Hybrid Event Interface for Physical-Virtual Interaction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current virtual conferencing systems lack the ability to effectively configure hybrid events that integrate in-person and virtual participants, limiting interaction and engagement due to restricted control over physical space devices and virtual rooms.
Innovation Solution
A virtual conferencing system that allows users to design and configure both physical space devices and virtual rooms, enabling in-person and virtual participants to interact seamlessly through customizable interfaces and features such as 360-degree cameras and chat interfaces, thereby enhancing engagement and interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a virtual conferencing system provides basic audio and video transmission between devices, then real-time communication is achieved, but interaction and engagement between in-person and virtual participants are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual conferencing system is designed to perform multiple functions beyond basic audio-video transmission. It integrates control over physical space devices (lights, cameras, displays), virtual room configuration, and participant interaction tools into a single platform. The system can adapt to different event types (webinars, conferences, town halls) through configurable templates and customizable parameters, allowing one system to serve diverse hybrid event needs effectively.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the virtual conferencing system integrates control over physical space devices and virtual rooms, then interaction between in-person and virtual participants improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs an event coordinator as an intermediary role that simplifies the complex interactions between physical space devices and virtual room elements. The coordinator uses a centralized control interface that abstracts the underlying system complexity, allowing non-technical users to manage lighting, camera feeds, display content, and virtual participant interactions through intuitive controls. This intermediary layer shields end users from the complex system architecture while enabling comprehensive hybrid event management.
3Adaptability or versatility
If users are given extensive control over physical space devices and virtual room elements, then customization and engagement improve, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides pre-configured event templates and presets for common hybrid event scenarios (webinars, conferences, town halls). These templates come with recommended settings for physical space devices, virtual room layouts, and interaction parameters. Users can start with a template and make minor adjustments rather than configuring everything from scratch, significantly reducing the operational burden while maintaining access to extensive customization options when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure involve a system comprising a computer-readable storage medium storing a program and method for in-person participant interaction for a hybrid event. The program and method provide an interface for designing a hybrid event between in-person and virtual participants, the interface for setting first properties of a physical space device present in a physical space, and setting second properties of a virtual room for the virtual participants; receive an indication of first user input setting the first and second properties; and in association with conferencing, configure the physical space device based on the first properties, display the virtual room based on the second properties, the virtual room including a live video feed of the physical space, receive, via a sidecar application accessible by the in-person participants, an indication of second user input for interacting with the physical space device, and provide for interaction based on the second user input.