RU2606638C2 - System for interactive video access of users to exposure in real time - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: telecommunications.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to systems for interactive video access. Disclosed is a system for interactive video access for remote users to display in real time, which comprises a plurality of video cameras, providing reception of exhibition of images and/or exhibits on display, at least one local multiplying relay (LMR) with an interface that is connected to said plurality of video cameras, providing transmitting received signals to a plurality of recording devices according to number of video cameras, for generating database information about exposure and/or video items on display, and at least one global multiplying repeater (GMR) installed in data receiving and processing centre and connected via communication link with at least one LMR.

EFFECT: technical result is to provide a remote user's virtual presence in exhibition, such as exhibition in museum, show room or library, in real time, using a personal computer or a mobile communication device.

25 cl, 7 dwg

Description

Technical field

The present invention relates to systems that provide interactive video access to the exposure in real time and virtual presence at the exposition of remotely remote users in real time. The system is designed for remote familiarization with the expositions of exhibitions, museums, showrooms or libraries, remote selection of exhibits, goods, books for further detailed acquaintance for the purpose of acquiring and / or studying.

State of the art

At present, when conducting international exhibitions, which exhibits from around the world are presented, it is not possible for remote users to familiarize themselves with the expositions and / or exhibits displayed at the exposition in real time, for example, the latest scientific and technical achievements presented at the exhibition or works of art of the great masters of the world brought to the exhibition, or presented by consumer goods.

As a rule, advertising that accompanies various kinds of exhibitions is a pre-prepared video or audio clip shown on TV, scrolled on the radio or posted on the Internet. This kind of information does not allow the user to fully familiarize themselves with the exhibit for the purpose of further acquisition or deeper familiarization. And the possibility of providing an acquaintance with the exhibit in real time, and in some cases at the same time, for users located in different locations, i.e. in different cities and even countries.

Known interactive electronic system for purchasing goods in remote access mode (see, for example, patent for utility model RU 81823 U1).

The indicated utility model relates to automated information technologies, in particular, to e-commerce systems, and can be used for operational management and control of transactions - purchases (sales of goods) with remote control. As a technical task, it is indicated to ensure the mobility of video information removal devices and the possibility of approaching the product while maintaining the voice dialogue mode with the store operator. The technical result achieved in this case is to improve the quality of customer service by providing the opportunity to demonstrate goods in approximation and from all sides in real time in stores, including those integrated into the distribution network.

An interactive electronic system for acquiring goods in remote access mode comprises a video camera communicated with a central server through its video signal reception and transmission unit, a voice communication device configured to receive and transmit voice messages and communicated with said central server through its radio signal reception and transmission unit, real-time settlement unit for purchased or ordered goods related to the billing system. The system is also equipped with a means of delivering an operator to a store selected by the user. At the same time, the operator is equipped with a voice communication device wearable by him and a cart for storing goods, on which a video camera is mounted, equipped with a monitor for displaying the video image of the goods to the operator. The server is made with the function of providing access to video information about goods in the trading floors of the store or stores through the site on this server and with the function of dialing the user to this center when visiting the site and registering as the user on the site, showing on the map the locations of the stores and choosing a store with opening access to the video image of the trading floors of this store and connecting a camcorder on a cart and a voice communication system when the operator is inside the trading floor of the store to demonstrate Without a video camera, in the voice dialogue mode with the user of the selected product and the formation of a shopping basket and subsequent connection of the user with the real-time settlement unit for cashless or cash settlement of goods.

The server of the information and consultation center, with which the processor unit of at least one store is connected, is designed to provide users with access to video information about goods in the trading floors of the store or stores through the site on this server. This server is also made with the additional function of dialing a user to this center when visiting a saiga and registering as a user on the site, demonstrating on the city map the location of the store or the locations of stores and choosing a store with access to video of the store’s trading floors. After choosing a store and opening its plan, the video camera and voice communication system worn by the operator-manager present in the trading floor of this store are connected by a signal from the server for demonstration in front of the video camera in voice dialogue with the user of the selected product and the formation of a shopping basket.

The following is one of the possible algorithms for the operation of such a system of distance trading via the Internet:

- the customer visits the store website;

- clicks on a special banner "remote purchase";

- gets to a special page with a window in which the video image of the store’s consultant is broadcast;

- the client dials the specified phone number and connects with the administrator on duty;

- the on-duty administrator asks the client to enter a unique password in a special password input window (or the card number of a regular customer, or any other identification data);

- this data can be displayed on a computer screen and be available to the duty administrator or client manager;

- after this, the client opens a special page with a window broadcasting video from a wireless video or web camera installed on a regular cart of the store, and audio communication also switches from the headset of the administrator on duty to the headset of the client manager;

- the client directs the actions of the client manager, may ask to bring the product or label to the camera, add the product to the basket, read the annotation, etc .;

- the client can use the store card located on the site or a list of goods;

- the client manager, guided by the instructions of the client, collects the order;

- after the order is collected, the client manager calculates the purchase price, tells the client the order number and finds out which delivery and payment method is convenient for the client;

- the client makes a choice and pays for the order either by credit card through the billing system, or in cash upon receipt of the goods, after which the goods are delivered to the client.

The well-known system does not allow the user to independently switch from one camera to another, in order to better consider the purchased goods, it is necessary to ask the operator-manager to show the goods.

To ensure the possibility of remote purchase, the user must be equipped with a client place, which includes a computer with a monitor and speaker system, i.e. speakers - speakers connected to the computer's audio card, and a microphone, as well as appropriate software that allows you to conduct voice dialogue.

As the closest technical solution is considered the device disclosed in the patent IL 159958 (publication WO 99/12349), designed to provide video access and control via a computer network, including image correction.

