Set-Top Box Video Conferencing Integration

Solution Overview

Problem

Current video conferencing systems require multiple devices and equipment, limiting accessibility for cable television subscribers who rely on set-top boxes for Internet access.

Innovation Solution

Implementing video conferencing capabilities within a set-top box in cable television services systems, allowing video calls to be received and displayed on connected devices, utilizing Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology and integrating with cameras for video and audio transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If video conferencing is implemented using traditional computer-based systems, then video conferencing functionality is achieved, but the number of required devices and equipment increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevideo conferencing accessibilityVSAvoidnumber of required devices

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines video conferencing functionality with the existing set-top box infrastructure. The set-top box, which is already present in cable television households for receiving and displaying television signals, is enhanced to include video conferencing capabilities. This merging of functions allows subscribers to conduct video conferences using their existing television and set-top box, eliminating the need for separate computer, webcam, and monitor equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The set-top box is transformed into a multi-functional device that serves both traditional television reception and video conferencing purposes. By integrating video conferencing software and hardware interfaces into the set-top box, the system enables a single device to perform multiple functions: receiving television signals, displaying video content, capturing video input, and managing audio for conferencing. This universality allows cable television subscribers to access video conferencing without acquiring additional specialized equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If video conferencing requires multiple separate devices, then video conferencing capability is provided, but ease of operation is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevideo conferencing accessibilityVSAvoidequipment requirements

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines video conferencing functionality with the existing set-top box infrastructure. The set-top box, which is already present in cable television households for receiving and displaying television signals, is enhanced to include video conferencing capabilities. This merging of functions allows subscribers to conduct video conferences using their existing television and set-top box, eliminating the need for separate computer, webcam, and monitor equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system leverages the existing cable television infrastructure and set-top box hardware to provide video conferencing services. Rather than requiring users to configure and manage separate video conferencing equipment, the set-top box automatically handles video capture, audio processing, and display output to the connected television. The cable television network itself provides the communication pathway, reducing the operational burden on users.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8643692B2Video conferencing utilizing a cable set-top box

Publication Date: 2014.02.04 COX COMMUNICATIONS INC

AI summary

Video conferencing using a set-top box in a cable television services system is provided. A video call may be received over a network connection from a calling party device at a receiving set-top box in the cable television services system. The video call may be displayed on a display device connected to the receiving set-top box.