WO2025080199A1 - Systems and methods for coordinating multi party communication - Google Patents

Abstract

A computer-implemented method for coordinating multi-party communication involves receiving a conversation request from a communication device operated by a first user. The system analyzes user data, including preferences, location, calendar information, and historical behavior, to determine a mutually convenient time. Notifications are sent to each party involved, prompting them to declare availability. The conversation initiates on the communication devices once all parties confirm availability. Machine learning algorithms enhance the accuracy of time determination, utilizing real-time data such as current device usage. The system supports various communication platforms, including video and voice calls, and allows users to set automatic responses for availability.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR COORDINATING MULTI PARTY COMMUNICATION

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to systems and methods for identifying, scheduling and performing multi party communication.

Background of the Invention

[0002] In today’s society, people possess many forms of communication devices, laptops, personal computers, mobile communication devices such as phones and tablets. People are more connected and able to communicate with each other than ever before.

[0003] The most common form of communication using devices is the phone call, where one person calls another person using their telephone (in most instances their smart phone). The inherent problem with this form of communication is that it relies on the second person answering the phone call from the first person. A further problem is that the first person rarely knows with any certainty that the second person is able or willing to answer the phone call.

[0004] Therefore, there exists a need to improve the efficiency of this form of communication by determining when two people are able to speak with each other via a communication device.

[0005] One possible solution is to schedule a time to speak, commonly referred to as scheduling a meeting. The problem with such an approach is that while two people agreeing on a day and time in the future to speak about a topic seems reasonable when the meeting is first set, often in the intervening time issues arise meaning that the day and time of the meeting is no longer suitable for one or both parties. This commonly results in rescheduling the meeting until a mutually agreed day and time is reached, and even then often the meeting will go ahead out of a sense of duty, rather than the day and time being actually convenient for both parties.

[0006] It should be readily understood that although the problems above have been written from the perspective of two people attempting to speak, more than two people may also which to speak and the same problems exist, or may even be exasperated. [0007] The present invention seeks to provide methods and systems for connecting two or more people for a conversation at a mutually convenient day and time.

Summary of Invention

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, a computer-implemented method for coordinating multi-party communication comprises receiving a request for a conversation from a communication device operated by a first user, analyzing user data including preferences, location, calendar information, and historical behaviorto determine a mutually convenient time for the conversation, notifying each party involved in the conversation of the determined time via their respective communication devices, prompting each party to declare availability for the conversation through notifications on their communication devices, and initiating the conversation on the communication devices once all parties have declared availability.

[0009] According to another aspect, analyzing user data further comprises incorporating machine learning algorithms to improve the accuracy of determining a mutually convenient time.

[0010] According to yet another aspect, notifying each party involved in the conversation includes a message appearing on the communication device of at least one party.

[0011] According to another aspect, the method further comprises allowing users to set automatic responses for availability through their communication devices.

[0012] According to yet another aspect, initiating the conversation on the communication devices supports various communication platforms, including video and voice calls.

[0013] According to another aspect, the machine learning algorithms utilize real-time data such as current device usage to enhance decision-making.

[0014] According to yet another aspect, the notifications are customized based on user preferences and provide reminders as the conversation time approaches.

[0015] According to another aspect, users can declare availability using voice commands through their communication devices.

[0016] According to yet another aspect, an apparatus for coordinating multi-party communication comprises a communication device configured to receive a request for a conversation from a first user, a processing unit configured to analyze user data including preferences, location, calendar information, and historical behavior to determine a mutually convenient time for the conversation, a notification module configured to notify each party involved in the conversation of the determined time via their respective communication devices, an availability module configured to prompt each party to declare availability for the conversation through notifications on their communication devices, and a communication module configured to initiate the conversation on the communication devices once all parties have declared availability.

[0017] According to another aspect, the processing unit incorporates machine learning algorithms to improve the accuracy of determining a mutually convenient time.

[0018] According to yet another aspect, the notification module includes a message appearing on the communication device of at least one party.

[0019] According to another aspect, the apparatus further comprises a response module allowing users to set automatic responses for availability through their communication devices.

[0020] According to yet another aspect, the communication module supports various communication platforms, including video and voice calls.

[0021] According to another aspect, the machine learning algorithms utilize real-time data such as current device usage to enhance decision-making.

