KR20090074210A - 3-d displays and telepresence systems and methods therefore - Google Patents

Abstract

A telepresence system enhances the perception of presence of a remote person (128) involved in a video conference. The system preferably has a two-way mirror (2), which is between the observer (3) and the display device (17), positioned at an angle to reflect a backdrop surface (8). The backdrop surface (8), which is further away from the two-way mirror (2) than the image plane of the image display device (17), appears superimposed in a position behind the image of a person from the remote location. The system preferably minimizes image distortion via an optical path for the camera line of sight (160, 161, 162) that is substantially longer than the physical distance (159) between the user (3) and the camera (1). The system may be asymmetrical, in that one camera is on axis with the user's line of sight (182) while the other camera is off axis with the user's line of sight (182).

Description

3-D DISPLAYS AND TELEPRESENCE SYSTEMS AND METHODS THEREFORE}

<Related application>

This application is incorporated by reference in US Patent Application No. 60 / 846,415, filed Sep. 22, 2006, US Patent Provisional Application No. 60 / 855,065, filed Oct. 27, 2006, and herein Claims priority to US Provisional Application No. 60 / 968,447, filed August 28, 2007, which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to video conferencing devices, and more particularly to systems and methods for achieving or enhancing "telepresence", which is an awareness of the presence of a person from a remote location.

The above features of the invention will be more clearly understood by reference to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

1 is a diagram showing a conventional configuration of an eye contact configuration having a display device behind a bidirectional mirror and a camera in front of the bidirectional mirror.

2 is a diagram showing a conventional configuration of an eye contact configuration having a display device reflected in a bidirectional mirror and a camera behind the bidirectional mirror.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the person who raised his hand in the view of the camera in the eye contact configuration with the display device behind the bidirectional mirror disposed on the desktop and the camera in front of the bidirectional mirror.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of a person who raises his hand in the view of the camera in the eye contact configuration with the display device reflected in the bidirectional mirror disposed on the desktop and the camera behind the bidirectional mirror.

5 is a diagram illustrating a user of the eye contact configuration of FIG. 3 or 4 with distortions arising from a near wide angle camera view.

6 shows the user of the eye arrangement seen from the camera at a preferred distance.

7 is a diagram illustrating a user placed at a desired distance from the eye contact configuration.

8 illustrates a user in one embodiment of the present invention having a camera at a preferred distance achieved through a dual reflective arrangement.

9 is a diagram illustrating a path of a camera view for the configuration shown in FIG. 8.

10 is a diagram illustrating the angle of the view of the camera with the desired camera view to capture the user and the placement of the computer keyboard and monitor on the desktop.

FIG. 11 illustrates the location of the black background above the bidirectional mirror and the black background behind the user.

12 is a diagram illustrating light sources arranged to achieve a desired illumination of a user.

13 is a plan view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

14 is a plan view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention with support structures.

15 is a plan view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention having the location of the illumination shown.

16 is a diagram illustrating an arrangement of workstations with horizontally aligned desk structures.

FIG. 17 shows an arrangement of workstations with a horizontally aligned background panel and a back of alternating workstations.

FIG. 18 illustrates an arrangement of trapezoidal workstations aligned to form a circle. FIG.

19 shows an arrangement of trapezoidal workstations aligned to form a curve.

20 illustrates a telepresence workstation connected to a telepresence conferencing system via a telecommunications network.

21 is a diagram illustrating a telepresence workstation having a codec and a computer connected to a telepresence system having a computer and a codec via the Internet.

FIG. 22 illustrates a telepresence center having multiple telepresence workstations connected to multiple locations with telepresence communication systems.

23 shows an on-axis communication system with an axially aligned camera for eye contact to capture an image with eye alignment, and a bidirectional mirror to capture an off-axis image of a user for bidirectional communication. Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention having an asymmetric telepresence communication arrangement with a network connected to an off-axis communication system having a camera that is not obscured.

FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the invention in which the receiving side sees the recognized eye while the camera is off the axis for eye contact and placed in front of the bidirectional mirror with the image display apparatus.

FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of the invention in which the receiving side sees the recognized eye while the camera is off the axis for eye contact and sees through the gap between the bidirectional mirror and the image display device.

FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the invention in which the receiving side sees the recognized eye while the image display device is behind the bidirectional mirror, the camera is above the bidirectional mirror and the backdrop is reflected to be visible behind the image on the image display device.

FIG. 27 is an illustration of one embodiment of the invention in which the receiving side sees the eye contact recognized while the image display device is behind the bidirectional mirror, the camera is below the bidirectional mirror and the backdrop is reflected to be visible behind the image on the image display device. .

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention configured as a lectern having a camera and an image display apparatus in front of a bidirectional mirror.

FIG. 29 is a view showing an embodiment of the present invention configured as a speaker stage disposed in front of the bidirectional mirror and having a camera disposed in front of the monitor.

FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the present invention configured as a stage disposed on a platform having a camera located in a mock podium reflected by a bidirectional mirror.

FIG. 31 is an illustration of one embodiment of the present invention configured so that the appearance of a person's full body image is viewed in a three dimensional environment with a camera disposed between the large bidirectional mirror and the overhead rear projection screen.

FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the present invention configured to have a camera disposed above a two-way mirror and a front projection screen below it for the appearance of a full body image of a person.

FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present invention configured as a service counter having a camera disposed between a bidirectional mirror and an overhead image display apparatus.

FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the present invention of FIG. 33 with a bidirectional mirror rotating upward to enable a person to work at a service counter.

FIG. 35 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present invention configured as a service counter having a camera between a bidirectional mirror and an image display apparatus disposed below it.

FIG. 36 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention configured as a service counter with a camera disposed above a bidirectional mirror and an image display device below and with a keyboard and data monitor for interaction with a user.

FIG. 37 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention disposed on a retail shelving having a camera disposed between a bidirectional mirror and an overhead image display device.

FIG. 38 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention disposed on an interactive computer-based kiosk having a camera disposed between a bidirectional mirror and an overhead display device.

FIG. 39 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention configured as a desk having a camera disposed between a bidirectional mirror and an overhead image display apparatus.

FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the present invention configured as a desk having a bidirectional mirror and a camera disposed around the image display device below it.

FIG. 41 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the present invention in which a camera is disposed over a bidirectional mirror and an image display device and a backdrop is reflected at a position behind the image display device.

FIG. 42 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the present invention configured as a desk where the small image display device is behind a bidirectional mirror, the small camera is above the bidirectional mirror, and the backdrop is reflected to be visible behind the image display device.

FIG. 43 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the present invention configured as a conference table system in which a camera is placed over a bidirectional mirror, an image display device is placed behind it, and a backdrop is reflected to be visible behind the image display device.

FIG. 44 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the present invention including a retail shelf where a camera is positioned over a bidirectional mirror and the image display device is behind it and the backdrop is reflected such that it is visible behind the image display device.

FIG. 45 is a diagram illustrating a computer-based kiosk embodiment of the present invention in which a camera is placed over a bidirectional mirror, an image display device is disposed behind it, and a backdrop is reflected to be visible behind the image display device.

