WO2001067760A1 - Procede et dispositif permettant de fournir des services de communication par video interactive - Google Patents

Procede et dispositif permettant de fournir des services de communication par video interactive Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2001067760A1
WO2001067760A1 PCT/US2001/008010 US0108010W WO0167760A1 WO 2001067760 A1 WO2001067760 A1 WO 2001067760A1 US 0108010 W US0108010 W US 0108010W WO 0167760 A1 WO0167760 A1 WO 0167760A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
video
services
interactive
service
communications
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2001/008010
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Lynn Drosos
Original Assignee
Planetary Television.Com, Llc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Planetary Television.Com, Llc filed Critical Planetary Television.Com, Llc
Priority to AU2001245674A priority Critical patent/AU2001245674A1/en
Publication of WO2001067760A1 publication Critical patent/WO2001067760A1/fr

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00—Television systems
    • H04N7/14—Systems for two-way working
    • H04N7/141—Systems for two-way working between two video terminals, e.g. videophone
    • H04N7/147—Communication arrangements, e.g. identifying the communication as a video-communication, intermediate storage of the signals

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to providing a variety of interactive video conferencing services through a single and convenient location, such as a service bureau.
  • the present invention implements known video and audio communications equipment to provide system users with variety of interactive services over a networked environment.
  • Video conferencing units are well known and typically have at least one camera, a video screen, a telephone and other communications equipment.
  • a caller may connect her video conferencing unit to a communications network, such as a telephone network, and call another person having a video unit.
  • the parties may communicate face to face through the use of their video units.
  • a caller wishes to make a new video call, she must locate the phone number of the person she is calling. Many problems may arise when searching for a phone number. Often, a caller may be unable to locate a particular phone number and must call information for that number. This can be quite expensive and time consuming.
  • a caller may decide not to make the phone call rather than calling information.
  • the present invention seeks to solve this problem.
  • Audio interactive telephonic services are well known. For example, there exist psychic lines, sport lines, dating lines, party lines, and many other services. Typically, people may call these services and pay for them on a pay per call basis. These services are generally known as audio text services and are offered for entertainment, educational, or other purposes. Using audio-text services, callers are unable to see the people they are interacting with. Human nature dictates that people are more likely to trust a stranger if he can see the stranger face to face. As a result, many people who would otherwise use these services are reluctant to use them. There is a long felt need for a system and method that enable users of audio text services to see and interact with audio text service providers on a face to face basis.
  • voice mail and answering machines are well known for receiving and recording telephone messages.
  • One problem often associated with this type of messaging is that messages are often difficult to understand because they are muddled or cut short.
  • Another problem associated with this type of messaging is that the hearing impaired is unable to hear and understand audio messages.
  • a caller may leave a message but forget to leave his name.
  • a person retrieving telephone messages may be unable to determine the identity of the caller who has left the message.
  • the present invention seeks to solve this long felt need.
  • Video units are quite expensive, and as a result, many households are reluctant to buy them.
  • the present invention is directed toward a method and apparatus for providing an interactive teleconferencing call routing system that enables callers to interact with a wide variety of services and applications on a pay per call and/or pay per use basis.
  • the system of the present invention implements a video teleconferencing service bureau which offers to system users a variety of interactive services and applications through conventional video and audio communication technology.
  • the service bureau may provide each system user of the system with a video conferencing device that may be used to contact the system's service bureau.
  • the service bureau prompts the system user to select a particular interactive service or application and routes the system user's video call the particular service requested.
  • Another object of the present invention is to implement a video teleconferencing service bureau that provides a wide selection of interactive video conferencing services and routs video telephonic calls to those services.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide premium interactive video services over a video communications system.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide long distance telephone service over a video communications system.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide Internet access and services through a service bureau for video teleconferencing.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide video messaging services over a video communications system.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the system implemented over a network wherein standard video units are used to connect to the service bureau of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a second embodiment of the system implemented over a network wherein standard video units and video units that may attach to a television are used to connect to the service bureau of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of the method implemented over the system of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3a is a continuation of the flow diagram of FIG 3.
  • FIG. 3b is a continuation of the flow diagram of FIG 3 and 3a.
  • FIG. 3c is a continuation of the flow diagram of FIG 3, 3a and 3b.