[0022] According to yet another aspect, the notifications are customized based on user preferences and provide reminders as the conversation time approaches.

[0023] According to another aspect, users can declare availability using voice commands through their communication devices.

[0024] According to yet another aspect, a computer-implemented method for determining user availability for conversations comprises collecting information on device usage, user habits, and schedule from a first communication device, calculating a likelihood of the user's availability to answer a phone call at various times using the collected information, communicating this likelihood to a second device, and alerting the second device's user of the likelihood the first user is available to answer a phone call. [0025] According to another aspect, an apparatus for determining user availability for conversations comprises a first communication device configured to collect information on device usage, user habits, and schedule, a processing unit configured to calculate a likelihood of the user's availability to answer a phone call at various times using the collected information, a communication module configured to convey this likelihood to a second device, and an alert module on the second device configured to notify the user of the likelihood that the first user is available to answer a phone call.

Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[0026] The present invention functions using communication devices, such as a mobile phone, tablet, laptop, or the like. In a first example of the present invention:

1 . Two or more parties agree that a conversation is desired.

2. A mutually convenient day and time for the conversation is determined by the system.

3. Each party uses a communication device to declare themselves available to hold the conversation.

4. The conversation is initiated on the respective communication devices.

[0027] To further illustrate the present invention, each step of the above-described embodiment will now be discussed in greater detail.

[0028] Two or more parties agree that a conversation is desired. The step of obtaining agreement between two parties typically requires that a first user proposes to a second user a desired conversation. The desired conversation may include details such as estimated length of the conversation, a date by which the conversation is desired to occur, and the topic of the conversation. The second user reviews the proposal and may accept, or decline the proposal. Upon acceptance by the second party, it is determined that a conversation is desired to be held by both parties.

[0029] In an optional improvement, the second party may amend the request and send the request back to the first user for acceptance. Once accepted by the first user, it is determined that a conversation is desired to be held by both parties. [0030] A mutually convenient day and time for the conversation is determined by the system. The system determines a possible mutually convenient day and time to have the conversation, to do so the system examines multiple parameters. In the initial agreement to hold a conversation, a deadline by which the conversation should occur may have been agreed. If so, the system will utilise this deadline as well as other criteria in determining the mutually convenient day and time for the conversation. These criteria include, but are not limited to: user preferences, user inputs, user location, user motion, programs open on the communication device, programs active on the communication device, notifications, notification settings, declined notifications, microphone activity, calendar contents, historical data and the like.

[0031] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the mutually convenient day and time for the conversation is determined by a dialogue between the communication device and a user. The system may prompt a user to provide information regarding their preferences for holding the conversation, and based on the user’s responses may prompt other parties to the conversation with similar questions. By way of example, the system may ask a first user if a certain time and day is suitable to hold the conversation, if the user indicates to the system it is an agreeable day and time to hold the conversation, the system may ask the other parties in the call if that is a suitable day and time for them also. The system may weigh different factors in determining possible suitable times and days, including the user’s preferences and history.

[0032] The dialogue may contain multiple questions and answers, with further questions being dependent upon the answers provided by the user. By way of example, the communication device may send a user a notification on a Sunday afternoon questioning the user to provide times during the upcoming week that may be suitable to hold conversations, or the communication device may utilise external information such as a user’s calendar to question the user regarding their availability to hold a conversation. For example, a user may have previously indicated 10am on Thursday is a good time to hold a conversation, however then a meeting is booked in that user’s calendar at that time, such that the system may direct the communication device to question the user for alternative days and times to hold the conversation.

[0033] Preferably, a user sets preferences regarding their general availability to hold a conversation. For example, for different types of conversations the user may set different availability preferences such as for work related conversation 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday may be a preference, whereas for personal conversations the preference may be broader, or outside of those hours. Further, general assumptions may be made by the system regarding the user’s availability, such as the user will never be available between 11 pm and 6am.

[0034] In an alternative embodiment, the system may gather data regarding a user’s behaviour, preferences or any other information contemplated in this specification and weigh that data to determine likely times and dates the user may be available to hold certain conversations. For example, if the conversation is of a professional nature the system may assign more weight to the user’s working hours, professional calendar and historical behaviour during working hours.