FIG. 46 illustrates an automated teller machine including one embodiment of the present invention wherein the camera is over a two-way mirror, the image display device is behind it, and the backdrop is reflected to be visible behind the image display device.

FIG. 47 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention including an embodiment of the present invention wherein the camera is bent over the bidirectional mirror and the image display device is behind it and the back bends with the bidirectional mirror at an angle that provides a view of the reflection of the backdrop behind the image display device. It is a figure which shows a cash dispenser.

FIG. 48 illustrates a large scale embodiment of the present invention in which the camera is placed over a bidirectional mirror to have an image of the front projection screen and the backdrop is reflected to be visible behind the screen.

FIG. 49 illustrates a large scale embodiment of the present invention in which the camera is placed over a bidirectional mirror, the rear projection screen behind it and the backdrop reflected behind the screen.

FIG. 50 is a diagram illustrating a large-scale embodiment in which the camera is placed over a bidirectional mirror, the front projection screen is behind it, and the backdrop is reflected such that it is visible behind the screen.

FIG. 51 is a diagram illustrating a large-scale embodiment in which a camera is placed over a bidirectional mirror, a rear projection screen behind it, and a backdrop reflected behind the screen.

FIG. 52 illustrates an embodiment of the invention as a kiosk or customer service counter having a ceiling level surface reflected into the plane of the back wall.

53 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 52.

FIG. 54 shows an embodiment of the present invention in a room where the floor level backdrop is reflected into the plane of the back wall.

55 is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 54.

The previous compositions have made eye contact. The prior art of FIG. 1 shows a bidirectional mirror 2 arranged between the user 3 and the image display device 17. The bidirectional mirror has an angle that reflects the image of the user 3 towards the camera 1. The camera 1 observes the user 3 with a wide field of view 45. Typically, the bidirectional mirror is a partially silvered transparent substrate that may be glass, plastic, Mylar or other transparent material. The bidirectional mirror may be a laminated glass panel that is semi-reflective on one side and anti-reflective on the other. Bidirectional mirrors are also referred to as unidirectional mirrors or beam splitters. The line of sight of the camera 1 is arranged to match the line of sight between the eye level of the user 3 and the image of the person displayed on the image display device 17 to provide a simulated eye contact between the two parties.

The prior art of FIG. 2 shows a bidirectional mirror 2 having an angle that reflects an image display device 17 such as a monitor or screen. The reflected image 5 is visible behind the bidirectional mirror. The camera 1 observes the user 3 with a wide field of view 45.

3 shows an eye contact configuration, in which the user 3 sits close to the configuration. The camera 1 observes the user 3 with a wide field of view 45. User 3 is raising hand 156, which is in view of camera 1. A mirror 42 is disposed between the bidirectional mirror 2 and the camera 1 so that the image is not inverted and the camera has a horizontal orientation. The camera 1 is mounted on the support structure 155, and the eye arrangement is placed on the table 33.

4 shows that the monitor 17 is disposed below the bidirectional mirror 2, and the bidirectional mirror reflects an image of the object displayed on the monitor 17 such that the image is in the plane 5 behind the bidirectional mirror 2. The eye configuration shown to the user 3 is shown. The eye contact terminal is raised to an approximate eye level with a support structure 155 disposed on the desktop 33. Camera 1 observes user 3 while hand 156 is raised into wide field of view 45.

FIG. 5 shows the user 3 holding the hand 156 within the wide field of view generated from the eye contact configuration of FIG. 3 or the camera of the eye contact terminal of FIG. 4. Since the hand is closer to the camera than the user's body, the hand is distorted to look larger than the user's head. This distortion of the user's display can be embarrassing to observers receiving telepresence communication. Also, portrait photography or video production is known to place people at a suitable distance from the camera. Wide viewing angles cause facial distortions, such as an enlargement of a person's nose.

6 shows an image of the user 3 viewed by the camera at a preferred distance from the camera. This image shows that the extruding hand 156 is not excessively enlarged compared to the rest of the body. In addition, the appearance of the face is not distorted by this preferred viewing distance. In this view, the camera was about eight feet away from the person.

FIG. 7 shows the eye contact terminal of FIG. 4 with the camera 1 positioned at a preferred distance 157 from the user 3. This figure was created with a distance 157 of eight feet. This distance may be slightly larger or smaller to have various results. The resulting viewing angle 45 does not distort the image of the user 3 as shown in FIG. 6. This arrangement shows a long table 33 spanning the distance between the user 3 and the camera 1 in the eye contact terminal. The total distance 158 between the user 3 and the back of the eye contact terminal structure 155 is too long. This configuration is too large and will therefore not be practical for most applications. In addition, the user 3 is too far from the eye contact terminal, so the image 5 is too small to be clearly visible. As a result, this arrangement of eye contact terminals is unsatisfactory.

8 shows an embodiment of the invention in which the user 3 observes the image display device 17 at an eye level. The camera 1 captures an image of the user 3 through a reflection off mirror 42 and a bidirectional mirror 2. Without two reflections, the camera's position would have to be at position 200. The distance between the apparent location 200 of the camera and the user 3 is indicated by the distance 157, which in this example is 8 feet. The actual distance may vary, but this eight foot distance achieves the desired viewing angle 45. In this embodiment, the distance between the user 3 and the backside of the image display device 17 is a distance 159 of 4 feet, which is half of the distance 157 of the camera view, the unsatisfactory eye shown in FIG. Less than half of the depth of the composition.

9 shows the eye level line of sight between the user 3 and the camera 1. In this configuration, segment 160 is about 30 inches. Segment 161 is about 48 inches and segment 162 is about 18 inches. The total distance of all three segments is about 96 inches or 8 feet. The physical horizontal distance 159 between the user 3 and the back side of the image display device 17 is about 4 feet. This is also the same physical horizontal distance 159 between the user 3 and the back of the camera 1. However, by using two reflections, i.e., reflections from the bidirectional mirror 2 and the miniature mirror 42, it is possible to obtain a twice longer (or longer) optical distance or line of sight within the same physical distance 159. . The use of two reflections in the camera line of sight is known, but the perception of the placement and angle of the mirrors to compensate for the distortion is not known. The present invention is undesirable by creating an asymmetrical configuration where the optical distance between the user 3 and the display 17 differs significantly from the optical distance between the user 3 and the camera 1 even if the physical distances are the same or similar. It is believed to be the first invention to recognize a unique and desirable configuration that can reduce or eliminate distortion.

The angle of the bidirectional mirror 2 may be 45 degrees to 50 degrees, but is not limited to this angle range. In this example, the angle of the bidirectional mirror 2 is 48 degrees. By making the angle of the bidirectional mirror 2 48 degrees, the image path 161 is inclined away from the position of the camera 1, which makes the image path 162 longer. By aligning the back of the camera 1 vertically with the back of the image display device 17, the longest camera view can be obtained while maintaining the smallest profile of the telepresence workstation. In order to achieve a horizontal line between the small mirror 42 and the camera 1, the angle of the small mirror must be parallel to the angle of the bidirectional mirror 2. In this example, the small mirror 42 is 48 degrees from horizontal. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that either mirror or both mirrors can be tilted at different angles, so that the arrangement of the camera 1 can be adjusted accordingly.

