WO2003084228A1

WO2003084228A1 - Video chat service control method and video chat service device

Info

Publication number: WO2003084228A1
Application number: PCT/JP2002/003221
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mitsuyoshi Yamatari; Kouichi Yamada; Kazushi Oota; Gentaro Washio
Original assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
Priority date: 2002-03-29
Filing date: 2002-03-29
Publication date: 2003-10-09
Also published as: JP4260027B2; JPWO2003084228A1

Abstract

A video chat service device comprising a video chat device, a spare video chat device, a switching device, and a control device. The video chat device communicate signals necessary for a video chat with a plurality of user terminal units. The control device links the switching device with the spare video chat device when determining that abnormality of the video chat device is generated, and continues the processing of the video chat by controlling the spare video chat device.

Description

Description Video chat service control method and video chat service device

The present invention relates to a video chat service control method and a video chat service device. Background art

A video chat service (also called a video conference service) in which multiple users in remote locations have a conversation while viewing each other has already been realized. Once the video ticket service is started, it is desirable that the service is not interrupted until the ticket participants decide to terminate the service on their own.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. Sho 63-220683 discloses a video chat service device (multipoint video conference control device) for this purpose. FIG. 12 shows a video chart service device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 63-220683. In the figure, la, lb, and lc are terminals of conference participants, 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d are interface sections, and 3a, 3b, 3c, and 3d are video processing. , 4, 4 and 5 are video multiplex switching units, 5 and 5 'are control units, 6a, 6b, 6c, and 6d are audio processing units, 7, 7' are audio level detection circuits, and 8, 8 , Are voice addition / distribution circuits, 11, 12, and 16 are standby switching switches, 13, 14, 15, and 17 are standby switching switches, 18 is a switching control circuit, Reference numeral 19 denotes a test terminal.

Next, the operation will be described. Normally, the interface part 2a-2c, the video processing part 3a-3c, the sound for the conference participants' terminals 1a-1c Voice processors 6a to 6c are used, and terminals 1a to 1c can exchange video and audio signals with each other. If any one of the interface unit 2a to 2c, the video processing unit 3a to 3c, and the audio processing unit 6a to 6c fails, the code d is controlled under the control of the switching control circuit 18. Spare components marked with are used. For example, if any of the interface units 2a to 2c fails, the interface unit 2d is substituted.

Normally, the video multiplexing switching unit 4, the control unit 5, the audio level detection circuit 7, and the audio addition / distribution circuit 8 are used, but in the event of an abnormality, the spare components marked with '' are used. You. For example, when the video multiplex switching unit 4 fails, the video multiplex switching unit 4 is substituted. In this way, the reliability of the video chat service is to be improved by adding a spare component to each component or component group of the video chat service device that implements the video chat.

Since the conventional video chat service device is configured as described above, a switching switch is required for each group, which increases the manufacturing cost. In addition, since the switching switch for each group had to be controlled, there was a problem that the control processing became complicated. Also, if there is a component that does not have a spare component, if that component fails, the video ticket service cannot be continued.

Conventionally, a video chat service device has been designed on the assumption that a limited number of terminals are used. In other words, the interface 2a-2c, the video processor 3a-3c, and the audio processor 6a-6c are normally used for the conference participants' terminals 1a-1c. Is done. According to this design, as the number of potential users of the video chat service increases, the number of components becomes enormous. In addition, even if the potential users of the video chat service increase, video that can be continued without interruption with high reliability A charter service is desired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and provides a video chat service control method capable of continuing a video chat service without interruption with high reliability by simple control. The porpose is to do.

In addition, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and can be manufactured at low cost, and can continue a video chat service without interruption with high reliability by simple control. The purpose is to obtain a video chat service device.

Disclosure of the invention

A video chat service control method according to the present invention provides a video chat service by exchanging a video signal and an audio signal necessary for video chat with a plurality of user terminal devices by using a video chat device. When the control device detects that an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device, and when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device, a spare video chat device that substitutes for the video chat device is sent to the control device. Controlling the control device to continue the video chat service.

