JP7435574B2 - Conference call system, conference call terminal, program, and conference call method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a conference call system, and in particular to a technology for controlling image communication in a conference call.

2. Description of the Related Art With the spread of remote work in recent years, an increasing number of companies are introducing conference call systems that allow multiple users who are located far apart to communicate with each other using both audio and video.

For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a conference call system that can distribute conference audio and video to conference participants and observers other than the participants. This conference call system consists of a host terminal, which is a conference call terminal operated by a participant who is the host of the conference, a participant terminal, which is a conference call terminal operated by conference participants other than the host, and It is configured to include a viewer terminal operated by a viewer other than the participant, and a distribution server. Here, the organizer terminal distributes the organizer's audio and video and the audio and video received from the participant terminals to the distribution server. Furthermore, the organizer terminal receives conference audio and conference video from the distribution server, outputs them, and transmits them to the participant terminals. The participant terminal transmits the participant's audio and video to the host terminal, and receives and outputs conference audio and video from the host terminal. The listener terminal receives conference audio and conference video from the distribution server and outputs the conference audio and video. Then, the distribution server receives the audio and video of the host terminal and the audio and video of the participant terminals from the host terminal, generates conference audio and video, and transmits them to the host terminal and listener terminals.

In addition, in conventional conference call systems, there is no host terminal, and each conference call terminal directly transmits participants' audio and video to the distribution server and receives conference audio and video from the distribution server. There are also types that output. There is also a type in which the distribution server only generates conference audio, and each conference call terminal generates a conference video by combining videos of each participant received from other conference call terminals.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-93479

By the way, in a conference call system, when many participants transmit image data, network traffic increases and the image processing load required to generate conference images on a distribution server or a conference call terminal increases. Conventionally, there are conference call systems that have a function to stop image transmission at the conference call terminal on the image sending side, but this function alone prevents unnecessary images from being transmitted over the network for the participants on the image receiving side. However, there is a possibility that the image is processed to generate a conference image at the distribution server or the conference call terminal on the image receiving side. Therefore, network traffic and image processing load cannot be effectively reduced.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a conference call technique that can more efficiently reduce network traffic and image processing load.

In order to solve the above problem, in a first aspect of the present invention, when a conference call terminal receives an image distribution operation from a user, a conference call terminal sends an image distribution preparation completion notification with an image data acquisition destination to the same conference call. Notify other participating conference call terminals. Further, when the conference call terminal receives an image delivery preparation completion notification from another conference call terminal, it notifies the user of the conference call terminal that is the source of the image delivery preparation completion notification. When an image acquisition start operation that specifies the conference call terminal is received from the user, the system accesses the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification, acquires and displays the image data. .

For example, the first aspect of the present invention is
A conference call system comprising a plurality of conference call terminals and a call control server that provides a conference call service to the plurality of conference call terminals,
The conference call terminal is
a preparation completion notification means for transmitting an image distribution preparation completion notification accompanied by an image data acquisition destination to other conference call terminals participating in the same conference call when an image distribution operation is accepted;
Terminal display means for displaying the source of the image distribution preparation completion notification as an image distribution preparation completion terminal when the image distribution preparation completion notification is received from another conference call terminal;
When an image acquisition start operation with the specification of the image distribution preparation completion terminal is received, the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification whose transmission source is the image distribution preparation completion terminal is accessed. an image data acquisition means for acquiring image data;
and image data display means for displaying the image data acquired by the image data acquisition means.

Further, in the second aspect of the present invention, when the conference call terminal receives an image distribution operation from a user, the conference call terminal sends an image distribution preparation completion notification along with an image data acquisition destination to other users participating in the same conference call. conference call terminal. Further, when the conference call terminal receives an image delivery preparation completion notification from another conference call terminal, it notifies the user of the conference call terminal that is the source of the image delivery preparation completion notification. When an image acquisition start operation that specifies the conference call terminal is received from the user, an image distribution request is sent to the image distribution server with the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification. . In response to this, the image distribution server accesses the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution request, acquires the image data, and distributes it to the conference call terminal that has made the image distribution request. The conference call terminal then displays the image data received from the image distribution server.

For example, the second aspect of the invention is
A conference call system comprising a plurality of conference call terminals, a call control server that provides a conference call service to the plurality of conference call terminals, and an image distribution server, the system comprising:
The conference call terminal is
a preparation completion notification means for transmitting an image distribution preparation completion notification accompanied by an image data acquisition destination to other conference call terminals participating in the same conference call when an image distribution operation is accepted;
Terminal display means for displaying the source of the image distribution preparation completion notification as an image distribution preparation completion terminal when the image distribution preparation completion notification is received from another conference call terminal;
When an image acquisition start operation with the specification of the image distribution preparation completion terminal is received, an image accompanied by the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification whose transmission source is the image distribution preparation completion terminal. image distribution request means for transmitting a distribution request to the image distribution server;
image data display means for displaying image data received from the image distribution server in response to the image distribution request;
The image distribution server is
an image data acquisition unit that, when receiving the image distribution request from the conference call terminal, accesses an image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution request and acquires the image data;
image data distribution means for distributing the image data acquired by the image data acquisition means from the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution request to the conference call terminal that is the transmission source of the image distribution request; has.

According to the present invention, only when the user of the conference call terminal on the image transmitting side indicates an intention to distribute the image and the user of the conference call terminal on the image receiving side indicates the intention to receive the image, the conference call terminal on the image transmitting side Image data is transmitted from the call terminal to the conference call terminal on the image receiving side. Therefore, network transmission and image processing of unnecessary image data are not performed. Therefore, network traffic and image processing load can be reduced.

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a conference call system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of conference call processing of the conference call system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of conference call processing of the conference call system according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and is a continuation of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of conference call processing of the conference call system according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and is a continuation of FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a schematic functional configuration diagram of the conference call terminal 1. As shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining conference call processing by the conference call terminal 1. As shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining image distribution processing of the conference call terminal 1. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining image reception processing of the conference call terminal 1. As shown in FIG. 9(A) is a diagram showing a display example of a terminal ready for image distribution on the conference call terminal 1, and FIG. 9(B) and FIG. 9(C) are display examples of acquired image data on the conference call terminal 1. FIG. FIG. 10 is a schematic functional configuration diagram of the call control server 2. As shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a flow diagram for explaining the conference call operation of the call control server 2. As shown in FIG. FIG. 12 is a schematic configuration diagram of a conference call system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of conference call processing of the conference call system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of conference call processing of the conference call system according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and is a continuation of FIG. 13. FIG. 15 is a schematic functional configuration diagram of the image distribution server 3. FIG. 16 is a diagram schematically showing an example of registered contents of the distribution destination storage unit 32. As shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is a flow diagram for explaining image distribution processing by the image distribution server 3.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[First embodiment]
First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a conference call system according to the present embodiment.

As shown in the figure, in the conference call system according to the present embodiment, a plurality of conference call terminals 1-1 to 1-4 (hereinafter also referred to as conference call terminals 1) and a call control server 2 are connected to a WAN (Wide Area Network). , LAN (Local Area Network), etc., and are connected to each other via a network 5 such as a LAN (Local Area Network). The conference call terminal 1 is a terminal for holding a conference call using audio and video with another conference call terminal 1. The call control server 2 provides the conference call terminal 1 with an audio conference call service.

