WO2001067760A1

WO2001067760A1 - Method and apparatus for providing interactive video communications services

Info

Publication number: WO2001067760A1
Application number: PCT/US2001/008010
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lynn Drosos
Original assignee: Planetary Television.Com, Llc
Priority date: 2000-03-09
Filing date: 2001-03-09
Publication date: 2001-09-13
Also published as: AU2001245674A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and system for providing a variety of interactive video conferencing services through a single and convenient location, such as a service bureau (13). The present invention implements known video and audio communications equipment to provide system users with variety of live, video interactive services over a networked environment (17). More particularly, the present invention utilizes video call conferencing technology to provide system users with interactive educational services, interactive video entertainment services, video mail messaging services, and many other interactive video services over a networked environment (17). A service bureau (13) is implemented for processing video calls and routing them to a desired interactive service. The present invention also provides for a new method of advertising on video units (11) over a networked environment.

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING INTERACTIVE VIDEO COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

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.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There is a variety of well-known apparatus and methods for video and audio communications. However, these methods and apparatus present several problems. There is a long felt need for a more effective method and system for providing a variety of video interactive communication services through a single and convenient location, such as a service bureau maintained on a networked system. The present invention seeks to solve this long felt need.

The use of video communications is well known. Typically, people may communicate, live and face to face from remote locations through the use of video conferencing units. Video conferencing units are well known and typically have at least one camera, a video screen, a telephone and other communications equipment. To engage in video communications, 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. Each time 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. As a result, a caller may decide not to make the phone call rather than calling information. There is a long felt need for a system and method for accessing a variety of interactive video services through a single and convenient location, such as a telephone number or Internet web site. 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.

The use of voice mail and answering machines is 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. Other times, a caller may leave a message but forget to leave his name. As a result, a person retrieving telephone messages may be unable to determine the identity of the caller who has left the message. There is a long felt need for a system and method for recording and storing video recorded messages to improve one's ability to determine the identity of a caller who has left a 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.

Since most households currently do not have video units, the use of video conferencing is quite limited. There is a long felt need for a method of providing video units to households at a low cost and/or no cost. The present invention seeks to solve this long felt need through a novel advertising method.

While the known apparatus and methods for audio and video communications are of interest, they do not address the particular need to provide a variety of interactive services over a single, convenient platform. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

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.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a variety of video interactive services through a single and easily accessible location, such as a service bureau maintained on a network. Another object is to combine video text services with audio text services.

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.

Other objects will become apparent from the foregoing description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following description of preferred embodiments of the present invention will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements shown in which:

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.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

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. There are three types of system users. 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"). As will be shown herein, 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

Having described the system users, the following materials describe each of the aforementioned video interactive services provided over the system. 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. Through these video services, system users may communicate with each other in real time and face to face from separate remote locations. Using the video communications equipment discussed below, 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. Each video service provided over the system is now described below.

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. For example, 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. For example, 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. This provides systems users with a safe and discrete forum that dramatically reduces the discomfort and dangers associated with in person "blind dates." Accordingly, people who may have been hesitant to use prior video dating services are more likely to use the system's video dating service. In addition to providing dating services, 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. Unlike previous seminar services, 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. Ordinarily, seminars are held in a physical location with a limited seating capacity. As a result, people are often closed out of seminars. However, 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.

Store clerks can give individualized attention to each video shopper. Callers may, from the comfort of their homes, ask see the items they are ordering, ask the clerk questions, and even have the clerk demonstrate how a product works. Often, e-commerce transactions are not secure because computer hackers may obtain personal information, such as credit card numbers, from an Internet web site. Additionally, Internet shoppers are unable to examine the products and retailers that they are purchasing goods from. Accordingly, many shoppers may be reluctant to use this method of shopping. Nideo shopping, on the other hand, provides a secure alternative to in-store, face to face shopping. Shoppers may record their transactions and use the videotape to help settle any billing disputes that may arise. Similarly, a system operator may record each transaction.