  • FIG. 3d is a continuation of the flow diagram of FIG 3, 3a, 3b and 3c.
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the system implemented over a network wherein the standard video units are used to connect to the service bureau of the present invention which is maintained on an Internet Web site.
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the system implemented over a network wherein standard video units and video units that may attach to a television are used to connect to the service bureau which is maintained on an Internet Web site.
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the system implemented over a network wherein the computers and video hardware are used to connect to the service bureau of the present invention which is maintained on an Internet Web site.
  • the present invention is directed toward a system and method for providing a variety of live and pre-recorded video interactive services (hereinafter, "video services') over a convenient and easily accessible location, such as a service bureau 13 on a network 15.
  • the networks over which the video interactive services may be provided include, but is not limited to, a telephone network, a computer network, a cable television network, a satellite network, a digital network, or other similar networks.
  • the video interactive services are provided at a single location over the network implemented. For example, the variety of services may be accessed from a single telephone number, a web site address or a cable channel.
  • the present invention implements video communications equipment, including video teleconferencing devices, to enable its users to communicate face to face from separate remote locations.
  • the video services provided over the system should be understood to include, but are not limited to live or pre-recorded, visual communications broadcast in real time.
  • System users may use vide communications equipment to access and engage in the variety of video services provided over the system.
  • the first type of system users are people who make video calls (hereinafter, “Callers”).
  • the second type are people who receive video calls from Callers (hereinafter, "Receivers”).
  • a receiver may be a video messaging unit, a person receiving a long distance call, an Internet service provider or any other person who may receive a call over the system.
  • the third type are Producers of premium services, who may be either a Caller or a Receiver. Most Producers will be Receivers, however, they may be callers for premium services that require the Producer to initiate the video call, such as video wake up calling services, elderly care monitoring services and home security services.
  • Each system user should have a video unit (discussed herein) capable of transmitting live, real-time video images to other system users. Using these units, system users may utilize the system's video services.
  • Video Services of the Present Invention are discussed herein.
  • the video services provided over the system may include, but are not limited to, live premium interactive services, long distance audio and video conferencing service, video mail messaging (hereinafter, "v-mail"), Internet access, and many other services.
  • v-mail video mail messaging
  • system users may communicate with each other in real time and face to face from separate remote locations.
  • each video service may be accessed over a single and convenient location, such as a service bureau 13 having a single telephone number (or a pre-fix number such as a 10- 10 access number) or an Internet web site address.
  • a service bureau 13 having a single telephone number (or a pre-fix number such as a 10- 10 access number) or an Internet web site address.
  • Premium services are live or pre-recorded interactive video services wherein Callers and Receivers interact through the use of known video communications equipment.
  • Premium services may be any type of live or pre-recorded interactive services wherein Callers pay Receivers to interact with them face to face over the system.
  • the interactive premium services offered over the system may include live video entertainment, live video health care, live video shopping, live video educational services, or any other type of service.
  • the Receiver for each premium service should use a staff of specialists who interact with Callers having a particular interest or need.
  • the staff of specialists should consist of people capable of providing the particular premium service offered by the Receiver.
  • actors may be used for video entertainment services, doctors for home health care services, sales people for shopping services, security guards for security services, teachers and lectures for education services, etc.
  • a few examples of the premium services that may be offered over the system are discussed below. It should be noted however, that the present invention is not limited to these examples and other types of interactive premium services may be provided over the system.
  • Live video dating is one example of a premium service that may be provided over the system.
  • a Receiver may use a staff of relationship experts to help Callers meet and arrange dates with each other.
  • System users may meet face to face, using video communications equipment, and arrange video dates from the comfort and safety of their own homes.
  • Sensitive information relating to system users is kept confidential by the system. This protects the privacy of each system user. Sensitive information may include the Callers' and Receivers' addresses, phone numbers, and other pertinent information.
  • the system's service bureau discussed below, however, may have access to system users' sensitive information for purposes of preparing reports, such as membership and billing reports. System users may actually have video dates over the system.
  • Receivers may help to arrange meetings between system users from various locations from all over the world. For example, the receivers may arrange for Callers to have video business meetings, enjoy a video meal together, and meet new and interesting people. Nideo chat rooms may be established where groups of system users can mingle and get to know each other.