This makes it possible to continue the video chat service without interruption with high reliability by simple control. In addition, the video chat device and the spare video chat device themselves have a function of exchanging video signals and audio signals necessary for the video chat with a plurality of user terminal devices and providing a video chat service. As the number of potential users of the video chat service increases, the increase in the number of components can be minimized, and it can be reliably disconnected. It is possible to provide a video chat service that can be continued without delay. In one aspect of the video chat service control method according to the present invention, the control device monitors the amount of resources that can be effectively used by the video chat device, and when the amount of the resources becomes less than a threshold value, The control unit determines that an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device.

Thereby, can continue Bideochiya' preparative service substitute _D Other possible resource use of even if several of Bideochiya' winding device goes the available resources is temporarily unavailable or failure, temporary use When the amount of resources that can be effectively used for a reason such as impossible or failure falls below the threshold, the normal video chat device that has been used until then is replaced with a spare video chat device. Therefore, by appropriately setting the threshold value, the video-chart device can be replaced before the video-chart device actually becomes inoperable and the video-chart service is interrupted.

A video chat service device according to the present invention is capable of linking to a plurality of user terminal devices, and exchanging a video signal and an audio signal required for a video chat with the user terminal devices. A video chat device, a plurality of user terminal devices, and a video signal and an audio signal required for the video chat can be exchanged with the user terminal device; A spare video chat device that can be substituted for the device, and a status of the video chat device is monitored to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device, and it is determined that an error has occurred in the video chat device. The user terminal device is linked to the spare video chat device and the spare video chat device is By controlling the device, in which a control device to continue Bideochiya' bets service. As a result, the video chat service device can be manufactured at low cost, and the video chat service can be continued without interruption with high reliability by simple control. In addition, since the video chat device and the spare video chat device themselves have a function of exchanging video signals and audio signals required for the video chat with a plurality of user terminal devices and providing a video chat service, Even if the number of potential users of the video chat service increases, it is possible to minimize the increase in the number of components and provide a video chat service that can be continued without interruption with high reliability. it can.

In one aspect of the video ticket service device according to the present invention, a control device monitors an amount of resources that can be effectively used by the video chat device, and when the amount of the resource becomes less than a threshold, the control device causes the video chat device to perform the video ticket service. It is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the remote control device.

This allows the video-chart device to continue the video-chart service if some of the available resources are temporarily unavailable or fail, instead of other available resources. When the amount of resources that can be used effectively becomes less than the threshold value, for example, due to an impossibility or failure, the normal video chat device previously used is replaced with a spare video chat device. Therefore, by appropriately setting the threshold value, the video chat device can be replaced before the video chat device becomes inoperable and the video chat service is interrupted.

According to one aspect of the video ticket service device according to the present invention, when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device, the control device stores information indicating the video chat service in which the standby video chat device should be used as a backup. The notification is sent to the video chat device. As a result, even if the normal video chat device used is replaced with a spare video chat device, the spare video chat device can be used as a spare video chat device with information indicating a video chat service to be used now or in the future. Since the device is notified, it is possible to smoothly continue the video chat service or start the scheduled video chat service without causing confusion.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a video chat service device including a plurality of video chat devices sharing a plurality of video chat services performed simultaneously, and the control device includes any one of the video chat devices. When it is determined that an error has occurred, which video chat device has an error is detected.

This allows a plurality of video chat devices to share a plurality of simultaneous video chat services, so that even if the number of potential users of the video chat service increases, the video chat service device can be smoothly operated. It is possible to operate. Then, when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in any of the video chat devices, which video chat device has an abnormality is detected, so that the video chat service in which the problem occurred can be cut off with high reliability. You can continue without.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a video-chart service device including a plurality of spare video-chart devices. When the control device determines that an abnormality has occurred in any of the video-chart devices, A spare video-chart device to be used in place of the video-chart device in which an abnormality has occurred is selected.

As a result, even if some of the plurality of video chat devices malfunction, it is possible to assign the plurality of video chat services which they were in charge to to the plurality of spare video chat devices. These video chat services can be continued.

In one aspect of the video chat service device according to the present invention, the control device is linked to an operator terminal operated by an operator, and when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device, the controller is In the evening, an abnormality is notified to the terminal, and the switching device is linked to the spare video chat device according to a request from the operator terminal, and the spare video chat device is controlled, so that the service of the video chat is continued. is there.

