초록 ▼

Video processing apparatus for supporting a video conference includes a processor/server, a conference bridge and a network of terminals, each terminal equipped with at least a video camera, display and a user input device such as a mouse. A user may select a conference context including a conferenc

Video processing apparatus for supporting a video conference includes a processor/server, a conference bridge and a network of terminals, each terminal equipped with at least a video camera, display and a user input device such as a mouse. A user may select a conference context including a conference location, type (setting) and purpose that may be different from the selection of another conferee. The user may select a conference location and type, view a conference according to a default selection or design their own location and type in advance of the conference. The user also may select personal requirements and signal the need for various resources prior to and in real time during a conference. At the conference bridge, each conferee that joins a video conference is assigned a position at a conference setting of their selected context, for example, a round table or U shaped table generated as a video graphic. At each terminal, a signal is either received or generated for display such that each conference participant is able to view all other participant conferees according to the assigned position arrangement within the context selected by the conferee. An algorithm is described for generating such a signal for display. An audio signal can also be generated according to the assigned positions of the conferees that can be heard on 3D or stereo speakers in such a way as to relate to the assigned positions around the virtual conference setting. Moreover, as conferees join or leave the conference, the virtual setting may increase in size to accommodate the new conferees.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [15.]15. Video conferencing apparatus for providing a real-time live image of conferees of a video conference which comprises a video processor for (i) receiving a plurality of video signals of each conferee, (ii) receiving input signals from each of two conferees representing

[ What is claimed is:] [15.]15. Video conferencing apparatus for providing a real-time live image of conferees of a video conference which comprises a video processor for (i) receiving a plurality of video signals of each conferee, (ii) receiving input signals from each of two conferees representing a different selected video conference context, (iii) assigning a position to a conferee within a selected virtual conference context and (iv) further outputting a video signal representing all conferees according to the assigned positions within the selected virtual conference context.