10 shows an optimal viewing angle 45 for capturing an image of the user 3 for display on a 50 inch screen with an aspect ratio of 16x9, such as a 50 inch plasma display. The camera image will be sent to another telepresence system in the receiving location. At the reception position, it is required to display an image of a person in full size on the telepresence system. Thus, the camera 1 must capture the image of the user 3 in the correct size. In this example, line 201 provides a reference to the height of the image at the location of the user 3. For the purposes of this example, the baseline 201 is a height 163 of 20 and 1/2 inches, which is the average height of a 50 inch plasma monitor typically used in telepresence systems in a receiving position.

10 also shows the position of the data sharing display monitor 69 to be observed by the user 3. This monitor 69 is disposed below the camera view 45 reflected from the bidirectional mirror and in front of the camera view reflected from the small mirror 42. Keyboard 94 is disposed on telepresence workstation desktop 164. Panel 165 is disposed at the back of desktop 164. This panel 165 protects the mirror 42 and will block any unwanted light from entering the view of the camera 1.

11 shows a panel 16 over a bidirectional mirror 2. The lower surface of the panel 16 absorbs light like a matt black surface. An extended camera view 168 extending to the bottom surface of panel 16 passes through bidirectional mirror 2. Since this panel surface 16 does not reflect or emit any light, the only light observed by the camera is the reflection from the bidirectional mirror 2. It is important to note that the image display device 17 should not be in the line of the extended camera view 168, and therefore it may be necessary to be placed behind a certain distance from the bidirectional mirror 2.

11 also shows a light absorbing panel 127 behind the user 3, which covers the overall height of the viewing angle 45 of the camera 1. This black panel 127 is a particularly beneficial component when the telepresence workstation is used to communicate with a telepresence system capable of displaying the depth relationship between the remote participant's image and the physical background within the reception location. Since the received image has a black background, no light will be displayed outside the image of the remote participant. As a result, a person can be seen in three dimensions on the front of the reflective backdrop as shown in White Patent US 7057637, incorporated herein by reference.

12 shows a cross-sectional view of a telepresence workstation with illumination. The overhead light 129 illuminates the head and shoulders of the user 3. The angle 130 of light coverage should be limited to cover only the area of the user 3. In particular, overhead illumination 129 should not shine over black backdrop surface 127. Also, the illumination should not shine on the monitor 69 or in the area of the camera 1. The front light 131 is arranged to illuminate the front of the user 3. This illumination 131 is particularly advantageous for illuminating the user 3 for a well illuminated camera view. Front lighting can be arranged on the side to minimize the light shining directly into the eyes of the user 3.

Figure 13 shows a plan view of one embodiment of the present invention. The horizontal viewing angle 67 is the basis for the shape and structure of the telepresence workstation. Viewing angle 67 begins at point 200, which is determined by the desired optical distance to the camera in the path of the double mirrored rig as shown in FIG. The angle 67 is set by the width of the image plane 166 in the middle of the position of the user 3. In this example, the width of the image plane 166 is based on the width of the 16 × 9 aspect ratio of the 50 inch plasma monitor. In order to capture a full-size image of the user 3, the camera view must match the width of the display screen of the receiving telepresence system. Routine experimentation may determine different configurations for monitors of different sizes and configurations.

In addition, in FIG. 13, the image display device 17 is designated to have a width approximately fit within the angle 67. In this example, the width of a 23 inch LCD monitor having an aspect ratio of 16x9 is used as the size of the image display device 17. The bidirectional mirror 2 is trapezoidal in shape with sides that fit within the vertical planes of the angle 67. The bidirectional mirror 2 is preferably wider than the coverage of the angle 67 to permit some additional margin of camera coverage.

Telepresence workstation desktop 164 preferably has a trapezoidal shape whose sides fit within the vertical plane of angle 67. The sides of the desktop extend beyond the angle 67 to allow for additional margin of camera coverage. The black background panel 127 is set to be slightly wider than the width of the angle 67 when reaching the plane of the background 127. While trapezoidal shapes are particularly beneficial for miniaturization, all other types and configurations of all kinds, including square, rectangular, curved, and the like, are also within the scope of the present invention.

14 shows support structure panels 169 on both sides of a telepresence workstation. These side panels provide an enclosure for the sides to prevent unwanted light from colliding with the camera in the workstation. In addition, the side panels support the bidirectional mirror 2. Telepresence workstation desktop 164 is attached to side panels 169. Keyboard 94 may be disposed on desktop 164. The back panel 170 is disposed behind the image display device 17. The back panel 170 can be removed to grant access to repair the image display device 17. In addition, the bottom of the back panel 170 may be removed to provide access to cameras, codecs, computers and other facilities. Black background surface 127 is attached to support structure 173. This support structure 173 can be suspended from the ceiling or supported from the floor. In some configurations, this support structure 173 may be in the form of sliding doors or hinged panels.

15 shows a top view of an illumination within a telepresence workstation. One, two or more lights 129 may be placed above the user 3. Such overhead lighting may be elongated lighting, such as fluorescent lights. Illumination 129 may be attached to support structure 173. These overhead lights 129 should cover the full width of the image area 166 to ensure that the user 3 is illuminated from above. This overhead lighting is particularly important for the user 3 with dark hair. The highlights can help black hair stand out from the black background observed by the camera. Overhead lighting 129 is also important to provide bright edges on the user's shoulders, especially when the user is wearing a black coat or shirt. The side lights 171 may be arranged to illuminate the width of the workstation to illuminate the interior of the side panels 169. The side lights 171 should be controlled at an angle that prevents light from directly illuminating the user 3 's eyes. In addition, the side lights 171 should be controlled so that light does not directly illuminate the bidirectional mirror 2 or the camera, otherwise unwanted light may enter the camera view. Alternatively, the lights 171 can be integrated into the depth of the side panels 169 having a diffuse surface for creating a large illumination surface to illuminate the user 3 with weak light.

16 shows an arrangement of all workstations 174 arranged in a line. In this arrangement, the backside 170 of one workstation is aligned with the front side of the desktop 164 of the other workstation. For adjacent workstations flipped in the vertical direction, the inclined sides of the trapezoidal shapes are aligned to form a straight row. Backdrop structures 173 are in rows with a small gap in between. If the gap is not wide enough for the user to walk in between, the backdrop structures 173 may be fabricated to have the ability to slide sideways or rotate outward to allow access.

17 shows another arrangement of the total workstations 174. In this arrangement, the back panel 170 is aligned with the backdrop structure 173. This creates an enclosed workspace. Access to the work space can be achieved by the background panel 173 rotating outward or sliding sideways.

18 shows an arrangement of trapezoidal workstations 174 with sides that match adjacent workstations. The result is an array that can form a complete circle.

19 shows an arrangement of trapezoidal workstations 174 with matching sides to form a curved arrangement.