This invention relates to the field of education, audiovisual communication systems and computer networks, which provide users with the possibility of transmitting video images over the Internet with the effect of being broadcast live from remote locations. The technical result is achieved in that the device and method are aimed at obtaining video images and accompanying audio information from remote locations and interactively presenting the received data to the user via the Internet.

A drawback of existing classroom teaching systems is that students must be physically present in the classroom to participate in the educational process. However, students who are geographically remote from the class location cannot attend the class at the same time as those who live close to the class location. Famous educational systems are not interactive. Students cannot ask questions, and the teacher cannot change the presentation of the material in accordance with the specific needs of the audience located remotely.

A system was developed that tried to overcome the above disadvantages.

According to the invention, the video image is taken at a remote location and transmitted to a computer network node in compressed or uncompressed form, where it is stored on data carriers. The main function of a computer network node is to transmit a stored video signal to many users via the Internet in accordance with the choice of users.

Remote video information can be obtained from the storage medium via television channels using one or more cameras. The camcorders are connected to the computer so that they can be controlled remotely, or they can be oriented in such a way that a sense of control can be created for the user. A computer network node contains storage media in which information can be stored. In addition, the computer network node transmits camera control commands to remote-controlled cameras, or it can simulate remote control of the camera.

The function of the World Wide Web site is to transmit a video signal to many users through information transmission channels in accordance with the choice of users. Basically, a video image that is transmitted to a plurality of users is a video image in a recording. Users receive and play back the video that is sent from the World Wide Web site. A large number of video images can be received simultaneously. However, the number and frame rate of the video image depend on the capabilities of the user's communication equipment. Users can send requests to a World Wide Web site. On command, the WAN site can switch the video signals received from cameras located at different angles or in different places, which gives the user the feeling of controlling the camera from a distance. In addition, information (graphic information and text) that relates to this video image comes from the World Wide Web site. This information can be transmitted automatically or received at the request of the user.

Thus, the known system also does not allow providing the user with interactive video access to the exposition as a whole and / or to its individual exhibits in real time, which is a consequence of the low exposure to the Internet, which is limited today by the technical capabilities and bandwidth of the Internet channel.

A user or group of users located in different locations, for example, in different cities, cannot view an exhibit or product displayed at an exhibition or store in real time, while a user cannot exchange opinions about an exhibit or product with other users in real time.

In addition, all known systems are cumbersome, complex and energy intensive.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The objective of the present invention is to provide a system for interactive video access of users to the exposition or exhibit in the exposition in real time, which will ensure remote virtual presence of the user in the exposition, for example, at an exhibition, in a museum, show room or library, in real time, using only your personal computer or mobile communication device.

The proposed system has a fairly simple hardware solution and is less energy intensive.

The problem is solved by creating an interactive video access system for users to the exposure in real time, which according to the invention contains:

many video cameras grouped in a matrix and providing images of the exposure and / or exhibits on the exposure, each of the cameras is equipped with an encoding device for generating a video broadcast signal,

at least one local multiplier repeater with an interface, made in the form of a hardware-software device, to which a specified set of video cameras is connected, which ensures the transmission of received signals to

a plurality of recording devices, each with a control interface, according to the number of cameras for forming a database of information about the exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposition;

a plurality of monitors with playback units for displaying exposure images and / or exhibits in real time on an exposure located within a local network and connected by a communication line to a local multiplier repeater,

at least one global multiplier repeater installed in the data receiving and processing center,

a communication channel equipped with switching equipment and providing connection of at least one local multiplier repeater to at least one global multiplier repeater,

at the same time, each of the global multiplying repeaters provides the reception of multiple video broadcast signals from cameras, and the further transmission of video broadcast signals over the Internet in real time, a web server equipped with many communication channels with remote users, providing a remote user with a signal from a personal computer or mobile device of a remote user in real time:

- exposure selection,

- access to a database of information about the requested exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposure from the global multiplier repeater,

- selection of a specific exhibit at the exposition for detailed acquaintance, and sending a request to the global multiplier repeater with the requirement to transmit to the user's PC the corresponding video signal containing hierarchical information about the exhibit, and, if necessary, send a request for the exhibit to the database in order to receive information for display the exhibit from different sides, zooming in, rotating or turning the exhibit, presenting the exhibit in 3D or showing a video characterizing the exhibit,

the web server provides:

- delivery of information about the exhibit via communication channels to the user's PC by clicking on the video image or the name of the exhibit, regardless of other users who view the same exhibit or the same exposure, moreover, from the same video camera and at the same time ,

- holding a conference call of remote users with a representative at the stand for more information about the exposition and / or exhibit,

- the ability for remote users to exchange information about the exhibition and / or exhibits with each other in real time,

- remote switching by the user from one video camera to another by clicking the mouse.

It is advisable that at least one global multiplier repeater is associated with at least one other global multiplier repeater.

It is advisable that the system contains many monitors with playback units located within the local network and connected by a communication line with the local multiplier repeater, for displaying exposure images and / or exhibits on exposure in real time.

It is advisable that at least one exposition selected from the group consisting of an exhibition of paintings, consumer goods, achievements of science and technology, natural resources, a museum, a showroom or a library be considered as an exposition.

It is useful that the system provides the broadcast of the video signal received from one of the cameras on the monitor screen for a wide range of viewers near the exposure.

It is advisable that the system additionally contains a camera of a general view of the exposure, a close-up camera on the left and a close-up camera on the right, connected by a communication line with a local multiplier repeater.

It is advisable that the system further comprises a plurality of mobile video cameras installed with the ability to be moved by the operator to further present to the user information about the exposure and / or exhibit in real time.

It is useful that the system additionally contains a plurality of mobile video cameras installed with the ability to be moved by the operator at the user's request to further present to the user information about the exposure and / or exhibit in real time.

It is advisable that the system additionally contains at least one video camera installed with the ability to move the operator by voice or written request of a remote user with the requirement to show a certain part of the exposition and / or exhibit on the exposition from the back or in an enlarged or open form.

