WO2004093364A2 - System for communicating and transmitting data in a multi-dwelling environment - Google Patents

Abstract

A system (10) is provided which allows for communications and data to be transmitted amongst management, certain locations and residents (14) of a multi-dwelling environment. A wide- or local-area-networked computer system is provided which includes a first resident unit located in a first dwelling of the multi-dwelling environment, and a second resident unit located in a second dwelling of the multi-dwelling environment, the second dwelling being separate and distinct from the first dwelling. An entry unit (12) may also be provided located at an entry point to the multi-dwelling environment. The first resident unit, the second resident unit and the entry unit (12) are operatively linked to allow communications to be selectively generated and transmitted therebetween. In addition, a central server may be operatively linked to the first resident unit and to the second resident to allow data to be selectively transmitted from the central server thereto. A management terminal allows for display content to be entered into the central server which is then selectively transmitted to the first and second resident units. The display content may be displayed and navigated at the first and second resident units.

Description

SYSTEM FOR COMMUNICATING AND TRANSMITTING DATA

IN A MULTI-DWELLING ENVIRONMENT

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS:

This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/460,824, filed April 8, 2003, the entire contents of which is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

This invention relates to communication systems for multi-dwelling environments and, more particularly, to computer-based systems for multi-dwelling environments.

Various security systems are known in the prior art for multi-dwelling environments, such as apartment buildings, including hard-wired intercom systems, closed-circuit television monitoring systems, and "door buzzer" systems which permit selective access to the multi- dwelling environment. Although each of these systems works for its intended purpose, no system is provided to link together residents of a multi-dwelling environment so as to allow communication and data to be transmitted therebetween. Owners and operators of multi- dwelling environments often need to communicate announcements, for example, with regards to maintenance occurrences or events. Typically, building management will be required to hand deliver written notices to the affected residents notifying them of the upcoming occurrence.

Separately, building management is often interested in obtaining feedback from residents to evaluate offered services, physical state of the multi-dwelling environment, overall satisfaction, and the like. Internet websites have been developed which allow for input of such feedback, but due to the required effort and inconvenience of passing such data through the website, residents often do not provide any feedback.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

To overcome shortcomings of the prior art, a system is provided herein which allows for communications and data to be transmitted amongst management, certain locations and residents of a multi-dwelling environment. As used herein, a multi-dwelling environment refers to any collection of living quarters which are commonly managed and/or physically joined, including, but not limited to, an apartment building or complex, a hotel or the like, a condominium or town-house complex, or cabins on a ship. It is to be understood that a multi- dwelling environment can be spread amongst one or more buildings.

In one broad sense, the subject invention is directed to a wide- or local-area- networked computer system for allowing residents of dwellings in a multi-dwelling environment to communicate, the system comprising a first resident unit located in a first dwelling of the multi-dwelling environment; a second resident unit located in a second dwelling of the multi-dwelling environment, the second dwelling being separate and distinct from the first dwelling; and, an entry unit located at an entry point to the multi-dwelling environment. The first resident unit, the second resident unit and the entry unit are operatively linked to allow communications to be selectively generated and transmitted therebetween. Advantageously, this system allows for communications, including video and/or audio, to be generated and transmitted between residents of a multi-dwelling environment and an access point to the environment, such as a front door.

The system can be enhanced to include one or more video cameras at fixed locations in the multi-dwelling environment to allow for remote video surveillance by the residents of the dwellings. In addition, a central server may be linked to the system which allows for management of the multi-dwelling environment tp enter data that is transmitted to the residents. Management can control the content which is to be displayed at the units in the various dwellings.

In a second broad sense, the subject invention is directed to a wide- or local-area- networked computer system for allowing residents of dwellings in a multi-dwelling environment to transmit and receive data, the system comprising a first resident unit located in a first dwelling of the multi-dwelling environment; a second resident unit located in a second dwelling of a multi-dwelling environment, the second dwelling being separate and distinct from the first dwelling; a central server operatively linked to the first resident unit and to the second resident unit to allow data to be selectively transmitted from the central server to the first resident unit and to the second resident unit; and, a management terminal for entering display content into the central server, the central server allowing for selective transmission of the display content to the first and second resident units. The first and second resident units each have a touch screen type video display adapted to display the display content and to allow for navigation thereof. Conveniently, the first and second resident units can display content authored by the multi-dwelling management which may include announcements, inquiries, advertisements, general information, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment, with the resident units being wall mountable and located at a high-traffic area in a dwelling, such as in proximity to the front door, data can be reviewed and responded to conveniently, particularly with the touch screen video display. Of course, the aspects described above, and further below, can be used in various combinations.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the subject invention provides for various functions and capabilities not obtainable by the prior art. For example, multi- dwelling management can readily seek feedback from residents by broadcasting an inquiry which can be easily observed and responded to. Likewise, announcements and other information can be readily transmitted to the residents. These transmissions can be general broadcast transmissions to all residents or targeted transmissions directed to particular groups, such as one floor of residents, a group of residents interested in a particular activity, and so forth.

These and other features of the invention will be better understood through a study of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRDSF DESCRTPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:

Figure 1 is a schematic of a system formed in accordance with the subject invention;

Figure 2 is a schematic of the components of an entry unit usable with the subject invention;

Figure 3 is a data flowchart relating to audio and video signals for an entry unit usable with the subject invention;

Figure 4 is a plan view of a resident unit usable with the subject invention;

Figure 5 is a schematic of the components of a resident unit usable with the subject invention; Figure 6 is a data flowchart relating to audio and video signals for a resident unit usable with the subject invention;

Figure 7 is a schematic of the components of a monitoring security unit usable with the subject invention;

Figure 8 is a data flowchart relating to video signals a the monitoring security unit usable with the subject invention; and,

Figure 9 is a sample screen display of a resident unit usable with the subject invention.