2 to 4 are sequence diagrams for explaining an example of conference call processing of the conference call system according to the present embodiment.

It is assumed that the conference call terminal 1-1 receives a conference call request operation from the user that involves designating the conference call terminals 1-2 to 1-4 to participate in the conference call (S100). In response, conference call terminal 1-1 transmits a conference call request with designation of conference call terminals 1-2 to 1-4 to call control server 2 (S101).

When the call control server 2 receives the conference call request, it performs call connection processing with the conference call terminal 1-1 that is the source of the conference call request (S102), and establishes a call path between the conference call terminal 1-1 and the conference call terminal 1-1. is established (S103).

Next, the call control server 2 performs call connection processing with each of the conference call terminals 1-2 to 1-4 specified in the conference call request (S104, S106, S108), and -2 to 1-4 are established (S105, S107, S109).

Then, the call control server 2 interconnects the call paths established between the conference call terminals 1-1 to 1-4, and provides the voice conference call service to the conference call terminals 1-1 to 1-4. (S110). Specifically, for each conference call terminal 1, conference call voice data is generated by synthesizing call voice data received from other conference call terminals 1 other than this conference call terminal 1, and is sent to this conference call terminal 1. do.

Next, it is assumed that the conference call terminal 1-1 receives an image distribution operation from the user that involves specifying a camera built in or connected to the conference call terminal 1-1 (S111). In response to this, the conference call terminal 1-1 turns on this camera (S112) and transmits an image delivery preparation completion notification with its own URI (Uniform Resource Identifier) to the call control server 2 (S113). .

When the call control server 2 receives the image distribution preparation completion notification, the call control server 2 sends the message to the conference call terminals 1-2 to 1-4 participating in the same conference call as the conference call terminal 1-1 that sent the image distribution preparation completion notification. This image distribution preparation completion notification is relayed (S114). In response, the conference call terminals 1-2 to 1-4 display the information regarding the conference call terminal 1-1, which is the sender of the image distribution preparation completion notification, as the image distribution preparation completion terminal (S115 to S117). .

Here, it is assumed that the conference call terminal 1-2 receives from the user an image acquisition start operation that involves selecting the conference call terminal 1-1 that is being displayed as a terminal that is ready for image distribution (S118). In response, the conference call terminal 1-2 accesses the URI specified in the image delivery preparation completion notification sent from the conference call terminal 1-1 (S119), and sends the camera from the conference call terminal 1-1 to the The photographed image data of is acquired (S120). Then, the acquired image data is displayed (S121).

Similarly, it is assumed that the conference call terminal 1-3 receives from the user an image acquisition start operation accompanied by the selection of the conference call terminal 1-1 that is displayed as a terminal that is ready for image distribution (S122). In response to this, the conference call terminal 1-3 accesses the URI specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification sent from the conference call terminal 1-1 (S123), and Captured image data of the camera is acquired (S124). Then, the acquired image data is displayed (S125).

Next, it is assumed that the conference call terminal 1-2 receives an image distribution operation from the user that specifies a camera built into or connected to the conference call terminal 1-2 (S126). In response to this, the conference call terminal 1-2 turns on this camera (S127) and transmits an image delivery preparation completion notification with its own URI to the call control server 2 (S128).

When the call control server 2 receives the image distribution preparation completion notification, the call control server 2 sends the conference call terminals 1-1, 1-3, and 1 participating in the same conference call as the conference call terminal 1-2 that is the sender of the image distribution preparation completion notification. -4, this image delivery preparation completion notification is relayed to step 4 (S129). In response to this, the conference call terminal 1-1 displays information regarding the conference call terminal 1-2, which is the sender of the image distribution preparation completion notification, as the image distribution preparation completion terminal (S130). In addition, the conference call terminals 1-3 and 1-4 display the information regarding the conference call terminal 1-2, which is the sender of the image distribution preparation completion notification, as the image distribution preparation completion terminal, and the information displayed as the image distribution preparation completion terminal. It is displayed together with the information of the conference call terminal 1-1 (S131, S132).

Here, it is assumed that the conference call terminal 1-3 receives from the user an image acquisition start operation accompanied by the selection of the conference call terminal 1-2 which is currently displayed as a terminal ready for image distribution (S133). In response to this, the conference call terminal 1-3 accesses the URI specified in the image delivery preparation completion notification sent from the conference call terminal 1-2 (S134), and transmits the image from the conference call terminal 1-2. Captured image data of the camera is acquired (S135). Then, the image data acquired from the conference call terminal 1-2 is combined with the image data that started to be acquired from the conference call terminal 1-1 in S124 and displayed (S136).

It is also assumed that the conference call terminal 1-4 has received from the user an image acquisition start operation that involves selecting the conference call terminals 1-1 and 1-2 that are currently displayed as terminals that are ready for image distribution (S137). In response, the conference call terminal 1-4 uses the URI specified in the image delivery preparation completion notification with the conference call terminal 1-1 as the sender and the image delivery preparation with the conference call terminal 1-2 as the sender. Each of the URIs specified in the completion notification is accessed (S138, S139), and captured image data of the camera is obtained from each of the conference call terminals 1-1 and 1-2 (S140, S141). Then, the image data obtained from each of the conference call terminals 1-1 and 1-2 is combined and displayed (S142).

Next, the conference call terminal 1 and call control server 2 that constitute the conference call system according to this embodiment will be explained.

First, details of the conference call terminal 1 will be explained.

FIG. 5 is a schematic functional configuration diagram of the conference call terminal 1. As shown in FIG.

As shown in the figure, the conference call terminal 1 includes a network interface section 10, a man-machine interface section 11, a built-in or externally connected camera 12, a telephone function section 13, a preparation completion notification section 14, and a terminal display section. 15, an image data acquisition section 16, an image data display section 17, and a main control section 18.

The network interface section 10 is an interface for connecting to the network 5.

The man-machine interface unit 11 is an interface for making calls including conference calls, and includes a microphone, a speaker, operation buttons such as dial keys and function keys, and a display unit such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). have.

The telephone function section 13 performs necessary processing as a telephone having a conference call function. Specifically, by performing call control processing in cooperation with the call control server 2 in accordance with a call control protocol such as SIP (Session Initiation Protocol), a communication path with the call control server 2 is established and released. , RTP (Real-time Transport Protocol), or the like, and communicates with the other party via the communication path that is currently being established.

The preparation completion notification unit 14 transmits an image delivery preparation completion notification accompanied by the designation of the URI of the own conference call terminal 1 to other conference call terminals 1 participating in the same conference call.

When the terminal display unit 15 receives an image delivery preparation completion notification from another conference call terminal 1, it displays this conference call terminal 1 as an image delivery preparation completion terminal on the man-machine interface unit 11.

When the image data acquisition unit 16 receives an image acquisition start operation from the user via the man-machine interface unit 11, the image data acquisition unit 16 indicates that image distribution preparation is complete with the image distribution ready terminal selected by the image acquisition start operation as the transmission source. Access the URI specified in the notification and obtain the image data.

The image data display unit 17 displays the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 16 on the man-machine interface unit 11.

The main control section 18 centrally controls each section 10 to 17 of the conference call terminal 1.