FIG. 20 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention in a configuration of a telepresence network solution including a telepresence workstation 174 connected to the network 144 via a cable 136. At the receiving location is a telepresence system 133 that is connected to the network 144 via a cable 137. It should be noted that telepresence is not practical for standalone systems. Telepresence can be achieved when two or more systems are connected through a network that meets certain requirements. Thus, it is advantageous for the present invention to include the specific techniques required to complete telepresence communication. For purposes of explanation, this embodiment of the present invention is referred to as "telepresence technology configuration".

Network 144 may be an IP network, such as the Internet, Internet 2, LAN, WAN, MAN, VPN, ATM, or other network for transferring data over Internet protocol. When transmitting on an IP network, the codecs 40 and 152 will code and decode the transmission of audio and video to the H.323 protocol or other IP protocol.

Computer 154 at the location of telepresence workstation 174 may be connected to display monitor 153. Cable 139 will be connected between codec 152 and display monitor 153. Codec 152 will have the ability to receive an incoming signal to the display monitor via an internal hardware solution or an external data solution box. Codec 152 will process the signal to the display monitor and send it as part of the output over network connection 136.

The codec 40 for the receiving communication system 133 will receive the incoming signal via the network connection 137. This signal will be decoded by the codec 40 and sent to the display monitor via cable 135. In this manner, the output of the computer 154 at the location of the transmitting communication system 174 will appear on both the display monitor 153 and the display monitor 69 of the receiving communication system. As this visual content is controlled by the presenter 128 of the transmission position, observers 3 and 70 of the reception position will see the output of the computer 154 displayed in front of it on the image display device 69.

Since the incoming visual presentation is received over the network 144 and decoded by the codec 40, the receiving location does not necessarily have to have a computer. However, in this configuration, observers 70 and 3 do not have the means to interact with the visual display content or the ability to send the visual content back to the presenter 128.

21 illustrates another telepresence technology configuration in which workstation 174 is connected to receive communication system 133 via IP network 145. The IP network can be any network operating on an Internet protocol, such as a LAN, WAN, MAN, VPN, Internet 2, Internet, or other IP network. In this configuration, the codec 152 in the location of the workstation 174 is connected to the IP network 145 via a network connection 146 such as a T1 line, DSL, ADSL, VDSL, SDSL or other network delivery service. Box 147 is connected via a network cable 148, such as a CAT5 cable. The codec 40 in the location of the receiving communication system 133 is connected to the network 145 via the cable 141 to the junction box 143 and the network service 144. Codecs 40, 152 may establish bidirectional communication over network 145.

Computer 154 at the location of transmit communication system 174 may have network connection 149 to junction box 147 to access network 145 via network service 146. The computer 120 at the location of the receiving communication system 133 may have a network connection 142 to the junction box 143 to the network service 144 to the network 145. The two computers 120, 154 may establish a connection via the network 145 and may share data via software applications such as Microsoft's NetMeeting or other data sharing software. This configuration has the advantage that both the transmitting and receiving locations can interact with the visual display material for effective coordination. In addition, this configuration has the benefit that codecs 40 and 152 do not need to process any visual display material, and thus can provide their processing power and bandwidth exclusively to the quality of audio and video transmissions.

22 illustrates a telepresence technology architecture that implements custom network architectures and innovative facility functionality. This telepresence technology architecture has both locations 133 and 174 connected to a telepresence operations center 150 specific to the requirements for achieving telepresence through an embodiment of the invention. Instead of a direct connection between the two locations 133, 174, each location will establish a connection to the telepresence operations center. The TelePresence Operations Center will be unique in the transmission and reception of life-size images of people aligned for eye contact. Unlike conventional network architectures that use voice or data hubs, telepresence technology architectures will standardize formats that produce three-dimensional quality that is made possible through life-size communication with reflected backgrounds. In addition, the telepresence technology architecture will be designed to synchronize supporting visuals involving telepresence communication of people's life-size digital embodiments.

Through the telepresence technology architecture, each telepresence location will have a permanent IP connection to the telepresence operations center. This IP connection can automatically return to low bandwidth when the telepresence system is not being used for communication. The codec within each location does not require any directory or dialing capabilities and can be much cheaper and simpler than standard video conferencing codecs. The codec may be hardwired to automatically connect to a telepresence operations center when power to the codec is turned on. In the telepresence technology architecture, users will have access to a directory of telepresence operations centers that list the telepresence locations and provide current status of whether they are being used or available for new telepresence communications. Through the telepresence technology architecture, all connections between telepresence users will be accessed and managed through the telepresence operations center.

FIG. 23 shows an asymmetrical arrangement in which the camera in the presenter's position 174 has an axial line of sight 182, while the camera 1 in the customer position 205 has an off-axis line of sight 204. The customer 3 observes an image of the presenter whose eye contact appears to be exactly aligned even when the customer location 202 has an off-axis view 203. This recognized eye alignment is such that the incoming image of the customer 3 is placed on the image display device 17 at the presenter's position 174 with the eyes of the customer aligned with the height with respect to the gaze 182 to achieve the recognized eye. Is achieved because it is shown in. Even if the camera in customer location 202 is off-axis, camera view 203 captures an image of customer 3 whose eyes are at the same height on the image.

In one example, the eyes of presenter 176 may be at a position two thirds of the height of the presenter's image. In addition, even when the camera 1 is off-axis capturing the image off-axis from slightly above the normal line of sight 182, the eyes of the customer 3 may be at a position 2/3 of the height of the image of the customer.

In this asymmetric communication solution, customers get the added value of eye contact. By eye contact, the customer will feel a personal intimacy with the presenter, which can inject greater trust and intimacy. Even if the presenter does not have the same direct line of sight for eye contact, the presenter will still have a frontal view of the customer to read the response to the marketing communication. The presenter may be selling a product or service with a primary purpose of achieving business objectives, which do not require the same eye contact to achieve the objective.

In order to obtain optimal results, the eye composition at the presenter position 174 must meet certain requirements. These requirements are described in US Patent Application No. 60 / 846,415, entitled White, "TelePresence Workstations and TelePresence Centers." One requirement is that the camera 1 should not be too close to the presenter 176. It is undesirable to bring the camera too close to the presenter, as this can cause wide-angle distortion. This problem is overcome by placing the camera 1 close to the floor with a line of sight 177 looking towards the mirror 42. The mirror 42 reflects a line of sight 45 upwards towards the bidirectional mirror 2, which is reflected forward along the line of sight 182. The line of sight 182 is aligned with the eye contact between the presenter 176 and the image of the customer 3 visible on the image display device 17. A black panel 16 is disposed above the bidirectional mirror 2 to block the camera view through the bidirectional mirror. In this arrangement, the image display device 17 is located relatively close to the presenter 176 to enable clear viewing of the incoming image from the customer location 201 without requiring an excessively large area for the workstation. .

FIG. 24 shows an embodiment of the invention with both the camera 1 and the image display device 17 in front of the bidirectional mirror 2. In this configuration, the camera 1 has an unobstructed viewing angle 45 with respect to the user 3. The user 3 has a gaze 182 that achieves a perceived eye contact with the remote participant visible on the reflected image 5. This eye contact is aligned with the reflected line of sight 185 with the image display device 17. The camera 1 is seen as reflection at position 179 in front of the reflected image 5.

