JP2005198195A - Video phone system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a video phone system in which an operator can decide in a short period of time whether or not a party to be called is located near a communication apparatus. <P>SOLUTION: When a holding operation for holding communication is performed in a master unit 7, a video processing means 106 displays a video image based on video data from cameras 54 of slave units 5, 6 on the display device 34 of the master unit 7 wherein the holding operation is performed. The operator of the master unit 7 views the video image displayed on the display device 34 of the master unit 7, to grasp the situations around the slave units 5, 6. When a holding operation for holding communication is performed in the one slave unit 5, the video processing means 106 displays a video image based on the video data from cameras 33, 54 of the master unit 7 and the remaining slave unit 6 on a display device 55 of the one slave unit 5 wherein the holding operation is performed. The operator of the one slave unit 5 views the video image displayed on the display device 55 of the one slave unit 5 to grasp the situations around the master unit 7 and the remaining slave unit 6. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention includes a connection unit connected to a public communication network, and a plurality of communication devices connected to the public communication network via the connection unit and connected to each other and capable of communicating audio data and video data. Including videophone system.

  The first conventional technique is a telephone system including a plurality of telephone apparatuses (hereinafter referred to as first and second telephone apparatuses) capable of voice data communication. In this telephone system, when the first telephone apparatus is communicating with an external telephone apparatus, this communication can be transferred to the second telephone apparatus.

  In transferring the communication, the operator of the first telephone device first performs an operation for holding the communication, and further performs a call operation for selecting the second telephone device and calling the extension. The call operation is an operation of inputting a number assigned to the second telephone device or an operation of pressing a button corresponding to the second telephone device. Thereafter, when a receiving operation such as off-hook is performed on the second telephone device, extension communication between the first telephone device and the second telephone device is established. The operator of the first telephone device notifies the operator of the second telephone device that the communication is to be transferred, and then performs a transfer operation for transferring the communication.

  As a second conventional technique, Patent Document 1 describes a technique similar to the first conventional technique. The videophone system of Patent Document 1 includes a secretary terminal connected to a digital communication network and a plurality of executive terminals connected to the secretary terminal via a home transmission path. In this videophone system, after communication between the secretary terminal and the other party is started, communication from the other party can be relayed from the secretary terminal to the executive terminal.

  In order to relay communication, the secretary who is the user of the secretary terminal first makes a predetermined input for instructing the hold to place the line with the other party on hold, and further calls the executive terminal. The secretary tells the executives that it is a videophone call from the other party, and then makes a predetermined input instructing the agency.

  As a third conventional technique, Patent Document 2 discloses a technique similar to the first and second conventional techniques. The communication terminal of Patent Document 2 can perform holding / transfer during multimedia communication in which images, sounds, and other data are multiplexed and transmitted / received via a network. In this communication terminal, when hold / transfer is performed, each medium of its own terminal is muted, and a hold / transfer preparation request is transmitted to the other terminal to mute each medium of the other terminal, Receiving hold / transfer preparation completion notification from the other party to hold / transfer.

  As a fourth conventional technique, Patent Document 3 discloses a technique similar to the first to third conventional techniques. The videophone switching system disclosed in Patent Document 3 includes a plurality of videophone terminals (hereinafter referred to as first to third videophone terminals), a playback device that reproduces audio data and video data that informs suspension, and a plurality of communication phones via communication lines. And a communication control device for connecting the videophone terminals.

  For example, when the connection between the first videophone terminal and the second videophone terminal is established, if the second videophone terminal is put on hold, the communication control device sends the audio data and video data to notify the hold. , And transmitted from the player to the first videophone terminal. When the transfer is performed when the second videophone terminal is in the hold state, the connection between the third videophone terminal designated by the second videophone terminal and the second videophone terminal is established. When the second videophone terminal is disconnected from the state connected to the third videophone terminal, a connection between the first videophone terminal and the third videophone terminal is established.

JP-A-6-141307 JP-A-11-341461 JP 2000-316055 A

In the first prior art, if no receiving operation is performed on the second telephone device after a call operation by the operator of the first telephone device, the operator of the first telephone device is near the second telephone device. There is a problem that it cannot be determined whether or not there is a partner to be called. In many cases, there is no other party to call near the second telephone device. In this case, there is a problem that it is necessary for a person different from the other party to call.
The second to fourth conventional techniques have the same problems as the first conventional technique.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a videophone system in which an operator can quickly determine whether or not the other party to be called is near a communication device.

The present invention includes a connection unit connected to a public communication network, and a plurality of communication devices connected to the public communication network via the connection unit and connected to each other and capable of communicating audio data and video data. Including a video phone system,
Each communication device
Photographing means for photographing the surroundings and generating video data;
Display means for displaying video based on video data;
A start command input means for inputting a start command for starting shooting by the shooting means and display by the display means,
When the start command is input by the start command input means, the imaging means of the remaining communication devices excluding the communication device to which the start command is input among the communication devices is displayed on the display device of the communication device to which the start command is input. A videophone system comprising video processing means for displaying video based on video data from

Further, in the present invention, each communication device includes video selection means for selecting a video displayed on the display means,
When a start command is input by the start command input unit, and a video based on video data from the imaging unit of the remaining communication device is displayed on the display unit of the communication device to which the start command is input, When the video selection means of the communication apparatus to which the start command is input selects the video displayed on the display means of the communication apparatus, the extension calling means for calling the extension to the communication apparatus corresponding to the selected video is included. It is characterized by that.

  In the invention, it is preferable that the video selection means includes a touch panel sensor provided in the display means.

  According to the present invention, when the start command is input by the start command input unit, the video processing unit displays the video from the photographing unit of the remaining communication device on the display unit of the communication device to which the start command is input. A video showing an operation procedure of the video selection means is displayed together with a video based on the data.

  According to the present invention, the video processing means receives the start command from the start command input means, and displays the video data from the photographing means of the remaining communication device on the display device of the communication device to which the start command is input. When a video to be displayed is displayed on the display unit of the communication device by the video selection unit of the communication device to which the start command is input when the video based on the communication is displayed, the communication in which the start command is input The display means of the apparatus displays the selected video in an enlarged manner.

