Systems and methods for virtual presence videoconferencing

摘要

Systems and methods are disclosed for virtual presence communication systems that provide both local and remote participants in a conference with a more realistic and engaging conferencing experience. A virtual presence communication system comprises a projection screen, an image-generating unit, at least one communication port, and a video camera, where each is configured to couple to a chair having a seat and a seatback portion. The virtual presence communication system may be integrated with the chair, which can be positioned proximate to a conference table, desk, podium, or other suitable location. The projection screen may be positioned in an angled relationship with a video screen or other image-generating device. The video screen may provide an image of the remote participant that is reflected by the projection screen. The chair also may include a video camera that is configured to generate a video feed that is supplied to the remote participant. The chair may be generally portable to allow the chair to moved (e.g., rolled) to different locations.

主权项

1. A virtual presence communication system to enable a local participant to communicate with a remote participant, the virtual presence communication system comprising:
a projection screen configured to couple to a chair, wherein the projection screen is positionable for viewing by a local participant; an image-generating unit configured to couple to the chair, the image-generating unit configured to display an image of the remote participant, wherein the image-generating unit is positionable in an angled relationship to the projection screen; at least one communication port configured to couple to the chair, wherein the communication port is configured to receive a video signal for display by the image-generating unit; and a video camera configured to couple to the chair.