Virtual/Augmented Communication Interface for 3D Collaboration

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Solution Overview

Problem

The underlying technology for maximizing the potential of virtualized or augmented reality collaboration is lacking, particularly in enhancing communication between users in multi-dimensional environments.

Innovation Solution

A conferencing system with a communication interface that provides multi-channel, multi-access, always-on, and non-blocking communication, integrated with components such as video, data, audio/video ambience, and whiteboard, utilizing artificial intelligence for audio analysis and machine learning to facilitate enhanced user interaction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional two-dimensional video conferencing is used, then system simplicity is maintained, but communication effectiveness and user engagement are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication effectivenessVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional video conferencing to three-dimensional virtual reality environments. Users wear VR headsets to enter immersive 3D conference spaces where they can interact with colleagues as virtual avatars, view shared content in spatial dimensions, and navigate virtual meeting rooms. This dimensional expansion significantly enhances communication effectiveness and user engagement while managing system complexity through integrated software platforms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If basic video conferencing features are provided, then ease of operation is maintained, but collaboration capability is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecollaboration capabilityVSAvoiduser operation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The virtual reality conferencing system integrates multiple collaboration functions into a single unified platform. Users can simultaneously engage in video communication, share 3D visual content, interact with virtual whiteboards, access real-time data visualizations, and collaborate on design models all within the same VR environment. This multi-functional integration enhances collaboration capability while maintaining ease of operation through standardized interfaces and automated workflows.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines previously separate collaboration tools into an integrated VR conference experience. Video feeds, screen sharing, annotation tools, and data visualization are merged into the three-dimensional virtual space, allowing users to access multiple collaboration modes without switching between different applications or devices. This consolidation enhances versatility while simplifying the user experience through unified controls.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If standard communication interfaces are used, then device compatibility is maintained, but user engagement and immersion are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser engagementVSAvoidhardware requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses virtual reality headsets as intermediary devices that create immersive 3D environments between users. These headsets serve as the primary interface, replacing traditional screens and speakers with spatial audio and stereoscopic visual displays. The VR headset acts as a mediator that translates standard communication data into immersive experiences, significantly enhancing user engagement while managing hardware complexity through standardized VR platform compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20250294119A1Enhanced virtual and/or augmented communications interface
Publication Date: 2025.09.18 IPC SYSTEMS INC
  • US20250294119A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides systems and methods employing a conferencing system for facilitating enhanced communication between users. In certain embodiments, the conferencing system comprises a communication interface configured to, during a conference session, provide a virtual and/or augmented conference between multiple users having access to a multi-channel, multi-access, always-on, and non-blocking communication. In particular embodiments, the communication interface is in communication with at least one additional component select from: a video component, a data component (e.g., that provides non-audio data to one or more of said users), an audio/video ambience component, and a whiteboard component.