Gaze direction adjustment for video calls and meetings
US8957943B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 2, 2012 |
| Grant date | Feb 17, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 8, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N7/144
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
In a typical video meeting, each of two persons has a computer or a portable electronic device, controlled by one or more processors executing software instructions. Each device has a screen and a video camera. Typically, B's camera will be positioned above B's screen. Video of B is transmitted across a communication system from B's camera to A's screen. Because B is looking at A's image on the screen, A will perceive B to be focused downward, not making eye contact. The present invention analyzes video frames for the orientations of B's head and focus, and uses image editing software tools to virtually correct the gaze direction of B's eye to be directed toward B's camera. A's gaze direction may be similarly adjusted simultaneously. The approach may also be used with 3 or more participants, e.g., in a video conference.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.