In the case where the present invention includes three or more communication devices,
The video processing means receives a start command from the start command input means, and displays video based on video data from the imaging means of the remaining communication devices on the display device of the communication device to which the start command is input. If the video displayed on the display unit of the communication device is selected by the video selection unit of the communication device to which the start command is input, the selected video among the remaining communication devices corresponds to The photographing by the photographing means of the communication device excluding the communication device is stopped.

  According to the present invention, when the start command is input by the start command input unit, the video processing unit receives the start command among the communication devices to the display unit of the communication device to which the start command is input. The video based on the video data from the imaging means of the remaining communication devices excluding the communication device is displayed. The operator of the communication apparatus to which the start command is input can visually recognize the video displayed on the display unit of the communication apparatus and grasp the surrounding conditions of the remaining communication apparatuses. Accordingly, the operator of the communication device to which the start command is input can quickly determine whether the other party to be called is near the remaining communication device without performing a call operation.

  According to the present invention, a start command is input by the start command input means, and a video based on video data from the photographing means of the remaining communication device is displayed on the display device of the communication device to which the start command is input. If the video to be displayed on the display unit of the communication device is selected by the video selection unit of the communication device to which the start command is input, the extension call unit is configured to perform communication corresponding to the selected video. Make an extension call to the device. Since such extension calling means is provided, an operation for calling the extension can be facilitated.

  According to the present invention, the video selection means is configured including the touch panel sensor provided in the display means. In such a video selection means, the operator can easily view the video displayed on the display means by touching a part of the area of the touch panel sensor corresponding to the video area displayed on the display means, for example, with a finger. You can choose.

  According to the invention, when the start command is input by the start command input unit, the video processing unit displays the video from the photographing unit of the remaining communication device on the display unit of the communication device to which the start command is input. A video showing the operation procedure of the video selection means is displayed together with the video based on the data. The operator of the communication apparatus, to which the start command is input, can view the video showing the operation procedure of the video selection unit and easily select the video displayed on the display unit according to the operation procedure.

  According to the present invention, a start command is input by the start command input means, and a video based on video data from the photographing means of the remaining communication device is displayed on the display device of the communication device to which the start command is input. When the video displayed on the display unit of the communication device is selected by the video selection unit of the communication device to which the start command is input, the video processing unit enlarges the selected video. Display. Since the selected video is enlarged as described above, the operator of the communication device to which the start command is input can more accurately grasp the situation around the communication device corresponding to the selected video.

  According to the present invention, a start command is input by the start command input means, and a video based on video data from the photographing means of the remaining communication device is displayed on the display device of the communication device to which the start command is input. When the video displayed on the display unit of the communication device is selected by the video selection unit of the communication device to which the start command is input, the video processing unit selects the remaining communication device. The photographing by the photographing means of the communication device excluding the communication device corresponding to the received video is stopped. After the video is selected, shooting by the shooting unit of the communication device excluding the communication device corresponding to the selected video among the remaining communication devices becomes unnecessary. By stopping this unnecessary shooting, the power consumption can be reduced.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a videophone system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The videophone system 1 is connected to the public communication network 2 via the network control device 3 and a network control device 3 which is a connection means connected to the public communication network 2, and is connected to each other, and audio data and video data A plurality of (3 in the present embodiment) communication devices 4 to 6 capable of communicating with each other. In the present embodiment, parent device 7 is configured to include network control device 3 and any one of a plurality of communication devices 4 to 6. The remaining communication devices 5 and 6 excluding the one communication device 4 among the plurality of communication devices 4 to 6 are the slave devices 5 and 6.

  In the present embodiment, base unit 7 and handset 5 and 6 are realized by a video phone. The master unit 7 and the slave units 5 and 6 do not necessarily have to be realized by a videophone, and may be any communication device that transmits and receives audio data and video data to perform communication.

  The public communication network 2 is realized by an ADSL (Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line) network and a CATV Internet. The master unit 7 and each slave unit 5 and 6 are connected by radio. More specifically, a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) that transmits and receives data by wireless communication between the parent device 7 and each of the child devices 5 and 6 and Bluetooth (registered trademark) that is a wireless communication technology for portable information devices. Is connected. Here, the wireless LAN is a standard for performing communication of about 11 Mbps with 2.4 GHz band radio, for example, and is about 54 Mbps with 802.11b and 2.4 GHz band radio established by IEEE (American Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers). 802.11g established by IEEE is used as a standard for communication.

  In the present embodiment, the base unit 7 performs two-way communication with another videophone device (hereinafter “partner unit”) 8 connected to the public communication network 2 via the public communication network 2. be able to. Each of the slave units 5 and 6 can perform bidirectional communication with the counterpart unit 8 via the master unit 7 and the public communication network 2. The master unit 7 and the slave units 5 and 6 can communicate with each other. Each of the slave units 5 and 6 can communicate with each other via the master unit 7.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the base unit 7, and FIG. 3 is a front view showing an external view of the base unit 7. The base unit 7 includes the network control device 3, antenna 22, radio control device 23, branch control device 24, multimedia demultiplexing device 25, control device 26, storage device 27, speech coding / decoding device 28, speech input / output. It includes a control device 29, a handset 30, a video encoding / decoding device 31, a video input / output control device 32, a camera 33, a display device 34, an input unit control device 35, a touch panel sensor 36, operation keys 37, and dial keys 38. Is done.

  The network control device 3 monitors the status of the public communication network 2 and controls the transmission of data by performing communication data conversion processing between the public communication network 2 and the videophone system 1. The antenna 22 receives radio waves from the slave units 5 and 6. The wireless control device 23 controls wireless data transmission / reception with each of the slave units 5 and 6.

  The handset 30 is an audio input / output device. The handset 30 can convert the sound into a sound signal and input it, and can convert the sound signal into sound and output it. The voice input / output control device 29 performs control to output the voice signal input from the handset 30 to the voice coding / decoding device 28 and control to output the voice signal from the voice coding / decoding device 28 to the handset 30. Do.

  The audio encoding / decoding device 28 encodes an analog audio signal input from the handset 30 via the audio input / output control device 29 into digital audio data, and decodes the digital audio data into an analog audio signal. Processing to output to the handset 30 through the voice input / output control device 29 is performed.

  The camera 33 is a video input device. The display device 34 is a video output device. The video input / output control device 32 controls the video signal input from the camera 33 to be output to the video encoding / decoding device 31 and outputs the video signal from the video encoding / decoding device 31 to the display device 34. I do.