As a result, the replacement of the normal video chat device to the spare video chat device can be left to the discretion of the operator, and an appropriate replacement is performed according to the situation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a video chat service device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a table showing a data structure of conference information DB stored in a storage device of the video chat service device shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an operation executed by a video chat control unit of the video chat service device shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a video ticket service device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the operation executed by the video chart control unit of the video chat service device shown in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a video chat service device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a front view of a video chat control unit according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. It is a chart.

FIG. 8 is a table showing the data structure of the state DB of the spare video chat device stored in the storage device of the video chat service device shown in FIG.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a video chat service device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the operation executed by the video chat control unit of the video chat service device shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the operation executed by the terminal of the video chat service device shown in FIG.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an example of a conventional video ticket service device. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, in order to explain this invention in greater detail, the preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Embodiment 1

FIG. 1 shows a video chat service device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. In the figure, 20 to 2 are video phones (user terminal devices), 21 is a network, 30 is a video chat service center (video chat service device), 31 is a switching device, and 32 is normally used. Reference numeral 33 denotes a chat control device (control device); 34, a storage device; 35, a video chat control unit; 42, a spare video chat device; and 43, a bus.

The network 21 is a local area network capable of transmitting video and audio signals so that a video chat or video conference can be realized. Or one night in the evening. A plurality of videophones 20 to 20N are always connected to the network 21 or can be linked according to a user's request.

The network 21 may be a wireless network or a wired network. The videophone 20 to 20N may be a telephone device having a videophone function by itself, or may have a speaker, a microphone, a display, a camera, and a communication interface integrally, or may be connected to these. It may be a computer that is running.

Further, the switching device 31 of the video chat service is connected to the network 21. The video ticket service center 30 includes a switching device 31, a video chat device 32, a chat control device 33, and a spare video chat device 42. In the video chat service center 30, the switching device 31, the video chat device 32 and the spare video chat device 42 are connected to the chat control device 33 via the bus 43 or other suitable connection means. It is connected to the. That is, these constitute a local area network.

Each of the video-chart device 32 and the spare video-chart device 42 is a multipoint communication control device (MCU) having a plurality of components, and the entire device is connected to the videophones 20 to 20N. On the other hand, it is possible to exchange video and audio signals necessary for video chat.

The switching device 31 connected to the network 21 is also connected to a video chat device 32 and a spare video chat device 42. The switching device 31 has an interface that enables communication between the network 21 and the video chat device 32 or the spare video chat device 42. Normally, the switching device 31 establishes a link between the video chat device 32 and the network 21 and communicates between the plurality of video phones 20 to 2 ON and the video chat device 32. Mediate. However, according to the instruction of the chat control device 33, the switching device 31 cuts off the communication with the video chat device 32, and thereafter, the link between the spare video chat device 42 and the network 21. It is also possible to establish communication and mediate communication between the plurality of video phones 20 to 20 N and the spare video chat device 42. Therefore, the switching device 31 can switch from the original video chatting device 32 to the spare video chatting device 42 according to the instruction of the chat control device 33. The chat control unit 33 includes a video chat control unit 35 as a central processing unit and a storage unit 34.

Next, the operation will be described. The chat control device 33 exchanges signals with the video chat device 32 or the spare video chat device 42 used for the chat service to advance the video chat in which the video chat device is used. Monitor the situation.

More specifically, the video chatting device 32 or the spare video chatting device 42 transmits a chat, i.e., a start of a conference, a participant of the conference, based on a signal given from the videophone 20 to 20N. It generates an event notification signal indicating the connection, disconnection, etc. of each of the videophones 20 to 2 ON, and transmits the event notification signal to the video chat control unit 35. Also, if a new conference plan is notified from any of the videophones 20 to 20N, the video chat device 32 or the spare video chat device 42 will not An event notification signal indicating the scheduled time length and the participants is generated and transmitted to the video chat control unit 35. In response to these event notification signals, the video ticket control unit 35 updates the conference information database (DB) stored in the storage device 34.

FIG. 2 shows the data structure of the conference information DB stored in the storage device 34. In FIG. 2, the "conference ID" is monitored by the chat control device 33. This is an identifier for identifying the conference to be performed. The video chat device 32 or the spare video chat device 42 can simultaneously provide a plurality of video chat (conference) services. The “conference ID” is used to identify one of the video service from others.