The above-mentioned functional configuration of the conference call terminal 1 is realized in hardware by an integrated logic IC such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or by a DSP (Digital Signal). software using a computer such as It is realized in terms of wear. Alternatively, a PC (Personal Computer), tablet PC, smart phone, etc. that is equipped with a CPU, memory, auxiliary storage such as a hard disk or flash memory, and a communication interface such as a NIC (Network Interface Card) or a wireless adapter. In a general-purpose computer, the present invention may be realized by a CPU loading a predetermined program from an auxiliary storage device onto a memory and executing the program.

FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining conference call processing by the conference call terminal 1. As shown in FIG.

When the telephone function unit 13 receives a conference call request operation from the user via the man-machine interface unit 11 that involves designating another conference call terminal 1 to participate in the conference call (YES in S200), the telephone function unit 13 transmits the network interface unit 10. A conference call request with designation of another conference call terminal 1 to participate in the conference call is transmitted to the call control server 2 via the conference call (S201). Then, a call connection process is performed in cooperation with the call control server 2, and a communication path is established with the call control server 2 (S204). Thereby, the conference call terminal 1 is able to make a voice conference call via this call path.

On the other hand, the telephone function section 13 receives a call connection request from the call control server 2 via the network interface section 10 (YES at S202), and receives a response operation for this call connection request from the user via the man-machine interface section 11. If the request is accepted (YES in S203), the call connection process is performed in cooperation with the call control server 2, and a communication path is established with the call control server 2 (S204). Thereby, the conference call terminal 1 is able to make a voice conference call via this call path.

After the communication path is established with the call control server 2 in S204, when the telephone function unit 13 receives an operation to disconnect the communication path that is being established from the user via the man-machine interface unit 11 (YES in S205). ), transmits a disconnection request to the call control server 2 via the network interface unit 10 (S206). Then, it performs call connection processing in cooperation with the call control server 2, and releases the communication path established between it and the call control server 2 (S207).

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining image distribution processing of the conference call terminal 1.

This flow is executed when a communication path is established with the call control server 2 and a voice conference call is possible via this communication path.

When the main control unit 18 receives an image distribution operation from the user via the man-machine interface unit 11 (YES in S210), the main control unit 18 turns on the camera 12 (S211), and sends an image distribution preparation completion notification to the preparation completion notification unit 14. Instruct transmission. In response to this, the preparation completion notification unit 14 sends the call control server 2 via the network interface unit 10 an image delivery preparation that involves specifying the URI of the own conference call terminal 1 from which the image data taken by the camera 12 is acquired. A completion notification is sent (S212). This image distribution preparation completion notification is sent via the call control server 2 to other conference call terminals 1 participating in the same conference call as the own conference call terminal 1.

Thereafter, the main control unit 18 receives access from another conference call terminal 1 via the network interface unit 10 to the URI from which the captured image data of the camera 12 is acquired (an image distribution request with the specification of this URI) is accessed via the network interface unit 10. (YES in S213), distribution of image data captured by the camera 12 to the accessing conference call terminal 1 is started (S214).

The main control unit 18 also cancels access to the URI from which the image data captured by the camera 12 is obtained from the conference call terminal 1, which is the destination for the image data captured by the camera 12 (the designation of this URI is canceled). When the accompanying image distribution stop request is received (YES in S215), the distribution of image data captured by the camera 12 to this conference call terminal 1 is stopped (S216).

When the main control unit 18 receives an image distribution end operation from the user via the man-machine interface unit 11 (S217: YES), the main control unit 18 controls the camera 12 for all the conference call terminals 1 that are distributing the captured image data of the camera 12. Distribution of the photographed image data is stopped (S218), and the camera 12 is turned off (S219). Then, the preparation completion notification unit 14 is instructed to send an image distribution completion notification. In response to this, the preparation completion notification unit 14 transmits an image distribution end notification accompanied by the designation of the URI of the own conference call terminal 1 to the call control server 2 via the network interface unit 10 (S220). This image distribution completion notification is sent via the call control server 2 to other conference call terminals 1 participating in the same conference call as the own conference call terminal 1.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining image reception processing of the conference call terminal 1. As shown in FIG.

Similar to the flow shown in FIG. 7, this flow is executed when a communication path is established with the call control server 2 and a voice conference call is possible via this communication path.

When the image data acquisition unit 16 receives the image distribution preparation completion notification from the call control server 2 via the network interface unit 10 (YES in S230), the main control unit 18 receives the information specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification. The URI is managed by linking it to the conference call terminal 1 that is the sender of the image distribution preparation completion notification, and the conference call terminal 1 is notified to the terminal display section 15 to instruct display of the image distribution preparation completion terminal. In response to this, the terminal display unit 15 displays the notified conference call terminal 1 on the man-machine interface unit 11 as a terminal that is ready for image distribution (S231).

FIG. 9(A) is a diagram showing an example of a display of an image delivery preparation completed terminal on the conference call terminal 1. Here, reference numeral 170 is a button for accepting an operation for ending a conference call (cutting operation), and reference numeral 171 is a button for accepting an operation for turning on/off a microphone. Here, when the microphone of the man-machine interface section 11 is in the on state (audio mute release state), "microphone off" is displayed on the button 171, and when the user operates the button 171, the microphone of the man-machine interface section 11 is turned off. state (audio mute execution state). When the microphone of the man-machine interface section 11 is off (audio mute execution state), "microphone on" is displayed on the button 171, and when the user operates the button 171, the microphone of the man-machine interface section 11 is turned on. (audio mute release state).

Further, in FIG. 9(A), reference numeral 172 is a display field for a list of terminals that are ready for image distribution. This display column 172 is displayed when an image distribution preparation completion notification is received from another conference call terminal 1 via the call control server 2, or according to an instruction from the user. As shown in the figure, in this display column 172, information about the conference call terminal 1 that is the sender of the image distribution preparation completion notification is displayed as a list as an image distribution preparation completion terminal 1720. FIG. 9A is a display example of terminals that are ready for image distribution in conference call terminal 1-1, and conference call terminals 1-2 and 1-3 are displayed in a list in display field 172 as terminals that are ready for image distribution 1720. An example is shown below. Further, the display field 172 is provided with buttons 1721 for accepting an image acquisition start operation and an image acquisition stop operation corresponding to each of the image distribution ready terminals 1720. Here, if the conference call terminal 1 displayed as the image distribution ready terminal 1720 is acquiring image data from the specified URI, "Stop" is displayed on the button 1721, and the user presses the button 1721. The operation is accepted as an image acquisition stop operation of the image distribution ready terminal 1720 corresponding to this button 1721. On the other hand, if the image data has not been acquired yet, "Receive" is displayed on the button 1721, and the operation of the button 1721 by the user is accepted as an image acquisition start operation of the image distribution ready terminal 1720 corresponding to this button 1721. .

Next, when the main control unit 18 receives an image acquisition start operation from the image distribution ready terminal via the man-machine interface unit 11 (S232: YES), the main control unit 18 sends the image distribution ready terminal to the image data acquisition unit 16. , and instructs the image data acquisition unit 16 to start image acquisition. In response to this, the image data acquisition unit 16 accesses the URI notified by the main control unit 18 (sends an image distribution request) via the network interface unit 10, and sends the camera 12 from this image distribution ready terminal. The acquisition of captured image data is started (S233). Then, the main control unit 18 passes the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 16 to the image data display unit 17 together with information on the terminal that is ready for image distribution. In response to this, the image data display section 17 associates the image data received from the main control section 18 with the information of the image distribution ready terminal received from the main control section 18 together with this image data, and displays it on the man-machine interface section 11. (S234).