[0035] The system may utilise multiple forms of information to determine a convenient day and time to hold a conversation, including but not limited to, historical user activity, manually inputted user activity, digital calendar information, user location, user speed, user’s time zone and the like.

[0036] Each party uses a communication device to declare themselves available to hold the conversation. Once the system has determined it has reached a possibly mutually convenient day and time for the conversation to occur, the system will attempt to prompt the two users to declare themselves available to hold the conversation.

[0037] One method for achieving this will be to prompt a first user in the conversation to make themselves available for the conversation, this may be through the use of notifications on the user’s communication device, such as a notification requesting the user indicate they are available to hold a conversation, or a notification questioning the user about whether they are, or soon will be, available to hold the conversation. For example, the system may direct the communication device of the first user to send a notification stating that it believes now to be a good time to hold a certain conversation, the user will have the option to agree and declare themselves available to hold the conversation, disagree and suggest another time, or disagree entirely.

[0038] Once a first user in the conversation has declared themselves available for the conversation, the system may prompt the second user in the conversation to encourage that user to also declare themselves available for the conversation. This may be achieved through the use of notifications on the second user’s communication device. [0039] In an optional improvement, a user is only prompted by the system if the system determines it is likely that the user will be available to have a conversation. This determination is made using at least one criteria, including: user preferences, user inputs, user location, user motion, programs open on the communication device, programs active on the communication device, notifications, notification settings, declined notifications, microphone activity, calendar contents, historical data and the like.

[0040] The conversation is initiated on the communication device. Once both users in a conversation have indicated they are available and ready to hold the conversation, the system connects the two or more users by enacting a phone call on the user’s communication devices. It should be understood that the phone call can occur through any manner of known communication means, including cellular telephone service, voice over IP, or video chat.

[0041] If the conversation is to occur between more than two people, in an optional improvement, the first two people to indicate they are available to hold the conversation experience traditional phone call initiation (i.e. a ringtone and answer), however from the third person onwards, once they indicate they are available they are placed instantly into the phone conversation (i.e. no ringtone and answer).

[0042] In a further improvement, if there are more than two parties intended to join the conversation, after a first party indicates they are available to hold the conversation, that first party may be graphically shown the status of the other parties in the conversation. The status can indicate whether those users have indicated they are available to have the conversation, have indicated they are not available, have not responded to any notification etc. If all parties except for one party have indicated they are available and have commenced a call, the system may increase the rate, content, ortype of notifications sent to the final party’s communication device, in an attempt to direct the final party to join the conversation.

[0043] In a further improvement, if a first party indicates they are available to hold a conversation and there are multiple other counterparties intended to join the conversation, the system may use the first party indicating their availability to have the conversation as a prompt to question each counter party in the conversation requesting they make themselves available to hold the conversation. [0044] In a second embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a multi party communication system comprising a computer implemented method, having the following steps:

[0045] In a first step, software executed on a first communication device collects information regarding usage of the first communication device, habits of the user of the communication device, and the schedule of the user of the communication device. Permission from the user may be obtained by the software to collect this information.

[0046] In a second step, the collected information is analysed by the software on the communication device, or transferred to a server for analysis. The transfer may occur using any known transmission method including communication over the internet. The analysis determines possible days and times the user may be available to hold conversations.

[0047] In a third step, the software communicates with software executed on a second device to indicate the user of the first device’s availability to hold conversations.

[0048] In a fourth step, the software executed on the second device alerts the user on the second device of the ability to hold a conversation with the user of the first device.

[0049] In a third embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a multi-party communication system comprising a computer-implemented method, having the following steps:

[0050] In a first step, software executed on a first communication device collects information regarding usage of the first communication device, habits of the user of the communication device, and the schedule of the user of the communication device. Permission from the user may be obtained by the software to collect this information.

[0051] In a second step, the collected information is analysed by the software on the communication device, or transferred to a server for analysis. The transfer may occur using any known transmission method including communication over the internet. The analysis determines possible days and times the user may be available to hold conversations. [0052] I n a third step, the software calculates a percentage likelihood that the user of the first device is available to hold a conversation at various times. This likelihood is based on factors such as historical behavior, current device usage, and calendar data.

[0053] In a fourth step, the software communicates with software executed on a second device to convey the percentage likelihood of the user of the first device being available to hold conversations.