“MCU ID” is an identifier indicating the multipoint communication control device (MCU) to be monitored, that is, the video chat device 32 or the spare video chat device 42. “Start time” indicates the start time of the meeting. “Chat time” indicates the length of the scheduled meeting.

“Member telephone number” indicates the telephone number for identifying the videophone 20 to 20N of the conference participant. “Status” indicates the status of each meeting or the status of each participant. The “Status” of the blank line of “Member Phone Number” field indicates the status of each meeting, and the “Status” of the line where the “Member Phone Number” field is filled indicates the status of each participant. In the conference situation, “download” means that the conference information signal is given to the video-chart device 32 or the spare video-chart device 42 (downloaded) as described later, but the conference is still in progress. Indicates that no action has been taken.

As described above, the conference information DB indicates the current state of the conference, and is updated by the video chat control unit 35 every time a new event notification signal is received.

In addition, the video chat control unit 35 reads information necessary for a video chat service using the video chat device 32 or the spare video chat device 42 from the conference information DB and reads the video chat device 32 or It also has a function to be provided to the spare video chat device 42. Specifically, when the start time of the conference in the conference information DB stored in the storage device 34 approaches, the video chat control unit 35 determines the conference ID, the start time, and the schedule of the conference. A meeting information signal indicating the length of time and participants is provided (downloaded) to the video chat device 32 to facilitate the scheduled start of the video chat service.

If the original video chat device 32 should be replaced with the spare video chat device 42, the video chat control unit 35 will set the conference ID, start time, scheduled time length of the current or future conference. The conference information signal indicating the participant is given (downloaded) to the spare video-chat device 42, so that the spare video-chat device 42 can smoothly continue the video-chat service or the scheduled video-chat. Or start a service.

Further, the video chat control unit 35 monitors the state of the video chat device 32 in order to determine the occurrence of an abnormality in the video chat device 32. Specifically, based on the signals supplied from the video chat devices 32 and Z or the switching device 31, the video chat control unit 35 determines whether or not the video chat device 32 is abnormal.

Preferably, the video chat device 32 and / or the switching device 31 periodically supplies a signal indicating the amount of resources that can be effectively used by the video chat device 32 to the video chat control unit 35. The chat control device 33 monitors the amount of resources that can be effectively used, and when the amount of the resource falls below the threshold, the chat control device 33 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device 32. . Examples of the amount of resources that can be effectively used include, for example, the storage capacity of a memory that can be used by the video chat device 32 and the number of connections that can be established by the video chat device 32.

However, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the above features, and the following alternative forms can be used. For example, the video chat device 32 may fail when a particular part inside the video chat device 32 fails. The failure notification signal may be supplied to the video chat control unit 35, and when the failure notification signal is received, it may be determined that an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device 32. Alternatively, the video chat control unit 35 sends a test signal to the video chat device 32 periodically or when necessary, and when a response to the test signal is not returned from the video chat device 32, the video chat control unit 35 The unit 35 may determine that an abnormality has occurred in the video-chart device 32. When determining that an abnormality has occurred in the video-chart device 32, the video-chart control unit 35 switches the switching device 31. To transmit a switching instruction signal. According to the switching instruction signal, the switching device 31 cuts off the communication with the video chat device 32 and then establishes a link between the spare video chat device 42 and the network 21 by: Replace the original video chat device 32 with the spare video chat device 42. As a result, the videophones 20 to 2 linked to the video chat device 32 are linked to the spare video chat device 42.

Furthermore, the video chat control unit 35 controls the spare video chat device 42 to continue the video chat service. More specifically, the video chat control unit 35 gives a conference information signal indicating a conference ID, a start time, a scheduled time length, and a participant of a current or future conference to the spare video chat device 42. .

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation performed by the video chat control unit 35 according to a program. In step ST201, the video ticket control unit 35 extracts the meeting schedule information from the control DB, and determines whether there is a meeting to be started in step ST202. Specifically, the “start time” column in FIG. 2 is read, and it is determined whether or not there is a “start time” within a certain range from the current time. If there is a conference to be started, in step ST203, the video ticket control unit 35 transmits a video information signal indicating the conference ID, the start time, the scheduled time length, and the member telephone number of the conference. To the device 32 to facilitate the scheduled start of the video chat service.

