Proximity Sensor Video Channel Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Establishing real-time video communication networks is inefficient due to the reliance on user availability and device hardware, often resulting in failed connections and wasted time and energy.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize sensors, such as motion detectors and cameras, to automatically connect computing devices when users are proximate, enabling the creation of video communications channels based on environmental changes, allowing for seamless initiation of video chat sessions without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual phone calls are used to establish communication, then user availability can be checked, but the process is time-consuming and often results in failed connections
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing communication channels and preparing device connections before users actually need to communicate. When devices are within proximity, the system proactively sets up the communication infrastructure, so that when users initiate contact, the connection is already ready, eliminating wait time and failed connection attempts
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system serves itself by automatically detecting device proximity through sensors, initiating connection protocols, and establishing communication channels without manual intervention. The system monitors environmental conditions and autonomously creates communication pathways when conditions are favorable, freeing users from manual dialing and connection management
2Productivity
If sensors are used to detect user presence and automatically initiate connections, then connection establishment becomes faster and more efficient, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system makes existing device components multi-functional by having sensors originally designed for other purposes (motion detection, ambient light sensing, proximity detection) also serve communication initiation functions. This allows the device to detect user presence and trigger communication protocols using hardware already present in modern smartphones and computers, avoiding the need for dedicated communication sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into unified processes: sensor data processing is merged with connection management logic, and the communication initiation system integrates proximity detection, user identification, and channel establishment into a single automated workflow. This consolidation reduces overall system complexity despite adding automation capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are systems, methods, and apparatus for communicating hardware generated video between two or more devices. The devices can operate to mimic chance interactions, or “stop-and-chats,” that normally occur when two or more persons are living together or otherwise in the same locations. For example, each computer or circuit can determine whether a person is proximate to the computer. If two persons that designate each other as connections are simultaneously proximate to their respective devices, a video hardware connection will be created between their computers. Furthermore, respective circuitry can be connected to a third device associated with a person who is proximate to their respective device and also indicated as a connection by both of the two persons who are already connected. A video hardware connection can disconnect when one person participating in the video is no longer proximate to their respective device.