In addition to video shopping, 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. However, 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. Similarly, 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. In another embodiment, 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.

Another premium service that may be offered over the system are pre-recorded services. For example, 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.

Other 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.

Having described the premium services provided over the system, other live video interactive services provided over the system are now described. First, long distance audio and video calling services are described. Next, the v-mail services provided over the system are described. Finally, Internet access services provided over the system is described.

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

Internet 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

Referring now to the drawings, 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. In this embodiment, 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. In one embodiment, 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 following materials describe the system side equipment. This includes of description of standard telephone switch 17, automatic call distribution equipment 19, an automatic number identifier software 21 and automated telephone system software 27.

The system houses a standard telephone switch 17 for receiving and routing video and audio telephonic calls. Preferably, 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.

In addition to the switch 17, 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 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. Using 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.

The following is a description of the different types of reports that may be generated using ANI software 21. 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 . For example, 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. Alternatively, the automated system may be responsive to a Caller's voice. In this case, the caller may speak his selection into the phone. Once the caller completes his selection from the audio menu, the ACD equipment sends the call to the end user. It should be noted, however, that the interactive services may be presented to Callers through means other than the automated system. For example, 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.

Having described the system side equipment, the system user equipment is now described. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, Each system user should have a means for transmitting near real-time audio text and video-text. Preferably, 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. Preferably, 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. In one embodiment, 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. However, 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 , for example, 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. Preferably, a 500-watt portable work light should be used. However, 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.

Referring to FIGS.4-6, the system may be established on a network 15, such as the Internet. The bureau 13 may be maintained on a web site 43. In this case, 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. Furthermore, 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. In one embodiment, the video units 11 discussed herein are implemented. In another embodiment, 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. In another embodiment, users can use video cameras and instant messaging as a means for video communications.

METHOD OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Having described the system of the present invention, the method of implementing the system is now described below.

Referring to FIGS. 3 -3d, the system should be established over a communications network, step 101. Preferably, the communications network is a telephone network. However, 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. In one embodiment, 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. When 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. Where a system unit is used, the routing chip automatically dials the bureau phone number and routes the call to the bureau, step 111. Where a retail unit is used, 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. For example, 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. For example, 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. It should be noted however, that in other embodiments, 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. Once the Caller selects a service, the automated system provides here with a submenu of service-options. The service-options for each service are discussed in detail below.

If the Caller selects long distance service, 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. Next 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. Using the ANI software, the bureau may prepare reports (i.e., billing reports) that summarize the activity of the caller and receiver, step 137.

If the caller selects premium services, 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. Once the caller selects a premium service, 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. Using the ANI software, the bureau may prepare reports (i.e., billing reports) that summarize the activity of the caller and receiver, step 157.

If the Caller selects Internet access, 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. Once the caller enters his method of payment, 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. Using the ANI software, the bureau may prepare reports (i.e., billing reports) that summarize the activity of the caller and receiver, step 173.

If the user selects v-mail, 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. Next 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. In one embodiment, 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.

In the foregoing description of the invention, reference to the drawings, certain terms have been used for conciseness, clarity, and comprehension. However, no unnecessary limitations are to be implied from or because of the terms used, beyond the requirements of the prior art, because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed. Furthermore, the description and illustration of the invention are by way of example, and the scope of the invention is not limited to the exact details shown, represented, or described. While the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it is understood that the invention is not so limited but rather includes any and all changes and modifications thereto which would be apparent to those skilled in the art and which come within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method for interactive video communicating comprising the steps of:

establishing an interactive video communications system over a network;

providing a variety of interactive video communications services over said system;

establishing a service bureau on said system for routing video calls to said video interactive communication services, said bureau having a unique location means;

maintaining routing equipment and software at said service bureau for routing and processing incoming video calls;

linking said variety of interactive video communications services to said service bureau;

implementing video units for live, two way video communications of said system; and

processing and connecting a caller to a video interactive service that the caller has selected through the service bureau.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein

said interactive video communications services comprises live premium interactive services, long distance and audio and video conferencing services, video mail messaging services, and