[0054] In a fifth step, the software executed on the second device alerts the user on the second device of the percentage likelihood that the user of the first device is available to hold a conversation, allowing the second user to make an informed decision about initiating contact.

[0055] In a fourth embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a multi-party communication system comprising a computer-implemented method, having the following steps:

[0056] In a first step, software executed on a communication device allows a user to manage agreed conversations by providing options to reject or delete scheduled conversations. This management feature enables users to maintain control over their communication commitments and adjust their schedules as needed.

[0057] In a second step, the system analyzes the user's communication history, preferences, and current schedule to intelligently prioritize conversations. By evaluating factors such as the importance of the conversation, the relationship with the other party, and the user's availability, the system can rank conversations in order of priority.

[0058] In a third step, the system utilizes machine learning algorithms to assess the user's available time and determine the optimal moments to notify the user about high- priority conversations. This assessment considers real-time data, such as the user's location, ongoing activities, and device usage, to ensure notifications are sent at the most convenient times.

[0059] In a fourth step, the system sends notifications to the user, highlighting the best possible times to engage in prioritized conversations. These notifications are designed to be minimally intrusive, providing the user with the flexibility to accept, reschedule, or decline the conversation based on their current circumstances. [0060] The present invention may also utilise the following:

[0061] Integration with Third-Party Calendars: The system's integration with third-party calendar applications such as Google Calendar, Outlook, and Apple Calendar provides seamless synchronization of user schedules. This feature allows the system to automatically access and update calendar entries, ensuring that any new appointments or changes are reflected in real-time. By leveraging existing calendar data, the system can offer more precise scheduling options, reducing the likelihood of conflicts and enhancing user convenience.

[0062] Through this integration, users can benefit from a unified view of their commitments across different platforms. The system can pull data from multiple calendars, consolidating information into a single interface. This holistic approach enables users to manage their time more effectively, as they can see all their appointments and availability in one place. Additionally, the system can send reminders and alerts for upcoming conversations, helping users stay organized and punctual.

[0063] Furthermore, the integration supports advanced features such as automatic time zone adjustments and recurring event management. The system can recognize time zone differences and adjust suggested conversation times accordingly, ensuring that all parties are on the same page. For recurring events, the system can identify patterns and suggest optimal times for regular conversations, streamlining the scheduling process for ongoing interactions.

[0064] Priority-Based Notifications: The priority-based notification feature allows users to categorize conversations based on their importance or the relationship with the other party. Users can assign priority levels to different contacts or types of conversations, ensuring that critical communications are given precedence. This prioritization helps users focus on what matters most, reducing the risk of missing important conversations.

[0065] The system uses these priority settings to tailor notifications, ensuring that high- priority conversations are highlighted and brought to the user's attention promptly. For instance, notifications for urgent work-related calls may be more prominent or persistent, while less critical conversations may have subtler alerts. This differentiation allows users to manage their time and attention more effectively, aligning their communication activities with their priorities. [0066] Additionally, the system can learn from user interactions and adjust priority settings over time. By analyzing user behavior and feedback, the system can refine its understanding of what constitutes a high-priority conversation for each user. This adaptive approach ensures that the notification system remains relevant and responsive to changing user needs, enhancing the overall communication experience.

[0067] Contextual Awareness: The system's contextual awareness feature utilizes sensors within the communication device to detect the user's environment. By assessing factors such as ambient noise levels, location, and motion, the system can make informed decisions about when and how to deliver notifications or suggest conversation times. This awareness ensures that communications are conducted in the most suitable conditions, enhancing user satisfaction.

[0068] For example, if the system detects that the user is in a noisy environment, it may delay notifications or suggest rescheduling the conversation to a quieter time. Conversely, if the user is stationary and in a quiet setting, the system may prioritize delivering notifications promptly. This dynamicadjustment helps minimize disruptions and ensures that users can engage in conversations when they are most likely to be effective.

[0069] Moreover, the system can integrate with other contextual data sources, such as calendar entries or location-based services, to enhance its decision-making capabilities. By combining multiple data points, the system can provide a comprehensive understanding of the user's context, allowing for more accurate and personalized communication suggestions.

[0070] Privacy Controls: The system offers robust privacy controls, allowing users to customize their data-sharing preferences. Users can decide which information is accessible to the system and which remains private, ensuring that their personal data is handled with care. This feature empowers users to maintain control over their information, fostering trust and compliance with privacy regulations.