FIG. 25 shows an embodiment of the invention in which the camera 1 is arranged between the image display device 17 and the bidirectional mirror 2. The camera is placed far enough back so as not to block the reflective view 5 of the image display device 17. In addition, the camera 1 is arranged to have an unobstructed viewing angle 45 of the user 3. The user has a line of sight 182 that matches the eye level of the remote participant seen as a reflection 5 from the two-way mirror 2 along the reflected line of sight 185 to recognize the remote participant displayed on the image display device. Have eye contact.

FIG. 26 shows one embodiment of the invention in which the camera 1 has a bidirectional mirror 2 and a backdrop 8 and has an unobstructed viewing angle 45 of the user 3. The user 3 has a recognized eye contact with the remote participant visible on the image display device through the line of sight 182 which is aligned with the level of the eyes of the remote participant visible on the image display device 17. The remote participant may appear to be in front of the reflection 9 of the backdrop 8, which may provide an awareness of the depth between the remote participant's image and the reflected backdrop. The principles of reflective backdrop are included in US Pat. No. 7,057,637, entitled White, "Reflective Backdrop for Communications Systems."

FIG. 27 shows one embodiment of the invention in a configuration similar to FIG. 26 except that the arrangement is flipped vertically to place the camera under the bidirectional mirror 2 and the image display device 17.

FIG. 28 shows the invention in which both the camera 1 and the image display device 17 are configured as a speaker stage in front of the bidirectional mirror 2. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye contact along the line of sight 182 with respect to the image 5 which is an image on the image display device 17 reflected by the bidirectional mirror 2. The bidirectional mirror 2 can be tilted forward at an angle of about 45 degrees and the image display device can be approximately horizontal to provide vertical reflections. However, the image display device 17 can tilt backward to raise the front edge to minimize the direct view of the image area by the customer 3. If the image display is tilted back at a predetermined angle, it is necessary to tilt the bidirectional mirror back by half of the predetermined angle in order for the reflected image 5 to be in the vertical position. As an example, the arrangement of FIG. 28 shows the image display device 17 tilted 10 degrees backward and the bidirectional mirror 2 tilted 5 degrees back beyond 45 degrees so that the final angle is 50 degrees.

The camera 1 is in front of the bidirectional mirror 2 and can therefore be seen as a reflection in the bidirectional mirror. In FIG. 28, the camera 1 is housed in an enclosure 180 that is in the view of the customer 3 as the reflection 181. Enclosure 180 may be designed to be within an integrated portion of speech stage 184 that may include a banner with a company logo or speaker's name. Enclosure 180 may have a small hole such that the camera has a field of view 45. The reflected enclosure 181 can be seen as an integral part on the stage 184 that can be seen as a stand for holding the speaker's notes.

The reflected image 5 may display the presenter to be visible at the back edge of the stage 184. The presenter's incoming image can be captured for the black backdrop, so that the image displayed will only be illuminated by the presenter's image. In this way, the image area surrounding the presenter becomes invisible, because the image area is black, and therefore the presenter does not appear to be included within the frame of the image area. When there is a dimly lit background 191, a person will be physically visible in front of the background 191. The background is ideally illuminated enough to be clearly visible to the audience without being too bright to burn through the overlapping image of the presenter 5. Indeed, with the dark blue curtain illuminated from the sides to provide contrast between the illuminated blue pleats and the dark shaded areas of the curtain to examine the depth cues between the location of the image of the presenter 5 and the background 181. Was effective.

The reflective image plane 5 is only an image generated by the reflection of the image display device 17 reflected by the bidirectional mirror 2 when the bidirectional mirror is viewed by the customer 3. The space behind the stage 184 is not obstructed by the display fixture, and a person 187 can stand freely in this space. When no image is present on the image display device 17, there will be no reflective image 5 to be observed by the customer 3 or the audience. Thus, it is possible for a person 187 to stand behind a speech stand in the audience's view. In a conferencing application, person 187 may introduce an inviting speaker, which guest speaker may be shown on a stage within reflective plane 5 after introduction.

FIG. 29 shows the invention in which the camera 1 is arranged as a stage 184 arranged in front of the bidirectional mirror 2 and arranged in front of the image display apparatus 17. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3 which may include a large crowd in some applications. Speaker stage 184 may be placed above podium 183 to enable the audience to have a clear view of the presenter in the speaker stage. The customer 3 has a direct line of sight 182 for eye contact. It is appropriate to note that the line of sight 182 need not be horizontal to achieve perception of eye contact. For the incoming image 5 of the presenter captured on the workstation with a camera that is eye-catching for eye contact, the presenter will be looking forward. The customer 3 will see the presenter's reflected image 5 which appears as a flat image in front of it even when the line of sight 182 is slightly off axis. Since the displayed image is flat, some off-axis views will not see the other perspective view of the presenter, while the off-axis views of the real presenter will see different perspective views of the real three-dimensional person.

FIG. 30 shows the present invention configured as a stage 207 arranged on a podium 183 which is arranged in a simulated base end 206 where the camera 1 is reflected from the bidirectional mirror 2. The podium has a rear projection arrangement in which the projector 189 projects toward the mirror 190 and reflects the projected image onto the rear projection screen 188. The screen 188 may be horizontal or have an angle that is less visible to the customer 3. In FIG. 30, the screen has an angle of 10 degrees and the bidirectional mirror has an angle of 50 degrees.

The camera 1 is disposed between the two-way mirror 2 and the rear projection screen 188 and has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. Since the camera 1 is in a position that may be within the view of the reflected image 5, it may be disposed within the enclosure 206. Enclosure 206 may be viewed as an intentional part of a podium, such as a structure for holding a logo or conference banner. The enclosure 206 may have a small hole for allowing the camera to see the field of view 45. The enclosure 206 may be arranged to match the location of the physical stage 207. The reflected image of the enclosure 206 will look superimposed into the same physical location as the stage 207. To avoid confusion about two nested images, the stage 207 or enclosure 206 can be black so that the other object can be seen without image overlap. To provide a visually more interesting three-dimensional representation, the enclosure 206 and the stage 207 may be partially opened or opened so that the image 5 of the presenter appears to be behind the physical object of the stage 207. It may be composed of a transparent material.

In FIG. 30, the rear projection screen 188 may be large enough to display a person's entire body or almost the entire body of a person. The reflection image 5 appears in free space behind the stage 207. It is possible for a real person 187 to stand within the presenter's reflective image plane. The reflected image 5 may be large enough to allow a real person 187 to stand right next to the full-size remote participant for two-way conversation.

FIG. 31 shows the invention in which the appearance of the human full body image 5 appears in a three dimensional environment with a background 191. The camera 1 is disposed between the large bidirectional mirror 2 and the overhead rear projection screen 188. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. Projector 189 projects to mirror 190, which reflects the projected image to rear projection screen 188. The customer 3 can look forward along the line of sight 182 to see the perceived eye contact with the life-size person reflected into the plane 5. The actual person can walk into the position of the plane 5 and can also have eye contact with the customer 3.