DETAH.ED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:

With reference to the Figures, a system is provided herein to allow for communications and data to be transmitted amongst management, certain locations and residents of a multi-dwelling environment. More particularly, and with reference to Figure 1, a system 10 is provided which is a computer-based network system that generally includes one or more entry units 12, one or more resident units 14, and a management system 16. Additional features can optionally be added, as described more fully below, such as one or more monitoring security units 18.

System Overview

The system 10 is a wide- or local-area-networked system (WAN or LAN) extending across a multi-dwelling environment of which the various units form nodes. Various architectures can be used to arrange the components of the system 10, although it is preferred to establish a client-server relationship between the management system 16, acting as the server, and the remaining components (e.g., the entry units 12; the resident units 14 and the security units 18) acting as the clients. Preferably, the entry units 12, the resident units 14 and the security units 18 are not provided as full-capability computers, but rather diminished- capability units akin to known Internet appliances. The units (e.g., the entry units 12; the resident units 14 and the security units 18) themselves can be arranged to varying degrees in a pier-to-pier to allow specific units to communicate directly without interacting with the management system 16. The entry units 12 preferably are located at entry points or portals to the multi- dwelling environment. For example, a front door to an apartment building, a security gate to a gated community and so forth can be each equipped with one or more of the entry units 12. It is preferred that the entry units 12 be located in a highly-visible and convenient location relative to the entry point, such as being wall-mounted at eye level adjacent to a front door. Often, access through the entry point will be controlled by a security device, e.g., by a lockable door or gate having a normally-locked state. The system 10, as described below, will provide functionality to allow for control and release of the security device to permit access through the entry point and into the multi-dwelling environment.

The resident units 14 will be located in the dwellings of the multi-dwelling environment. It is preferred that at least one of the resident units 14 be provided in each of at least a portion of the dwellings. By providing the resident units 14 in separate and distinct dwellings, residents of those dwellings can rely on the respective resident units 14 to interact with the system 10. It is preferred that the resident units 14 be provided in high-traffic locations in the respective dwellings such as being wall-mounted at eye level adjacent to the front door of the dwelling. In this manner, the resident units 14 will be conveniently located for use.

One or more of the monitoring security units 18 are optionally provided at various locations in the multi-dwelling environment. The monitoring security units 18 are preferably video cameras (analog or digital). The security units 18 can be located to monitor locations where public monitoring is of high interest, such as a parking lot, swimming pool, a tennis court, playground, day care center, and so forth. The security units 18 can be single-view cameras, or remotely controlled to pan, tilt and/or zoom in providing alternative views.

Limited access is provided to the management system 16 which may include one or more computers. The management system 16 is to be controlled by management and/or ownership of the multi-dwelling environment. Accordingly, one or more management terminals 20 may be included in the management system 16 which allows for data and other commands to be inputted into the management system 16, and, thus, into the system 10. The management system 16, and particularly the management terminals 20, are to be conveniently located to allow for data entry and other manipulations. This location or locations may be physically within the multi-dwelling environment (e.g., in management's on-site office) and/or off site. The management system 16 may provide not only operating commands for the system 10, but also display content for the entry units 12 and the resident units 14, and may act as an archival repository for the system 10.

The various components of the system 10 are operatively linked to allow for communications and/or data to be transmitted therebetween. The components can be linked wirelessly, such as by wireless access units 22, or by hard wiring, such as by lines 24. A combination of wired and wireless connections is also possible. In should be noted that the form of linking may be guided by the constraints of the multi-dwelling environment. For example, it may be easier to use wireless connections where the system 10 is being installed in a pre-existing multi-dwelling environment, and wired connections where the system 10 is being installed during construction. Any form of known operative linking may be used.

One or more hubs 26 can tie together the various components of the system 10. Preferably, one of the hubs 26 is used, and it is a switch/router, more preferably an Ethernet switch/router. The switch may control flow data between various elements of the system 10. The hub 26 may also be operatively linked, particularly through the router, to a public switched network 28 that provides access to a global computer network, such as the Internet, via a web server 30, or an intranet.

By way of non-limiting example, the system 10 may have the following characteristics. The entry units 12, the resident units 14, and the monitoring units 18 may be each built from a hardware platform that is preferably videocentric, such as the hardware platform sold under the tradename "TETRA" by Equator Technologies of Campbell, California. Reference to a hardware platform herein shall be to a computer processing unit (CPU) which can include additional components such as an audio/visual co-processor, power circuitry, and an interface. Real-time video compression and decompression is desired complying with the H.263, or better, video coding standard, while real-time audio (voiceover IP) being encoded/decoded with the G.711 or G.723, or better, audio coding standard. A 10 or 100 Mb/s data transfer rate Ethernet connection is also desired with RTP/RTCP protocol or MPEG2 transport stream for audio and video delivery. All communications (video and audio) are preferably fully digitally throughout the system 10. It is further preferred to operate the system with a "Linux" operating system. Entry Units

As shown in Figure 1, the entry units 12 are each self-contained in a housing 32 and provided with a display screen 34. The housing 32 is preferably wall mounted (e.g. flush mounted or extending from the wall) and built with sufficient ruggedness to withstand repeated use and possible abuse due to its proximal location to a secured entry point into the multi-dwelling environment. The housing 32 can be made free-standing, although it is preferred that the unit be secured, such as by bolting.

