MCU Dynamic Multi-Picture Configuration for Video Conferencing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional video conferencing systems experience the phenomenon of blank sub-picture screens due to preset multi-picture modes, which fail to dynamically adjust according to the number of conferencing terminals.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for a Multipoint Control Unit (MCU) that calculates the area occupied by each video image based on resolutions, bandwidths, frame rates, importance, and volume, and dynamically divides the display screen into regions to fill video images from multiple conferencing terminals, eliminating blank screens by using a dynamic multi-picture generation mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a preset multi-picture mode is used in the MCU, then the system can display multiple pictures, but blank sub-picture screens occur when the number of conferencing terminals does not match the preset mode
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from static preset multi-picture modes to a dynamic picture configuration system. The MCU dynamically calculates the area occupied by each video image based on resolutions, bandwidths, frame rates, importance, and volume, then dynamically divides the display screen into regions and fills video images accordingly. This dynamic adjustment ensures that the display configuration adapts to the actual number and characteristics of conferencing terminals, eliminating blank screens while maintaining high display quality.
2Device complexity
If the multi-picture mode is fixed according to the number of conferencing terminals, then the display configuration is simple, but the system cannot adapt to varying numbers of terminals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting multiple parameters including the number of display regions, area occupied by each video image, resolution, bandwidth, frame rate, importance, and volume. The system changes these parameters based on the actual number and characteristics of conferencing terminals, enabling flexible adaptation from 2 to 9 terminals without requiring fixed preset modes for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by creating a single dynamic picture configuration system that can handle multiple scenarios (2-9 conferencing terminals) with one unified approach. The system universally applies the same dynamic calculation and division methodology across different terminal counts, eliminating the need for separate preset modes for each terminal number while maintaining optimal display quality throughout.
3Ease of manufacture
If preset multi-picture modes are used, then the system implementation is straightforward, but blank sub-picture screens occur when three or more terminals join the conference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a closed-loop system where the MCU continuously monitors the actual number and characteristics of conferencing terminals, calculates the appropriate picture configuration based on this feedback, and dynamically adjusts the display regions and video image placement accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that the display configuration always matches the actual terminal situation, preventing blank screens while maintaining implementation feasibility through automated calculation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus for Multiple Control Unit (MCU) to optimize configuration of multiple pictures are disclosed. The solutions provided by embodiments of the present invention include: calculating, according to resolutions, bandwidths, frame rates, importance, and volume of received video images sent by N conferencing terminals, the area occupied by each of the video images in a picture presented on an MCU display screen; and dividing, according to the area occupied by each of the video images in the picture presented on the MCU display screen, the picture into N regions, and filling the video images sent by the N conferencing terminals into corresponding regions of the picture.