FIGS. 9(B) and 9(C) are diagrams showing display examples of acquired image data on the conference call terminal 1. FIG. Here, similarly to the display example shown in FIG. 9(A), reference numeral 170 is a button for accepting an operation to end a conference call (disconnection operation), and reference numeral 171 is a button for accepting an operation to turn on/off a microphone. It is.

Further, FIG. 9(B) shows a display example when an image acquisition start operation is performed on conference call terminal 1-2, which is displayed as a terminal that is ready for image distribution. Image data captured by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1-2, obtained from the URI specified in the image delivery preparation completion notification received from the conference call terminal 1-2, is displayed in the display frame 173.

Further, FIG. 9(C) shows a display example when an image acquisition start operation is performed for each of the conference call terminals 1-2 to 1-4 that are displayed as terminals that are ready for image distribution. Image data captured by the camera 12 of conference call terminal 1-2 acquired from the URI specified in the image delivery preparation completion notification received from conference call terminal 1-2, and image delivery preparation completed received from conference call terminal 1-3. The image data captured by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1-3 obtained from the URI specified in the notification, and the conference obtained from the URI specified in the image delivery preparation completion notification received from the conference call terminal 1-4. Image data taken by the camera 12 of the telephone terminal 1-4 is displayed in a display frame 173. In this case, the image data display section 17 synthesizes the image data captured by the cameras 12 of each of the conference call terminals 1-2 to 1-3 to form a display frame 174, and displays the display frame 174 on the man-machine interface section 11.

Next, when the main control unit 18 receives an image acquisition stop operation for the image distribution ready terminal that is currently acquiring an image via the man-machine interface unit 11 (YES in S235), the main control unit 18 transmits the image data to the image data acquisition unit 16. Notify the URI that is linked and managed to the terminal that is ready for distribution and instruct it to stop image acquisition. In response, the image data acquisition unit 16 cancels access to the URI notified by the main control unit 18 (sends an image distribution stop request) via the network interface unit 10, and cancels the conference call from this URI. The acquisition of image data captured by the camera 12 of the terminal 1 is stopped (S236). Furthermore, the main control unit 18 instructs the terminal that is ready for image distribution to stop displaying the image. In response to this, the image data display section 17 displays the image data (the image data within the display frame 173 or the display frame 174) that is displayed on the man-machine interface section 11 in association with this image delivery preparation completed terminal. (S237).

Further, when the image data acquisition unit 16 receives the image distribution end notification from the call control server 2 via the network interface unit 10 (YES in S238), the image data acquisition unit 16 acquires image data from the URI specified in the image distribution end notification. The main control unit 18 instructs the image data display unit 17 to stop displaying the image of the image distribution preparation completion terminal that is the source of the image distribution completion notification. In response to this, the image data display unit 17 stops displaying the image data displayed on the man-machine interface unit 11 in association with this image delivery preparation completed terminal (S239). Then, the main control unit 18 notifies the terminal display unit 15 of the conference call terminal 1 that is the sender of the image distribution completion notification, and instructs the terminal display unit 15 to stop displaying the terminal that is ready for image distribution. In response to this, the terminal display unit 15 ends the display of the notified conference call terminal 1 as a terminal ready for image distribution (display in the display column 172) to the man-machine interface unit 11 (S240). .

Next, details of the call control server 2 will be explained.

FIG. 10 is a schematic functional configuration diagram of the call control server 2. As shown in FIG.

As illustrated, the call control server 2 includes a network interface section 20, a call control section 21, a relay section 22, a conference call processing section 23, and a notification relay section 24.

The network interface unit 20 is an interface for connecting to the network 5.

The call control unit 21 performs call control processing in cooperation with the conference call terminal 1 in accordance with a call control protocol such as SIP, and establishes and releases a call path with the conference call terminal 1.

The relay unit 22 relays between communication paths established by the call control unit 21 according to a transmission protocol such as RTP. This allows conference call terminals 1 to communicate with each other.

The conference call processing unit 23 cooperates with the relay unit 22 and processes, for each of the three or more communication paths specified by the call control unit 21, the audio data received from the communication paths other than this communication path. , and sends mixed audio data to this channel. Thereby, a voice conference call is performed between three or more conference call terminals 1.

When the notification relay unit 24 receives an image delivery preparation completion notification or an image delivery end notification from the conference call terminal 1, the notification relay unit 24 transmits the received notification to each of the conference call terminals 1 participating in the same conference call as this conference call terminal 1. Relay the image distribution preparation completion notification or image distribution completion notification.

The above functional configuration of the call control server 2 is realized in hardware by an integrated logic IC such as an ASIC or FPGA, or in software by a computer such as a DSP. Alternatively, in a general-purpose computer such as a PC that includes a CPU, memory, an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk or flash memory, and a communication interface such as a NIC, the CPU loads a predetermined program from the auxiliary storage device onto the memory. It may also be realized by executing the following.

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram for explaining the conference call operation of the call control server 2. As shown in FIG.

This flow starts when the call control unit 21 receives a conference call request from the conference call terminal 1 via the network interface unit 20.

First, the call control unit 21 establishes a call path with the conference call terminal 1 that is the source of the conference call request via the network interface unit 20 (S300).

Next, the call control unit 21 performs a process of establishing a call path with the conference call terminal 1 specified in the conference call request via the network interface unit 20 on all the conference call terminals specified in the conference call request. This is carried out for the conference call terminal 1 (S301).

Then, the call control unit 21 controls the relay unit 22 and the conference call processing unit 23 to start a conference call using the conference call terminal 1 (S302). Specifically, the relay unit 22 connects the call path established between the conference call terminal 1 that is the source of the conference call request and the conference call terminal 1 specified in the conference call request to the conference call processing unit 23. . The conference call processing unit 23 performs a mixing process for each of the plurality of communication paths connected to itself by the relay unit 22 with audio data received from communication paths other than this communication path, and adds the mixed audio data to this call. Send to the road. Thereby, a voice conference call is performed between three or more conference call terminals 1.

Next, when the notification relay unit 24 receives the image distribution preparation completion notification from the conference call terminal 1 via the network interface unit 20 (YES in S303), the notification relay unit 24 receives the image distribution preparation completion notification from the conference call terminal 1 via the network interface unit 20 (YES in S303). A notification of image distribution preparation completion is relayed to each conference call terminal 1 (S304). Further, when the notification relay unit 24 receives the image distribution end notification from the conference call terminal 1 via the network interface unit 20 (YES in S305), the notification relay unit 24 receives the notification from another conference call that is participating in the same conference call as this conference call terminal 1. The image distribution end notification is relayed to each terminal 1 (S306).

Further, when the call control unit 21 receives a disconnection request via the network interface unit 20 from the conference call terminal 1 participating in the conference call (YES in S307), the call control unit 21 disconnects the call path with the conference call terminal 1 ( S308). Then, if the call paths with all the conference call terminals 1 participating in the conference call are disconnected (YES in S309), the call control unit 21 controls the relay unit 22 and the conference call processing unit 23, The conference call by the conference call terminal 1 is ended (S310).

The first embodiment of the present invention has been described above.