The display screen 34 may be a traditional (non-interactive) display screen, such as a LED or VF (vacuum fluorescent) screen, or a touch screen (interactive) display screen (e.g., an active matrix VGA LCD touch screen having an interface with a touchpad unit). An input 36 for data entry is provided, which, as shown, may be a key pad. A key pad, or equivalent, is required where the display screen 34 is not interactive. With a touch screen display screen 34, data may be entered through the input 36 in the form of a touchpad unit interfaced with the touch screen display 34 and a separate key pad may not be required.

With reference to Figure 2, in addition to the display screen 34 and the key pad/touchpad input 36, each of the entry units 12 includes a hardware platform 38 to which may be linked a microphone 40, a speaker 42, a digital video camera 44, a network interface 46, memory 48, a proximity detector 50, and a security release mechanism 52.

The configuration of the entry units 12 advantageously allows for communications to be generated and transmitted therefrom as well as received and broadcast. With reference to Figure 3, the microphone 40 and the video camera 44 allow for audio and video inputs to be generated (Boxes 54 and 56, respectively) which are then encoded by encoders located in the hardware platform 38 (Boxes 58 and 60, respectively), packetized and transmitted to the system 10 via the network interface 46, e.g. using RTP/RTCP protocol (Boxes 62 and 64, respectively). The audio and video signals may be transmitted to one or more of the resident units 14 and/or the management system 16. Of course, the audio input may be provided with the video input or separately. It is preferred that the video camera 44 provide the video input in S-Video (super video) or composite video formatting.

The speaker 42 may be used to broadcast received audio signals. In particular, the network interface 46 may receive a packetized audio signal, e.g. in RTP/RTCP protocol (Box 62), which can then be decoded (Box 66) and received as an audio output (Box 54) that is - broadcast by the speaker 42. In a preferred arrangement of the system 10, it is not envisioned that video signals will be transmitted to the entry units 12 for display. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, video signals can be readily received, decoded and displayed on the entry units, 12 if desired.

Encoded video and/or audio signals may be streamed and transmitted in real-time to a desired recipient and/or be stored in the memory 48, in the local memory of the recipient unit, and/or on the management system 16. A signal can be transmitted to the relevant recipient unit in the system 10 to indicate that a recorded message is waiting for retrieval. The memory 48 may be a memory card, e.g., a CompactFlash memory, having at least 512k of available storage.

The network interface 46 will be configured to provide for wired or wireless connection as needed. An addressing mechanism can be used to call for the proper transmission of the respective message depending on the intended recipient.

The display content to be shown on the display 34 will be dictated by the management system 16. Although navigation of the display content will be possible at the entry units 12, authoring or altering of the display content will preferably not be possible. Preferably, where the display screen 32 is of the touch screen variety, the display content will be one or more HTML style web pages, or equivalent, that are icon-driven or hypertext linked between pages. Software, such as browser type software, may be provided to facilitate navigation and manipulation of the web pages. All software relative to the functioning of the display content is preferably stored locally on the respective entry unit 12. This software is preferably only configurable from the management system 16. Thus, software settings on the entry units 12 cannot be adjusted at the entry units 12, but only from the management system 16. In addition, the memory 48 of the entry units 48 can be adjusted remotely by the management system 16. With this functionality, the management system 16 not only permits control of the display content, but also allows for remote maintenance and upgrading. By tying various functionalities of the entry units 12 to display screen icons, one-touch commands can be used to perform the desired functions - e.g., an audio message icon can be shown to allow for recordation of an audio message; a video message icon can be shown to allow for recordation of a video message; and so forth. The entry units 12 may be powered by the system 10, such as by delivering power over Category 5 (Cat5) cabling. To conserve power, the entry units 12 may be each provided with a reduced-power-requiring sleep mode which is activated by the passage of a certain period of time of inactivity. The hardware platform 38 may be provided with a timer to establish the period of inactivity. Upon entering a sleep mode, the display screen 34 may be deactivated, e.g., with a backlight being deactivated. The proximity detector 50 may optionally be provided to detect motion and re-activate the entry unit 12 to a full active mode from the sleep mode upon detecting a certain level of motion. Alternatively, or additionally, physical interaction with the respective unit 12 will cause full activation and release from the sleep mode.

The security release mechanism 52 is operatively linked to an associated access-entry control device. For example, the security release mechanism 52 may be configured to produce a signal to release a lockable door or gate from a normally-locked state, particularly a lockable door or gate in proximity to the respective entry unit 12. The hardware platform 38 may be linked to the security release mechanism 52 to allow for control thereof.

Resident Units

With reference to Figures 4-6, each of the resident units 14 is self-contained in a housing 68. The housing 68 is preferably wall-mounted (e.g. flush mounted or extending from the wall) and built with sufficient integrity to withstand repeated use. The housing 68 may be formed to be free-standing, such as a table-top device. In any regard, it is preferred that the resident units 14 be located in high traffic areas in the dwellings to allow for convenient use thereof.

With reference to Figures 4 and 5, the resident units 14 may each include a hardware platform 70 which is linked to a display screen 72, a microphone 74, a speaker 76, an indicator light 78, a proximity detector 80, memory 82, a network interface 84, and a remote doorbell control 86.