FIG. 32 shows the invention in which the camera 1 is arranged on top of the two-way mirror 2 and the front projection screen 104 below for the appearance of a human full body image 5. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer has a line of sight 182 with the presenter's image appearing on the reflective image plane 5. The projector 189 projects the projection image on the front projection screen 104 at an angle to position it under the bidirectional mirror 2. The projector 189 may need to use lens shift and / or digital keystone correction to produce an undistorted image. Person 187 may stand within reflective image plane 5.

FIG. 33 shows the invention in which the camera 1 is configured as a service counter arranged between the bidirectional mirror 2 and the overhead image display apparatus 17. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The camera 3 has a line of sight 182 for perceived eye contact with the presenter appearing on the reflective image plane 5. The image display device 17 is enclosed in the support structure 193. The image display device may be horizontal or have an angle that is less visible to the customer 3. In FIG. 94, the image display device 17 has an angle of 10 degrees, and the bidirectional mirror has an angle of 50 degrees. Enclosure 193 may have external graphics 193.

The service counter 195 may be located under the eye display device. The service counter may include a computer 154 and a printer 178 that may be remotely controlled by the presenter appearing on the plane 5. In a business application, the printer 178 may print a boarding pass, baggage tag, receipt, product information, map, reservation card, or any other printed material valuable to the customer 3.

FIG. 34 shows the invention of FIG. 33 in which the bidirectional mirror 2 is rotated up to enable the person 187 to work at the service counter 195. The rotated bidirectional mirror 2 will be the bottom of the overhead enclosure 193. When the bidirectional mirror 2 is rotated up, the counter 195 can be used in the conventional manner in which the real person 187 is present. Computer 154 and printer 178 may be used with keyboard 94 by person 187.

FIG. 35 shows the invention in which the camera 1 is configured as a service counter 195 disposed between the bidirectional mirror 2 and the image display device 17 disposed below it. The camera has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a line of sight 182 for eye contact with the presenter, which appears as the reflected image 5. The service counter can have a printer 178 and a computer 154 that can be controlled by a presenter appearing in the reflective image plane 5. The arrangement of FIG. 35 is advantageous over the arrangement of FIG. 33 in that no overhead device exists. However, the arrangement of FIG. 35 may not be suitable for use by a real person than that shown in FIG. 34.

FIG. 36 shows that the camera 1 is disposed above the two-way mirror 2 and the image display device 17 is disposed below and has a keyboard 94 and a data monitor 69 for interaction with the customer 3. The present invention configured as a service counter is shown. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye contact along the line of sight 182 with the image of the presenter on the reflective image plane 5. Computer 154 and printer 178 may be remotely controlled by the presenter. The customer can enter information such as his name and password to communicate with the presenter.

FIG. 37 shows the invention arranged on a retail shelf 91 with a camera 1 arranged between the bidirectional mirror 2 and the overhead image display device 17. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye contact along the line of sight 182 with the image of the presenter on the reflective image plane 5. Retail shelves 91 under the eye communication device may display retail products. A promotional banner 194 may be disposed on the outer surface of the enclosure 193.

FIG. 38 illustrates the invention disposed on an interactive computer-based kiosk 192 having a camera 1 disposed between a bidirectional mirror 2 and an overhead image display device 17. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye contact along the line of sight 182 with the image of the presenter on the reflective image plane 5. A logo or sign 194 may be disposed on the outer surface of the enclosure 193. The customer can enter data into the computer 154 using the keyboard 94 and view the computer screen 69. The computer 154 may be connected to a computer database over a network to access large amounts of information. In addition, the computer 154 may be connected via a network with a computer operated by a presenter appearing in the reflective image plane 5. In this arrangement, the presenter can participate in eye-to-eye communication with the customer 3 while sharing visual information and data with the customer. Since both parties can interact with the data, the communication can be interactive. The resulting information can be printed at the printer 178 for the customer 3.

FIG. 39 shows the invention in which the camera 1 is configured as a desk 164 disposed between the bidirectional mirror 2 and the overhead image display device 7. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer. The customer 3 has a recognized eye contact along the line of sight 182 with the image of the presenter on the reflective image plane 5. The customer can interact with the presenter via computer 154 using keyboard 94 and monitor 69.

40 shows the present invention configured as a desk 64 in which a camera 1 is arranged on a two-way mirror 2. The camera 2 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye contact along the line of sight 182 with the image of the presenter on the reflective image plane 5. The customer 3 can interact with the presenter via the computer 154 using the keyboard 94 and the monitor 69.

FIG. 41 shows a desk 164 where the camera 1 is disposed above the bidirectional mirror 2 and has an image display device 17 and the backdrop 8 is reflected in the image plane 9 behind the image display device 17. The present invention configured as) is shown. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye following the gaze 182 with the image of the presenter on the image display device 17. The customer 3 can interact with the presenter via the computer 154 using the keyboard 94 and the monitor 69. This arrangement may be placed near the wall 196 to conserve space, but the reflected backdrop 9 will provide greater depth of recognition beyond the wall 196.

42 shows that the small image display device 17 is placed behind the bidirectional mirror 2, the small camera 1 is placed above the bidirectional mirror 2, and the backplane 8 is placed behind the image display device 17. Shows the invention configured as a desk 164 reflected to be visible). The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye following the gaze 182 with the image of the presenter on the image display device 17. The customer 3 can interact with the presenter via the computer 154 using the keyboard 94 and the monitor 69. This arrangement may be placed near the wall 196 to conserve space, but the reflected backdrop 9 will provide greater depth of recognition beyond the wall 196.

43 shows that the camera 1 is placed above the bidirectional mirror 2 and the image display device 17 is placed behind and the backdrop 8 is reflected on the plane 9 behind the image display device 17. The present invention configured as conference table system 197 is shown. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye following the gaze 182 with the image of the presenter on the image display device 17. The customer 3 can interact with the presenter via the computer 154 using the keyboard 94 and the monitor 69.

FIG. 44 shows a pattern in which the camera 1 is placed above the bidirectional mirror 2 and the image display device 17 is placed behind and the backdrop 8 is reflected on the plane 9 behind the image display device 17. A retail shelf 91 under the invention is shown. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye following the gaze 182 with the image of the presenter on the image display device 17. The presenter may promote the products displayed on the retail shelf to allow the customer to select for purchase.

FIG. 45 illustrates a pattern in which the camera 1 is placed above the bidirectional mirror 2, the image display device 17 is placed behind, and the backdrop 8 is reflected on the plane 9 behind the image display device 17. A computer based kiosk 192 under the invention is shown. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye following the gaze 182 with the image of the presenter on the image display device 17. The customer 3 can interact with the free center via the computer 154 using the keyboard 94 and monitor 69.

FIG. 46 shows a pattern in which the camera 1 is placed above the bidirectional mirror 2 and the image display device 17 is placed behind and the backdrop 8 is reflected on the plane 9 behind the image display device 17. An automatic cash dispenser 198 that incorporates the invention is shown. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye following the gaze 182 with the image of the bank appearing on the image display device 17. The customer 3 can interact with the banker using the touch screen 209 to control the computer 154. A cash dispenser 97 is included in the ATM 198.

