Divitel awarded patent on two-way A/V accessibility technology
Method enables easy access to video messaging through existing hardware
Apeldoorn, The Netherlands(24 Jan 2017)
Today Divitel announces the approval of their latest patent application; ‘A method and system for two-way A/V-communication’ (N2014695). This patent covers a method for two-way audio/video (AV) communication between multiple users, via a set-top box or mobile device. The innovation being that the existing technology in set-top boxes commonly used to access digital TV can be used to facilitate video messaging, without the need for a computer.
The technology was developed as a response to rapidly aging populations in Western-Europe, South-East Asia and many other parts of the world. Its aim is facilitating face-to-face communication through video messaging, without introducing new technological concepts to a userbase that’s commonly averse to such technology. By reusing common set-top boxes and the simple addition of a webcam, seniors can keep in regular touch with family that doesn’t always live close by or isn’t able to visit regularly. Other possible use-cases include video-conferencing with medical professionals, counselors and other services which benefit from face-to-face contact. A video alternative to the traditional house-calls saves valuable travel-time, which dramatically increases the amount of clients that can be helped by a single caregiver.
“Besides recognizing the economic opportunity in an aging population, we want to actively offer these groups technology that will increase their quality of life. We’re happy to see that our knowledge on video delivery can be put to use to further this goal.”, according to Divitel Chief Innovation Officer (CINO) Tuan Huynh.
Even though there are no concrete plans to roll out the technology, conversations are taking place with TV operators, set-top box developers and other companies within the video ecosystem. “Our aim is and always has been to facilitate the use of video to educate, assist and delight. As such, we’re open to talking to anyone that wants to adopt this method to make the lives of seniors better.”, concludes Huynh.
The full patent can be found on Espacenet, the patent database of the European Patent Office, under number N2014695 or by directly visiting the following link: https://worldwide.espacenet.com/publicationDetails/biblio?NR=2014695C&locale=en_EP&CC=NL (NOTE: At the time of publication, the patent may not yet be visible on the Espacenet website. In that case you can find the full text of the patent at http://mijnoctrooi.rvo.nl/fo-eregister-view/search by searching for patentnr 2014695).
About Divitel
Divitel is one of the world’s leading independent video systems integrators. Decades worth of knowledge about video delivery and all other facets of the video industry, have cemented Divitel as one of the foremost authorities on all things video. Divitel offers multiple managed services, including managed DRM and managed OTT, as well as consultancy on video business- and technological challenges. We design, build and maintain video delivery solutions for broadcasters, operators, and content creators worldwide. Headquartered in The Netherlands, Divitel has additional offices in Germany and Curaçao. For business and press inquiries, please contact marketing@divitel.com