  The video encoding / decoding device 31 performs a process of encoding a video signal input from the camera 33 via the video input / output control device 32 into digital video data, and also decodes the digital video data into a video signal. Then, a process of outputting to the display device 34 via the video input / output control device 32 is performed.

  In the present embodiment, the photographing means 101 is configured including the camera 33, the video input / output control device 32, and the video encoding / combining device 31. The photographing unit 101 photographs the surroundings and generates video data. The display unit 102 includes the display device 34, the video input / output control device 32, and the video encoding / combining device 31. The display means 102 displays a video based on the video data.

  The multimedia demultiplexing device 25 multiplexes each data input from the audio encoding / decoding device 28 and the video encoding / decoding device 31 and outputs the multiplexed data to the branch control device 24, and the multiplexing received from the branch control device 24. The converted digital data is separated and output to the audio encoding / decoding device 28 and the video encoding / decoding device 31.

  The touch panel sensor 36 is provided in the display device 34 and inputs a signal related to the position pressed by the operator's finger, for example. The operation key 37 includes a hold key 37a to which a hold command for holding communication is input. The dial key 38 has numeric keys and the like. The touch panel sensor 36, the operation key 37, and the dial key 38 are input devices.

  In the present embodiment, a start command input unit is provided that includes a hold key 37a and that receives a start command for starting shooting by the camera 33 and display by the display device 34. In the present embodiment, the hold command input to the hold key 37a corresponds to the start command. In addition, a video selection means for selecting a video displayed on the display device 34 is configured including the touch panel sensor 36. The video selection means may also include an operation key 37 and a dial key 38. The input unit control device 35 detects inputs from the touch panel sensor 36, the operation keys 37, and the dial keys 38 and outputs them to the control device 26.

  The branch control device 24 includes data from the network control device 3 that controls data with the public communication network 2, data from each of the slave devices 5 and 6 that are wirelessly connected to the parent device 7, and a multimedia demultiplexing device 25. Control is performed to determine the appropriate transmission destination and send the data from.

  The control device 26 controls the branch control device 24, the multimedia demultiplexing device 25, the storage device 27, and the input unit control device 35. The control device 26 also functions as an extension call means for making an extension call to each of the slave units 5 and 6 corresponding to the video selected by the video selection means including the touch panel sensor 36. In the present embodiment, the video processing means 106 is configured including the multimedia demultiplexing device 25 and the control device 26.

  The storage device 27 includes audio data from the handset 30, video data from the camera 33, data input from the touch panel sensor 36, operation keys 37 and dial keys 38, audio data and video data from the public communication network 2, and Temporary data or the like when the control device 26 performs processing is stored.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the slave units 5 and 6, and FIG. 5 is a front view showing the appearance of the slave units 5 and 6. The subunit | mobile_units 5 and 6 are the antenna 41, the radio | wireless control apparatus 42, the branch control apparatus 43, the multimedia demultiplexing apparatus 44, the control apparatus 45, the memory | storage device 46, the audio | voice encoding / decoding apparatus 47, the audio | voice input / output control apparatus 48, Earphone jack 49, speaker 50, microphone 51, video encoding / decoding device 52, video input / output control device 53, camera 54, display device 55, input unit control device 56, touch panel sensor 57, operation key 58, dial key 59 Consists of including.

  The antenna 41 receives radio waves from the parent device 7. The wireless control device 42 controls data transmission / reception with the parent device 7 wirelessly.

  The earphone jack 49, the speaker 50, and the microphone 51 are voice input / output devices. The audio input / output control device 48 performs control to output the audio signal input from the earphone jack 49 and the microphone 51 to the audio encoding / decoding device 47 and also outputs the audio signal from the audio encoding / decoding device 47 to the earphone jack 49. Control to output to the speaker 50 is performed.

  The audio encoding / decoding device 47 encodes an analog audio signal input from the earphone jack 49 and the microphone 51 via the audio input / output control device 48 into digital audio data, and converts the digital audio data into an analog audio signal. And processing to output to the earphone jack 49 and the speaker 50 via the voice input / output control device 48.

  The camera 54 is a video input device. The display device 55 is a video output device. The video input / output control device 53 performs control to output the video signal input from the camera 54 to the video coding / decoding device 52 and outputs the video signal from the video coding / decoding device 52 to the display device 55. I do.

  The video encoding / decoding device 52 performs processing for encoding a video signal input from the camera 54 via the video input / output control device 53 into digital video data, and also decodes the digital video data into a video signal. Then, a process of outputting to the display device 55 via the video input / output control device 53 is performed.

  In the present embodiment, the photographing unit 111 is configured including the camera 54, the video input / output control device 53, and the video encoding / combining device 52. The photographing unit 111 photographs the surroundings and generates video data. The display unit 112 includes the display device 55, the video input / output control device 53, and the video encoding / combining device 31. The display means 112 displays a video based on the video data.

  The multimedia demultiplexing device 44 multiplexes each data input from the audio encoding / decoding device 47 and the video encoding / decoding device 52 and outputs the multiplexed data to the branch control device 43 and also from the branch control device 43. A process of separating the multiplexed digital data and outputting it to the audio encoding / decoding device 47 and the image encoding / decoding device 52 is performed.

  The touch panel sensor 57 is provided in the display device 55 and inputs a signal related to the position pressed by the operator's finger, for example. The operation key 58 includes a hold key 58a for holding communication. Dial key 59 has numeric keys and the like. The touch panel sensor 57, the operation keys 58, and the dial keys 59 are input devices. A video selection means for selecting any one of the videos displayed on the display device 55 is configured including the touch panel sensor 57. The image selection means may include an operation key 58 and a dial key 59. The input unit control device 56 detects inputs from the touch panel sensor 57, the operation keys 58 and the dial keys 59 and outputs them to the control device 45.

  The branch control device 43 performs control to send the data transmitted from the base unit 7 connected wirelessly and the data transmitted from the multimedia demultiplexing device 25 by determining an appropriate transmission destination.

  The control device 45 controls the branch control device 43, the multimedia demultiplexing device 44, the storage device 46, and the input unit control device 56. The control device 45 also functions as extension call means for calling an extension to the master unit 7 or each of the slave units 5 and 6 corresponding to the video selected by the video selection means including the touch panel sensor 57.

