Reflected backdrop for communications systems
First Claim
1. A telepresence communication system for allowing a user located in an observation zone to communicate with a person using a communications system at another location, the telepresence communication system comprising:
- an image display device having an image area substantially surrounded by an enclosure, the image area being positioned substantially within a vertical plane, the plane positioned for viewing by the user in an observation zone;
a two-way mirror positioned between said observation zone and said image display device and angled to reflect a backdrop;
said backdrop being positioned adjacent said two-way mirror so that a reflection of a left edge and a right edge of said backdrop in said two-way mirror substantially aligns with a left and right edge, respectively of said image display enclosure when viewed from said observation zone;
a camera located in said backdrop, such that said camera views said observation zone as a reflection off said two-way mirror; and
a light-absorbing panel positioned above said two-way mirror opposite said camera and located in the view of said camera through said two-way mirror as said camera is aligned to view said reflection of said observation zone off said two-way mirror.
1 Assignment
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Accused Products
Abstract
A video conferencing system has a two-way mirror, which is between the observer and the display device, positioned at an angle to reflect a backdrop surface. The backdrop surface, which is further away from the two-way mirror than the image plane of the image display device, appears superimposed in a position behind the image of a person from the remote location. A camera is located in the backdrop at a position along the line of sight of the transmitted image so that a perceived eye contact is achieved. A system is disclosed wherein telepresence systems that are compatible with a pre-defined standard are connected via a network connecting, either directly or via a telepresence operations center, to provide interaction with substantially life-sized images of the remote participant displayed with three-dimensional depth cues in the room setting.
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Citations
10 Claims
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1. A telepresence communication system for allowing a user located in an observation zone to communicate with a person using a communications system at another location, the telepresence communication system comprising:
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an image display device having an image area substantially surrounded by an enclosure, the image area being positioned substantially within a vertical plane, the plane positioned for viewing by the user in an observation zone; a two-way mirror positioned between said observation zone and said image display device and angled to reflect a backdrop; said backdrop being positioned adjacent said two-way mirror so that a reflection of a left edge and a right edge of said backdrop in said two-way mirror substantially aligns with a left and right edge, respectively of said image display enclosure when viewed from said observation zone; a camera located in said backdrop, such that said camera views said observation zone as a reflection off said two-way mirror; and a light-absorbing panel positioned above said two-way mirror opposite said camera and located in the view of said camera through said two-way mirror as said camera is aligned to view said reflection of said observation zone off said two-way mirror. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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Specification