The task is also solved by creating a system of interactive video access for remote users to the exposure in real time, which contains

a plurality of video cameras providing images of the exposure and / or exhibits on the exposure, installed with the possibility of movement, each of the cameras is equipped with an encoding device for generating a video broadcast signal,

at least one local multiplier repeater with an interface, made in the form of a hardware-software device, to which a specified set of movable video cameras is connected, which ensures the transmission of received signals to

a plurality of recording devices, each with a control interface, according to the number of cameras for forming a database of information about the exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposition;

at least one global multiplier repeater installed in the data receiving and processing center,

a communication channel equipped with switching equipment and providing connection of at least one local multiplier repeater to at least one global multiplier repeater,

at the same time, each of the global multiplying repeaters provides the reception of a variety of video broadcast signals from mobile cameras, and further transmission of video broadcast signals over the Internet in real time, a web server equipped with many communication channels with remote users, providing a signal from a remote computer user or mobile device remote user in real time:

- exposure selection,

- access to a database of information about the requested exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposure from the global multiplier repeater,

- selection of a specific exhibit at the exposition for detailed acquaintance, and sending a request to the global multiplier repeater with the requirement to transmit to the user's PC the corresponding video signal containing hierarchical information about the exhibit, and, if necessary, send a request for the exhibit to the database in order to receive information for display the exhibit from different sides, zooming in, rotating or turning the exhibit, presenting the exhibit in 3D or showing a video characterizing the exhibit,

the web server provides:

- delivery of information about the exhibit via communication channels to the user's PC by clicking on the video image or the name of the exhibit, regardless of other users who view the same exhibit or the same exposure, moreover, from the same video camera and at the same time ,

- holding a conference call of remote users with a representative at the stand for more information about the exposition and / or exhibit,

- the ability for remote users to exchange information about the exhibition and / or exhibits with each other in real time,

- remote switching by the user from one video camera to another by clicking the mouse.

It is advisable that at least one global multiplier repeater is associated with at least one other global multiplier repeater.

It is advisable that the system contains many monitors with playback units located within the local network and connected by a communication line with the local multiplier repeater, for displaying exposure images and / or exhibits on exposure in real time.

It is advisable that at least one exposition selected from the group consisting of an exhibition of paintings, consumer goods, achievements of science and technology, natural resources, a museum, a showroom or a library be considered as an exposition.

It is useful that the system provides the broadcast of the video signal received from one of the cameras on the monitor screen for a wide range of viewers near the exposure.

It is advisable that the system additionally contains a camera of a general view of the exposure, a close-up camera on the left and a close-up camera on the right, connected by a communication line with a local multiplier repeater.

It is advisable that the system additionally contains many installed stationary cameras, grouped in a matrix to further present to the user information about the exposure and / or exhibit in real time.

It is advisable that the system additionally contains at least one video camera installed with the ability to move the operator at the voice or written request of the user with the requirement to show a certain part of the exposition and / or exhibit on the exposition on the other hand or in an enlarged form, in open form.

The problem is also solved by creating an interactive video access system for remote users to the exposure in real time, which according to the invention contains

many groups of cameras, each of the groups is designed to be installed in a location different from the location of the other group, and contains many cameras that provide images of the exposure and / or exhibits on the exposure, each of the cameras is equipped with an encoder for generating a video signal,

at least one global multiplier repeater installed in the data receiving and processing center,

communication channels according to the number of video camera groups equipped with switching equipment and enabling the connection of video camera groups to at least one global multiplier repeater using virtual private network (VPN) technology,

wherein each of the global multiplying repeaters provides the reception of a plurality of video broadcast signals coming from the cameras, and further transmission of the video broadcast signals over the Internet in real time,

a plurality of recording devices, each with a control interface, connected to at least one global multiplier repeater and intended to form a database of information about the exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposition;

a web server equipped with many communication channels with remote users, which provides a real-time signal from a personal computer of a remote user or a mobile device of a remote user

- exposure selection,

- access to a database of information about the requested exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposure from the global multiplier repeater,

- selection of a particular exhibit at the exposition for detailed acquaintance, and sending a request to the global multiplier repeater with the requirement to transmit to the user's PC the corresponding video signal containing hierarchical information about the exhibit, and, if necessary, send a request for the exhibit to the database in order to obtain stored information for showing the exhibit to the user from different sides, zooming in, rotating or turning the exhibit, presenting the exhibit in 3D or showing a video, character creeping exhibit

at the same time, the web server provides upon user request:

- delivery of information about the exhibit via communication channels to the user's PC by clicking on the video image or the name of the exhibit, regardless of other users who view the same exhibit or the same exposure, moreover, from the same video camera and at the same time ,

- holding a conference call of remote users with a representative at the stand of the exposition to obtain additional information about the exposition and / or exhibit,

- the ability for remote users to exchange information about the exhibition and / or exhibits with each other in real time,

- remote switching by the user from one video camera to another by clicking the mouse.

Preferably, at least two expositions are considered as selected from the group consisting of an exhibition of paintings, consumer goods, science and technology, natural resources, a museum, a showroom or a library, and these expositions were located in a multitude of locations.

Preferably, the plurality of locations are located in different countries and / or in different cities and / or in different buildings.

Preferably, the system comprises a plurality of monitors located at different locations for broadcasting a video signal received from at least one of the cameras to a wide range of viewers.

