Method and apparatus for facilitating meetings, conferences and forums involving face-to-face discussion between participants

US7111244B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventor

• Daniel Norris · Boiceville, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 9, 2001
• Grant date: Sep 19, 2006
• Expiry date: Apr 21, 2024

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G06Q10/10
• WIPO field: IT methods for management
• WIPO sector: Electrical engineering

Abstract

A method and apparatus for facilitating meetings, conferences and forums involving face-to-face discussion or conversation between participants. The invention may also be used as a form of entertainment or to enhance Internet cafes and leisure facilities. Other embodiments of the invention may be used to facilitate networking sessions, training sessions, educational programs and public consultations. In the method of the invention the communication system is used to structure and coordinate live face-to-face communication between users in person. The invention enables participants to immediately identify subjects that are of special interest and importance to each of them. Groups of participants are then able to concurrently discuss a very large number of subjects using the highly interactive protocols of natural face-to-face conversation. The invention also provides means to alter the trajectory of discussion between users, particularly in the light of previous discussions. Further refinements increase the invention's functionality and improve its user interface.