In this embodiment, when the conference call terminal 1 receives an image distribution operation from the user, it sends an image distribution preparation completion notification with the URI of the image data acquisition destination to other conference calls participating in the same conference call. Notify terminal 1. Further, when the conference call terminal 1 receives an image distribution preparation completion notification from another conference call terminal 1, the conference call terminal 1 notifies the user of the source of the image distribution preparation completion notification as the image distribution preparation completion terminal. When an image acquisition start operation with designation of an image distribution preparation completion terminal is received from the user, the URI specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification is accessed, and image data is acquired and displayed.

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, only when the user of the conference call terminal 1 on the image sending side indicates the intention to distribute the image and the user of the conference call terminal 1 on the image receiving side indicates the intention to receive the image. Since the image data is transmitted from the conference call terminal 1 on the image sending side to the conference call terminal 1 on the image receiving side, unnecessary network transmission and image processing of image data are not performed. Therefore, network traffic and image processing load can be reduced.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a plurality of image distribution preparation completion notifications are received, the sender of each image distribution preparation completion notification is displayed in a list as an image distribution preparation completion terminal (see FIG. 9A). If the user selects multiple image distribution ready terminals and acquires image data from multiple URIs, the image data acquired from these multiple URIs is combined and displayed (see Figure 9 (C)). ). Therefore, a conference screen suitable for a conference call in which three or more conference call terminals 1 participate can be displayed.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the conference call terminal 1 receives an image distribution end operation from the user after transmitting the image distribution preparation completion notification, the conference call terminal 1 is configured to notify other conference call terminals 1 participating in the same conference call. Send a notification that image distribution has ended. In addition, when an image acquisition stop operation accompanied by the designation of a terminal that is ready for image distribution is received from the user, or when an image distribution end notification is received from another conference call terminal 1, other terminals that are ready for image distribution Acquisition of image data from the URI specified in the image delivery preparation completion notification sent from the conference call terminal 1 or another conference call terminal 1 that is the sender of the image delivery end notification is ended. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, when the user on the image sending side cancels the intention to distribute the image, or when the user on the image receiving side cancels the intention to acquire the image, the network transmission of the image data and the image Since no processing is performed, network traffic and image processing load can be further reduced.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, when the conference call terminal 1 transmits an image delivery preparation completion notification to the call control server 2, and the call control server 2 receives the image delivery preparation completion notification from the conference call terminal 1, This image distribution preparation completion notification is relayed to each of the other conference call terminals 1 participating in the same conference call as this conference call terminal 1. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the call control server 2 manages the delivery destination of the image distribution preparation completion notification, which prevents the situation where the image distribution preparation completion notification is sent to a terminal unrelated to the conference call. can be prevented.

[Second embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 12 is a schematic configuration diagram of a conference call system according to this embodiment.

The conference call system according to the present embodiment is different from the conference call system according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. -4 (hereinafter simply referred to as "image distribution server 3"), and an image distribution server 3 connected to the network 5 were newly provided. The other configurations are the same as the conference call system according to the first embodiment shown in FIG.

13 and 14 are sequence diagrams for explaining an example of conference call processing of the conference call system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

First, it is assumed that conference call terminal 1a-1 receives a conference call request operation from a user that involves designation of conference call terminals 1a-2 to 1a-4 to participate in the conference call. In this case, the same process as S100 to S110 in FIG. 2 is performed, and a voice conference call is started between the conference call terminals 1a-1 to 1a-4 (S400).

Next, it is assumed that the conference call terminal 1a-1 receives an image distribution operation from the user that involves specifying the camera 12 built into or connected to the conference call terminal 1a-1. In this case, the same processing as S111 to S117 in FIG. 3 is performed, and the conference call terminals 1a-2 to 1a-4 confirm that the conference call terminal 1a-1, which is the sender of the image delivery preparation completion notification, is ready for image delivery. The information is displayed as a terminal (S401).

Here, it is assumed that the conference call terminal 1a-2 receives from the user an image acquisition start operation accompanied by the selection of the conference call terminal 1a-1 that is displayed as a terminal ready for image distribution (S402). In response, the conference call terminal 1a-2 transmits an image distribution request including the URI specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification sent from the conference call terminal 1a-1 to the image distribution server 3 (S403 ).

When the image distribution server 3 receives the image distribution request from the conference call terminal 1a-2, it accesses the URI included in this image distribution request (S404), and transfers the captured image data of the camera 12 from the conference call terminal 1a-1. (S405). Then, the acquired image data captured by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-1 is distributed to the conference call terminal 1a-2, which is the source of the image distribution request (S406). In response to this, the conference call terminal 1a-2 receives image data captured by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-1 from the image distribution server 3 and displays it (S407).

Similarly, it is assumed that the conference call terminal 1a-3 receives from the user an image acquisition start operation accompanied by the selection of the conference call terminal 1a-1 that is displayed as a terminal ready for image distribution (S408). In response, the conference call terminal 1a-3 transmits an image distribution request including the URI specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification sent from the conference call terminal 1a-1 to the image distribution server 3 (S409 ).

When the image distribution server 3 receives the image distribution request from the conference call terminal 1a-3, it has already started acquiring image data taken by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-1 from the URI included in this image distribution request. (S404, S405), the acquired image data captured by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-1 is distributed to the conference call terminal 1a-3, which is the source of the image distribution request (S410). In response to this, the conference call terminal 1a-3 receives image data captured by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-1 from the image distribution server 3 and displays it (S411).

Next, it is assumed that the conference call terminal 1a-2 receives an image distribution operation from the user that involves specifying the camera 12 built into or connected to the conference call terminal 1a-2. In this case, the same processing as S126 to S132 in FIG. The information is displayed as a terminal ready for image distribution (S412).

Here, it is assumed that the conference call terminal 1a-3 receives from the user an image acquisition start operation accompanied by the selection of the conference call terminal 1a-2, which is displayed as a terminal ready for image distribution (S413). In response, the conference call terminal 1a-3 transmits an image distribution request including the URI specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification sent from the conference call terminal 1a-2 to the image distribution server 3 (S414 ).

When the image distribution server 3 receives the image distribution request from the conference call terminal 1a-3, it accesses the URI included in this image distribution request (S415), and transfers the captured image data of the camera 12 from the conference call terminal 1a-2. (S416). Then, the acquired image data taken by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-2 is transferred to the image data taken by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-1 which is being distributed to the conference call terminal 1a-3 which is the source of the image distribution request. (S417), and instead of the image data taken by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-1, the image data taken by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-1 and the image taken by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-2 are combined. The composite image data with the data is delivered to the conference call terminal 1a-3 (S418). In response, the conference call terminal 1a-3 transmits the composite image data of the image data taken by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-1 and the image data taken by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-2 to the image distribution server 1. It is received from and displayed (S419).

It is also assumed that the conference call terminal 1a-4 has received from the user an image acquisition start operation that involves selecting the conference call terminals 1a-1 and 1a-2 that are currently displayed as terminals that are ready for image distribution (S420). In response to this, the conference call terminal 1a-4 sends an image distribution request including the URI specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification sent from the conference call terminal 1a-1, and the conference call terminal 1a-2. An image distribution request including the URI specified in the original image distribution preparation completion notification is sent to the image distribution server 3 (S421).