It is advisable that the system uses the technology for determining the termination of data flow due to the breakdown of at least one of the communication channels from the video camera to each user or power failure of at least one of the devices from the group consisting of a video camera, a local multiplier repeater and a global multiplier repeater, and restore data flow when troubleshooting. The proposed system of interactive video access of users to the exposition or to the exhibit in the exposition will allow to provide remote virtual presence of the user in the exposition, for example, at the exhibition, in the museum, show room or library, in real time, using only your personal computer. The system has a fairly simple hardware solution and is less energy intensive.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention is further explained in the description of the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of a real-time interactive video access system for users to an exposure, a first embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 (a, b) depict a block diagram of the connection of local multiplying repeaters and global multiplying repeaters, according to the invention;

FIG. 3 depicts a block diagram of a real-time interactive video access system for users of an exposure, a second embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 depicts a block diagram of a system for interactive video access of users to an exposition in real time, when many countries participate in the exhibition, and the expositions are in different countries, according to the invention;

FIG. 5 schematically depicts a user display screen showing a search circuit and displaying an exhibit according to a first embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 schematically depicts a user display screen showing a search circuit and displaying an exhibit according to a second embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 depicts a schematic diagram of a user display screen showing a lecture listening scheme by a remote user, displaying lecture material on a whiteboard in a lecture hall, and a display screen of a user interactively participating in a learning process according to the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The system of interactive video access of users to the real-time exposure (Fig. 1), according to the invention, comprises a plurality of video cameras 1 installed stationary and providing images on the exposure 2 and / or exhibits 3 on the exposure, and the video cameras are grouped in a matrix, and each of the cameras 1 is equipped with an encoder 4 for generating a video broadcast signal.

The interactive video access system contains at least one local multiplier repeater 5 with an interface, made in the form of a hardware-software device, to which the indicated set of video cameras 1 is connected, and which provides the transmission of the received signals to the set of recording devices 6, each with the control interface 7, by number video cameras 1, to form a database 8 of information about the exposure 2 and / or video images of the exhibits 3 on the exposure.

Each recording device 6 is controlled by its control interface 7, which makes it possible to choose from which local repeater 5 and from which video camera 1 to record information, and recording can be carried out from a large number of cameras, for example, from 500 cameras or more.

The interactive video access system also includes at least one global multiplier repeater 9 installed in the data receiving and processing center 10 and connected to at least one local multiplier repeater 5 via the communication channel 11. The communication channel 11 is equipped with switching equipment 12.

The global multiplier repeater 9 receives a plurality of video transmission signals coming from video cameras 1, records the received video transmission signals to a plurality of recording devices 6, to form a database 8 of information about exposure 2 and / or video images of exhibits 3 for exposure, as well as further transmission of video transmission signals via the Internet via broadband channels 13 in real time to many users, for example, 100,000 or more.

The system comprises a web server 14 provided with a plurality of communication channels 15 with remote users and providing, in real time, by a signal from a personal computer PC 16 of a remote user or by a signal from a mobile device 17 of a remote user communication:

- exposure selection 2,

- access to the database 8 of information about the requested exposure 2 and / or video images of the exhibits 3 on the exposure from the global multiplier repeater 9,

- selection of a specific exhibit 3 at exposition 2 for detailed acquaintance, and sending a request to the global multiplier repeater 9 with the requirement to transmit to the user PC 16 the corresponding video signal containing hierarchical information about exhibit 3, and, if necessary, send a request for exhibit 3 to base 8 data to receive stored information for displaying the exhibit 3 to the user from different angles, zooming in, rotating or turning the exhibit, representing the exhibit in 3D, or showing a video a, characterizing the exhibit 3.

In the claimed system, the web server 13 provides at the request of the user:

- delivery of information about the exhibit via communication channels 15 to the PC 16 or the mobile device 17 of the remote user’s communication by clicking on the video image or the name of the exhibit 3, regardless of other users who view the same exhibit or the same exposure. A remote user located, for example, in another city, can switch from one camera 1 to another by clicking on the screen of the computer 16 to view exhibit 3 from all sides;

- holding a conference call with representative 18 at the stand of exposition 2 for more information about exposition 2 and / or exhibit 3, for example, if it is an exhibition of consumer goods, about the price of goods, delivery times, the possibility of purchasing wholesale or retail, etc. d .;

- the ability of remote users to exchange information about exposure 2 and / or exhibits 3 with each other in real time;

- remote switching by the user from one video camera 1 to another, while one video camera 1 provides the display of exposure 2 or exhibit 3, and the other video camera shows, for example, the same exhibit 3, but in an enlarged view.

The system also comprises a plurality of monitors 19 provided with reproduction units 20 for displaying images of the exposure 2 and / or exhibits 3 on the exposure in real time. Monitors 19 are located within the local network, i.e. in the hall or showroom, and are connected by a line 21 to a local multiplier repeater 5.

In the proposed interactive video access system, at least one global multiplier repeater 9 (Fig. 2a, 2b) is connected to at least one other global multiplier repeater 9 via communication line 22, for the case when the load on one global multiplier repeater 9 approaches a threshold features of this repeater.

In FIG. 2a and 2b also show examples of the connection of two local multiplier repeaters 5 with three global multiplier repeaters 9.

At least one exposure selected from the group consisting of an exhibition of paintings, consumer goods, scientific and technological achievements, natural resources, a museum, a showroom or library (not shown) can be considered as exposure 2 in the claimed invention.

Broadcasting the video signal received from one of the cameras 1 (Fig. 1) can be performed on the monitor screen 19 for a wide range of viewers near exposure 2 or on the screens of monitors 23, which are located, for example, in other cities and connected to the global multiplier repeater 9.

The system further comprises a general exposure camera 24, a close-up camera 25 on the left, and a close-up camera 26 on the right, also equipped with an encoder 4 for generating a video broadcast signal and connected to a local multiplier repeater 5.

The system further comprises a plurality of mobile video cameras 27 (one mobile video camera is shown) mounted with the possibility of movement by the operator 28 to further present to the user information about the exposure 2 and / or exhibit 3 in real time.

The system further comprises at least one video camera 29, mounted for movement by the operator 30 at the voice or written request of the user with the requirement to show a certain part of the exposition 2 and / or exhibit 3 on the exposition from the back or in an enlarged form, in open form.