  • Professional video seminar services are another example of a premium service that may be provided over the system.
  • Receivers may use experts in various fields who may conduct live video seminars, lectures or tutoring sessions from a remote location.
  • System users from all over the world may participate and interact with the experts using video their video communications equipment.
  • Callers may attend the video seminar over the system without physically being at the seminar.
  • the experts may use visual presentations, such as slides and photos, to assist in their lecture.
  • System users located at distant locations are able to see the entire seminar and have live discussion with the expert as if they were physically there.
  • Nideo lectures will reduce the burdens previously associated with attending seminars, including travel time and cost.
  • lectures are held in a physical location with a limited seating capacity. As a result, people are often closed out of seminars.
  • video seminars solve this problem by allowing more many people to attend to attend seminars (over the system) without being closed out. Callers may record the video seminar for later review.
  • Nideo seminars enable experts to share their knowledge with people all over the world. Schools may use video seminars to enable teachers and classes to interact with each other from anywhere in the world.
  • Home video shopping is another example of a premium service that may be provided over the system. Businesses may set up video communications equipment in their store. Callers may make video calls to each store and view (via their video equipment) all of the items in the store.
  • video communications equipment may be set up at facilities such as hotels, amusement parks, theaters, restaurants, and the other attractions. Often, people are unable to see these facilities prior to using them. As a result, a great deal of guesswork may be involved in choosing a new restaurant, hotel, or other attraction. As a result, many people are hesitant to utilize them.
  • the system of the present invention allows Callers to view a particular facility's services and amenities prior to using that facility. This will eliminate the guesswork previously associated with trying new and unknown facilities. As a result, otherwise reluctant customers will be more prone to trying new restaurants, hotels and other similar attractions.
  • Home health care services are another example of a premium service that may be provided over the system.
  • Full coverage programs that provide health care assistance to the elderly may set up video communications equipment in their patients' homes or hospital rooms. Doctors and nurses may monitor the safety and well being of their patients from a remote location.
  • an elderly care video monitoring service can be utilized by families or nursing homes to monitor the safety of the elderly while they sleep in their homes. Friends and family can video visit the hospital or nursing home without traveling there or after visiting hours.
  • Another premium service provided over the system may be a personal home security service.
  • Home security companies can install video communications equipment in system users' homes. As a result, security guards may monitor and record the activity in a home from a remote location.
  • homeowners can set up video units to record the activity in their homes while they are away.
  • Homeowners may access their homes by calling their unit from another video unit (or a personal computer) and view the activity in their home. Each unit may be assigned a confidential pin number to prevent others from accessing the unit.
  • Interactive video entertainment services are another example of a premium service that may be provided over the system.
  • Interactive video entertainment services may include, but are not limited to, video psychic services, video music services, video theater services, video adult entertainment services, video sports services, and many other types of video entertainment related services.
  • Receivers of entertainment services may use actors or specialists to perform the particular entertainment service. For example, professional psychics may be used for psychic services; an actor may be used for theater services; and singers may be used for music services. Nideo entertainment services may be provided for the sheer pleasure and enjoyment of callers. Unlike prior phone entertainment services, the Callers and Receivers can both see and speak with each other. This may be advantageous for many reasons. For example, a psychic on a video psychic service can read the palm or aura of a caller. A musician can see her audience and vice versa, making for a concert like experience from the comfort of a caller's home. Similarly, a musician may give live music lessons over the system. The possibilities for video entertainment services are endless wherein custom broadcasting may be implemented to suit the particulars users needs and interests of system users.
  • pre-recorded services Another premium service that may be offered over the system are pre-recorded services.
  • a video lecturer may have a library of lectures that he has presented to system users in the past.
  • a caller may simply call the lecturer and request to view an old lecture.
  • Pre-recorded services may be offered by all types of producers, including musicians, sports service providers, teachers and many others.
  • premium services may include repair services, self-help services, legal services, wake up services, and interactive game shows.
  • the system of the invention is not limited to the premium services described herein. Rather, these are merely a few examples of the many types of premium services that may be provided by producers over the system.
  • the system may provide a long distance calling service through which video and audio long distance and local calls may be made.
  • a system user may simply desire to have a video discussion with a friend rather than utilizing a premium service.