The display screen 72 is preferably a touch screen display screen, such as an active matrix VGA LCD touch screen having an interface with a touchpad unit. The screen display 72 provides both for display and input. With reference to Figure 6, the microphone 74 allows for an audio input to be generated (Box 88) which is encodable by an encoder found on the hardware platform 70 (Box 90). The encoded audio communication can be packetized and transmitted to the system 10 via the network interface 84, e.g. using RTP/RTCP protocol (Box 92). Alternatively, the encoded audio communication may be stored in the memory 82 for later recall and playback. In this manner, the resident unit 14 not only allows for the generation and trasmission of an audio communication to another unit in the system 10, but also allows for a generated communication to be stored locally to act as a reminder or as a later-played message for another resident of the dwelling, such as a family member.

The speaker 76 may be used to broadcast audio communications. In particular, an audio decoder of the hardware platform (Box 93) may receive an encoded message from the memory 82 and/or the system 10 via the network interface 84. The decoder decodes the received message and transmits an audio output to the speaker 76 (Box 88).

Packetized video communications can be transmitted to the hardware platform 70 via the network interface 84 (Box 94). A decoder of the hardware platform 70 (Box 96) decodes the video signal and provides a video output signal to the display screen 72 (Box 98). It is anticipated that the video signal will be high-density. To facilitate processing, a video manager 100 may be provided to co-process the video and corresponding audio signals. The video manager 100 may be located on the hardware platform 70.

The inventors here envision that users of the resident units 14 will have privacy concerns and prefer not to have video cameras on the resident units 14 which can transmit video from the dwellings to other locations. It is thus preferred to not provide the resident units 14 with video cameras. The resident units 14 can be readily provided with digital video cameras if such privacy concerns do not exist, for example, if the resident units 14 are located in a common room in the house or in a hallway or foyer. In such cases, a digital camera can be provided in the same manner as described with the entry units 12.

Encoded audio and/or video signals may be streamed and transmitted in real-time to a desired recipient and/or stored in the memory 82, in the local memory of the recipient unit and/or on the management system 16. A signal can be transmitted to the recipient unit to indicate that a recorded message is waiting for retrieval. The memory 82 may be a memory card, e.g., a CompactFlash memory, having at least 512k of available storage.

The network interface 84 will be configured to provide for wired or wireless connection as needed. An addressing mechanism can be used to call for the proper transmission of the respective massage depending on the intended recipient.

The display content to be shown on the display 72 will be dictated by the management system 16. Although navigation of the display content will be possible at the resident units 14, authoring or altering of the display content will preferably not be possible. Preferably, with the display screen being of the touch screen variety, the display content will be one or more HTML style web pages, or equivalent, that are icon-driven or hypertext linked between pages. Software, such as browser software, may be provided to facilitate navigation and manipulation of the web pages. All software relative to the functioning of the display content is preferably stored locally on the respective resident unit 14. This software is preferably only configurable from the management system 16. Thus, software settings on the entry units 12 cannot be adjusted at the resident units 14, but only from the management system 16. In addition, the memory 82 of the resident units 14 can be adjusted remotely by the management system 16. With this arrangement, the management system 16 not only permits control of the display content, but also allows for remote maintenance and upgrading. By tying various functionalities of the resident units 14 to display screen icons, one-touch commands can be used to perform the desired functions, as discussed more fully below with respect to Figure 9.

The indicator light 78, may be a LED or other long-lasting light source. It is preferably mounted in a highly- visible location on the resident unit 14, such as prominently on the front of the housing 68, as shown in Figure 4. The indicator light 78 can be activated to indicate the presence of a waiting message, which may be textual, audio or video. Alternatively, an icon or other indicator can be presented on the display screen 72 to indicate the presence of a waiting message.

The resident unit 14 may be provided with fixed-purpose buttons or switches that are present in addition to the display screen 72. For example, a help or distress button 102 may be provided on the resident unit 14 which can be operatively linked to the system 10 to automatically signal to the management system 16 or outside authorities of a condition requiring help. The prominence and permanence of the button 102 may be preferred to the touch screen display 72 to facilitate a resident's call for help. The activation of the button 102 may also permit an automatic two-way audio communication session between the management system and the respective resident unit 14. In addition, a door access button 104 may be provided which is operatively linked to the system 10 to generate a signal upon activation which is transmitted via the system 10 to the security release mechanism 52 of the entry unit 12 in contact with the respective resident unit 14. (As described below, the entry unit 12 will contact the resident unit 14 to indicate the presence of a potential visitor.) The door access system 104 will allow for a vistor to be "buzzed" into the multi-dwelling environment. The functions of the buttons 102 and 104 can be equally performed by touch commands on the touch screen display 72.

The resident units 14 may be powered by the system 10, such as by delivering power over Category 5 (Cat5) cabling. To conserve power, the resident units 14 may be each provided with a reduced-power-requiring sleep mode which is activated by the passage of a certain period of time of inactivity. The hardware platform 70 may be provided with a timer to establish the period of inactivity. Upon entering a sleep mode, the display screen 72 may be deactivated, e.g., with a backlight being deactivated. The proximity detector 80 may optionally be provided to detect motion and re-activate the resident unit 14 to a full active mode from the sleep mode upon detecting a certain level of motion. Alternatively, or additionally, physical interaction with the respective unit 14 will cause full activation and release from the sleep mode.