Upon receiving the conference information signal, the video chat device 32 prepares for the conference, and when there is an incoming call from a plurality of videophones that are members of the conference, the video and audio of the videophone of the corresponding conference are synthesized. And distribute the image and sound of the connected members.

After step ST203, operation proceeds to step ST204. Also, if there is no conference to start at step ST202, the operation proceeds to step ST204.

In step ST204, the video chat control unit 35 determines whether or not a new event notification signal has been received from the video chat device 32. As described above, the video chat device 32 transmits a chat, i.e., the start of a conference, and the videophones 20 to 20N of the participants of the conference, based on the signal given from the videophones 20 to 20N. It generates an event notification signal indicating connection, disconnection, and the like, and transmits the event notification signal to the video chat control unit 35. Also, when a new conference plan is notified from any of the videophones 20 to 20N, the video chat device 32 generates an event notification signal indicating the start time of the conference, etc. This is transmitted to the video chat control unit 35.

If a new event notification signal has been received, in step ST205, the video chat control unit 35 updates the conference information DB stored in the storage device 34 in accordance with the event notification signal.

After step ST205, operation proceeds to step ST206. In step ST204, it is determined that no new event notification signal has been received. In the case where the operation is performed, the operation also proceeds to step ST206.

In step ST2 • 6, it is determined whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device 32 according to any of the methods described above. If there is no abnormality, the operation returns to step ST201.

On the other hand, when an abnormality occurs in the video chat device 32, in step ST207, the video chat control unit 35 transmits the conference information transmitted to the video chat device 32 to the spare video chat device 42. Send to That is, a conference information signal relating to a conference which is currently down-loaded to the video chat apparatus 32 but is not being implemented or conference information relating to a conference currently being implemented is transmitted to the auxiliary video chat apparatus 42.

Further, in step ST208, the video ticket control unit 35 transmits a switching instruction signal to the switching device 31. According to the switching instruction signal, the switching device 31 cuts off the communication with the video chat device 32, and then establishes a link between the spare video chat device 42 and the network 21.

The spare video-chart device 42 has completed the preparation for the conference by receiving the conference information signal, and can continue the video-chart. After step ST208, the operation returns to step ST201. As described above, according to the first embodiment, it is possible to continue the video chat service without interruption with high reliability by simple control. In addition, the video chat device 32 and the spare video chat device 42 themselves exchange video and audio signals necessary for video chat with the plurality of video phones 20 to 20N, Has a function to provide video ticket service, so even if the number of potential users of the video ticket service increases, the increase in the number of components can be minimized and the connection can be cut off with high reliability Video chat service that can be continued without any interruption. Further, in this embodiment, the video chat device 32 is replaced with a spare video chat device 42 in the event of an abnormality. The number of devices can be significantly reduced. Therefore, a video chat service device can be manufactured at low cost.

Also, the video chat control unit 35 monitors the amount of resources that can be effectively used by the video chat device 32, and when the amount of resources falls below the threshold, the video chat control unit 35 sets the video chat control unit 35 to the video chat control. According to the method of judging that a fault has occurred in the remote control device, the following effects are obtained. That is, even if some of the resources available to the video chat device 32 are temporarily unavailable or have failed, the video chat service can be continued by substituting the other available resources and temporarily using When the amount of resources that can be effectively used becomes less than the threshold value for reasons such as impossible or failure, the normal video-chart device 32 that has been used up to that point is replaced with the spare video-chart device 42. Therefore, by setting the threshold value appropriately, the video chat device can be replaced before the video chat device is actually inoperable and the video chat service is interrupted.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, even if the used normal video chat device 32 is replaced with the spare video chat device 42, the spare video chat device 42 should be used now or in the future. The spare video-chart device 42 is notified of the information indicating the video-chart service, so that the video-chart service can be smoothly continued or the scheduled video-chart service can be started without causing confusion. it can. Embodiment 2

FIG. 4 is a video chart service device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Position. In the figure, 32A to 32N indicate the commonly used video chatting devices.

The plurality (N) of video chatting devices 32A to 32N are each connected to a chart control device 33 via a bus 43 or other suitable connection means. Also, normally, the switching device 31 establishes a link between the video chat devices 32 A to 32 N and the network 21, and a plurality of video phones 20 to 20 N are connected to the video channel. Mediates communication between the remote devices 32A to 32N. The number of connections between the switching device 31 and the network 21 is the same as the number of connections between the switching device 31 and the video devices 32A to 32N. The video-chart devices 32A to 32N can share a plurality of simultaneously performed video-chart services.