  • the system implements known telephone call routing technology to provide system users with long distance calling capability.
  • the long distance calling service may be used in place of other known long distance carriers.
  • the system may provide users with v-mail services whereby users can leave video messages for the person she is calling. Often, a person being called may not be available to answer a video phone call. A user making a video call may leave a recorded video message for the person they are calling. As discussed herein, the message may be retrieved from a system mailbox. Alternatively, a video message may be recorded by a Receiver using external recording equipment, such as a NCR or any other recording device. N-mail could be useful to many businesses, families, and many others. Deaf people may leave sign language video messages using this system.
  • the system may provide Internet access to system users. Users may gain access to the
  • Video communications equipment Through the use of their video communications equipment. This would eliminate the need for a computer.
  • Many video units may be capable of connecting to a television whereby users can use the Internet in their television.
  • Other video units have built in equipment on which system users may gain access to the Internet.
  • Advertising services may also be provided over the system.
  • Each video unit may be equipped with advertising slides that operate as a screen saver.
  • the screen saver may also be provided with a service directory that may be upgraded with new and current advertisements.
  • the service bureau may maintain records of each system user's interactive video service preferences.
  • the service bureau may upgrade the screen saver to include advertisement slides relating to the system user's preferences.
  • the screen savers may be interactive wherein each advertisement may have a link to an interactive location. For example, a system user may dial a code on the video unit to access a particular advertiser's web site or to contact that advertiser face to face over the system.
  • Each of the video interactive services described should be provided through a single, convenient and easily accessible location, such as the service bureau 13 on network 15. Rather than individually connecting to each particular service, system users may connect to all of these services at a single and convenient location, i.e., service bureau 13. As will be seen herein, these services may be accessed by dialing a phone number, logging onto an Internet web site, or connecting to some other location.
  • Equipment of the Present Invention is accessed by dialing a phone number, logging onto an Internet web site, or connecting to some other location.
  • Figs. 1 and 2 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention where the system is maintained over a network 15, such as a telephone network.
  • a network such as a telephone network.
  • a variety of hardware and software may be implemented to carry out the method of the present invention. It should be noted, however, that the present invention may be carried out over other networks, including, but not limited to, a cable television network, a satellite network, a digital network, or other similar networks.
  • Known call processing equipment is implemented over the system, including a standard telephone switch 17, automatic call distribution equipment 19, an automatic number identifier software 21 , automated telephone system software 27, video units 11 , and video message recording means 26.
  • System users may log onto the system and select from a variety of interactive real-time video services.
  • the following section describes the equipment, both hardware and software, used over the system to carry out the method of the present invention.
  • the system is maintained over a telephone network.
  • the equipment implemented in this embodiment is described in two separate categories below. First, the system side equipment for processing real time video calls is described. Next, the system user side equipment for making real time video calls is described.
  • the system houses a standard telephone switch 17 for receiving and routing video and audio telephonic calls.
  • the switch is a modular telecommunications system with PBX and key system feature application capabilities. Such switches are commercially available and may be obtained from sources such as Cortelco. It should be noted, however, that other telephone switches capable of routing video teleconferencing calls may be used as well.
  • the switch should be maintained at a central location (hereinafter, "service bureau 13") where incoming telephone calls may be received and be properly routed to a dialed destination.
  • the bureau is equipped with automatic call distribution equipment 19 (hereinafter, referred to as "ACD equipment").
  • the ACD equipment 19 should include a computer terminal having a data storage means, i.e., ROM 23, and a memory means, i.e., RAM 25.
  • the ACD equipment 19 is responsible for performing and processing many of the system's functions. Some of these functions include generating detailed reports, providing automated telephone services and routing calls Information pertaining to system users may be stored and maintained on the ACD equipment. Accordingly, the ACD equipment should run software capable of storing system user information and generating descriptive reports relating to this information. Preferably, this software is Automatic Number Identifier software 21 (hereinafter, referred to as "ANI software").
  • ANI software Automatic Number Identifier software 21
  • ANI software 21 is commercially available and may be obtained from sources such as IBM, Siemans and other similar sources. However, other types of software, such as standard database software, may be used as well.