The remote alarm or door bell control 86 may be operatively connected to the resident unit 14. A door bell device may be located remotely from the resident unit 14 which can be controlled by the remote door bell control 86. The remote door bell and the remote door bell control 86 must only be associated with one dwelling to avoid signal confusion between various dwellings. With the remote door bell control 86, the resident unit 14 can transmit a signal, preferably wirelessly (such as by RF transmission) to the associated remote door bell indicating that a visitor has contacted the resident unit 14, e.g. via the entry unit 12, and/or there is an incoming message. The remote door bell may be a chime or other audio- notification device which can be wall mounted, outlet mounted, or a portable device. With the remote door bell, a resident of a dwelling can be notified of the presence of a visitor or incoming message even if at a substantial distance from the resident unit 14. Likewise, the speaker 76 may provide an audio indication, such as a chime, of the presence of a visitor contacting the resident unit 14 and/or the presence of an incoming message.

Management System

With reference to Figure 1, the management system 16 includes a management interface 106 and a database/file server 108. Depending on the size of the system 10, the management interface 106 and the database/file server 108 can be provided on two separate computers, as shown in Figure 1. Other configurations are possible, such as where both are combined on a single computer or spread out over more than two computers, hi any regard, the management interface 106 and the database/file server 108 are preferably operated over a PC type device or devices. Communication-related hardware and software (e.g., video camera; microphone; speaker; video display) may be provided with the management system 16 to allow for voice and/or video communication to be generated and displayed.

The management interface 106 will run a software application that interfaces with the database/file server 108. The database/file server 108 will include data relevant to operation of the system 10 including data associated for each dwelling, such as an identifying indicia (e.g., apartment number), resident's name, resident's identification number, and any stored communications, e.g., stored video communications. All profile information of the various units of the system (e.g., the entry units 12, the resident units 14, the monitoring security units 18) is likewise stored on the database/file server 108. Any known database can be used. The database/file server 108 can be run on the "Windows NT" brand operating system or the "Linux" operating system with MS SQL or Oracle database engines. The management interface 106 will allow for identification of residents to provide for general broadcast messages or targeted residents for specific messages.

The terminal 20 will allow for data entry into the management interface 106 and the database/file server 108. The terminal 20 will also allow for display content creation for the entry units 12 and the resident units 14. HTML type web pages, or equivalent, may be created and transmitted to the various units 12 and 14 for display thereby. Preferably, the display content shall be resident on the local memory of the various units 12 and 14.

It is preferred that any generated display content be icon-driven so that a touch screen display can navigate the content. The display content can include textual messages and graphics generated by the management system 16. As described more fully below, the display content can include informational postings, interfaces to accept commercial orders, advertisements, messages from management and inquiries. With any responsive information transmitted from the resident units 14 in response to the display content, that information can be collected and processed accordingly by the management system.

The management system 16 will also allow for re-configuration of the display content and any software located on the various units 12, 14 and 18. System protocols and commands are likewise established by the management system 16.

The database/file server 108 maybe used to archive messages from the system 10, particularly messages generated at the entry units 12. Preferably, the communications generated at the entry units 12 are transmitted to the resident units 14 via the management system 16. In addition, any video recordings made by the entry units 12 may be stored for fixed periods of time on the system 10, such as on the database/file server 108. The stored video records may be used for security purposes to identify criminal perpetrators. In addition, the system 10 may be provided with facial-recognition software. The software may be run against the recorded videos to identify possible undesirables, and even processed in real-time with video transmissions from the entry units 12 to the resident units 14. The management interface 106 may run the facial-recognition software.

Monitoring Security Units

With references to Figure 7, each of the monitoring security units 18 may be a digital video camera 110 which is linked to and operated by a hardware platform 112. The hardware platform may also be linked to memory 114 and a network interface 116. Preferably, the monitoring security units 18 are located at locations away from the entry units 12 to provide additional monitoring of the multi-dwelling environment.

The monitoring security units 18 are solely for the purpose of collecting data, e.g., video data and thus can be provided with less functionality than the entry units 12 and resident units 14. As shown in Figure 8, video collected by the camera 110 can be taken in as a video input signal (Box 118), coded by an encoder located on the hardware platform 112 (Box 120), and transmitted to the system 10 via the network interface 116 (Box 122). The camera 110 may be a stationery, single- view camera, or be provided with control movement capabilities, such as panning, tilting and zooming. These functionalities may be controlled by the hardware platform 112 in response to signals transmitted from the residents units 14 and/or the management system 16.

Holster Unit

With reference to Figure 1, the resident units 14 may be each optionally provided with an associated holster unit 124. The holster units 124 are hand-held devices similar to PDA's and are preferably wirelessly, operatively linked to an associated one of the resident units 14. The holster units 124 can be provided with the same basic configuration and functionality as the resident units 14, including having a touch screen display. Because the holster units 124 may be reduced in size as compared to the resident units 14, a stylus may be provided to facilitate data entry into the touch screen. Otherwise, the input may be by direct physical contact with the touch screen. (Finger or stylus input can be used with the touch screen displays of the entry units 12 and the access units 14.) The holster units 124 are preferably wirelessly, operatively linked to the associated resident units 14 in such a manner so as to avoid signal crossing between dwellings. Any control information or data inputted to the holster unit 124 is inputted to the associated dwelling unit 14 and thereby transferred to the system 10. The software and display content of the holster units 124 will be controlled and configured by the management system 16 through the resident units 14 - i.e., the resident units 14 will transmit the software and display content to the holster units 124. The holster units 124 will not be permitted to alter the display content.

The holster units 124 may be powered by stored power which is obtained from batteries or from charging. A holster or other storage device may be provided, e.g., in proximity to the associated resident unit 14, to house the holster unit 124. hi addition, the holster units 124 may be wall-mountable or table-top devices. With the holster units 124, remote access to the resident units 14 may be obtained.

