Integrated Videoconferencing Module for Flat Panel Displays

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional videoconferencing systems are bulky and not suited for integration into modern office environments, requiring a more compact and versatile form factor that can seamlessly integrate with flat panel displays and computer monitors.

Innovation Solution

A videoconferencing system is integrated into a flat panel display or computer monitor, with a videoconferencing module attached to the back and a microphone/camera module on top, electronically connecting to the display's integral electronics, allowing dual use as a computer monitor and videoconferencing system, and featuring pan, tilt, and zoom capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If videoconferencing systems are integrated into flat panel displays, then the form factor is reduced and aesthetics are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveform factorVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines videoconferencing functionality with a flat panel display by integrating a camera module, microphone module, and speaker module directly into the display device. This merging of functions into a single integrated unit reduces the overall form factor while consolidating multiple components into one device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The flat panel display is designed to serve dual purposes: as a standard display device and as a videoconferencing system. The display can operate in display mode for general computing tasks and switch to videoconferencing mode by activating the integrated camera, microphone, and speaker modules, thereby providing multiple functions in a single device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If videoconferencing functionality is added to a standard monitor, then versatility is improved, but the ease of operation may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveversatilityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between display mode and videoconferencing mode based on user needs. The control module detects the operational context and adjusts the system behavior accordingly, making the transition between functions seamless and maintaining ease of operation despite the added versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control module automatically manages the switching between display and videoconferencing modes, reducing the need for manual configuration. The system self-adjusts by detecting the operational context and activating the appropriate modules, thereby maintaining ease of operation while providing versatile functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS7593031B2Integrated desktop videoconferencing system
Publication Date: 2009.09.22 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP
  • US7593031B2 patent drawing
  • US7593031B2 patent drawing
  • US7593031B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed herein is a videoconferencing system that has been integrated into a flat panel display or computer monitor. The integration provides an improved form factor for the videoconferencing system. In addition, the integration offers the dual use as a computer monitor and as a videoconferencing system. The system includes a videoconferencing module attaching to a back of the flat panel display. The videoconferencing module has videoconferencing electronics that electronically connect to integral electronics of the display. The system also includes a microphone/camera module attaching to a top of the flat panel display. The microphone/camera module has a camera and microphone that both electronically connect to the videoconferencing electronics.