The image distribution server 3 acquires image data captured by the cameras 12 of the conference call terminals 1a-1 and 1a-2 from the URI included in each image distribution request received from the conference call terminal 1a-4, and transmits these data. Since the composite image data has already been created (S415 to S417), this composite image data is distributed to the conference call terminal 1a-4, which is the source of the image distribution request (S422). In response to this, the conference call terminal 1a-4 sends composite image data of the image data taken by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-1 and the image data taken by the camera 12 of the conference call terminal 1a-2 to the image distribution server 1. It is received from and displayed (S423).

Next, the image distribution server 3 that constitutes the conference call system according to this embodiment will be explained.

Note that the call control server 2 used in this embodiment is the same as the call control server 2 used in the first embodiment of the present invention, so a detailed explanation thereof will be omitted.

Furthermore, the conference call terminal 1a used in this embodiment differs from the conference call terminal 1 used in the first embodiment of the present invention in that in S213 and S215 of the image distribution process flow shown in FIG. The access source, which is the distribution destination, is changed from another conference call terminal 1a to the image distribution server 3, and in S233 of the image reception process flow shown in FIG. Instead of accessing the managed URI (sending an image distribution request), an image distribution request with this URI specified is sent to the image distribution server 3, and image data is acquired from the image distribution server 3. and, in S236 of the image reception processing flow shown in FIG. 8, cancel access to the URI managed in association with the image distribution ready terminal selected by the user (send an image distribution stop request). Instead, an image distribution stop request with this URI specified is sent to the image distribution server 3, and acquisition of image data from the image distribution server 3 is stopped. Since the rest is the same as the conference call terminal 1 used in the first embodiment of the present invention, a detailed explanation of the conference call terminal 1a will be omitted.

FIG. 15 is a schematic functional configuration diagram of the image distribution server 3.

As illustrated, the image distribution server 3 includes a network interface section 30, an image data acquisition section 31, a distribution destination storage section 32, an image data distribution section 33, and an image data synthesis section 34.

The network interface section 30 is an interface for connecting to the network 5.

The image data acquisition unit 31 accesses the URI included in the image distribution request received from the conference call terminal 1a via the network interface unit 30, and acquires image data.

The distribution destination storage unit 32 stores information about the conference call terminal 1a, which is the source of the image distribution request, together with the URI, which is the source of the image data to be distributed to the conference call terminal 1a.

FIG. 16 is a diagram schematically showing an example of registered contents of the distribution destination storage unit 32. As shown in FIG.

As shown in the figure, the distribution destination storage unit 32 stores a record 320 of distribution destination information for each conference call terminal 1a that is the transmission destination of the image distribution request. The distribution destination information record 320 includes a field 321 for registering information about the conference call terminal 1a as the distribution destination, and a field 321 for registering the URI indicating the acquisition source of the image data being distributed to the conference call terminal 1 as the distribution destination. field 322.

The image data distribution unit 33 distributes the image data acquired from the URI specified in the image distribution request with the conference call terminal 1a as the transmission source to the conference call terminal 1a as the distribution destination via the network interface unit 30. .

When the image data synthesis unit 34 distributes image data acquired from a plurality of URIs to the conference call terminal 1a as the distribution destination, it synthesizes these to generate composite image data, and converts the composite image data into an image. The data is distributed to the data distribution unit 33.

The above-described functional configuration of the image distribution server 3 is realized in hardware using an integrated logic IC such as an ASIC or FPGA, or in software using a computer such as a DSP. Alternatively, in a general-purpose computer such as a PC that includes a CPU, memory, an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk or flash memory, and a communication interface such as a NIC, the CPU loads a predetermined program from the auxiliary storage device onto the memory. It may also be realized by executing the following.

FIG. 17 is a flow diagram for explaining image distribution processing by the image distribution server 3.

When the image data acquisition unit 31 receives an image distribution request from the conference call terminal 1a via the network interface unit 30 (S500: YES), the image data acquisition unit 31 updates the distribution destination storage unit 32 (S501). Specifically, if a record 320 of distribution destination information in which the sender of the image distribution request is registered in the field 321 is stored in the distribution destination storage unit 32, the field 322 of this record 320 contains the information specified in the image distribution request. Register the URI. On the other hand, if the distribution destination information record 320 in which the sender of the image distribution request is registered in the field 321 is not stored in the distribution destination storage section 32, this distribution destination information record 320 is added to the distribution destination storage section 32. Then, the URI specified in the image distribution request is registered in the field 322 of this record 320.

Next, the image data acquisition unit 31 refers to the distribution destination storage unit 32 and determines whether image data has been acquired from the URI specified in the image distribution request (S502). Specifically, the record 320 in which the URI specified in the image distribution request is registered in the field 321 is selected from the records 320 other than the record 320 of distribution destination information in which the sender of the image distribution request is registered in the field 321. search for. If such a record 320 exists, it is determined that the image data has been acquired from the URI specified in the image distribution request, and if it does not exist, image data is acquired from the URI specified in the image distribution request. It is determined that it has not been acquired. Here, if image data has not been acquired from the URI specified in the image distribution request (NO in S502), the image data acquisition section 31 transmits the URI specified in the image distribution request via the network interface section 30. (conference call terminal 1) (sends an image distribution request) and starts acquiring image data captured by camera 12 from conference call terminal 1a (S503).

Thereafter, the image data acquisition unit 31 notifies the image data distribution unit 33 of the source of the image distribution request and instructs the image data distribution unit 33 to distribute the image data. In response, the image data distribution unit 33 refers to the distribution destination storage unit 32 and enters the URI as the image acquisition destination in the field 322 of the distribution destination information record 320 in which the sender of the image distribution request is registered in the field 321. It is determined whether a plurality of are registered (S504).

If one URI is registered as an image acquisition destination in the field 322 of the distribution destination information record 320 in which the sender of the image distribution request is registered in the field 321 (NO in S504), the image data distribution unit 33 , the image data acquisition unit 31 starts distributing the image data acquired from this URI to the sender of the image distribution request (S507).

On the other hand, if a plurality of URIs are registered as image acquisition destinations in the field 322 of the distribution destination information record 320 in which the transmission source of the image distribution request is registered in the field 321 (YES in S504), the image data distribution unit 33 further determines whether the image data synthesis unit 34 has generated composite image data of image data acquired from the plurality of URIs registered in the field 322 of the distribution destination information record 320 (S505). . Specifically, in addition to the distribution destination information record 320 in which the sender of the image distribution request is registered in the field 321, the same combination as the plurality of URIs registered in the field 322 of this record 320 is registered in the field 322. If there is a record 320 of distribution destination information, it is determined that the image data synthesis unit 34 has already generated composite image data of the image data acquired from these plurality of URIs.

Then, the image data synthesis unit 34 generates composite image data of the image data acquired from the plurality of URIs registered in the field 322 of the distribution destination information record 320 in which the transmission source of the image distribution request is registered in the field 321. If it has been completed (YES in S505), the image data distribution unit 33 starts distributing this composite image data to the source of the image distribution request (S507).

On the other hand, the image data synthesis unit 34 has not yet generated composite image data of image data acquired from a plurality of URIs registered in the field 322 of the distribution destination information record 320 in which the sender of the image distribution request is registered in the field 321. In the case of generation (NO in S505), the image data distribution unit 33 passes the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 31 from the plurality of URIs to the image data synthesis unit 34 and instructs the image synthesis unit 34 to synthesize the image. In response to this, the image data synthesis section 34 synthesizes the image data received from the image data distribution section 33 and generates the synthesized image data (S506). The image data distribution unit 33 starts distributing this composite image data to the sender of the image distribution request (S507).

