An open service platform and API for network based multimedia bridges

As point-to-point video communication becomes more widespread there is an increasing need for multipoint/multiparty conferences. Current multipoint systems are typically closed, vertically integrated systems, requiring service providers to use vendor supplied multipoint connection units (MCUs), codecs, and applications. We describe a service platform which allows service providers to create unique, value added services, which utilize multimedia bridges. A feature of these next generation multimedia bridges is that they allow each participant in a multipoint conference to customize the view they receive of the other participants and to choose dynamically which users they see. They also allow users to communicate with different network connectivity and video formats. The service platform C/sup ++/ object oriented API allows service developers to create a variety of applications that leverage the capabilities of the multimedia bridges. The multimedia bridges can be located in the network or be servers within an enterprise network. Some of the services which can be supported by the service platform include multipoint conferencing, distance learning, remote traffic monitoring, surveillance, and telemedicine. The service platform has also been designed to accommodate different network interfaces using a network proxy for each of the supported network environments.