FIG. 47 shows a customer representative kiosk as shown in FIG. 46 where the backdrop 8 is bent so that the backdrop 8 meets the two-way mirror 2 and the reflected backdrop 9 is seen as a continuation of the backdrop 8. .

FIG. 48 illustrates a large-scale embodiment of the invention in which the camera 1 is disposed above the bidirectional mirror 2 and the image and backdrop of the front projection screen 104 are reflected such that they appear in the plane 9 behind the screen 104. Illustrated. The plane 9 of the reflected backdrop can be matched with the wall 196 to provide recognition that the backdrop is an extension of a portion of the back wall of the room. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye following the line of sight 182 with the image of the presenter on the front projection screen 104.

FIG. 49 shows the invention in which the camera 1 is disposed above the bidirectional mirror 2 and the rear projection screen 188 is placed behind and the backdrop 8 is reflected so that it appears on the plane 9 behind the screen 188. A large scale example is shown. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye following the gaze 182 with the image of the presenter on the rear projection screen 188. The rear projection may further reflect the projection to the rear projection screen 188 by using the mirror 190 to reflect the projection to the second mirror 199.

FIG. 50 shows a pattern in which the camera 1 is disposed above the bidirectional mirror 2 and the front projection screen 104 is disposed behind and the backdrop 8 is reflected in the plane 9 behind the front projection screen 104. Large scale embodiments of the invention are shown.

FIG. 51 shows a pattern in which the camera 1 is disposed above the bidirectional mirror 2 and the rear projection screen 188 is placed behind and the backdrop 8 is reflected in the plane 9 behind the rear projection screen 188. Large scale embodiments of the invention are shown. The camera 1 has an unobstructed view 45 of the customer 3. The customer 3 has a recognized eye following the gaze 182 with the image of the presenter on the rear projection screen 188. The rear projection may further reflect the projection to the rear projection screen 188 by using the mirror 190 to reflect the projection to the second mirror 199.

FIG. 52 illustrates a kiosk embodiment similar to FIG. 45. In this embodiment, the kiosk 192 is a free standing structure separated from the wall 196 and the ceiling 210. A portion of the surface of the ceiling 210 directly above the kiosk is the surface 8 that functions as a backdrop to be reflected in a vertical position 9 that matches the surface of the wall 196. The customer 3 sees the wall 196 surrounding the area of the bidirectional mirror 2 and sees the reflection of the backdrop surface 8 which is reflected into the vertical plane 9 which matches the surface of the wall 196. The combination of reflected backdrop 9 and wall 196 visible on the same surface can provide the impression of a flawless surface. However, the image displayed on the monitor 17 will be visible in front of this combination of wall 196 and backdrop 9.

The embodiment of FIG. 52 may be used at a service desk or reception counter where it would be beneficial to hide the display facility and generate an awareness of the service personnel that appears to be available for providing services to customers. The furniture of the kiosk 192 may be designed to match the decor of an office, hotel or shop. In particular, the counter 211 can be seen through the two-way mirror 2, so that the service personnel displayed on the monitor 17 will be shown immediately after the counter. The camera 1 will have a view through the bidirectional mirror 2 and therefore the camera will not be visible to the customer 3. The black panel 212 will be placed directly below the camera to avoid overlapping the image as reflections from the bidirectional mirror 2. The data monitor 69 may be arranged in front of the bidirectional mirror 2. This data monitor will not have the same width as monitor 17 and will not obscure much of the view of the customer representative.

In FIG. 52, the lights 213 may be disposed at the same distance from the wall 196 and the ceiling 210. In this way, the lights illuminating the walls and the ceiling will come out at the same angle. This allows the illumination on the surface of the backdrop 8 and the illumination on the wall 196 to be the same. In this way, the reflected backdrop surface 9 and the wall 196 can have illumination from the same angle to support recognition of the defect-free wall surface.

53 is a front view of the configuration shown in FIG. 52. The camera 1 is arranged on the image display device 17. This camera 1 may alternatively be behind a two-way mirror. The bidirectional mirror 2 is inclined to reflect the backdrop 8 located in the ceiling 210. The lighting 213 is located under the ceiling and can illuminate the area for the user 3. The kiosk 192 has a support structure under the counter 211. The data monitor 69 may be arranged in front of the bidirectional mirror 2. Alternatively, it may be located behind a bidirectional mirror to protect the monitor from vandalism.

FIG. 54 shows one embodiment of the present invention in which the backdrop 8 is disposed in or on the bottom that appears as the backdrop 9 reflected in a vertical plane at the location of the wall 196. The image on the image display device 17 will be visible in front of the wall 196. A panel 214 can be placed above the bidirectional mirror 2, so that the view of the camera 1 through the bidirectional mirror will observe the black surface. Alternatively, plane 16 may be a black surface. The camera is disposed on or near the floor, having a forward view with respect to the mirror 42, thereby reflecting the view upwards with respect to the bidirectional mirror 2 and then towards the user 3. The camera 1 may be included in an enclosure 215 that is dark or black and therefore does not overlap into the image observed by the user 3.

55 is a plan view of the configuration of FIG. 54. Backdrop 8 on the floor will appear as a reflection in the vertical plane of wall 196. The person 217 sitting at the side will have a line of sight 216 blocked by the image display device 17. The backdrop 8 is wide enough to provide a reflection image covering the width of the wall 196 with the width of the line of sight 216. The person 218 on the other side has a line of sight 219 that is not blocked as much by the image display device 17 and will therefore see more of the wall 196. If the width of the backdrop 8 is wide enough for the line of sight 216, there will be some overlap of the reflected backdrop 8 and the wall 196. In order to avoid undesirable overlap of the reflected backdrop 8 and the wall 196, the patterns on each one may be formed to overlap in an acceptable manner. This can be accomplished using interlaced patterns or designs that include a dark background with a random or organized pattern of brighter image areas or feathery edges.

The applications and methods of the various inventions are also contemplated within the broad scope of the invention. Although not intended to be limiting or comprehensive, certain illustrative applications are described in the following paragraphs.

The telepresence technology architecture described above can be adapted to allow telepresence users to enter virtual social centers managed by the Telepresence Operations Center, in exchange for fees, where users can engage in intelligent conversations, encounters, or intimate experiences. Telepresence allows you to meet people in chat rooms or face-to-face meetings to interact with eye contact and natural human communication through facial expressions and body language to get to know people. In another embodiment, users may, in exchange for a fee, with others who share a display of live computer graphics on a second image display device for participation from telepresence users connected to a telepresence operations center at any location in the world. Participate in games, competitions, and entertainment that require eye-to-eye contact.

The telepresence technology architecture described above conforms to global standards for telepresence and is a financial service whose transmission is encrypted on a private security network of a financial institution with a tightly controlled telepresence operations center for the transfer of confidential financial information from the bank center to the bank branch. It can be configured to have additional capabilities for specific applications in. This embodiment is an addition for printing contracts and digitally scanning and sending signed contracts to bank managers and financial professionals at financial center locations to provide face-to-face personal services with critical customers in remote locations. In conjunction with the facility, it would be desirable to provide sharing of important financial information on the second image display device. The system preferably includes facilities and systems for distributing cash, guarantee checks and other financial documents through the telepresence operations center of the financial institution.