  • ANI software 21 a system operator may generate a variety of reports containing information pertinent to the overall operation of the system of the present invention. These reports are used to provide both callers and producers with a summary of information relating to their video calls. While the format of these reports may vary, they should include basic information such as billing information and other pertinent caller and producer information.
  • Billing reports are one type of report that may be generated.
  • Billing reports should include information that shows which system users have made calls (both video and audio); which system users have received calls; the type of service through which the call was made; whether these calls have been paid for; who should get paid; how the call is being paid for; and the date on which payment is due.
  • Producer reports are another type of report that may be generated using ANI software 21.
  • Producer reports should include information that reflects a producer's preferences for receiving and routing incoming calls. For example, a producer may prefer that all incoming calls be routed to a particular performer, or alternatively, routed to the next available performer.
  • Performance reports are another type of report that may be generated.
  • Performance reports should include information rating the performance of each performer (i.e., actor or specialist) at a particular interactive service. Performance reports should also include information as to duration of the calls, which performer received the call, the amount billed for that call and other pertinent information. Other reports may include information reflecting where the call originated and terminated, who answered the call and the extension number dialed.
  • the ACD equipment 19 is also programmed with standard custom software for providing an automated telephone system 27. Automated telephone system software 27 is well known and often used by financial institutions, hospitals, and other similar institutions. The automated telephone system software 27 is used to provide system users with an audio menu of the interactive services provided over the system. When a call is received by the ACD equipment 19, the automated telephone system software 27 is automatically activated.
  • a pre-recorded voice provides a variety of instructions to a Caller. These instructions may include "select payment options”, “select service type", and “service options”.
  • the caller should listen to and follow the instructions by selecting the appropriate keys on her phone .
  • the automated system may instruct the user to press “1 " for premium services, "2" for long distance services, "3" v-mail services and "0" for a live, face to face operator. If the caller wishes to use a premium service, he may press the "1" button on his phone.
  • the automated system may be responsive to a Caller's voice. In this case, the caller may speak his selection into the phone.
  • the ACD equipment sends the call to the end user.
  • the interactive services may be presented to Callers through means other than the automated system.
  • the interactive services may be offered through printed lists, digital list displayed on users video teleconferencing devices, on an Internet web site, or other similar means.
  • Each system user should have a means for transmitting near real-time audio text and video-text.
  • a video conferencing device hereinafter, "video unit" 11 is implemented.
  • System users may obtain their own video unit 11, or alternatively, the system may provide each system user with a video unit 1 1.
  • the system should require each Receiver of a premium service to use a video unit 11 provided by the system wherein the video portion of the video unit 11 is programmed to activate only upon receiving a signal from the system's ACD equipment 19. This will prevent unauthorized Producers with their own video units 1 1 from gaining access to the system and committing fraud on both the system and system users.
  • a video unit 1 1 may be any video teleconferencing device that is now known or hereinafter developed.
  • video unit 11 is a PTP-300 video telephone by Pantech Media.
  • the PTP-300 has a built in viewing screen, camera, telephone and the necessary telecommunications hardware. As shown in FIG. 2, these units may be connected to a television for viewing calls on a larger screen. Similarly, these units may be connected to a camcorder for a sharper broadcast.
  • the PTP-300 is preferred because it is portable and may be used at different locations. For example, a system user may use the video unit 11 at home, at work, in an airport, or at other remote locations. Other video units 11 may be implemented as well.
  • the video unit 11 should have a dialing means 29, at least one video camera 31, communication ports 33, a video screen 35, a microphone means 37 and an audio means 39.
  • the video units 11 should be connected to a telephone network 15 using standard connections means, including but not limited to, POTS lines, analog lines or ISDN connections. It should be noted that the video unit 11 may be equipped with or connected to more than one camera 31. The use of multiple cameras 31 may be desirable for several reasons. For example, home security services or real estate services may place a camera 31 in each room of a house so that the entire house can be monitored.
  • Each video unit 11 may be equipped with an automatic routing chip 41.
  • the automatic routing chip 41 is a pre-programmed computer chip that instructs the unit to a dial a pre-selected telephone number. Preferably, the automatic routing chip 41 is programmed to send the call directly to the system's telephone number.
  • the ACD equipment 19 is automatically activated when the bureau 13 receives the call.
  • Each video unit 11 may be set up in a system user's home, office or any other location having a telephone line or wireless communication connection.
