Brian A Howell

Title: Brian A Howell: Innovator in Multimedia Conferencing Technology

Introduction

Brian A Howell is a notable inventor based in Marblehead, MA (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of multimedia conferencing technology, holding a total of 4 patents. His work focuses on enhancing the management of media roles within video conferencing systems.

Latest Patents

One of Howell's latest patents is titled "Media Role Management in a Video Conferencing Network." This invention provides a system, apparatus, and method for managing media in a multimedia conferencing system according to media roles. Each media stream can be explicitly labeled with a role that describes its function or purpose, such as 'people' or 'content.' The labels may be hierarchical and include layers for media type and additional media source descriptions. For example, labels could be "people/presenter" or "people/presenter/video." A policy manager is included to manage these roles, allowing for a more effective presentation of the multimedia conference to participants. Additionally, a token management system is provided to facilitate the transfer of control over multimedia conference roles during the conference.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Brian A Howell has worked with prominent companies in the technology sector, including Polycom, Inc. and PictureTel Corporation. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in multimedia communication technologies.

Collaborations

Some of Howell's notable coworkers include Elizabeth M Comstock and William L Kruger. Their collaboration has likely influenced the development of innovative solutions in the field.

Conclusion

Brian A Howell's contributions to multimedia conferencing technology demonstrate his commitment to innovation and improvement in communication systems. His patents reflect a deep understanding of media management, which continues to impact the industry positively.