  The storage device 46 has audio data from the earphone jack 49 and the microphone 51, video data from the camera 54, data input from the touch panel sensor 57, operation keys 58 and dial keys 59, and audio / video data from the main unit 7. In addition, temporary data when the control device 45 performs processing is stored.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the parent device 7 when the holding operation is performed in the parent device 7, and FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the parent device 7 subsequent to FIG. When the master unit 7 communicates with the partner unit 8 and the base unit 7 performs a hold operation for holding the communication, the base unit when the base unit 7 performs the hold operation in step a1. 7 starts. In the next step a2, the control device 26 causes the branch control device 24 to place communication with the counterpart device 8 on hold. In the next step a3, the control device 26 transmits a camera activation signal to each of the slave units 5 and 6.

  When the video data from each of the slave units 5 and 6 is received in the next step a4, in step a5, the control device 26 uses the multimedia demultiplexing device 25 to transmit the video data from each of the slave units 5 and 6, The synthesized video data is generated by synthesizing the video data from the counterpart device 8 and the video based on the synthesized video data is displayed on the display device 34. The synthesized video data is data obtained by synthesizing each video data so that a video based on the video data from each of the slave units 5 and 6 and the counterpart unit 8 can be displayed on the display device 34 of the base unit 7 at the same time. It is. More specifically, in the video based on the composite video data, the video based on the video data from the counterpart unit 8 is arranged in the upper part 91 of the screen, and the video based on the video data from each of the slave units 5 and 6 is displayed in the lower part 92 of the screen. Are arranged on the left and right sides 92a and 92b.

  When one of the images from each of the slave units 5 and 6 is selected in the next step a6, in step a7, the control device 26 stops the camera for the slave unit 6 not selected in step a6. Send a signal. In the next step a8, the control device 26 starts transmitting an extension call signal to the handset 5 selected in step a6. In the next step a9, the control device 26 uses the multimedia demultiplexing device 25 to synthesize the video data from the slave unit 5 selected in the step a6 and the video data from the counterpart unit 8 to produce a composite video. Data is generated and a video based on the synthesized video data is displayed on the display device 34. The synthesized video data is synthesized so that the video based on the video data from the selected slave unit 5 and the partner unit 8 can be simultaneously displayed on the display device 34 of the master unit 7. It is data. More specifically, in the video based on the composite video data, the video based on the video data from the counterpart device 8 is arranged in the upper part 91 of the screen, and the video based on the video data from the selected slave unit 5 is displayed in the lower part of the screen. 92.

  In the next step a10, when the receiving operation is performed in the selected slave unit 5, the control device 26 establishes an extension with the selected slave unit 5 by the branch control device 24 in step a11. In the next step a12, the control device 26 stops transmitting the extension call signal to the selected slave unit 5.

  In the next step a13, the control device 26 activates the camera 33, causes the camera 33 to start photographing the surroundings, and the video data captured by the multimedia demultiplexing device 25 with the camera 33 and the partner device 8 The synthesized video data is generated, and the synthesized video data is transmitted to the selected slave unit 5. The video based on the composite video data is displayed on the display device 55 of the selected slave unit 5 that has received the composite video data. The composite video data can be displayed simultaneously on the display device 55 of the selected slave unit 5 on the basis of the video data captured by the camera 33 of the master unit 7 and the video data from the counterpart unit 8. In addition, the video data is synthesized data. More specifically, in the video based on the composite video data, the video based on the video data from the counterpart device 8 is arranged in the upper part 91 of the screen, and the video based on the video data photographed by the camera 33 of the parent device 7 is displayed on the screen. Located in the lower portion 92. At this time, the display device 34 of the parent device 7 displays a video based on the video data from the selected child device 5 and the counterpart device 8 following the step a9.

  In the next step a14, when a transfer operation for transferring communication is performed in the parent device 7, the hold between the partner device 8 and the parent device 7 is released in step a15, and the communication with the partner device 8 and the extension are performed. Communication is connected, and communication between the selected slave unit 5 and the partner unit 8 is started. On the display device 55 of the selected slave unit 5, a video based on the video data from the counterpart unit 8 is displayed over the entire 93. In the next step a16, the display by the display device 34 of the parent device 7 is stopped. In the next step a17, the operation of the parent device 7 when the holding operation is performed in the parent device 7 is ended.

  In the present embodiment, the transfer operation is performed in the parent device 7, but in another embodiment of the present invention, the transfer operation may be performed in the selected child device 5. In this case, a transfer operation such as pressing the portion of the display device 55 where the image from the counterpart device 8 is displayed on the selected slave device 5 is performed, and a transfer signal is transmitted from the selected slave device 5 to the master device 7. Is received, and upon receiving this transfer signal, the control device 26 connects the communication between the counterpart unit 8 and the slave unit 5.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of each of the slave units 5 and 6 that has received the camera activation signal from the master unit 7. When the camera activation signal is received from the parent device 7, the operation of the slave devices 5 and 6 when the camera activation signal is received from the parent device 7 is started in step b1. In the next step b <b> 2, the control device 45 activates the camera 54 and starts photographing the surroundings with the camera 54. In the next step b3, the control device 45 starts transmission of video data to the parent device 7.

  When the camera stop signal is received from the parent device 7 in the next step b4, the control device 45 stops the transmission of the video data in step b5. In the next step b <b> 6, the control device 45 stops the surrounding photographing by the camera 54. In the next step b7, the operations of the slave units 5 and 6 when the camera activation signal is received from the master unit 7 are terminated.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, when a hold operation for holding communication is performed in the parent device 7, the video processing unit 106 displays each child on the display device 34 of the parent device 7 in which the hold operation is performed. The video based on the video data from the cameras 54 of the machines 5 and 6 is displayed. The operator of the parent device 7 can visually recognize the image displayed on the display device 34 of the parent device 7 and grasp the situation around each of the child devices 5 and 6. Therefore, the operator of the parent device 7 can determine in a short time whether or not the other party to be called is near each of the child devices 5 and 6 without performing the calling operation.

  In addition, when a hold operation for holding communication is performed in the master unit 7 and a video based on video data from the cameras 54 of the slave units 5 and 6 is displayed on the display device 34 of the master unit 7, When the video displayed on the display device 34 of the parent device 7 is selected, the control device 26 of the parent device 7 makes an extension call to the child device 5 corresponding to the selected video. Since such a control device 26 is provided, an operation for calling an extension can be facilitated.