  • Video units 11 may be built into a kiosk to form a video phone booth.
  • the video units 11 may be equipped for wireless broadcast, thereby enabling a system user to set up a video unit 11 in any location, including automobiles, trains, and other locations.
  • the video units 11 may be portable so that system user's can use them in different locations.
  • the quality of the picture on each video unit 11 may vary according to the lighting in the room where the video cameras are set up.
  • Standard utility lights such as bright halogen lights, may be used to improve the flow and quality of the picture.
  • a 500-watt portable work light should be used.
  • other types of lights may be used.
  • the number of lights used varies according to the size of the room. The larger the room, the more lights should be used.
  • the system may be established on a network 15, such as the Internet.
  • the bureau 13 may be maintained on a web site 43.
  • HTML forms and databases may be used to gather and store information.
  • the web site may have a switch means 17, such as hyperlinks that connect to each interactive video services provided over the system. For example, there may be a hyperlink for premium services, a hyperlink for v-mail, and hyperlinks for each of the other services provided.
  • Video previews of premium services may be provided on the web site. For example, video clips of a particular premium service may be shown.
  • the web site should require system users to obtain a valid password and identification number to gain access to the web site.
  • the web site may have a payment section where users may conveniently and securely pay for the service they are using.
  • the web site can implement a searching means 47 to enable system users to locate a particular interactive service.
  • Video technology now known or hereinafter developed may be used on system users' computers to enable them to interact through live, two-way video communication.
  • System users may utilize a video unit 1 1 over the Internet.
  • the video units 11 discussed herein are implemented.
  • the video unit 11 is a should have a computer having a screen 35, camera 31, audio means 37, microphone means 39, and sound card 53.
  • the bandwidth of the Internet should be wide enough to transmit live, two way video communications.
  • users can use video cameras and instant messaging as a means for video communications.
  • the system should be established over a communications network, step 101.
  • the communications network is a telephone network.
  • the communications network may be other networks, such as the Internet, a satellite network or a digital network.
  • a bureau is established at a remote location where ACD equipment should be established and maintained, step 103.
  • the bureau should have a unique location means, such as a telephone number or web site address, that system user may connect to when desiring to utilize the system's video services, step 105.
  • the unique telephone number may have a prefix number such as 10-10 numbers.
  • System users must obtain a video unit so that they can participate in the video services of the system, step 107.
  • a system user desires to utilize a video service, she should connect her video unit to a network, such as telephone network or the Internet, and call the bureau, step 109.
  • a network such as telephone network or the Internet
  • the routing chip automatically dials the bureau phone number and routes the call to the bureau, step 111.
  • the system user must dial the bureau's number, step 113.
  • the bureau receives the call and the automated telephone system is activated, step 1 15.
  • the automated system presents the system user with an automated menu of instructions and service options, step 117. It should be noted, however, that the menu may be presented to the system user through other means, including but not limited to, an Internet web site, a touch-sensitive screen directory, a printed list and other similar means.
  • the automated menu may include a broad variety of video conferencing options.
  • the options may include services such as premium interactive services, long distance service, v-mail, Internet access, video chatting and many other services.
  • the user selects a service by selecting a corresponding push button on his phone, step 119.
  • the automated system may instruct the user to press "1 " for premium services or "2" for long distance service. If the user wishes to select premium services, he should press the "1 " button on his unit.
  • the user may select a service option through a variety of different methods, including, but not limited to, voice response means, touch-sensitive screen, keypad, and a hyperlink on the Internet or other selecting means.
  • the caller is presented with a sub-menu having following service-options, step 121.
  • the caller is prompted to select a payment option, 123.
  • the methods of payment may include, but are not limited to credit card payment, pre-paid card, debit card, check by phone or telephone bill.
  • the Caller selects the method of payment and may be required to enter personal payment information, such as calling card information, pin number, credit card number, etc., step 125.
  • the Caller is prompted to enter the phone number of the Receiver he is calling, step 127.
  • the caller enters the phone number and the automated system transfers the call to the long distance service on the ACD equipment, step 129.
  • the ACD equipment routes the call to the phone number dialed by the caller, step 131.
  • the ACD sends a signal to video unit on the receiving end and the unit is activated, step 133.