Further, upon receiving an image distribution stop request from the conference call terminal 1a via the network interface unit 30 (S508: YES), the image data acquisition unit 31 updates the distribution destination storage unit 32 (S509). Specifically, the record 320 of the distribution destination information in which the sender of the image distribution stop request is registered in the field 321 is searched from the distribution destination storage unit 32, and the information specified in the image distribution stop request is searched from the field 322 of this record 320. Delete the existing URI. Then, the image data acquisition unit 31 notifies the image data distribution unit 33 of the source of the image distribution stop request and the URI specified in the image distribution stop request, and instructs the image data distribution unit 33 to stop the image data distribution. In response to this, the image data distribution unit 33 ends the distribution of the image data acquired from the URI notified by the image data acquisition unit 31 to the sender of the image distribution stop request (S510).

Next, the image data distribution unit 33 refers to the distribution destination storage unit 32 and enters the URI as the image acquisition destination in the field 322 of the distribution destination information record 320 in which the sender of the image distribution stop request is registered in the field 321. is registered (S511). If the URI is registered as an image acquisition destination in the field 322 of this record 320 (S511: YES), the above-described steps S504 to S507 are performed (S512).

That is, if one URI is registered as an image acquisition destination in the field 322 of the distribution destination information record 320 in which the transmission source of the image distribution stop request is registered in the field 321 (NO in S504), image data distribution The unit 33 newly starts distributing only the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 31 from this URI to the sender of the image distribution stop request (S507).

On the other hand, if multiple URIs are registered as image acquisition destinations in the field 322 of the distribution destination information record 320 in which the transmission source of the image distribution stop request is registered in the field 321 (YES in S504), the image data distribution unit 33 further determines whether the image data synthesis unit 34 has generated composite image data of the image data acquired from the plurality of URIs registered in the field 322 of the record 320 of this distribution destination information (S505 ).

Then, the image data synthesis unit 34 generates composite image data of the image data acquired from the plurality of URIs registered in the field 322 of the distribution destination information record 320 in which the transmission source of the image distribution stop request is registered in the field 321. If it has been generated (YES in S505), the image data distribution unit 33 newly starts distribution of this composite image data to the source of the image distribution stop request (S507).

On the other hand, the image data synthesis unit 34 generates composite image data of image data obtained from a plurality of URIs registered in the field 322 of the distribution destination information record 320 in which the transmission source of the image distribution stop request is registered in the field 321. If not generated (NO in S505), the image data distribution unit 33 passes the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 31 from the plurality of URIs to the image data synthesis unit 34 and instructs image synthesis. In response to this, the image data synthesis section 34 synthesizes the image data received from the image data distribution section 33 and generates the synthesized image data (S506). The image data distribution unit 33 newly starts distribution of this composite image data to the sender of the image distribution stop request (S507).

Next, the image data acquisition unit 31 refers to the distribution destination storage unit 32 and finds that there is a record 320 of distribution destination information in which the URI specified in the image distribution stop request is registered in the field 322 as the image acquisition destination. It is determined whether or not (S513). If such a record 320 of distribution destination information does not exist (NO in S513), the image data acquisition unit 31 releases access to the URI (conference call terminal 1a) specified in the image distribution stop request ( A request to stop image distribution is sent), and acquisition of image data taken by the camera 12 from the conference call terminal 1a is stopped (S514).

The second embodiment of the present invention has been described above.

According to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the following effects are achieved. That is, in this embodiment, since the image distribution server 3 performs the process of combining image data obtained from a plurality of URIs, it is possible to reduce the image processing burden on each conference call terminal 1a.

In this embodiment, when the conference call terminal 1a that has sent the image distribution preparation completion notification is accessed from the image distribution server 3 (receives an image distribution request specifying the URI of the conference call terminal 1a) , distribution of image data to the image distribution server 3 is started. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The conference call terminal 1a that has sent the image distribution preparation completion notification accesses the image distribution server 3 by itself without waiting for access from the image distribution server 3, and distributes the image data along with its URI to the image distribution server 3. Good too. By doing so, the image distribution server 3 can more quickly provide the image data acquired from the URI specified in the image distribution request to the sender of the image distribution request.

Further, in this embodiment, the image distribution server 3 may be integrated with the call control server 2.

Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be modified in many ways within the scope of the gist.

For example, in each of the above embodiments, an image is distributed from the conference call terminal 1, 1a via the call control server 2 to other conference call terminals 1, 1a participating in the same conference call as this conference call terminal 1, 1a. A preparation completion notification and an image distribution completion notification are being sent. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The image delivery preparation completion notification and image are sent directly from the conference call terminal 1, 1a to other conference call terminals 1, 1a participating in the same conference call as this conference call terminal 1, 1a, without going through the call control server 2. A distribution end notification may also be sent.

Further, in each of the above embodiments, the conference call terminals 1 and 1a receive a conference call request operation from the user during the conference call, and the conference call terminals 1 and 1a receive a conference call request operation from the user, and other conference call terminals 1 and 1a participating in the same conference call The explanation has been given by taking as an example a case where an image distribution preparation completion notification is sent to the conference call terminal 1. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The conference call terminal 1, 1a receives a conference call request operation from the user when making a call or responding to an incoming call, and distributes an image to other conference call terminals 1, 1a participating in the same conference call as this conference call terminal 1, 1a. A preparation completion notification may also be sent.

Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the image data that the conference call terminals 1, 1a distribute to the other conference call terminals 1, 1a is not limited to image data taken by the camera 12 built in or connected to the conference call terminals 1, 1a. Image data taken by a network camera connected to the network 5 may also be used. Alternatively, it may be image data such as a document, image, or video held by the conference call terminal 1, 1a or an external server. In this case, the URI included in the image delivery preparation completion notification differs depending on the storage location of the image data.

1, 1-1 to 1-4, 1a-1 to 1a-4: Conference call terminal 2: Call control server 3: Image distribution server 5: Network 10: Network interface section 11: Man-machine interface section 12: Camera 13: Telephone function section 14: Preparation completion notification section 15: Terminal display section 16: Image data acquisition section 17: Image data display section 18: Main control section 20: Network interface section 21: Call control section 22: Relay section 23: Conference call processing Section 24: Notification relay section 30: Network interface section 31: Image data acquisition section 32: Distribution destination storage section 33: Image data distribution section 34: Image data synthesis section

Claims (13)