  In the present embodiment, when a hold operation is performed in the master unit 7, the display device 34 of the master unit 7 displays the video based on the video data from the counterpart unit 8 and the cameras 54 of the slave units 5 and 6. The video based on the video data is displayed. In another embodiment of the present invention, in addition to the video, a video indicating an operation procedure for selecting the video may be displayed. As an image showing the operation procedure, for example, an extension number assigned to each of the slave units 5 and 6 is displayed. The operator of the parent device 7 can visually select the video showing the operation procedure and easily select the video displayed on the display device 34 according to the operation procedure.

  In addition, when a hold operation for holding communication is performed in the master unit 7 and a video based on video data from the cameras 54 of the slave units 5 and 6 is displayed on the display device 34 of the master unit 7, When an image displayed on the display device 34 of the parent device 7 is selected, the control device 26 causes the multimedia demultiplexing device 25 to enlarge and display the selected image. Since the selected video is enlarged in this way, the operator of the parent device 7 can more accurately grasp the situation around the child device 5 corresponding to the selected video.

  In addition, when a hold operation for holding communication is performed in the master unit 7 and a video based on video data from the cameras 54 of the slave units 5 and 6 is displayed on the display device 34 of the master unit 7, When the image displayed on the display device 34 of the parent device 7 is selected, the control device 26 stops the photographing by the camera 54 of the child device 6 corresponding to the unselected image among the child devices 5 and 6. . After the video is selected, shooting by the camera 54 of the slave unit 6 corresponding to the video that has not been selected becomes unnecessary. By stopping this unnecessary shooting, the power consumption can be reduced.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the base unit 7 when a hold operation is performed in one slave unit 5, and FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the base unit 7 subsequent to FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of base unit 7 subsequent to FIG. When one slave unit 5 is communicating with the counterpart unit 8, a hold operation for holding the communication is performed in one slave unit 5, and a hold signal is given from the slave unit 5 to the master unit 7. In step c1, the operation of the master unit 7 when a hold operation is performed in one slave unit 5 is started. In the next step c <b> 2, the control device 26 causes the branch control device 43 to place communication with the counterpart device 8 on hold. In the next step c3, the control device 26 activates the camera 33. In the next step c4, the control device 26 transmits a camera activation signal to the remaining slave units 6.

  When the video data from the remaining slave unit 6 is received in the next step c5, in step c6, the control device 26 uses the multimedia demultiplexer 25 to transmit the video data from the master unit 7 and the remaining slave unit. The video data from 6 and the video data from the counterpart device 8 are synthesized to generate synthesized video data, and this synthesized video data is transmitted to one slave unit 5. The video based on the composite video data is displayed on the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 that has received the composite video data. The synthesized video data is displayed on the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 so that images based on the video data from the master unit 7, the remaining slave units 6 and the counterpart unit 8 can be displayed simultaneously. Is the synthesized data. More specifically, in the video based on the composite video data, the video based on the video data from the counterpart device 8 is arranged in the upper portion 91 of the screen, and the video based on the video data from the parent device 7 is displayed on the left 92a of the lower portion 92 of the screen. The video based on the video from the remaining slave unit 6 is arranged on the right 92b of the lower part 92 of the screen.

  In the next step c7, it is determined that one of the images from the parent device 7 and the remaining child devices 6 has been selected. When the remaining handset 6 is selected in step c8, the control device 26 stops shooting by the camera 33. In the next step c10, the control device 26 starts transmitting an extension call signal to the slave unit 6 selected in the steps c7 and c8.

  In the next step c11, the control device 26 uses the multimedia demultiplexing device 25 to synthesize the video data from the selected slave unit 6 and the video data from the counterpart unit 8 to generate composite video data. The composite video data is transmitted to one slave unit 5. The video based on the composite video data is displayed on the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 that has received the composite video data. The composite video data is displayed on the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 so that images based on the selected video data from the slave unit 6 and video data from the counterpart unit 8 can be displayed simultaneously. The data is synthesized data. More specifically, in the video based on the composite video data, the video based on the video data from the counterpart device 8 is arranged in the upper part 91 of the screen, and the video based on the video data from the selected slave unit 6 is displayed in the lower part 92 of the screen. Placed in.

  In the next step c12, when a receiving operation is performed on the selected slave unit 6, the control unit 26, in step c13, causes the branch control unit 24 to select the selected slave unit 6 and the one slave unit 5. Establish extension communication for. In the next step c14, the control device 26 stops transmitting the extension call signal to the selected slave unit 6.

  In the next step c15, the control device 26 uses the multimedia demultiplexing device 25 to combine the video data from one slave unit 5 and the video data from the counterpart unit 8 to generate composite video data, The synthesized video data is transmitted to the selected slave unit 6. The video based on the composite video data is displayed on the display device 55 of the selected slave unit 6 that has received the composite video data. The composite video data is displayed on the display device 55 of the selected slave unit 6 so that images based on the video data from one slave unit 5 and the video data from the counterpart unit 8 can be displayed simultaneously. This is a composite of video data. More specifically, in the video based on the composite video data, the video based on the video data from the counterpart device 8 is arranged in the upper part 91 of the screen, and the video based on the video data from one slave unit 5 is displayed in the lower part 92 of the screen. Be placed.

  In the next step c16, when a transfer operation for transferring communication is performed by one slave unit 5, the hold with the partner unit 8 is released at step c17, and communication with the partner unit 8 and extension communication are performed. Connected, communication between the selected slave unit 6 and the partner unit 8 is started. On the display device 55 of the selected child device 6, a video image 93 based on the video data from the counterpart device 8 is displayed over the entire screen 93. In the next step c18, the display by the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 is stopped. In the next step c19, the operation of the parent device 7 when there is a holding operation in one child device 5 is ended.

  When the parent device 7 is selected in step c8, the control device 26 transmits a camera stop signal to the unselected child device 6 in step c21. In the next step c22, the control device 26 starts outputting the extension ringing tone.

  In the next step c23, the control device 26 uses the multimedia demultiplexing device 25 to synthesize the video data photographed by the camera 33 of the parent device 7 with the video data from the counterpart device 8, and generate the synthesized video data. A video based on the synthesized video data is generated and transmitted to one slave unit 5.

