Proximity-Based Videoconference Control via Mobile Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current videoconferencing systems are limited by the need for proprietary cloud-based services and fragmented control applications, leading to user errors in controlling multiple videoconferencing components and lack of seamless proximity-based control.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a mobile computing device to determine proximity to videoconferencing rooms via wireless signals and beacons, allowing users to control videoconferencing codecs through a server, providing a unified interface for initiating and managing conference calls across multiple rooms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If proprietary cloud-based services are used to control videoconferencing systems, then service integration is achieved, but system complexity and user dependency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary component that mediates between mobile computing devices and videoconferencing codecs. This server acts as a neutral mediator that enables control functionality without requiring proprietary cloud services, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining adaptability. The server receives control inputs from mobile devices and translates them into appropriate codec commands, eliminating dependency on vendor-specific cloud platforms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal control system where a single server can manage multiple videoconferencing codecs from different manufacturers. The system provides multi-functional capability by supporting various control operations (room reservation, conference initiation, device control) through a unified interface, eliminating the need for separate proprietary services for each codec or service provider.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control applications are used for different videoconferencing components, then comprehensive control is achieved, but user error and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple control functions into a single unified application running on mobile computing devices. Instead of requiring separate applications for different videoconferencing components (codecs, room reservations, conference management), the system combines all these functions into one interface that communicates through the server, thereby reducing user error while maintaining comprehensive control coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The control application implemented in the patent is designed as a universal multi-functional tool that can control various videoconferencing components through a single interface. The application provides consistent operation across different codecs and functions, eliminating the need for users to learn multiple different control applications and reducing operational errors.
3Ease of operation
If proximity-based control is implemented using mobile devices, then user convenience is improved, but control precision and reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the server confirms control actions to both the mobile device and the videoconferencing codec. This feedback loop ensures that proximity-based control inputs are reliably transmitted and executed, maintaining control reliability while preserving the convenience of mobile device operation. The system provides confirmation signals to verify that control commands were successfully received and processed.
Data Source
AI summary
A system controller for use in a videoconferencing system having multiple videoconferencing rooms each including a videoconferencing codec, includes a communication interface in communication with a videoconferencing codec located in the same videoconferencing room as the system controller, a memory configured to store information about the videoconferencing room in which the system controller is located, and a processor configured to execute computer-executable instructions stored in the memory to receive one or more commands transmitted by a mobile computing device in response to determining whether a videoconferencing room in which the system controller is located is within a defined proximity of the mobile computing device. The processor is configured to control, via the communication interface, the videoconferencing codec located in the same videoconferencing room as the system controller, according to the one or more commands to establish or control a videoconference in the same videoconferencing room.