H.245 control messages and SDP descriptions, allowing terminals with different native formats to successfully establish communication.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a converting apparatus is introduced to translate between different codec information formats, then communication between terminals on different networks becomes possible, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The converting apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to handle various conversion scenarios. It can convert between H.245 control messages and SDP descriptions in both directions, and can work with different codec types (video and audio). This universal design consolidates multiple conversion functions into a single apparatus, reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate conversion devices for each scenario.
Data Source
AI summary
Picture and speech communication between plural terminals connected to different networks, such as a circuit-switched network and IP network. A converting apparatus 400 for control information or media information for picture/speech communications is provided across first and second terminals 301, 302 connected to respective different types of networks. Converting apparatus 400 includes control information converter 420, transcoder 450 and ability information converter 460. In case the ability information extracted from the decoding information, received from the first terminal 301, is not coincident to the ability information extracted from the call control information received from the second terminal 302, it is further checked whether or not there is picture format size coincidence. If the picture format size coincidence persists in one direction, processing is carried out for converting part of the decoding information or the control information, without causing the operations of the transcoder. In case there is no picture format size coincidence, the transcoder 450 is booted to convert the bitstream.