  The video based on the composite video data is displayed on the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 that has received the composite video data. The composite video data can be displayed on the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 simultaneously with the video data captured by the camera 33 of the master unit 7 and the video based on the video data from the counterpart unit 8. Each video data is synthesized data. More specifically, in the video based on the composite video data, the video based on the video data from the counterpart device 8 is arranged in the upper part 91 of the screen, and the video based on the video data photographed by the camera 33 of the parent device 7 is displayed on the screen. Located in the lower portion 92.

  When the receiving operation is performed in the parent device 7 in the next step c24, in step c25, the control device 26 establishes extension communication between the parent device 7 and one slave device 5 by the branch control device 24. In the next step c26, the control device 26 stops outputting the extension ringing tone.

  In the next step c27, the control device 26 uses the multimedia demultiplexing device 25 to combine the video data from one slave unit 5 and the video data from the counterpart unit 8 to generate composite video data, The synthesized video data is displayed on the display device 34. The synthesized video data is synthesized by the video data so that the video based on the video data from one slave unit 5 and the video data from the counterpart unit 8 can be displayed simultaneously on the display device 34 of the master unit 7. Data. More specifically, in the video based on the composite video data, the video based on the video data from the counterpart device 8 is arranged in the upper part 91 of the screen, and the video based on the video data from one slave unit 5 is displayed in the lower part 92 of the screen. Be placed.

  In the next step c28, when a transfer operation for transferring communication is performed by one slave unit 5, the hold with the partner unit 8 is released at step c29, and communication with the partner unit 8 and extension communication are performed. Connected, communication between the parent device 7 and the partner device 8 is started. On the display device 34 of the parent device 7, a video based on the video data from the counterpart device 8 is displayed throughout. In the next step c29, the display by the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 is stopped, the process proceeds to step c20, and the operation of the master unit 7 when there is a hold operation in one slave unit 5 is terminated.

  As shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, when a hold operation for holding communication with one slave unit 5 is performed, the video processing unit 106 displays the display device 55 of the one slave unit 5 on which the hold operation is performed. The video based on the video data from the cameras 33 and 54 of the master unit 7 and the remaining slave units 6 is displayed. The operator of one slave unit 5 can visually recognize the video displayed on the display device 55 of the one slave unit 5 and grasp the situation around the master unit 7 and the remaining slave units 6. Therefore, the operator of one slave unit 5 can determine in a short time whether or not the other party to be called is near the master unit 7 and the remaining slave units 6 without performing a call operation.

  In addition, a hold operation for holding communication with one slave unit 5 is performed, and the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 is based on video data from the cameras 33 and 54 of the master unit 7 and the remaining slave units 6. When a video is displayed, when a video to be displayed on the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 is selected, the control device 26 of the master unit 7 selects the master unit 7 or the rest corresponding to the selected video. The extension is called to the slave unit 6 of the mobile phone. Since such a control device 26 is provided, an operation for calling an extension can be facilitated.

  In the present embodiment, when a hold operation is performed in one slave unit 5, the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 displays a video based on the video data from the counterpart unit 8 and the camera 33 of the master unit 7. The video based on the video data from the video and the video based on the video data from the camera 54 of the remaining slave unit 6 are displayed. In this embodiment, in addition to the video, You may display the image | video which shows the operation procedure for selecting. As an image showing the operation procedure, for example, extension numbers assigned to the parent device 7 and the remaining child devices 6 are displayed. An operator of one handset 5 can easily select an image displayed on the display device 55 according to the operation procedure by viewing the image showing the operation procedure.

  In addition, a hold operation for holding communication with one slave unit 5 is performed, and the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 is based on video data from the cameras 33 and 54 of the master unit 7 and the remaining slave units 6. When a video is displayed, when a video displayed on the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 is selected, the control device 26 enlarges the selected video by the multimedia demultiplexing device 25. Display. Since the selected video is enlarged as described above, the operator of one slave unit 5 can more accurately grasp the situation around the slave unit 6 or the master unit 7 corresponding to the selected image. .

  In addition, a hold operation for holding communication with one slave unit 5 is performed, and the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 is based on video data from the cameras 33 and 54 of the master unit 7 and the remaining slave units 6. When a video is displayed, when a video displayed on the display device 55 of one slave unit 5 is selected, the control device 26 selects a video that is not selected from the master unit 7 and the remaining slave units 6. Shooting by the cameras 33 and 54 of the parent device or the remaining child devices 6 corresponding to the above is stopped. After the video is selected, shooting by the cameras 33 and 54 of the parent device 7 or the remaining child devices 6 corresponding to the unselected video is not necessary. By stopping this unnecessary shooting, the power consumption can be reduced.

  12 is a diagram for explaining the transfer of communication from the parent device 7 to the child device 5, FIG. 13 is a diagram following FIG. 12, and FIG. 14 is a diagram following FIG. When the video phone system 1 receives an incoming call from the partner device 8 connected to the public communication network 2, an incoming signal transmitted via the public communication network 2 is received as shown in FIG. The base unit 7 starts to output a ring tone and notifies each slave unit of incoming calls. Receiving the incoming call notification, each of the slave units 5 and 6 starts outputting a ringtone to notify the incoming call.

  When the base unit 7 performs a receiving operation, as shown in FIG. 12 (2), communication between the partner unit 8 and the base unit 7 is established, the ringtone output by the base unit 7 and each slave unit 5 are established. , 6 is stopped. Thereafter, when the communication is transferred from the parent device 7 to any one of the child devices 5 and 6, a hold operation for holding the communication with the counterpart device 8 is performed. The operator of the parent device 7 presses the holding key 37a included in the operation key 37 of the parent device 7 as the holding operation, for example.

  When the holding operation is performed in the parent device 7, as shown in FIG. 12 (3), the communication with the counterpart device 8 is put on hold, and the camera activation signal is sent from the parent device 7 to each of the child devices 5 and 6. Is sent. Upon receiving the camera activation signal from the parent device 7, each of the child devices 5 and 6 activates the camera 54 to start photographing the surroundings as shown in FIG. 7 starts transmission. The master unit 7 that has received the video data from each of the slave units 5 and 6 synthesizes the video data from each of the slave units 5 and 6, generates composite video data, and displays this composite video data on the display device 34. Let

  Next, the operator of the master unit 7 visually identifies the display device 34 of the master unit 7 to find out the partner or location to be transferred, and the display of the partner and location to be transferred is displayed on the display device 34 of the master unit 7. Press the part. As a result, the touch panel sensor 36 provided in the display device 34 detects the pressed location, and the handset 5 showing the other party or location to be transferred is selected.

