COMMUNICATION USING INTERACTIVE AVATARS

Smart overview of the Invention

The patent application outlines a video communication system that utilizes animated avatars instead of live images of users. This approach significantly reduces data transmission requirements, making it more bandwidth-efficient. Users can select an avatar and initiate communication, during which user inputs are detected and identified to generate animation commands and avatar parameters. These elements are then transmitted to animate the avatars during communication.

Field and Background

This system pertains to video communication, specifically using interactive avatars. As mobile devices evolve, users increasingly prefer video calls. However, transmitting live video can strain existing wireless bandwidth, especially with older 2G/3G technologies and even with newer 4G networks. Using avatars mitigates this issue by reducing data load.

Detailed Description

The system enhances user interaction by modifying avatar displays based on user inputs. Speech is captured, transformed, and used to generate avatar speech, maintaining user anonymity. Devices equipped with cameras, microphones, and touch-sensitive displays facilitate this process. Communication can occur over cellular or WiFi networks, with avatars animated based on both passive detection (like facial movements) and active user inputs.

Animation and Transmission

Avatar animations are generated through a combination of facial detection and user inputs, such as touch events or gestures. These animations may include changes in avatar orientation, facial expressions, and other features to convey emotions. Animation commands and avatar parameters are transmitted to remote devices to animate avatars in real-time, enhancing the user experience.

System Components

The system involves devices capable of wired or wireless communication, such as smartphones and computers, equipped with cameras, microphones, speakers, and touch-sensitive displays. Cameras capture digital images for facial and gesture recognition, while microphones and speakers handle audio input and output. The touch-sensitive displays allow for interaction with avatars, which can be customized to represent users in various forms, from lifelike to cartoonish.