The system also contains a plurality of recording devices 31, each with a control interface 32, connected to at least one global multiplier repeater 9 and intended to form a database 8 of information about the exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposure.

According to a second embodiment of the invention (Fig. 3), the interactive video access system of remote users for real-time exposure includes a plurality of video cameras 33 mounted with the ability to be moved by the operator 34 and providing images of the exposure 35 and / or exhibit 36 on the exposure. Each of the cameras 30 is equipped with an encoder 37 for generating a video broadcast signal.

In a second embodiment, the system further comprises a plurality of fixed-mounted video cameras 38 (one stationary video camera is shown) grouped in a matrix to further present to the user information about the exposure 35 and / or the exhibit 36 in real time.

Similarly to the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, the interactive video access system comprises at least one local multiplier repeater 39 with an interface, made in the form of a hardware-software device, to which a plurality of video cameras 33 is connected, and for transmitting the received signals to a plurality of recording devices 40, each with a control interface 41, according to the number of video cameras 33, for forming a database 42 of information on exposure information 35 and / or video images of exhibits 36 per exp zitsii.

Each recording device 40 is controlled by its own interface 41, which makes it possible to choose from which local repeater 39 and from which video camera 33, 38 to record information, and recording can be carried out from a large number of cameras, for example, 500 cameras or more.

The interactive video access system in the second embodiment also comprises at least one global multiplier repeater 43 installed in the data receiving and processing center 44 and connected to at least one local multiplier repeater 39 via the communication channel 45. The communication channel 45 is equipped with switching equipment 46.

The global multiplier repeater 43 receives a plurality of video transmission signals coming from video cameras 39, records the received video transmission signals to a plurality of recording devices 47, to form a database 42 of information about exposure 35 and / or video images of exhibits 46 for exposure, and also further transmits video signals via Internet via broadband 48 in real time.

The system comprises a web server 49 provided with a plurality of communication channels 50 with remote users and providing, in real time, by a signal from a personal computer 51 of a remote user or by a signal from a mobile device 52 of a remote user,

- exposure selection 35,

- access to the database 42 of information about the requested exposure 35 and / or video images of the exhibits 36 on the exposure from the global multiplier repeater 43,

- selection at the exposition 35 of a particular exhibit 36 for detailed acquaintance, and sending a request to the global multiplier repeater 43 with the requirement to transmit to the user PC 51 the corresponding video signal containing hierarchical information about exhibit 36, and, if necessary, send a request for exhibit 36 to base 42 data to obtain stored information for displaying the exhibit 36 to the user from different angles, zooming in, rotating or rotating the exhibit, representing the exhibit in 3D or displaying video exhibit 36.

In the inventive system, the web server 49 provides at the request of the user:

- delivery of information about the exhibit via communication channels 50 to the user's PC 51 by clicking on the video image or the name of the exhibit 36, regardless of other users who view the same exhibit or the same exposition. A remote user located, for example, in another city, can switch from one mobile video camera 33 to another by clicking on the computer screen 51 to view exhibit 36 from all sides;

- holding a conference call with a representative at the stand (not shown) of exposition 35 for more information about exposition 35 and / or exhibit 36, for example, if it is an exhibition of consumer goods, about the price of goods, delivery times, the possibility of purchasing wholesale or retail etc.;

- the ability of remote users to exchange information about the exposure 35 and / or exhibits 36 with each other in real time;

- remote switching by the user from one video camera 33 to another, while one video camera 33 provides an exposure 35 or exhibit 36, and another video camera 33 shows, for example, the same exhibit 36 or an exhibit element, but in an enlarged view.

The system also comprises a plurality of monitors 53 provided with reproduction units 54 for displaying exposure images 35 and / or exhibits 36 in real time exposure. Monitors 53 are located within the local network, i.e. in the hall or show room, and connected by a line 55 to a local multiplier repeater 39.

Broadcasting a video signal received from one of the cameras 33 can be carried out on a monitor screen 53 for a wide range of viewers near exposure 35 or on monitor screens 56 that are located, for example, in other cities.

In the proposed interactive video access system, at least one global multiplier relay 43 is connected to at least one other global multiplier relay 43, similarly to the first embodiment of the invention, for the case where the load on one global multiplier relay 43 approaches the threshold of capabilities of this repeater (see Fig. 2a, 2b for the first embodiment).

The system further comprises a stationary camera 56 of a general view of the exposure, a camera 57 close-up on the left and a camera 58 close-up on the right, connected to a local multiplier repeater 39.

The system further comprises a plurality of mobile video cameras 59 mounted for movement by the operator 60 to further present to the user information about the exposure 35 and / or the exhibit 36 in real time.

The system further comprises at least one video camera 61, mounted for movement by the operator 62 at the voice or written request of the user with the requirement to show a certain part of the exposition 35 and / or exhibit 36 on the exposition from the back or in an enlarged view, in open form.

The system also comprises a plurality of recording devices 63, each with a control interface 64, connected to at least one global multiplier relay 43 and intended to form a database 42 of information about the exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposure.

According to a third embodiment, the interactive video access system of remote users for real-time exposure (Fig. 4) comprises a plurality of groups of 65, 66, 67 video cameras, each of which is intended to be installed at a location other than the location of another group. Each group contains a plurality of video cameras 68 that provide exposure images 69, 70, 71 and / or artifacts on exposure, each of the video cameras 68 having an encoder for generating a video broadcast signal.

The system comprises at least one global multiplier repeater 72 installed in the data receiving and processing center 73.

The system also contains communication channels 74, 75, 76 according to the number of groups of 65, 66, 67 video cameras equipped with switching equipment and enabling the connection of groups of video cameras 68 to at least one global multiplier relay 72 using virtual private network (VPN) technology.

