Mobile Conference Call System Using Software-Based Gateway
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conference call systems are incompatible with packet-based communication methods and require costly telecommunications hardware, making them difficult for small enterprises and individuals to arrange on-site.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allows conference calls to be initiated from a mobile device, using a call centre server and gateway server to digitize audio/video streams, enabling compatibility with packet-based communication systems like the Internet and email, without needing network operator infrastructure or additional hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conference bridge or wireless centrex system is used to establish conference calls, then conference call functionality is achieved, but costly telecommunications hardware is required and accessibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the conference call establishment functionality from traditional telecommunications hardware (conference bridges, wireless centrex systems) and relocates it to software running on standard personal computers. The conference server application on PC(s) replaces the need for specialized telecommunications equipment, making the system accessible to small enterprises and individuals without requiring costly hardware infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a software-based copy of conference call functionality that runs on standard personal computers instead of requiring physical telecommunications hardware. The conference server application replicates the conference bridge functionality in software form, allowing conference calls to be established using ordinary PC equipment that is already widely available in business environments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional conference call systems are used, then conference functionality is provided, but compatibility with packet-based communication systems is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the conference server application universal by enabling it to operate within packet-based communication environments (such as LANs and the Internet) rather than being restricted to traditional telecommunications networks. The application can receive participant information from various sources including email systems and call log databases, and can interface with different communication protocols, making it compatible with contemporary business communication systems while maintaining reliable conference call functionality.
3Productivity
If conference calls are established using prior art methods, then conference functionality is achieved, but service time at call centres increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling automated conference call establishment through the conference server application running on personal computers. The system can automatically retrieve participant information from call log databases or email systems, initiate conference calls without operator intervention, and manage the conference proceedings autonomously. This automation eliminates the need for call centre operators to manually set up and manage conference calls, significantly reducing service time and increasing call centre efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and arrangement for establishing a conference call from a mobile station in a call centre environment. A user may choose conference call participants from his mobile phone, and a client application in the mobile phone will communicate relevant parameters to the call centre server, which will then call the conference initiator and other participants via the gateway server. The calls are handed over to the gateway server, which will digitize each call to an audio and/or video stream, typically an RTP stream. The streams are relayed to a computer where the streams are combined to form a successful conference call. The conference call is then recorded to a data file on the computer, and may be sent to participants or stored to a database with relevant metadata. The network infrastructure of the telecommunications network operator need not be consulted, nor is there any need for additional hardware.