  • the call commences and the parties may interact through live, real time video communications, step 135.
  • the bureau may prepare reports (i.e., billing reports) that summarize the activity of the caller and receiver, step 137.
  • the caller is presented with a sub-menu having the following service-options, step 139.
  • the caller is prompted to select a premium interactive service, step 141.
  • Premium services may include, but are not limited to, video entertainment services (such as psychic services), video dating services, home video shopping services, home video health care services, home video security services, and the other premium services discussed herein.
  • video entertainment services such as psychic services
  • video dating services may include, but are not limited to, video entertainment services (such as psychic services), video dating services, home video shopping services, home video health care services, home video security services, and the other premium services discussed herein.
  • the caller is prompted to select a method of payment and payment information, step 143.
  • the methods of payment may include, but are not limited to credit card payment, pre-paid card, debit card, check by phone or telephone bill.
  • the Caller selects the method of payment and may be required to enter personal payment information, such as calling card information, pin number, credit card number, etc, step 145.
  • the caller is prompted to select a particular Receiver, i.e., Producer, for the premium service she selected, step 147. If the caller has a preference, then the call is transferred to Producer selected, step 149. If the caller has no preference with respect to Receivers, then the ACD equipment will route the call to the next Receiver for that service, step 150.
  • a signal is sent from the ACD equipment to the Receiver's video unit, step 151.
  • the Receiver's video unit identifies the signal and is activated, step 153.
  • the call commences and the parties may interact through live, real time video communications.
  • the bureau may prepare reports (i.e., billing reports) that summarize the activity of the caller and receiver, step 157.
  • the caller is presented with a sub-menu having following service-options, step 159.
  • the Caller is prompted to select a payment option, step 161.
  • the methods of payment may include, but are not limited to credit card payment, pre-paid card, debit card, check by phone or telephone bill.
  • the Caller selects the method of payment and may be required to enter personal payment information, such as calling card information, pin number, credit card number, etc., step 163.
  • the automated system transfers the call to the Internet service provider on the ACD equipment, step 165.
  • the ACD equipment routes the call to the Internet provider, step 167.
  • the user is prompted to log onto the Internet using her video unit, step 169.
  • the caller may browse through the Internet using her video unit, step 171.
  • the bureau may prepare reports (i.e., billing reports) that summarize the activity of the caller and receiver, step 173.
  • the caller is presented with a sub-menu having following service- option, step 175.
  • the caller is prompted to select a payment option, step 177.
  • the methods of payment may include, but are not limited to credit card payment, pre-paid card, debit card, check by phone or telephone bill.
  • the Caller selects the method of payment and may be required to enter personal payment information, such as calling card information, pin number, credit card number, etc., step 179.
  • the Caller is prompted to enter the phone number of the Receiver for whom she would like to leave a message, step 181.
  • the automated system transfers the call to the v-mail service on the ACD equipment, step 183.
  • the v-mail services route the call to a message storage destination, step 185.
  • messages may be stored and recorded on a system video mailbox. It should be noted however, that messages may be stored on the Receiver's VCR or other external recording device. In this case, the video unit must be connected to a means capable of recording messages. The Caller should look into the camera on her video unit and begin speaking and the message is recorded and stored, step 187. The Receiver may retrieve her messages and view them on her video unit, step 189. Preferably, the message is password protected in order to prevent others from viewing her messages. Using the ANI software, the bureau may prepare reports (i.e., billing reports) that summarize the activity of the caller and receiver, step 191.
  • reports i.e., billing reports

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Telephonic Communication Services (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un procédé et un système permettant de fournir une multitude de services de conférence vidéo interactif par l'intermédiaire d'un endroit unique et facilement accessible, tel qu'un bureau de services (13). Le procédé décrit dans cette invention permet de mettre en oeuvre des équipements de communication audio et vidéo connus afin de fournir à des utilisateurs système une multitude de services vidéo interactifs et en direct par l'intermédiaire d'un environnement en réseau (17). Plus particulièrement, le procédé susmentionné consiste à utiliser la technologie de téléconférence afin de fournir aux utilisateurs système des services éducatifs interactifs, des services de divertissement vidéo interactifs, des services de messagerie vidéo, ainsi que de nombreux autres services vidéo interactifs par l'intermédiaire d'un environnement en réseau (17). Un bureau de services (13) est mis en oeuvre pour traiter les appels vidéo et les acheminer vers un service interactif désiré. L'invention concerne également un nouveau procédé permettant de passer des annonces publicitaires sur des unités vidéo (11) par l'intermédiaire d'un environnement en réseau.