  As shown in FIG. 13 (2), the base unit 7 that has been selected as described above transmits a camera stop signal to the unselected handset 6, and sends the selected handset 5 to the selected handset 5. To send an extension call signal. Further, composite video data is generated by synthesizing the video data from the camera of the selected slave unit 5 and the video data from the counterpart unit 8, and this composite video data is displayed on the display device 34. The handset 6 that has received the camera stop signal stops shooting by the camera and transmission of video data, and the handset 5 that has received the extension call signal starts outputting an extension call sound.

  When a handset operation is performed in the handset 5 that has received the extension call signal, extension communication is established between the base unit 7 and the handset 5 as shown in FIG. Master device 7 combines the video data captured by camera 33 with the video data from partner device 8 to generate composite video data, and transmits this composite video data to slave device 5. The handset 5 that has received the composite video data from the base unit 7 displays a video based on the composite video data on the display device 55.

  Next, when a transfer operation is performed in the base unit 7, as shown in FIG. 14 (2), the suspension of communication between the counterpart unit 8 and the base unit 7 is released, and communication with the counterpart unit 8 and extension communication are performed. By being connected, communication between the counterpart device 8 and the slave device 5 is connected.

  15 is a diagram for explaining communication transfer from the slave unit to the master unit 7, FIG. 16 is a diagram subsequent to FIG. 15, and FIG. 17 is a diagram subsequent to FIG. When an incoming call from the partner device 8 connected to the public communication network 2 occurs to the videophone system 1, an incoming signal transmitted via the public communication network 2 is received as shown in FIG. The master unit 7 starts outputting the ringtone and notifies the slave units 5 and 6 of the incoming call. Receiving the incoming call notification, each of the slave units 5 and 6 starts outputting a ringtone to notify the incoming call.

  When a reception operation is performed in one slave unit 5, as shown in FIG. 15 (2), communication between the partner unit 8 and one slave unit 5 is established. The ring tone output by the machines 5 and 6 is stopped. Thereafter, in order to transfer communication from one slave unit 5 to the remaining slave units 6, a hold operation for holding communication with the counterpart unit 8 is performed. The operator of one slave unit 5 presses the hold key 58a included in the operation key 58 of the slave unit 5 as the hold operation, for example.

  When the slave unit 5 is communicating with the counterpart unit 8 and the slave unit 5 performs a hold operation for holding the communication, as shown in FIG. Is sent a hold signal. The base unit 7 that has received the hold signal from the handset 5 places the communication with the counterpart unit 8 on hold. Further, as shown in FIG. 16 (1), the parent device 7 activates the camera 33 to start photographing the surroundings and transmits a camera activation signal to the child device 6. Receiving the camera activation signal from the parent device 7, the child device 6 activates the camera 54 to start photographing, and starts transmission of the photographed video data to the parent device 7. Upon receiving the video data from the slave unit 6, the master unit 7 combines the video data captured by the camera of the master unit 7 with the video data from the slave unit 6 to generate composite video data. Video data is transmitted to the handset 5. On the display device 55 of the handset 5 that has received the composite video data, a video based on the composite video data is displayed.

  Next, the operator of the slave unit 5 finds a partner or place to be transferred by visually observing the display device 55 of the slave unit 5, and an image of the partner or place to be transferred is displayed on the display unit 55 of the slave unit 5. Press the part. As a result, the touch panel sensor 57 provided in the display device 55 detects the pressed location, and the parent device 7 or the child device 6 (here, the child device 6) showing the other party or the place to be transferred is selected.

  The subunit | mobile_unit 5 by which the above selection operations were performed transmits an image | video selection signal with respect to the main | base station 7, as shown in FIG. Upon receiving the video selection signal, the base unit 7 generates composite video data by combining the video data from the slave unit 5 and the video data from the counterpart unit 8, and displays the composite video data on the display device. The extension call signal is transmitted to the slave unit 6. The handset 6 that has received the extension call signal starts outputting the extension call sound.

  When a handset operation is performed at the handset 6 that has received the extension call signal, extension communication is established between the handset 5 and the handset 6 as shown in FIG. The base unit 7 generates composite video data obtained by combining the video data from the counterpart unit 8 and the video data from the handset 5, and transmits the composite video data to the handset 6. The slave unit 6 that has received the composite video data from the base unit 7 displays a video based on the composite video data on a display device.

  When the transfer operation is performed in the slave unit 5, as shown in FIG. 17 (2), the hold with the counterpart unit 8 is released, and the communication with the counterpart unit 8 and the extension communication are connected. 8 and the slave 6 are connected to each other.

  In the present embodiment as described above, the video selection means for selecting the video displayed on the display devices 34 and 55 includes the touch panel sensors 36 and 57 provided on the display devices 34 and 55. In such a video selection means, the operator touches a part of the area of the touch panel sensor 34, 55 corresponding to the video area displayed on the display means 34, 55 with, for example, a finger so that the operator can The video displayed on 55 can be easily selected.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a videophone system 120 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Since the videophone system 120 of the present embodiment is similar to the videophone system 1 of the above-described embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 17, description of portions having the same configuration is omitted.

  The videophone system 120 according to the present embodiment includes a plurality (three in the present embodiment) of slave units 121 to 123 and the camera device 60 instead of the slave units 5 and 6 of the above-described embodiment. Each of the slave units 121 to 123 has the same configuration as the slave units 5 and 6 of the above-described embodiment, and operates in the same manner. The camera device 60 is connected to the parent device 7. The camera device 60 is connected to each of the child devices 121 to 123 via the parent device 7.

  The parent device 7, the camera device 60, and each of the child devices 121 to 123 may be connected wirelessly or may be connected by wire. The wired connection may be realized using, for example, a telephone line, Ethernet (registered trademark), and HomePNA (Home Phoneline Networking Alliance). Here, HomePNA is a standard for constructing a network at a relatively low cost by using an existing public telephone line network arranged in a building.

  FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the camera device 60, and FIG. 20 is a side view showing an appearance of the camera device 60. The camera device 60 includes an antenna 61, a wireless control device 62, a branch control device 63, a multimedia multiplexing device 64, a control device 65, a storage device 66, an audio encoding device 67, an audio input control device 68, a microphone 69, and a video encoding. A device 70, a video input control device 71, and a camera 72 are included. The camera device 60 operates in substantially the same manner as the child devices 5 and 6 of the above-described embodiment.

  The antenna 61 receives radio waves from the parent device 7. The wireless control device 62 controls data transmission / reception with the parent device 7 wirelessly.

  The microphone 69 is an audio input device. The voice input control device 68 performs control to output the voice input from the microphone 69 to the voice encoding device 67. The audio encoding device 67 performs processing for encoding analog audio input from the microphone 69 via the audio input control device 68 into digital audio data.

  The camera 72 is a video input device. The video input control device 71 performs control to transmit the video signal input from the camera 72 to the video encoding device 70. The video encoding device 70 performs a process of encoding a video signal input from the camera 72 via the video input control device 71 into digital video data.

  The multimedia multiplexer 64 performs a process of multiplexing digital data transmitted from the audio encoding device 67 and the video encoding device 70 and transmitting the multiplexed data to the branch control device 63. The branch control device 63 performs control to transmit data transmitted from the base unit 7 connected wirelessly and data transmitted from the multimedia multiplexing device 64 by determining an appropriate transmission destination.

  The control device 65 controls the branch control device 63, the multimedia multiplexing device 64, and the storage device 66. The storage device 66 stores audio data from the microphone 69, video data from the camera 72, audio data and video data from the parent device 7, temporary data when the control device 65 performs processing, and the like.

  Also in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 18 to 20, the same effects as those of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 17 can be achieved.

  Each of the embodiments described above is merely an example of the present invention, and the configuration can be changed within the scope of the present invention. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the master unit and the slave unit are configured so that a start command for starting shooting by the camera and display by the display device is input by an operation for starting an extension call, for example, off-hook. It may be configured. In this case, a hook switch for detecting off-hook functions as a start command input means.

It is a figure which shows the structure of the video telephone system 1 which is one Embodiment of this invention. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a base unit 7. FIG. FIG. 3 is a front view showing an external view of a base unit 7. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the subunit | mobile_units 5 and 6. FIG. It is a front view which shows the external appearance of the subunit | mobile_units 5 and 6. FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of base unit 7 when there is a hold operation in base unit 7; FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of base unit 7 following FIG. 6. FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of each slave unit 5 and 6 that has received a camera activation signal from a master unit 7; It is a flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the main | base station 7 when there is a hold operation in one subunit | mobile_unit 5. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of base unit 7 following FIG. 9. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of base unit 7 following FIG. 9. It is a figure for demonstrating transfer of communication from the main | base station 7 to the subunit | mobile_unit 5. FIG. It is a figure following FIG. It is a figure following FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating transfer of communication from the subunit | mobile_unit to the main | base station 7. FIG. It is a figure following FIG. It is a figure following FIG. It is a figure which shows the videophone system 120 which is other embodiment of this invention. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a camera device 60. FIG. 2 is a side view showing an appearance of a camera device 60. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1,120 Videophone system 2 Public communication network 3 Network control device 4 Communication device 5,6 Slave device 7 Master device 22, 41, 61 Antenna 23, 42, 62 Radio control device 24, 43, 63 Branch control device 25, 44 Multimedia demultiplexing device 26, 45, 65 Control device 27, 46, 66 Storage device 28, 47 Audio encoding / decoding device 29, 48 Audio input / output control device 30 Handset 31, 52 Video encoding / decoding device 32, 53 Video input / output control device 33, 54, 72 Camera 34, 55 Display device 35, 56 Input unit control device 36, 57 Touch panel sensor 37, 58 Operation key 38, 59 Dial key 49 Earphone jack 50 Speaker 51, 69 Microphone 60 Camera device 64 Multimedia Multiplexer 67 Voice Encoder 68 Voice Input Control Device 70 video encoding apparatus 71 image input controller 101, 111 imaging unit 102, 112 display unit 106 image processing unit

Claims (6)

A videophone system including connection means connected to a public communication network, and a plurality of communication devices connected to the public communication network via the connection means and connected to each other and capable of communicating audio data and video data Because
Each communication device
Photographing means for photographing the surroundings and generating video data;
Display means for displaying video based on video data;
A start command input means for inputting a start command for starting shooting by the shooting means and display by the display means,
When the start command is input by the start command input means, the imaging means of the remaining communication devices excluding the communication device to which the start command is input among the communication devices is displayed on the display device of the communication device to which the start command is input. A videophone system comprising video processing means for displaying video based on video data from Each communication device includes video selection means for selecting video displayed on the display means,
When a start command is input by the start command input unit, and a video based on video data from the imaging unit of the remaining communication device is displayed on the display unit of the communication device to which the start command is input, When an image displayed on the display unit of the communication device is selected by the image selection unit of the communication device to which the start command is input, an extension call unit that makes an extension call to the communication device corresponding to the selected image is included. 2. The videophone system according to claim 1, wherein:   3. The videophone system according to claim 2, wherein the video selection means includes a touch panel sensor provided in the display means.   When the start command is input by the start command input unit, the video processing unit displays a video based on video data from the photographing unit of the remaining communication device on the display unit of the communication device to which the start command is input. The videophone system according to claim 2, wherein a video showing an operation procedure of the video selection means is displayed.   The video processing means receives a start command from the start command input means, and displays video based on video data from the imaging means of the remaining communication devices on the display device of the communication device to which the start command is input. When the video to be displayed on the display unit of the communication device is selected by the video selection unit of the communication device to which the start command is input, the display unit of the communication device to which the start command is input 5. The videophone system according to claim 2, wherein the selected video is enlarged and displayed. If more than two communication devices are included,
The video processing means receives a start command from the start command input means, and displays video based on video data from the imaging means of the remaining communication devices on the display device of the communication device to which the start command is input. If the video displayed on the display unit of the communication device is selected by the video selection unit of the communication device to which the start command is input, the selected video among the remaining communication devices corresponds to 6. The videophone system according to claim 2, wherein photographing by a photographing unit of a communication device other than the communication device to be stopped is stopped.

Images