Internet access services.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein

said premium services includes interactive video dating services, interactive professional video seminar services, interactive video teaching services, interactive video shopping services, interactive home health care video services, interactive home security video services, interactive video entertainment services, pre-recorded video services, interactive video repair services, interactive self help video services, video wake up services and interactive video game show services.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein said interactive video entertainment services comprises video interactive psychic services, video interactive music services, video interactive theater services, video interactive adult entertainment services, and video interactive sports services.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of

implementing a video recording means for recording and storing v-mail messages;

generating reports video call summarizing pertinent information relating to each system user's use of the system; and

said step of maintaining routing equipment and software further comprises implementing, at the service bureau, automated telephone system software capable of providing each caller with a selection of video interactive service options and billing options.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of

advertising on said video units, wherein each video unit is equipped with slides of advertisements;

maintaining records of said interactive video communications services utilized by each system user;

upgrading said advertisements with new and current advertisements relating to said system user's interests as indicated in said records; and

linking said system user to an advertiser who has advertised on said video unit.

7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the network is a telephone network and the unique locations means is a telephone number.

8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the network is the Internet and the unique location means is a web site address.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein

the routing equipment comprises a telephone switch and automatic call distribution equipment;

the software comprises automatic number identifier software and automated telephone system software; and

the video unit comprises at least one camera, screen means, audio means, microphone means, dialing means, communications ports, and an automatic routing chip.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising the steps utilizing standard utility lights, said utility lights being five hundred watts so that the flow and quality of the picture on said video unit is enhanced.

1 1. An apparatus for interactive video communicating comprising:

a means for establishing an interactive video communications system over a network;

a means for providing a variety of interactive video communications services over said system;

a service bureau on said system for routing video calls to said video interactive communication services, said bureau having a unique location means;

routing equipment and processing software at said service bureau for routing and processing incoming video calls;

a means for linking said variety of interactive video communications services to said service bureau; video units for live, two way video communications of said system; and

a means for processing and connecting a caller to a video interactive service that the caller has selected through the service bureau.

12. The apparatus of claim 1 1, wherein said interactive video communications services comprises live premium interactive services, long distance and audio and video conferencing services, video mail messaging services, and Internet access services.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein said premium services includes interactive video dating services, interactive professional video seminar services, interactive video teaching services, interactive video shopping services, interactive home health care video services, interactive home security video services, interactive video entertainment services, pre-recorded video services, interactive video repair services, interactive self help video services, video wake up services and interactive video game show services.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein said interactive video entertainment services comprises video interactive psychic services, video interactive music services, video interactive theater services, video interactive adult entertainment services, and video interactive sports services.

15. The apparatus of claim 11 , further comprising a means

recording means for recording and storing v-mail messages;

means for generating reports video call summarizing pertinent information relating to each system user's use of the system; and

said processing software further comprises automated telephone system software capable of providing each caller with a selection of video interactive service options and billing options.

16. The apparatus of claim 11 , further comprising:

a means for advertising on said video units, wherein each video unit is equipped with slides of advertisements;

a means for maintaining records of said interactive video communications services utilized by each system user;

a means for upgrading said advertisements with new and current advertisements relating to said system user's interests as indicated in said records; and

a means for linking said system user to an advertiser who has advertised on said video unit.

17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the network is a telephone network and the unique location means is a telephone number.

18. The apparatus of claim 1 ,wherein the network is the Internet and the unique location means is a web site address.

19. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the routing equipment comprises a telephone switch and automatic call distribution equipment;

20. The apparatus of claim 19, further comprises standard utility lights, said utility lights being five hundred watts so that the flow and quality of the picture on said video unit is enhanced.