Another embodiment of the telepresence technology architecture provides a telepresence communication system to be used by medical technicians, doctors and practitioners anywhere in the world to access the telepresence global network to reach the telepresence operations center, which is a pharmacy and medical Services can be provided to potential patients who come to the facility, and patients can make an appointment with an authorized physician via telepresence for face-to-face assessments, to perform tests, medical tests, or prescription drugs. Doctors can remotely operate specialist facilities to perform blood pressure, cholesterol levels, body temperature, blood sugar levels, and other basic tests, so doctors can make new or supplemental prescriptions, and medications can be found at nearby pharmacies when paid through a credit card reader. It can be automatically distributed to the patient.

In another embodiment, the telepresence technology architecture described above is used by instructors, professors, trainers, and public speakers to send their presentations through a telepresence network connection to a telepresence operations center, thereby providing a telepresence presentation at the cost of a fee. Digitally record and save presentations as full-size appearances with synchronized visual support for playback for groups, audiences, and classrooms. The presenter can schedule the live for question and answer at the end of the presentation through the TelePresence Operations Center, which will enable the presenter to maximize time and profit from pre-recorded presentations.

Another contemplated embodiment of the telepresence technology architecture is a telepresence communications system built on a global telepresence standard that can be installed in major business locations around the world, so those who want to find or turn a job pay for the telepresence operations center. A room with a telepresence communication system connected through a telepresence network connection to is available. Appointments may be scheduled by an employment agency or through an employment website for an interview between an applicant in one location and an employee in another location, and the applicant may display on the second image display device, along with network services for immediate results. The potential to take tests delivered through the Telepresence Operations Center and the potential to be transferred into the room for face-to-face interviews with judges or recruitment committees.

Another contemplated embodiment is that telepresence communication systems that conform to global telepresence standards may recognize that a security company wants watchers to exist, but that watchers do not play an active role in security unless the security sensor is triggered. It includes the telepresence technology architecture described above, which can be installed at desired locations. The system can display the digital record of the security watcher in the location most of the time, and when the security sensor is triggered, it instantly switches to the live telepresence of the watcher in the location, allowing the remote watcher to identify and evaluate the situation, Talk, remotely drive alarms, lights, open or lock doors.

The drawings and detailed description herein are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive, and it is to be understood that the intention is not to limit the invention to the particular forms and examples disclosed. On the contrary, the invention is not to be departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the following claims, and any further modifications, changes, rearrangements, substitutions, alternatives, designs apparent to those skilled in the art. Includes selections and examples. Accordingly, the following claims are intended to be construed to include all such further modifications, changes, rearrangements, substitutions, alternatives, design changes and embodiments. For example, the embodiments described above can include a microphone adapted to receive sound from the viewing zone and a speaker adapted to output sound to the viewing zone. A communication device that receives a video image from a camera and compresses the video image for transmission to a second communication system at a remote location on the network, and an incoming transmission received over the network from a second communication system at a remote location and receives an image therefrom. Also contemplated is a communication device that generates a video image to be displayed on the display device.

Other variations include a communication system that folds into a support structure when the backdrop bidirectional mirror and light absorbing panel are not in use, or a communication system that can be folded to form a work desk with a direct view of the image display device. Include. The communication may include a keyboard, mouse, or other interactive device for allowing control of the communication system and / or accessing interactive visual and audio material.

The communication system can be adapted to business transactions and further includes a kiosk comprising an image display device, a two-way mirror and a camera, the kiosk comprising a credit card reader, a product distribution device, and storage space for the promotion and distribution of products. It includes more. Other variations and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art through routine experimentation, and are considered and intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims (15)

As a telepresence workstation, Two-way mirror; A display device arranged to be visible from the viewing zone and in a predetermined spatial relationship with the bidirectional mirror; And A camera disposed at a physical distance from the viewing zone and having a line of sight with the viewing zone, the line of sight defining an optical distance within the physical distance substantially longer than the physical distance, the optical distance being Predetermined to minimize distortion of the image captured by the camera in the viewing zone- Telepresence workstation comprising a. The method of claim 1, The predetermined spatial relationship is selected from a relationship in which the display device is disposed behind the bidirectional mirror with respect to the viewing zone, and a relationship in which the display device is arranged to reflect from the bidirectional mirror with respect to the viewing zone. The method of claim 1, A telepresence workstation further comprising an observer within said viewing zone. The method of claim 1, The line of sight comprises the bidirectional mirror optically between the viewing zone and a second mirror, the second mirror optically between the bidirectional mirror and the camera. The method of claim 1, The optical distance is at least about twice the physical distance. As a telepresence communication system, Observation area; A camera having a first line of sight impinging on the viewing zone, wherein the camera is arranged such that the line of sight of the camera is on axis with the second line of sight of the user when the user occupies the viewing zone; And a first telepresence station having an image display device within the user's gaze when the user occupies the viewing zone; And Second viewing zone; A second camera having a third line of sight impinging on the second viewing zone, wherein the second camera has a third line of sight of the second user when the second user occupies the second viewing zone; Positioned to be off axis with the fourth eye; And a second image display device within a fourth line of sight of the second user when the second user occupies the second viewing zone. Telepresence communication system comprising a. The method of claim 6, A bidirectional mirror in a user's second eye; And Backdrop More, The backdrop is arranged such that the reflection of the backdrop is reflected from the bidirectional mirror and superimposed on an image displayed on the image display device. The method of claim 7, wherein The reflection of the backdrop provides a depth cue to a user occupying the viewing zone. The method of claim 6, The camera is positioned at a physical distance from the viewing zone, the line of sight of the camera along an optical path defining an optical distance from the viewing zone, the optical distance being greater than the physical distance and captured by the camera. A telecommunications system sufficient to reduce distortion of an image of a user occupying an area. As the display method, Displaying an image on an image display device, wherein the image display device is visible from the viewing zone, the image display device is visible through a bidirectional mirror with respect to the viewing zone, and the image is substantially visible when viewed from the viewing zone. Visible within the first plane; And Reflecting a backdrop from the bidirectional mirror to form a reflected backdrop wherein the reflected backdrop overlaps an image on the display when viewed from the viewing zone and is substantially visible in a second plane when viewed from the viewing zone. The second plane is substantially parallel to the first plane and is visible further from the viewing zone than the first plane. Display method comprising a. The method of claim 10, And the backdrop is integrally formed with a portion of a ceiling positioned above the bidirectional mirror or integrally with a portion of a floor positioned below the bidirectional mirror. The method of claim 10, Disposing an observer within the viewing zone to view an image on the image display device and a superimposed reflective backdrop. The method of claim 11, And said backdrop has a surface that substantially matches a surface of a wall disposed behind said image display device. The method of claim 11, And the wall is at least partially visible through the bidirectional mirror. The method of claim 10, And the reflected backdrop obscures at least a portion of the image display device that is otherwise visible from the viewing zone.

Images