System Functionality

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the system 10 provides for various functionalities not obtainable in the prior art. These functionalities can be generally described in three groups as: access control; bulletin board; and concierge services. Access Control

The system 10 allows for access control to the multi-dwelling environment, i one aspect, the entry units 12 allow for a potential visitor to the multi-dwelling environment to communicate by voice and/or with video to a resident prior to receiving approval to enter the environment. For example, a potential visitor may engage one of the entry units 12 and enter therein a unit number or other identifying indicia of a particular dwelling in a multi-dwelling environment. Upon entry of the indicia, video signals and/or audio signals of the potential visitor are captured by the entry unit 12, encoded, packetized and sent through the system 10 to the respective resident unit 14. The resident unit 14 will display the video showing the visitor along with option icons or buttons to ignore, to initiate a two-way communication session (preferably a two-way audio session), or to allow access. With the command to ignore, the entry unit 12 will provide no response from the resident unit 14, but an option to record an audio and/or video message can be made available. Any recorded message will be stored on the system 10 in the memory 48 of the entry unit 12, in the local memory of the recipient unit, or on the management system 16. Preferably, a signal will be transmitted to the resident unit 14 causing the resident unit 14 to indicate the presence of a stored communication, such as by the activation of the indicator light 78. The message can be retrieved upon entry of the corresponding command into the resident unit 14.

With the resident unit 14 requesting a two-way communication session, a communication is recorded at the resident unit 14, e.g., an audio communication, encoded, packetized, and transmitted to the entry unit 12 for broadcasting. The two-way real-time communication session can be continued with video and/or audio signals being generated and transmitted between the entry unit 12 and the receiving unit 14. Preferably, the receiving unit 14 will only generate and transmit audio communications.

Access may be permitted into the multi-dwelling environment by entering the corresponding command into the resident unit 14 (e.g., by activation of the button 104) which is transmitted to the entry unit 12, thereby causing the security release mechanism 52 to provide access through any access control device, such as a lockable door or gate.

If a predetermined amount of time is lapsed without any activity at the resident unit 14, the entry unit 12 will provide no response from the resident unit 14, but may provide an option to record an audio and/or video message. In a further aspect, the system 10 can provide for "keyless" entry into the multi- dwelling environment. In particular, a resident/may be allowed to enter a personal access code into his/her resident unit 14 which is secure from the remainder of the system 10. Upon engaging the entry unit 12 and entering the dwelling-associated indicia as would any other visitor in the manner described above, the entry unit 12 allows for entry of the personal access code. The entry unit 12 may explicitly request the personal access code or it can be entered without prompting. The entered personal access code is transmitted to the resident unit 14 associated with the previously-identified dwelling to determine if there is a match with the stored personal access code. If a match is made, a signal is transmitted to the entry unit 12 to permit access via the security release mechanism 52. The personal access code transmission is preferably no where stored on the system 10 for later retrieval.

The resident unit 12 will also be provided with the command function to permit viewing of a transmitted video from the one or more of the monitoring security units 18 that may be included in the system 10. The resident unit 14 will have the capability to control any pan-tilt-zoom functionality the respective monitoring unit 18 may have.

The resident units 14 will be also able to generate and transmit communications therebetween. Thus, a first of the resident units 14 may transmit a communication directly to a second of the resident units 14. The communications may be audio, and/or video, if cameras are provided with the resident units 14. The communications may be stored in the receiving resident unit 14 with the receiving unit indicating its presence (e.g., by the indicator light 78). The resident units 14 may also record communications for later play back on itself, for example, in leaving a reminder for one's self, a message for a family member, and so forth. Again, the indicator light 78 or other indicator can indicate the presence of the recorded message.

Bulletin Board

The system 10 also allows for the resident units 14 to act as electronic bulletin boards on which messages can be posted not only for informational purposes, but also as inquiries seeking feedback with the management system 16 allowing for the generation and transmission of display content. The messages can include textual and graphic elements. Management and/or ownership of the multi-dwelling environment will be able to transmit messages to the resident units 14 in a general broadcast fashion or in a targeted manner. Accordingly, notices or alerts regarding security concerns, maintenance, recreation schedules, customer surveys, rent reminders, resident meetings, special events, and so forth can be transmitted electronically to affected residents efficiently and conveniently for display on the respective resident units 14. The particular postings can request feedback with respective icons representing various responses to the inquiry. Feedback information can be collected by the management system 16 and processed accordingly.

The system 10 also allows for recorded communications, e.g. textual or audio communications, to be generally or specifically transmitted to residents from the management system 16. The communications may be recorded or maintained on the management system 16 or stored in the memory 82 of the recipient resident units 14, with a signal being sent to the affected resident units 14 causing the indicator lights 78 or other indicators thereof to be activated. The recorded message can be readily retrieved by the resident units 14 upon the appropriate command.

The resident units 14 may also be provided with functionality to allow for maintenance problems to be logged with the management system 16. A repair/work order queue may also be made available on the management system 16 to the resident units 14 to allow₍ for evaluation of the status of a particular maintenance request. Advantageously, all communications between management and residents may be time and date stamped for archival purposes. As will be appreciated, with the system 10, management will be able to communicate with a some or all residents of a multi-dwelling environment from a remote location. An enterprise which owns or manages more than one multi-dwelling environment can readily transmit the same coinmunication to selected residents between various networks through the respective controlling management systems 16.