PCT/US2001/008010 2000-03-09 2001-03-09 Procede et dispositif permettant de fournir des services de communication par video interactive WO2001067760A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2001245674A AU2001245674A1 (en) 2000-03-09 2001-03-09 Method and apparatus for providing interactive video communications services

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US52221800A 2000-03-09 2000-03-09
US09/522,218 2000-03-09

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2001067760A1 true WO2001067760A1 (fr) 2001-09-13

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AU (1) AU2001245674A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2001067760A1 (fr)

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WO2005016475A1 (fr) * 2003-08-11 2005-02-24 Marblehead Entertainment Systeme de divertissement interactif en salle
EP1547363A2 (fr) * 2002-09-12 2005-06-29 Thomson Licensing S.A. Systeme personnel pour messages video
WO2016132254A1 (fr) 2015-02-16 2016-08-25 Vakalapudi Siva Prasad Système et procédé pour la communication vidéo
EP3786874A1 (fr) * 2019-08-27 2021-03-03 Hyperconnect, Inc. Appareil de médiation d'appel vidéo, procédé et support d'enregistrement lisible par ordinateur associé
US11301534B2 (en) 2017-06-07 2022-04-12 Hyperconnect Inc. Mediating method and device
US11457077B2 (en) 2019-09-09 2022-09-27 Hyperconnect Inc. Server of mediating a plurality of terminals, and mediating method thereof
US11501564B2 (en) 2019-12-16 2022-11-15 Hyperconnect Inc. Mediating apparatus and method, and computer-readable recording medium thereof
US11550860B2 (en) 2016-06-03 2023-01-10 Hyperconnect LLC Matchmaking video chatting partners
US11570402B2 (en) 2020-02-21 2023-01-31 Hyperconnect Inc. Terminal and operating method thereof
US11606397B2 (en) 2018-03-07 2023-03-14 Hyperconnect Inc. Server and operating method thereof

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EP1547363A2 (fr) * 2002-09-12 2005-06-29 Thomson Licensing S.A. Systeme personnel pour messages video
EP1547363A4 (fr) * 2002-09-12 2011-03-02 Thomson Licensing Systeme personnel pour messages video
US7840991B2 (en) 2003-08-11 2010-11-23 Thomas Dusenberry In-theatre interactive entertainment system
WO2005016475A1 (fr) * 2003-08-11 2005-02-24 Marblehead Entertainment Systeme de divertissement interactif en salle
WO2016132254A1 (fr) 2015-02-16 2016-08-25 Vakalapudi Siva Prasad Système et procédé pour la communication vidéo
US11550860B2 (en) 2016-06-03 2023-01-10 Hyperconnect LLC Matchmaking video chatting partners
US12001495B2 (en) 2016-06-03 2024-06-04 Hyperconnect LLC Matchmaking video chatting partners
US11301534B2 (en) 2017-06-07 2022-04-12 Hyperconnect Inc. Mediating method and device
US11947612B2 (en) 2017-06-07 2024-04-02 Hyperconnect Inc. Mediating method and device
US11606397B2 (en) 2018-03-07 2023-03-14 Hyperconnect Inc. Server and operating method thereof
US11296898B2 (en) 2019-08-27 2022-04-05 Hyperconnect Inc. Video call mediating apparatus, method and computer readable recording medium thereof
EP3786874A1 (fr) * 2019-08-27 2021-03-03 Hyperconnect, Inc. Appareil de médiation d'appel vidéo, procédé et support d'enregistrement lisible par ordinateur associé
US11457077B2 (en) 2019-09-09 2022-09-27 Hyperconnect Inc. Server of mediating a plurality of terminals, and mediating method thereof
US11501564B2 (en) 2019-12-16 2022-11-15 Hyperconnect Inc. Mediating apparatus and method, and computer-readable recording medium thereof
US11570402B2 (en) 2020-02-21 2023-01-31 Hyperconnect Inc. Terminal and operating method thereof

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