Sub-Videoconference Management via Multipoint Control Unit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current videoconferencing systems do not allow participants to conduct multiple videoconferences simultaneously, limiting the ability to have private sessions during ongoing main videoconferences without using external communication sources.
Innovation Solution
A multipoint control unit (MCU) is used to manage multiple videoconferences, enabling participants to request and establish sub-conferences within ongoing main videoconferences through DTMF signals, IVR sessions, or Far End Camera Control, allowing for the selection of participants and layout options for the sub-conference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a common videoconference endpoint is used to participate in videoconferences, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but the endpoint cannot participate in two or more videoconferences simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the videoconference participation capability by separating the endpoint (terminal) from the conference management function (MCU). The endpoint maintains simplicity while the MCU handles multiple conference sessions, allowing a participant to join multiple videoconferences simultaneously through different conference IDs or contexts at the MCU level.
Solution Approach 2:
The MCU acts as an intermediary between the endpoint and multiple videoconference sessions. The endpoint communicates with the MCU, which then manages participation in multiple conferences, enabling the endpoint to indirectly participate in multiple videoconferences without increasing its own complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If participants use external communication sources for private sessions, then they can have private discussions, but the system complexity increases and requires additional devices
Solution Approach 1:
The videoconference system is enhanced with multi-functionality to support both main conference and private session modes through the same endpoint and MCU infrastructure. The system can dynamically create sub-conferences or private channels within the existing videoconference framework, eliminating the need for external communication sources while maintaining system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a nested structure where sub-conferences or private sessions are nested within the main videoconference. Participants can join a main conference and simultaneously participate in nested private sessions with subsets of participants, all managed through the same MCU without requiring external communication tools.
3Adaptability or versatility
If all participants are informed about sub-conference invitations, then transparency is maintained, but the ability to have confidential private sessions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by allowing different information distribution policies for different participant groups. When a sub-conference is initiated, the MCU can selectively inform only the invited participants about the sub-conference details, while other participants continue with the main conference without being disturbed, thus maintaining confidentiality for selected groups.
Solution Approach 2:
The participant group is segmented into main conference participants and sub-conference participants. The invitation mechanism is segmented to allow selective notification, where only specific participants receive sub-conference invitation information while others remain unaware, enabling confidential private sessions within the overall conference structure.
Data Source
AI summary
New videoconferencing services and methods for handling the video and audio of one or more sub-conferences running in parallel to a main videoconference are disclosed. In exemplary embodiment, a multipoint control unit (MCU) that controls one or more videoconferences may be requested by a conferee of a videoconference (a main videoconference) to establish a sub-conference according to a requester mode of operation.