Conferencing Bridge Architecture for Control Data Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conferencing systems face limitations in efficiently exchanging data during audio or video conferences, particularly due to disruptive and time-consuming methods of in-band signaling and the need for separate communication channels, which disrupt conversations and increase costs and productivity losses.
Innovation Solution
A conferencing system that enables endpoints to communicate control data using various protocols, such as IP-based, modem, serial I/O, and Low Profile Signaling Protocol (LPSP), allowing control signals to be embedded in audio information and exchanged between endpoints, with a bridge architecture that detects and decodes control data to manage conference functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If in-band signaling is used to exchange control data during conference, then control functions can be implemented, but conversations are disrupted and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication channel into separate audio data path and control data path. Control data is extracted from the audio stream and transmitted through a dedicated control channel, allowing audio and control functions to operate independently without interfering with each other, thus maintaining conversation continuity while enabling control operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control channel that mediates between the audio communication and control functions. This separate control channel acts as a mediator, allowing control data to be exchanged without directly interfering with the audio stream, thereby preventing disruption to conversations while enabling full control functionality.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If separate communication channels are established for data exchange, then control data can be transmitted without disrupting audio, but additional costs and setup time are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by establishing the control channel as part of the initial conference setup process. The control channel is configured and ready before the conference begins, using the same authentication and setup procedures as the audio channel. This eliminates the need for separate channel establishment during the conference, saving time while providing disruption-free control data transmission.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple communication protocols are supported for control data exchange, then system versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control channel framework that can handle multiple communication protocols (DTMF, SIP, H.323, etc.) through a unified interface. The control channel infrastructure remains protocol-agnostic, while protocol-specific processing is handled through standardized adaptation layers, allowing the system to support multiple protocols without proportionally increasing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A High Speed Serial Bus connecting teleconference devices, such as video conference unit, speakerphone, external loudspeakers or microphones is disclosed. The disclosed embodiments enable the distributing and sharing of controls among the linked devices. They enable incremental upgrades or capacity increases of the teleconference system.