Concierge Services

With the management system 16 allowing for the generation of display content, various informational postings, service details and advertisements may be presented on the resident units 14. For example, notices as to availability of local services may be presented by management through the management system 16 to the resident units 14. Moreover, the resident units 14 can be provided with functionality to permit the entry of orders relating to those services. Any placed orders are in turn passed from the management system 16 to the respective vendor, electronically or otherwise. As can be readily appreciated, by allowing for order placement with certain vendors over the system 10, management may seek revenue- sharing or other commercial relationships with the respective selected businesses.

Management may also provide over the resident units 14, various informational postings, such as weather reports, local train schedules, taxi information, and movie listings. Such display content can be entered into the management system 16 from various sources, including the Internet.

Advertisements may also be posted on the resident units 14, as well as the entry units 12. The display content shown by the respective unit 12 or 14 may change upon entering sleep mode. For example, in an active state, the resident units 14 can display a normal display screen, while upon entering a sleep mode, the resident units 14 may be caused to display an advertisement. The advertisement may be a static graphic image or a running video. It is preferred that no audio be provided, unless requested, to avoid creating unwanted background noise by the device.

Resident Unit Display

With reference to Figure 9, a sample display screen usable with the resident units 14 is shown. By way of non-limiting example, various panels and icons are depicted which provide for various one-touch controls with the use of a touch screen display. Thus, besides the indicator light 78, a message pane MP may be provided to show the presence of recorded messages and the type - e.g., a movie projector icon may represent recorded video communications; a speaker icon may represent recorded audio communications; and, a sheet of paper with text may represent recorded textual messages. The messages may be retrieved by pressing the relevant icon. Informational panels IP may also be provided to give standard information such as local time, date, and weather. A message panel MEP can be provided to include postings from the management system 16, while a number of control button icons CB can be arranged in a "tool bar" fashion to provide for entry of the necessary commands to operate the resident unit 14. For example, control button icons CB can be provided to allow audio communication with the entry unit 12 or another resident unit 14 (referred to in Figure 9 as an "Intercom app"); a help button to log in comments with management or to request maintenance; an audio note button to allow for recordation of an audio communication on the resident unit 14 for later playback; a security icon to allow for access to video recordings of the monitoring security units 18; a video mail control button; a bulletin board link button to allow viewing of information posted thereon; and a commerce icon to allow for viewing of posted business information and availability of services.

Various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention. It is intended that all such changes and modifications come within the scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A wide- or local-area-networked computer system for allowing residents of dwellings in a multi-dwelling environment to communicate, said computer system comprising: a first resident unit located in a first dwelling of the multi-dwelling environment; a second resident unit located in a second dwelling of the multi-dwelling environment, said second dwelling being separate and distinct from said first dwelling; and, an entry unit located at an entry point to the multi-dwelling environment, wherein, said first resident unit, said second resident unit, and said entry unit are operatively linked to allow communications to be selectively generated and transmitted therebetween.

2. A system as in claim 1, wherein said coimnunications include videos.

3. A system as in claim 2, wherein said videos are selectively transmitted in real time.

4. A system as in claim 2, wherein said videos are pre-recorded.

5. A system as in claim 2, wherein said videos include an audio signal.

6. A system as in claim 1, wherein said communications include audio communications.

7. A system as in claim 6, wherein said audio communications are selectively transmitted in real time.

8. A system as in claim 6, wherein said audio communications are pre-recorded.

9. A system as in claim 1, wherein said communications may be stored on the system, and retrieved by said first or second resident units upon request.

10. A system as in claim 9, wherein said first resident unit includes an indicator light which is activated to indicate the presence of a stored communication.

11. A system as in claim 1, wherein said first resident unit includes a video camera for generating a video communication.

12. A system as in claim 1, wherein said first resident unit includes a speaker for broadcasting a transmitted audio communication.

13. A system as in claim 1 , wherein said first resident unit includes a microphone for generating an audio communication.

14. A system as in claim 1, wherein said first resident unit includes a video display.

15. A system as in claim 14, wherein said video display is a touch screen type video display.

16. A system as in claim 14, wherein said video display is for displaying a transmitted video communication.

17. A system as in claim 1, wherein said entry unit includes a video camera for generating a video communication.

18. A system as in claim 1, wherein said entry unit includes a speaker for broadcasting a transmitted audio communication.

19. A system as in claim 1, wherein said entry unit includes a microphone for generating an audio cornmunication.

20. A system as in claim 1, wherein said entry unit includes a video display.

21. A system as in claim 20, wherein said video display is a touch screen type video display.

22. A system as in claim 20, wherein said video display is for displaying a transmitted video communication.

23. A system as in claim 1, further comprising at least one video camera at a fixed location in the multi-dwelling environment, said at least one video camera being remote from said entry unit and being operatively linked to said first resident unit so as to allow for video transmission from said at least one video camera to said first resident unit.

24. A system as in claim 1, wherein said multi-dwelling environment is a ship, said first and second dwellings being cabins on the ship.

25. A system as in claim 1, wherein said multi-dwelling environment is one or more buildings, said first and second dwellings each being living quarters in one of said buildings.

26. A system as in claim 1, further comprising a central server, wherein said first resident unit, said second resident unit, and said central server being operatively linked to allow data to be selectively transmitted from said central server to said first resident unit and to said second resident unit.

27. A system as in claim 26, further comprising a management terminal for entering management data into said central server, said central server allowing for selective transmission of said management data to said first and second resident units.

28. A system as in claim 27, wherein said management data includes display content for said first resident unit and said second resident unit.