At the same time, each of the global multiplying repeaters 72 receives a plurality of video broadcast signals coming from video cameras 68 and further transmits video broadcast signals over the Internet in real time.

A plurality of recording devices 77, each with a control interface 78, are connected to at least one global multiplier relay 72 and are intended to form a database 79 of information on exposure 69, 70, 71 and / or video images of the exhibits on display.

The system also includes a web server 80, equipped with many channels 81 of communication with remote users, providing a signal from a personal computer 82 of a remote user or mobile device 83 communication of a remote user in real time:

- exposure selection 69, 70, 71,

- access to the database 79 of information about the requested exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposure from the global multiplier repeater 72,

- selection at the exposition 69, 70, 71 of a particular exhibit 84 for detailed acquaintance, and sending a request to the global multiplier repeater 72 with the requirement to transmit to the user PC 82 the corresponding video signal containing hierarchical information about the exhibit 84, and, if necessary, send a request for the exhibit to database 79 to obtain stored information for displaying the exhibit to the user from different angles, zooming in, rotating or reversing the exhibit, representing the exhibit in 3D or displaying a video The character characterizing the exhibit.

At the same time, the web server 80 provides at the request of the user:

- delivery of information about the exhibit 84 via the communication channels 81 to the user PC 82, 83 by clicking on the video image or the name of the exhibit, independently of other users who view the same exhibit or the same exposition, moreover, from the same video camera 68 and the same point in time

- holding a conference call of remote users with a representative at the stand of the exposition to obtain additional information about the exposition and / or exhibit,

- the ability for remote users to exchange information about the exhibition and / or exhibits with each other in real time,

- remote switching by the user from one video camera to another by clicking the mouse.

At least two exposures selected from the group consisting of an exhibition of paintings, consumer goods, achievements of science and technology, natural resources, a museum, a showroom or a library are considered as expositions in this embodiment, while these expositions are located in a variety of locations .

In the described embodiment, many locations are located in different countries, in particular, in Russia, Germany and the USA, but can be in different cities or just in different buildings.

Broadcast video received from one of the cameras 68, can be performed for a wide range of viewers on the screens of monitors 84, which are located, for example, in other cities.

The claimed system of interactive video access of remote users to the exposure in real time according to the invention works as follows.

After installation and configuration of equipment and installation of exhibits, the system is launched, which means that all video cameras 1, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, (Fig. 1) or 33, 37, 38, 55, 57 are turned on and working. , 559, 61 (Fig. 3), or 68 (Fig. 4) and the signal is transmitted to the local multiplier relay 5, 39, then transmitted to the global multiplier relay 9 or 43, or 72 and then to the web server 14 or 49, or 80, respectively.

At the user's request from a personal computer 16, 51, 82 or a mobile device 17, 52, 72, respectively, to a web server 14, 49, 80, the latter relays the user's request to the database 8, 42, 79, respectively, and the global multiplier relay 9 , 43 or 72. The global multiplier repeater 9, 43 communicates, in the first two embodiments, through the local multiplier repeater 5, 39 with respective cameras, providing the user with the desired exposure and the desired exhibit.

This is as follows. First, the user receives a signal from the camera 24 (Fig. 5) or from the camera 56 general view of the exposure (Fig. 6). The user receives a general view of the exposition at which he selects a specific group, for example, group A of exhibits from four groups A, B, C, D (Fig. 1) on the exposition through camera 1 (A), 1 (B), 1 (C ), 1 (D). When this happens, the camera 24 is switched to a general view of the camera 1 (A), installed stationary and corresponding to this exhibit from the selected group A of the exhibits. The user receives the video / audio signals from the video camera 1A installed near the requested exhibit from the selected exhibit group A.

In the described embodiment, when the user selects group A, this means that he selects the catalogs in which, for example, furniture or watches are presented.

In this case, the user on the screen (Fig. 5) on the left displays a list of exhibits in the group, i.e. A list of 85 furniture catalogs available. The user can select the required catalog from the list 85, which is presented on the display screen, for example, the catalog of chairs and armchairs, then, by clicking on the exhibit, the user can select specific chairs or armchairs from the list of chairs and armchairs, after which the required exhibits appear on the display screen . Or the user can choose by clicking directly on the video area where this exhibit is located, i.e. a chair or chair. There can be several such hierarchical transitions.

Upon reaching a given specific exhibit, the user is simultaneously provided with textual, graphical information and 3D information about the exhibit that the user is interested in from database 8.

In the case of goods, this may be a description of the goods, their technical characteristics, photographs, information about the manufacturer. This information is received by the user from the database 8, 42 of data generated in advance by the manufacturers of the goods.

At the same time, the user can send a voice or written request in a special window 86 directly to operator 18 at the exposition or at the office of the company representing this exposition. The user can ask the operator 28 with a mobile video camera 27 to show the exhibit, if it is presented at exposition 2 in more detail, the exhibit is shown in more detail in window 87.

Conference call. The user can ask questions and receive answers about the exhibit of interest.

The user can exchange views (text messages) with another user or users about the exhibit, while simultaneously viewing the same exhibit.

For a wide range of viewers, many monitors 19 or 53 are installed at the exposition, which display from video cameras aimed at exhibits or expositions. Monitors 23, 56 can be installed in other buildings and even cities, so that people interested in the exhibition have the opportunity to get a general idea of the exhibition and its exhibits.

In a second embodiment, i.e. in the case when all video cameras 30 are mobile, all possible angles are displayed on the screen (Fig. 6) of the user monitor, i.e. all mobile video cameras 33, 38, 56, 57, 58, 59, 61, continuously broadcast the exposure 35 or exhibits 36. The user first connects to the general camera 56 and selects the desired exposure, and then proceeds to select the desired exhibit 36. Since all video cameras display the exhibit, the user can switch from camera to camera by clicking on the screen to view the exhibit from all sides. In this case, a car is shown.