Next, the operation will be described. As in the first embodiment, the chat control device 33 exchanges signals with the video chat devices 32A to 32N or the spare video chat device 42 used for the chat service, and performs video chat. Monitor the progress of individual video chats where the device is used.

In this monitoring, conference information DB similar to the data structure shown in FIG. 2 is used. The plurality of video ticket devices 32A to 32N are identified by "MCU ID" in FIG.

In addition, the video chat control unit 35 includes video chat devices 32 A to 3 A.

In order to determine the occurrence of the 2N abnormality, the state of the video-chart devices 32A to 32N is monitored by the same method as in the first embodiment.

Then, the video chat control unit 35 includes a video chat device 32 A to

When it is determined that an error has occurred in any of the 32N, it detects which video chat device has an error. Thereafter, the video chat control unit 35 issues a switching instruction signal designating the video chat device in which the abnormality has occurred. Is transmitted to the switching device 31. According to the switching instruction signal, the switching device 31 disconnects the communication with the designated video chat device, and then establishes a link between the spare video chat device 42 and the network 21. Thus, the original video chat device is replaced with the spare video chat device 42. Thus, the videophones 20 to 20N linked to the video chat device are linked to the spare video chat device 42.

Further, the video ticket control unit 35 controls the spare video ticket device 42 to continue the video ticket service. Specifically, the video chat control unit 35 indicates the conference ID, start time, scheduled time length, and participants of the current or future conference assigned to the original video chat device in which the error occurred. The conference information signal is provided to the spare video-chart device 42.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an operation performed by the video ticket control unit 35 according to a program. Fig. 5 is similar to Fig. 3, so the differences are described below.

If it is determined in step ST202 that there is a conference to be started, in step ST203a, the video ticket control unit 35 determines the conference ID, start time, scheduled time length, A conference information signal indicating the member telephone number is transmitted to the applicable video-chart device among the video-chart devices 32A to 32N, thereby facilitating the scheduled start of the video-chart service.

Upon receiving the conference information signal, the corresponding video-chart device prepares for the conference, and when there is a call from a plurality of videophones that are members of the conference, synthesizes the video and audio of the videophone of the relevant conference. Distribute images and audio of connected members.

In step ST206, any of the video chatting devices 32A to 32N If it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in step ST207a, the video chat control section 35 detects which video chat device has an abnormality in step ST207a. In addition, the video chat control unit 35 transmits the conference information transmitted to the video chat device in which the abnormality has occurred to the spare video chat device 42. That is, a conference information signal relating to a conference which is currently downloaded to the video chat apparatus but is not being implemented or conference information relating to a conference which is currently being implemented is transmitted to the spare video chat apparatus 42.

Further, in step ST208a, the video ticket control unit 35 transmits to the switching device 31 a switching instruction signal instructing switching from the video chat device in which the abnormality has occurred to the spare video chat device 42. According to the switching instruction signal, the switching device 31 cuts off the communication with the video chat device, and then establishes a link between the spare video chat device 4.2 and the network 21.

The spare video-chart device 42 has completed the preparation for the conference by receiving the conference information signal, and can continue the video chat. After step ST208a, operation returns to step ST201. As described above, according to the second embodiment, a plurality of video chat devices 32A to 32N can share a plurality of video chat services simultaneously performed. Even if the number of users increases, the video chat service device can operate smoothly. Then, when an abnormality is detected in any of the video chatting devices 32A to 32N, it is detected which video chatting device has an abnormality. Service can be continued without interruption with high reliability. Embodiment 3. FIG. 6 shows a video chat service device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. In the figure, reference numerals 42A to 42M indicate spare video chat devices. This video chat service device is obtained by adding a plurality of (M) spare video chat devices 42A to 42M to the video chat service device shown in FIG. The spare video chatters 42A-42M are each connected to a chat controller 33 via a bus 43 or other suitable connection means.

Next, the operation will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an operation performed by the video ticket control unit 35 according to a program. The operation of the video chat service device according to the present embodiment is similar to the operation of the video chat service device according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 7 is similar to FIG. 5, so the differences will be described below.

