Video conferencing apparatus

DATE – 2002
DISCIPLINE – Science
MEDIUM – Patent
STATUS – Assignee: Horizonscan Inc.
WEBLINKS
Patent number: 6784916

Abstract: An apparatus and system for improving the projection of a remote conferee’s presence and improving eye contact between the remote video conferee and proximate conferee during a videoconference is disclosed. The image of the remote conferee’s face is shown on a video monitor with a camera located along the eye level of the image of the remote conferee’s face, and within the interocular distance of about 1.5 inches to 3 inches. A feedback screen showing the image of the proximate video conferee is also located near the camera and preferably within the interocular distance. Because the camera is within the interocular distance the proximate conferee will appear, to the remote conferee, to be looking at the eyes of the remote conferee when looking at the monitor, because the camera is within the interocular distance. This will be accentuated when the proximate conferee uses the feedback image, which is near the camera.
Type: Grant
Filed: February 11, 2002
Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
Assignee: Telbotics Inc.
Inventor: Graham Thomas Smith