Upon reaching a given specific exhibit, the user is simultaneously provided with textual, graphical information in the window 88 and 3D information about the exhibit that the user is interested in from the database 42.

In the case of goods, this may be a description of the goods, their technical characteristics, photographs, information about the manufacturer. This information is received by the user from the database 42, also pre-formed by manufacturers of goods.

At the same time, the user can send a voice or written request in a special window 89 directly to the company representative at the exposition or at the office of the company representing this exposition. The user can ask the operator 62 with a mobile video camera 61 to show the exhibit 36, if it is presented at the exposition 35, in more detail, the exhibit is shown in more detail in window 90.

This option with mobile video cameras 33 is also preferable for cases of conferences, seminars, concerts, competitions, classrooms (Fig. 7).

If the remote user is listening to the lecture, he can not only see lecturer 91 online, and what the lecturer writes on board 92 or shows on screens 93, 94 in the audience, since the lecture is broadcast live via video camera 33, but also the user may ask questions to the lecturer and ask for clarification of something in more detail. Questions are displayed to the lecturer and the entire audience on screen 95. Since the lecture is being recorded on-line at the same time, the user can then download the required materials from the database 42 for more detailed review after the lecture.

In the case when the expositions are located in different locations, for example, in different countries (Fig. 3), the system operates in the same way as described above, and it is not difficult for a remote user to familiarize themselves with the exhibits at the exposition.

In the proposed embodiments of the system, the technology is used to determine the termination of data flow due to a break in at least one of the communication channels from the video camera to each user or to turn off the power of at least one of the devices from the group consisting of a video camera, a local multiplier repeater and a global multiplier repeater, and restore data flow when troubleshooting.

Industrial applicability

The proposed invention can be used for interactive video access of remote users to the exposure in real time. The invention provides a remote user with the opportunity of virtual presence at the exposition, discussion of exhibits with company representatives or with other users. The system allows real-time to provide the ability to simultaneously familiarize themselves with the exhibits to a large number of users, for example 100,000 or more.

Claims (69)

