Conference Bridge Codec Normalization for Multi-Endpoint Quality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current conference call systems are limited by the lowest quality codec, forcing higher quality participants to use lower quality signals, which degrades the overall communication experience, even when multiple participants have different and higher quality communication devices.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows each endpoint in a multi-party communication session to use its highest available codec quality, normalizing signals to match the best available codec, ensuring all participants experience the highest possible quality without being limited by the lowest common denominator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If all participants use the lowest common denominator codec to ensure compatibility, then all participants can communicate, but the quality of communication for higher quality devices is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the conference call into multiple audio channels, with each channel dedicated to a specific codec type. Instead of mixing all audio into a single common denominator channel, the system creates separate channels for different codecs (e.g., G.711, G.729, G.723.1) allowing each participant to receive audio in their preferred quality without degradation
Solution Approach 2:
Each participant receives audio signals at the local quality appropriate to their device capabilities. The system applies different codec qualities to different participants based on their endpoint capabilities, allowing high-quality devices to receive high-quality audio while low-quality devices receive audio at their supported quality level, rather than forcing everyone to the lowest common denominator
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system transcodes all signals to a common codec, then compatibility is maintained, but processing complexity and bandwidth consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of fully transcoding all signals to a common codec, the system applies partial transcoding only when necessary. Signals are transcoded to match the lowest common denominator codec only for participants who require it, while participants with higher capability devices receive signals in their native codec without additional processing, reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary codec representation layer that acts as a mediator between different codec types. Rather than requiring direct compatibility between all codecs, the system uses this intermediary layer to bridge different codec formats, reducing the processing complexity required for compatibility
3Manufacturing precision
If the system uses higher quality codecs for all participants, then signal quality improves, but compatibility with older devices is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts the codec quality assigned to each participant based on their device capabilities and the current conference conditions. Instead of using a fixed codec for all participants, the system dynamically selects and switches between different codecs to match each participant's endpoint capabilities, allowing high quality when possible and compatibility when necessary
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed toward a method and system for maintaining a high quality teleconference. The system provides a way of allowing participants of a conference call to experience the call according to the highest quality codec that their endpoint supports.