In this embodiment, when the video chat control unit 35 determines that an abnormality has occurred in any of the video chat devices 32A to 32N, the video chat control unit 35 sends the video chat device having the abnormality to the video chat device. Select a spare video-chat device to substitute.

As shown in FIG. 7, if it is determined in step ST206 that an abnormality has occurred in any of the video chat devices 32A to 32N, the operation proceeds to step ST209. The video ticket controller 35 selects a usable device from the spare video chat devices 42A to 42M.

In this selection, the state DB of the spare video-chart device whose data structure is shown in FIG. 8 is used. The state DB of the spare video chat device is stored in the storage device 34, and when any of the spare video chat devices 42A to 42M is newly used, the video chat control unit 35 determines each time. Then, it is updated by the video ticket control unit 35. In Fig. 8, "MCU I Dj is a multipoint communication controller (MCU), This is an identifier indicating the video chat device 42A to 42M provided. "Status" indicates the status of the spare video chat device.

In step ST209, the video chat control unit 35 searches the state DB of the spare video chat device and selects an available spare video chat device (for example, one having the smallest MCU ID).

Next, in step ST207b, the video chat control unit 35 detects which video chat device has an abnormality. Further, the video chat control unit 35 transmits the conference information transmitted to the video chat device in which the abnormality has occurred to the newly selected backup video chat device. That is, a conference information signal relating to a conference that is currently down-loaded to the video-chart device but is not being conducted or conference information relating to a conference currently being conducted is transmitted to the backup video-chart device.

Further, in step ST208b, the video chat control unit 35 sends to the switching device 31 a switching instruction signal instructing switching from the video chat device in which an abnormality has occurred to a newly selected spare video chat device. Send. According to the switching instruction signal, the switching device 31 cuts off the communication with the video chat device, and then establishes a link between the corresponding spare video chat device and the network 21. After step ST208b, operation returns to step ST201.

The standby video chat device has completed the preparation for the conference by receiving the conference information signal, and can continue the video chat. As described above, according to the third embodiment, Even if an abnormality occurs in some of the video chat devices 32A to 32N, the plurality of video chat services that they were in charge of can be replaced with a plurality of spare video chat devices 42A to 42N. M can be assigned to these video channels You can continue your charter service. Embodiment 4.

FIG. 9 shows a video chat service device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. In the figure, 36 indicates an operation overnight terminal, and 37 indicates a video chat operation application. This video chat service device is obtained by adding an operator terminal 36 to the video chat service device shown in FIG. However, the operation terminal 36 may be added to the video chat service device of another embodiment.

The operator terminal 36 is a terminal operated by the operator, and is connected to the chat control device 33 via a bus 43 or other appropriate connection means. A video chat operation abridge 37 is installed in the operation overnight terminal 36, and the operator terminal 36 is operable according to the video chat operation abridge 37.

Next, the operation will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation performed by the video ticket control unit 35 according to a program. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation performed by the operator terminal 36 in accordance with the video chat operation application 37.

The operation of the video chat service device according to this embodiment is similar to the operation of the video chat service device according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 10 is similar to FIG. 1. Therefore, differences will be described below. When detecting that an error has occurred in the video chat device 32, the video chat control unit 35 notifies the operation terminal 36 of the error, and in accordance with a request from the operator terminal 36, the switching device 3 By linking 1 to the spare video chat device 42 and controlling the spare video chat device 42, the video chat service is continued. . As shown in FIG. 10, when it is determined in step ST206 that an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device 32, the operation proceeds to step ST211 and the video chat control unit 35 performs An error is notified to the operator terminal 36, and the operation returns to step ST201.

As shown in FIG. 11, according to the video chat operation application 37 of the operator terminal 36, the operator terminal 36 is connected to the video ticket control unit 35 (step ST301). In step ST302, it is determined whether or not a notification of abnormality has been received from the video chat control unit 35. If this determination is negative, operation proceeds to step ST304.

If it is determined in step ST302 that an abnormality has been notified, in step ST303, the operation overnight terminal 36 displays the abnormality information on a screen of a display device (not shown), and notifies the operator. Ask if you want to switch to a spare video chat device.

Next, in step ST304, the operator terminal 36 waits to receive a switching instruction from the operator, and the operation proceeds to step ST305.