1. The system of interactive video access of remote users to the exposure in real time, containing many video cameras grouped in a matrix and providing images of the exposure and / or exhibits on the exposure, each of the cameras is equipped with an encoding device for generating a video broadcast signal, at least one local multiplier repeater with an interface, made in the form of a hardware-software device, to which the indicated set of video cameras is connected, and providing the transmission of received signals to a plurality of recording devices, each with a control interface, according to the number of cameras, for forming a database of information about the exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposition; at least one global multiplier repeater installed in the data receiving and processing center, a communication channel equipped with switching equipment and providing connection of at least one local multiplier repeater to at least one global multiplier repeater, wherein each of the global multiplying repeaters provides the reception of a plurality of video broadcast signals coming from the cameras, and further transmission of the video broadcast signals over the Internet in real time, a web server equipped with many communication channels with remote users, which provides a real-time signal from a personal computer of a remote user or a mobile device of a remote user - exposure selection, - access to a database of information about the requested exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposure from the global multiplier repeater, - selection of a particular exhibit at the exposition for detailed acquaintance and sending a request to the global multiplier repeater with the requirement to transmit to the user’s PC (personal computer) the corresponding video signal containing hierarchical information about the exhibit, and, if necessary, send the request for the exhibit to the database in order to receive stored information for displaying the exhibit to the user from different angles, zooming in, rotating or rotating the exhibit, presenting the exhibit in 3D or so for the video characterizing the exhibit, at the same time, the web server provides upon user request: - delivery of information about the exhibit via communication channels to the user's PC by clicking on the video image or the name of the exhibit, regardless of other users who view the same exhibit or the same exposure, moreover, from the same video camera and at the same time , - holding a conference call of remote users with a representative at the stand of the exposition to obtain additional information about the exposition and / or exhibit, - the ability for remote users to exchange information about the exhibition and / or exhibits with each other in real time, - remote switching by the user from one video camera to another by clicking the mouse. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of recording devices, each with a control interface, are connected to at least one global multiplier repeater and are designed to generate a database of information about the exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposure. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one global multiplying repeater is connected to at least one other global multiplying repeater by a communication line. 4. The system of claim 1, which comprises a plurality of monitors with reproduction units located within the local network and connected by a communication line to a local multiplier repeater and intended to display exposure images and / or exhibits in real time on an exposure. 5. The system according to claim 1, in which at least one exposition is selected as an exposition selected from the group consisting of an exhibition of paintings, consumer goods, achievements of science and technology, natural resources, a museum, a showroom or library. 6. The system according to claim 3, in which the video signal received from one of the cameras is broadcast on a monitor screen for a wide range of viewers near the exposure. 7. The system of claim 1, which comprises a plurality of monitors with playback units located outside the local network and connected by a communication line to the global multiplier repeater and intended to display exposure images and / or exhibits in real time for a wide audience, located far from the exposure. 8. The system of claim 1, which further comprises a general exposure camera, a close-up camera on the left, and a close-up camera on the right, connected by a communication line to a local multiplier repeater. 9. The system of claim 1, which further comprises a plurality of mobile video cameras installed with the ability to be moved by an operator to further present to the user information about the exposure and / or exhibit in real time. 10. The system according to claim 1 or 6, which further comprises a plurality of mobile video cameras installed with the ability to be moved by the operator at the user's request to further present to the user information about the exposure and / or exhibit in real time. 11. The system according to claim 1 or 7, which further comprises at least one video camera installed with the ability to move the operator by voice or written request of a remote user with the requirement to show a certain part of the exposition and / or exhibit on the exposition from the back or in an enlarged view , or in the clear. 12. The system of interactive video access of remote users to the exposure in real time, containing a plurality of video cameras providing images of the exposure and / or exhibits on the exposure, installed with the possibility of movement, each of the cameras is equipped with an encoding device for generating a video broadcast signal, at least one local multiplier repeater with an interface, made in the form of a hardware-software device, to which a specified set of movable video cameras is connected, which ensures the transmission of received signals to a plurality of recording devices, each with a control interface, according to the number of cameras, for forming a database of information about the exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposition; at least one global multiplier repeater installed in the data receiving and processing center, a communication channel equipped with switching equipment and providing connection of at least one local multiplier repeater to at least one global multiplier repeater, wherein each of the global multiplying repeaters provides the reception of a plurality of video broadcast signals from mobile cameras, and the further transmission of video broadcast signals over the Internet in real time, a web server equipped with many communication channels with remote users, which provides a real-time signal from a personal computer of a remote user or a mobile device of a remote user - exposure selection, - access to a database of information about the requested exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposure from the global multiplier repeater, - selection of a particular exhibit at the exposition for detailed acquaintance and sending a request to the global multiplier repeater with the requirement to transmit the corresponding video signal containing hierarchical information about the exhibit to the user's PC, and, if necessary, send a request for the exhibit to the database in order to receive stored information for display the user of the exhibit from different sides, zooming in, rotating or turning the exhibit, presenting the exhibit in 3D or showing a video, character binder exhibit, at the same time, the web server provides upon user request: - delivery of information about the exhibit via communication channels to the user's PC by clicking on the video image or the name of the exhibit, regardless of other users who view the same exhibit or the same exposure, moreover, from the same video camera and at the same time , - holding a conference call of remote users with a representative at the stand of the exposition to obtain additional information about the exposition and / or exhibit, - the ability for remote users to exchange information about the exhibition and / or exhibits with each other in real time, - remote switching by the user from one video camera to another by clicking the mouse. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the plurality of recording devices, each with a control interface, are connected to at least one global multiplier repeater and are designed to generate a database of information about the exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposure. 14. The system of claim 12, wherein the at least one global multiplying repeater is connected to at least one other global multiplying repeater by a communication link. 15. The system of claim 12, which comprises a plurality of monitors with playback units located within the local network and connected by a communication line with a local multiplier repeater and intended to display the exposure images and / or exhibits in real time on the exposure. 16. The system according to p. 12, which contains many monitors with playback units located outside the local network and connected by a communication line with the global multiplier repeater and designed to display images of the exposure and / or exhibits on the exposure in real time for a wide range of viewers, located far from the exposure. 17. The system of claim 12, wherein at least one exposure selected from. a group consisting of an exhibition of paintings, consumer goods, achievements of science and technology, natural resources, a museum, a showroom or library. 18. The system of claim 12, wherein the video signal received from one of the cameras is broadcast on a monitor screen for a wide range of viewers near the exposure. 19. The system of claim 12, further comprising a general exposure camera, a close-up camera on the left, and a close-up camera on the right, connected by a communication line to a local multiplier repeater. 20. The system according to p. 12, which further comprises at least one video camera installed with the ability to move the operator by voice or written request of the user with the requirement to show a certain part of the exposition and / or exhibit on the exposition on the other hand or in an enlarged form, or clear view. 21. The system of interactive video access of remote users to the exposure in real time, containing many groups of cameras, each of the groups is designed to be installed in a location different from the location of the other group, and contains many cameras that provide images of the exposure and / or exhibits on the exposure, each of the cameras is equipped with an encoder for generating a video signal, at least one global multiplier repeater installed in the data receiving and processing center, communication channels according to the number of video camera groups equipped with switching equipment and enabling the connection of video camera groups to at least one global multiplier repeater using virtual private network (VPN) technology, wherein each of the global multiplying repeaters provides the reception of a plurality of video broadcast signals coming from the cameras, and further transmission of the video broadcast signals over the Internet in real time, a plurality of recording devices, each with a control interface, connected to at least one global multiplier repeater and intended to form a database of information about the exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposition; a web server equipped with many communication channels with remote users, which provides a real-time signal from a personal computer of a remote user or a mobile device of a remote user - exposure selection, - access to a database of information about the requested exposure and / or video images of the exhibits on the exposure from the global multiplier repeater, - selection of a particular exhibit at the exposition for detailed acquaintance and sending a request to the global multiplier repeater with the requirement to transmit the corresponding video signal containing hierarchical information about the exhibit to the user's PC, and, if necessary, send a request for the exhibit to the database in order to receive stored information for display the user of the exhibit from different sides, zooming in, rotating or turning the exhibit, presenting the exhibit in 3D or showing a video, character binder exhibit, at the same time, the web server provides upon user request: - delivery of information about the exhibit via communication channels to the user's PC by clicking on the video image or the name of the exhibit, regardless of other users who view the same exhibit or the same exposure, moreover, from the same video camera and at the same time , - holding a conference call of remote users with a representative at the stand of the exposition to obtain additional information about the exposition and / or exhibit, - the ability for remote users to exchange information about the exhibition and / or exhibits with each other in real time, - remote switching by the user from one video camera to another by clicking the mouse. 22. The system of claim 21, wherein the exposition considers at least two expositions selected from the group consisting of an exhibition of paintings, consumer goods, achievements of science and technology, natural resources, a museum, a showroom or library, This exposure is located in a variety of locations. 23. The system of claim 21, wherein the plurality of locations are located in different countries, and / or in different cities, and / or in different buildings. 24. The system of claim 21, which comprises a plurality of monitors located at different locations for broadcasting a video signal received from at least one of the cameras to a wide range of viewers. 25. The system according to any one of paragraphs. 1, 12, 21, in which the technology is used to determine the termination of data flow due to a break in at least one of the communication channels from the video camera to each user or to turn off the power of at least one of the devices from the group consisting of a video camera, a local multiplier repeater and a global multiplier repeater; and restoring data flow when troubleshooting.