A conference call system comprising a plurality of conference call terminals and a call control server that provides a conference call service to the plurality of conference call terminals,
The conference call terminal is
a preparation completion notification means for transmitting an image distribution preparation completion notification accompanied by an image data acquisition destination to other conference call terminals participating in the same conference call when an image distribution operation is accepted;
Terminal display means for displaying the source of the image distribution preparation completion notification as an image distribution preparation completion terminal when the image distribution preparation completion notification is received from another conference call terminal;
When an image acquisition start operation with the specification of the image distribution preparation completion terminal is received, the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification whose transmission source is the image distribution preparation completion terminal is accessed. an image data acquisition means for acquiring image data;
A conference call system comprising: image data display means for displaying image data acquired by the image data acquisition means. The conference call system according to claim 1,
The terminal display means includes:
If a plurality of image distribution preparation completion notifications are received, displaying a list of senders of each of the received image distribution preparation completion notifications as image distribution preparation completion terminals;
The image data display means includes:
A conference call characterized in that, when image data is acquired from a plurality of image data acquisition sources by the image data acquisition means, the image data acquired from the plurality of image data acquisition sources are combined and displayed. system. A conference call system comprising a plurality of conference call terminals, a call control server that provides a conference call service to the plurality of conference call terminals, and an image distribution server, the system comprising:
The conference call terminal is
a preparation completion notification means for transmitting an image distribution preparation completion notification accompanied by an image data acquisition destination to other conference call terminals participating in the same conference call when an image distribution operation is accepted;
Terminal display means for displaying the source of the image distribution preparation completion notification as an image distribution preparation completion terminal when the image distribution preparation completion notification is received from another conference call terminal;
When an image acquisition start operation with the specification of the image distribution preparation completion terminal is received, an image accompanied by the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification whose transmission source is the image distribution preparation completion terminal. image distribution request means for transmitting a distribution request to the image distribution server;
image data display means for displaying image data received from the image distribution server in response to the image distribution request;
The image distribution server is
an image data acquisition unit that, when receiving the image distribution request from the conference call terminal, accesses an image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution request and acquires the image data;
image data distribution means for distributing the image data acquired by the image data acquisition means from the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution request to the conference call terminal that is the transmission source of the image distribution request; A conference call system characterized by having. The conference call system according to claim 3,
The terminal display means includes:
If a plurality of image distribution preparation completion notifications are received, displaying a list of senders of each of the received image distribution preparation completion notifications as image distribution preparation completion terminals;
The image data distribution means includes:
When the image data acquisition unit acquires a plurality of image data from a plurality of image data acquisition sources for the conference call terminal of the same distribution destination, the plurality of image data are combined and transmitted to the conference call terminal. A conference call system characterized by transmitting to. The conference call system according to claim 3 or 4,
The conference call terminal is
When the image distribution preparation completion notification is transmitted by the preparation completion notification means, transmitting the image data to be distributed to the image distribution server together with the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification. A conference call system further comprising image data advance transmission means. The conference call system according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The preparation completion notification means is
If an image distribution termination operation is received from the user after transmitting the image distribution preparation completion notification, transmitting an image distribution termination notification to the other conference call terminals participating in the same conference call;
The image data acquisition means includes:
When an image acquisition stop operation accompanied by the designation of the image distribution ready terminal is received, or when the image distribution completion notification is received from another conference call terminal, the image distribution ready terminal or the image A conference characterized in that the acquisition of image data from the image data acquisition source specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification, which is the other conference call terminal that is the transmission source of the distribution completion notification, is terminated. call system. The conference call system according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The preparation completion notification means is
transmitting the image distribution preparation completion notification to the other conference call terminals participating in the same conference call via the call control server;
The call control server includes:
When the image distribution preparation completion notification is received from the conference call terminal, preparations are complete for relaying the image distribution preparation completion notification to each of the other conference call terminals participating in the same conference call as the conference call terminal. A conference call system characterized by having a notification relay means. A conference call terminal used for conference calls,
a preparation completion notification means for transmitting an image distribution preparation completion notification along with an image data acquisition destination to other conference call terminals participating in the same conference call when an image distribution operation is accepted;
Terminal display means for displaying the source of the image distribution preparation completion notification as an image distribution preparation completion terminal when the image distribution preparation completion notification is received from the other conference call terminal;
When an image acquisition start operation with the specification of the image distribution preparation completion terminal is received, the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification whose transmission source is the image distribution preparation completion terminal is accessed. an image data acquisition means for acquiring image data;
A conference call terminal comprising: image data display means for displaying image data acquired by the image data acquisition means. A conference call terminal used for conference calls,
a preparation completion notification means for transmitting an image distribution preparation completion notification along with an image data acquisition destination to other conference call terminals participating in the same conference call when an image distribution operation is accepted;
Terminal display means for displaying the source of the image distribution preparation completion notification as an image distribution preparation completion terminal when the image distribution preparation completion notification is received from the other conference call terminal;
When an image acquisition start operation with the specification of the image distribution preparation completion terminal is received, an image accompanied by the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification whose transmission source is the image distribution preparation completion terminal. an image distribution request means for transmitting a distribution request to an image distribution server;
A conference call terminal comprising: image data display means for displaying image data received from the image distribution server in response to the image distribution request. A program for making a computer function as a conference call terminal used for conference calls,
The program is
The computer,
a preparation completion notification means for transmitting an image distribution preparation completion notification accompanied by an image data acquisition destination to other conference call terminals participating in the same conference call when an image distribution operation is accepted;
Terminal display means for displaying the source of the image distribution preparation completion notification as an image distribution preparation completion terminal when the image distribution preparation completion notification is received from the other conference call terminal;
When an image acquisition start operation with the specification of the image distribution preparation completion terminal is received, the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification whose transmission source is the image distribution preparation completion terminal is accessed. an image data acquisition means for acquiring image data, and
A program that functions as an image data display means for displaying image data acquired by the image data acquisition means. A program for making a computer function as a conference call terminal used for conference calls,
The program is
The computer,
a preparation completion notification means for transmitting an image distribution preparation completion notification accompanied by an image data acquisition destination to other conference call terminals participating in the same conference call when an image distribution operation is accepted;
Terminal display means for displaying the source of the image distribution preparation completion notification as an image distribution preparation completion terminal when the image distribution preparation completion notification is received from the other conference call terminal;
When an image acquisition start operation with the specification of the image distribution preparation completion terminal is received, an image accompanied by the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification whose transmission source is the image distribution preparation completion terminal. image distribution request means for transmitting a distribution request to an image distribution server, and
A program that functions as an image data display means for displaying image data received from the image distribution server in response to the image distribution request. A conference call method using a conference call system comprising a plurality of conference call terminals and a call control server that provides a conference call service to the plurality of conference call terminals, the method comprising:
The conference call terminal is
When an image distribution operation is accepted, transmitting an image distribution preparation completion notification with an image data acquisition destination to the other conference call terminals participating in the same conference call;
When the image distribution preparation completion notification is received from another conference call terminal, displaying the transmission source of the image distribution preparation completion notification as an image distribution preparation completion terminal;
When an image acquisition start operation with the specification of the image distribution preparation completion terminal is received, the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification whose transmission source is the image distribution preparation completion terminal is accessed. A conference call method characterized by acquiring and displaying image data. A conference call method using a conference call system comprising a plurality of conference call terminals, a call control server that provides a conference call service to the plurality of conference call terminals, and an image distribution server, the method comprising:
The conference call terminal is
When an image distribution operation is accepted, transmitting an image distribution preparation completion notification with an image data acquisition destination to the other conference call terminals participating in the same conference call;
When the image distribution preparation completion notification is received from another conference call terminal, displaying the transmission source of the image distribution preparation completion notification as an image distribution preparation completion terminal;
When an image acquisition start operation with the specification of the image distribution preparation completion terminal is received, an image accompanied by the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution preparation completion notification whose transmission source is the image distribution preparation completion terminal. transmitting a distribution request to the image distribution server;
displaying image data received from the image distribution server in response to the image distribution request;
The image distribution server is
When the image distribution request is received from the conference call terminal, accessing the image data acquisition destination specified in the image distribution request and acquiring the image data;
A conference call method characterized in that image data acquired from an image data acquisition source specified in the image distribution request is distributed to the conference call terminal that is the source of the image distribution request.

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