Separate Camera Unit for Remote Assistance in Communication Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals with impairments, such as the elderly or those with disabilities, face challenges in using modern technology and often require assistance with daily tasks, which can be hindered by the lack of immediate and convenient support, as traditional assistance methods are not always available or efficient.
Innovation Solution
A communication system comprising a portable device with a separate camera unit, connected via wire or wireless, and a holding mechanism such as a wearable, adapter, or stand, allowing for flexible and intuitive switching between face-to-face and first-person views during video calls, enabling remote assistance and simplifying the use of technology for users with impairments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a person with impairment uses traditional communication devices (mobile phones, computers), then they can access technology functions, but they encounter difficulties in operating the equipment and may get stuck when problems arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a camera unit as an intermediary tool that captures visual information of the task environment and transmits it to a remote operator. This mediator enables the impaired user to benefit from remote assistance without requiring them to master complex device operations themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables a degree of self-service by allowing the user to independently set up the camera and initiate communication when needed, while the complex problem-solving is handled remotely by the operator who views through the user's perspective.
2Reliability
If family members or caregivers physically visit to provide assistance, then immediate help is available, but it is logistically inefficient and not regularly available when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical travel and in-person interaction with an electronic communication system. The camera unit transmits visual data electronically to the remote operator, eliminating the need for physical presence while maintaining assistance availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system acts as an intermediary that connects the user and the caregiver remotely, allowing assistance to be provided through electronic mediation rather than requiring physical co-location.
3Adaptability or versatility
If common accessories like mobile phones and computers are used, then technology access is provided, but people with impairments perceive it as challenging to operate and may get stuck when problems arise
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the communication functionality into separate components: a simple camera unit for the user and a more capable communication device for the remote operator. This segmentation allows the user to interact with only the simple camera while the operator handles complex communication functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera unit serves as an intermediary that bridges the gap between the user's limited operational capabilities and the need for complex communication functions, allowing the user to benefit from advanced technology without directly operating it.
4Reliability
If assistance is provided through physical presence, then immediate help is available, but waiting time and logistical inefficiency occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical requirement of physical travel with electronic communication, allowing immediate assistance to be provided remotely without the time loss associated with physical movement and scheduling.
Data Source
Figure 1~2C
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
This disclosure relates to a communication system for providing a person, such as a person with an impairment, an elderly, or handicapped person, with remote assistance. The communication system comprises a communication device, comprising an audio output unit, an input unit for receiving user commands, a microphone, a display unit, a network unit, a memory unit for storing an operating system, and a data processing unit, the communication device being configured to communicate with a remote server system and configured to support video calls via the remote server system; a camera unit, wherein the camera unit and the communication device are structurally separate entities, the camera unit being connected or connectable to the communication device in a wireless manner or by wire; and at least one item selected from the group consisting of a wearable, an adapter for being attached to a wearable and/or the human body, and a stand; the at least one item comprising a holding means. The camera unit comprises a coupling means for being releasably coupled to the holding means, the coupling means and the holding means are configured to be releasably mated for holding the camera unit attached to the holding means