29. A system as in claim 26, wherein communications may be selectively generated and transmitted between said central server, said first resident unit and said second resident unit.

30. A system as in claim 26, wherein said communications may be transmitted between said first resident unit and said entry unit via said central server.

31. A system as in claim 30, wherein said entry unit includes a video camera for generating video communications.

32. A system as in claim 31, wherein the system stores said video communications at least temporarily.

33. A system as in claim 31, wherein the system includes facial-recognition software, said video communications being processed by said facial-recognition software.

34. A systems as in claim 26, wherein said central server is operatively linked to the Internet.

35. A system as in claim 34, further comprising a router operatively linked between said central server and the Internet.

36. A system as in claim 26, further comprising a switch operatively linked between said central server and said first and second resident units so as to control data flow therebetween.

37. A system as in claim 26, wherein said first resident unit, said second resident unit, and said central server are operatively linked by wireless connections.

38. A system as in claim 26, wherein said first resident unit, said second resident unit, and said central server are operatively linked by wiring.

39. A system as in claim 1, wherein access through said entry point to the multi-dwelling environment is controlled by a lockable door having a normally-locked state, said first resident unit including means for generating a signal to release said normally-locked state of said lockable door and permit access through said entry point.

40. A wide- or local-area-networked computer system for allowing residents of dwellings in a multi-dwelling environment to transmit and receive data, said computer system comprising: a first resident unit located in a first dwelling of the multi-dwelling environment; a second resident unit located in a second dwelling of the multi-dwelling environment, said second dwelling being separate and distinct from said first dwelling; a central server operatively linked to said first resident unit and to said second resident unit to allow data to be selectively transmitted from said central server to said first resident unit and to said second resident unit; and, a management terminal for entering display content into said central server, said central server allowing for selective transmission of said display content to said first and second resident units, wherein said first resident unit and said second resident unit each having a touch screen type video display adapted to display said display content and to allow for navigation thereof.

41. A system as in claim 40, wherein said display content includes hypertext links.

42. A system as in claim 40, wherein said display content is one or more HTML web pages.

43. A system as in claim 40, wherein said display content is a static textual message.

44. A system as in claim 40, wherein said display content is a static graphical image.

45. A system as in claim 40, wherein said first resident unit includes a timer to measure period of time from contact with said touch screen type video display.

46. A system as in claim 45, wherein said first resident unit enters a reduced-power- requiring sleep mode upon said timer measuring a predetermined period of time.

47. A system as in claim 46, wherein said display content displayed on said touch screen type video display changes upon said first resident unit entering said sleep mode.

48. A system as in claim 46, wherein said touch screen type video display may be deactivated upon said first resident unit entering said sleep mode.

49. A system as in claim 46, wherein said first resident unit includes a motion sensor, said first resident unit leaving said sleep mode upon said motion sensor detecting a predetermined level of movement.

50. A system as in claim 46, wherein said first resident unit leaves said sleep mode upon sensing contact with said touch screen type video display.

51. A system as in claim 40, wherein said first resident unit is wall-mountable.

52. A system as in claim 40, further comprising a first holster associated with said first resident unit, said first holster being operatively linked to the system only at said first resident unit, said holster including a touch screen type video display, at least a portion of said display content received by said first resident unit being transmitted by said first resident unit to said first holster, said touch screen type video display of said first holster adapted to display said display content transmitted to said first holster and to allow for navigation thereof.

53. A system as in claim 52, wherein commands generated at said touch screen type video display of said first holster are transmitted to said central server via said first resident unit.

54. A system as in claim 52, wherein said first holster is portable.

55. A system as in claim 52, wherein said first holster is a table-top device.

56. A system as in claim 52, wherein said first holster is wall-mountable.

57. A system as in claim 52, wherein said first holster and said first resident unit are operatively linked by a wireless connection.

58. A wide- or local-area-networked computer system for allowing residents of dwellings in a multi-dwelling environment to transmit and receive data, said computer system comprising: a first resident unit located in a first dwelling of the multi-dwelling environment; a second resident unit located in a second dwelling of the multi-dwelling environment, said second dwelling being separate and distinct from said first dwelling; a central server operatively linked to said first resident unit and to said second resident unit to allow data to be selectively transmitted from said central server to said first resident unit and to said second resident unit; and, a management terminal for entering display content into said central server, said central server allowing for selective transmission of said display content to said first and second resident units, wherein said first resident unit and said second resident unit each having a video display adapted to display said display content, said first resident unit and said second resident unit being adapted to allow navigation of said display content without alteration of said display content.

59. A method for collecting information from residents of dwellings in a multi-dwelling environment, said method comprising the steps of: providing a first resident unit of a wide- or local-area-networked computer system in a first dwelling of the multi-dwelling environment; providing a second resident unit of a wide- or local-area-networked computer system in a second dwelling of the multi-dwelling environment, said second dwelling being separate and distinct from said first dwelling; transmitting display content to said first resident unit and said second resident unit, said display content including an inquiry; and, collecting responses to said inquiry from said first resident unit and said second resident unit.

60. A method for posting information to residents of dwellings in a multi-dwelling environment, said method comprising the steps of: providing a first resident unit of a wide- or local-area-networked computer system in a first dwelling of the multi-dwelling enviromnent; providing a second resident unit of a wide- or local-area-networked computer system in a second dwelling of the multi-dwelling enviromnent, said second dwelling being separate and distinct from said first dwelling; and, transmitting display content to said first resident unit and said second resident unit.