In step ST305, it is determined whether or not the operator has requested a switching instruction to the operator terminal 36. When the operator who has visually recognized the screen of the display device requests the operator terminal 36 to switch to the spare video chat device, the operation proceeds to step ST306, and the operation overnight terminal 36 is operated by the video chat controller. 3 Send the switching instruction signal to 5.

After the end of step ST306, the operation returns to step ST302. Also, in step ST305, if it is determined that the operator has not requested the operator terminal 36 to switch, the operation returns to step ST302.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. If it is determined in step ST204 that no new event notification signal has been received, the operation proceeds to step ST210. In step ST210: The video chat control section 35 determines whether or not a switching instruction has been given from the operator terminal 36. If this determination is negative, the operation proceeds to step ST206, and the video chat control unit 35 determines whether or not a new abnormal situation has occurred. Therefore, the replacement of the video chat device based on the previous abnormal situation is not performed.

On the other hand, if the judgment in step ST210 is affirmative, the operation proceeds to step ST207. In step ST207, the video ticket control unit 35 transmits the conference information transmitted to the video ticket device 32 to the standby video chat device 42. That is, a conference information signal relating to a conference that has been downloaded to the video chat apparatus 32 but is not being implemented or conference information relating to a conference currently being implemented is transmitted to the spare video chat apparatus 42.

The spare video chat device 42 has completed preparations for the conference by receiving the conference information signal, and can continue the video chat. After step ST208, operation returns to step ST201. As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, it is possible to leave the switching from the normal video chatting device to the spare video chatting device to the judgment of the operator, and perform the appropriate switching according to the situation. Is executed.

As described above, the present invention has been illustrated and described in detail with reference to various preferred embodiments thereof. Those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications in form and detail are possible within the domain. Such alterations, substitutions, and modifications are also included in the scope of the present invention. Industrial applicability

As described above, according to the video chat service control method of the present invention, it is possible to continue the video chat service without interruption with high reliability by simple control.

Further, the video chat service device according to the present invention can be manufactured at a low cost, and the video chat service can be continued without interruption with high reliability by simple control.

Claims

Scope of request 1. To provide a video chat service by exchanging video signals and audio signals required for video chat to a plurality of user terminal devices by a video chat device;

The control device detects that an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device, and

When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device, a video chat service is continued by controlling a spare video chat device that substitutes for the video chat device by the control device. Video chat service control method provided.

2. The control device monitors the amount of resources that can be effectively used by the video chat device, and when the amount of the resource becomes less than the threshold value, the control device determines that an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device. The video chat service control method according to claim 1.

3. A video chat device that is linkable to a plurality of user terminal devices and is capable of exchanging video and audio signals required for video chat with the user terminal devices;

A spare video chat that can be linked to a plurality of user terminal devices, can exchange video and audio signals required for a video chat with the user terminal device, and can substitute for the video chat device. Device and

The status of the video chat device is monitored to determine the occurrence of an error in the video chat device. A video chat service provided with a control device for linking the user terminal device to the spare video chat device and controlling the spare video chat device to continue the video chat service. apparatus.

4. The control device monitors the amount of resources that can be effectively used by the video chat device, and when the amount of the resource becomes less than the threshold, the control device determines that an abnormality of the video chat device has occurred. The video chat service device according to claim 3.

5. When the control device determines that an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device, the control device notifies the backup video chat device of information indicating the video chat service to use the backup video chat device. The video chat service device according to claim 3, characterized in that:

6. It is provided with a plurality of video chatting devices that share a plurality of video chatting services performed simultaneously, and the control device determines which video chatting device has failed when any of the video chatting devices has failed. 4. The video chat service device according to claim 3, wherein it is detected whether an abnormality has occurred in the video device.

7. A plurality of spare video chat devices are provided, and when the control device determines that an abnormality has occurred in any of the video chat devices, the control device substitutes for the video chat device in which the abnormality has occurred. 7. The video chat service device according to claim 6, wherein a spare video chat device is selected.

8. The control device is linked to the operator terminal operated by the operator, and when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the video chat device, notifies the operator terminal of the abnormality, and in accordance with a request from the operator terminal. 4. The video chat service according to claim 3, wherein the switching device is linked to a spare video chat device and the spare video chat device is controlled to continue the service of the video chat. Video chart service equipment.