Method for an in-home, wireless-LAN video intercom

Method for an in-home, wireless-LAN video intercom

Disclosed is a method for an in-home, wireless-LAN video intercom. Benefits include improved functionality and improved quality.

Description

              The disclosed method consists of two or more intercom devices (see Figure 1) and a wireless LAN located in a home (see Figure 2). A PC can also be connected to the wireless LAN and serve as a hub or another intercom device. In a typical configuration, each intercom device consists of a microprocessor, RAM and ROM, a microphone, a speaker, power supply (such as, batteries, power brick, rechargeable batteries), and a wireless LAN radio. In various implementations, the device may include one or more of the following: a display, a video camera, several named and unnamed buttons, and a touch screen (see Figure 3).

Setup

              During power-up, each device advertises its presence or services and negotiates a unique ID. Another implementation assigns unique IDs at the factory or enables users to select IDs via switches or jumper settings.

              Using software on the PC (also part of the disclosed method), the user assigns a name to each device such as Kitchen or John’s Bedroom. These names would be communicated back to each device and the devices would display the other devices’ names next to the unnamed buttons or graphic buttons on the display. In other variations, the names could be selected from a list of preprogrammed names.

Usage scenarios

              The user approaches a wall-mounted device, presses the button for the device located in another room, and begins speaking. The device ID of the target room is Amy’s Intercom. Both the audio and video associated with the user’s device is streamed to the device indicated by the button pushed. However, if the cover is closed over the camera, only the audio is streamed. By using the push-to-talk ...