[0071] Privacy settings can be adjusted at any time, providing users with flexibility and peace of mind. Whether it's restricting access to certain data types or setting permissions for specific applications, users have the autonomy to tailor their privacy preferences to suit their comfort levels. This granular control ensures that users can enjoy the benefits of the system without compromising their privacy. [0072] In addition to user-defined settings, the system employs advanced security measures to protect data integrity and confidentiality. Encryption, secure data transmission, and regular audits are implemented to safeguard user information from unauthorized access. These measures ensure that the system not only respects user privacy preferences but also actively protects their data from potential threats.

[0073] Customizable User Interface: The customizable user interface feature allows users to personalize the look and feel of the system to match their preferences. With options for different themes, layouts, and notification styles, users can create a user experience that aligns with their individual tastes and needs. This customization enhances user satisfaction and engagement, making the system more enjoyable to use.

[0074] Users can choose from a variety of themes, ranging from minimalist designs to vibrant color schemes, allowing them to tailor the interface to their aesthetic preferences. Layout options enable users to organize information in a way that suits their workflow, whether it's prioritizing certain features or rearranging elements for easier access. This flexibility ensures that the system can adapt to different user preferences and usage patterns.

[0075] Notification styles can also be customized, allowing users to select how and when they receive alerts. Whether it's choosing between visual, auditory, or haptic notifications, users have the freedom to configure alerts in a way that best suits their lifestyle. This level of personalization ensures that notifications are both effective and unobtrusive, enhancing the overall user experience.

[0076] Group Scheduling: The group scheduling feature simplifies the process of organizing conversations involving multiple participants. By analyzing the schedules of each participant, the system can suggest optimal times that accommodate everyone, reducing the need for extensive back-and-forth communication. This feature streamlines the coordination process, making it easier to arrange group meetings or discussions.

[0077] The system considers various factors when suggesting group conversation times, such as time zone differences, individual availability, and priority levels. By balancing these elements, the system can propose times that maximize participation and minimize conflicts. This intelligent scheduling approach ensures that group conversations are conducted efficiently and effectively. [0078] Additionally, the system can send reminders and updates to all participants, keeping everyone informed of any changes or confirmations. This proactive communication helps maintain alignment among participants, ensuring that group conversations proceed smoothly and without unnecessary delays.

[0079] Feedback Mechanism: The feedback mechanism allows users to provide input on the accuracy and effectiveness of availability predictions. By rating predictions and offering suggestions, users can actively contribute to the refinement of the system's algorithms. This feedback loop ensures that the system continuously improves, adapting to user needs and preferences over time.

[0080] Userfeedback is collected through a simple and intuitive interface, making it easy for users to share their experiences. Whether it's rating the accuracy of a prediction or providing comments on specific features, users have the opportunity to influence the system's development. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of ownership and engagement, as users see their input reflected in future updates.

[0081] The system analyzes the collected feedback to identify trends and areas for improvement. By incorporating user insights into the development process, the system can enhance its predictive capabilities and overall performance. This iterative approach ensures that the system remains relevant and responsive, delivering a communication experience that aligns with user expectations.

[0082] The present invention may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to perform any necessary analysis or determinations, enhancing the system's ability to coordinate multi-party communication effectively. These advanced technologies enable the system to process and interpret a wide array of data, ensuring that functionalities such as predicting user availability, prioritizing conversations, and optimizing notification timing are executed with precision and adaptability. By employing Al and machine learning, the system can dynamically adjust to user behavior and preferences, offering a seamless and responsive communication experience.

[0083] Several factors are considered by the Al algorithms in making these determinations. For instance, the user's schedule or calendar is analyzed to identify potential availability windows, ensuring that suggested conversation times do not conflict with existing commitments. Historical usage patterns are also examined to discern trends in the user's communication habits, allowing the system to predict when the user is most likely to be free for a conversation. Additionally, movement information, such as whether the user is stationary or in transit, can influence the system's recommendations, as certain locations or activities may impact the user's ability to engage in a conversation.

[0084] User preferences set within the software further refine the system's analysis. These preferences may include designated quiet hours, preferred communication methods, or specific contacts prioritized for immediate response. The system also monitors current communication device usage, such as whether the user is already on a call, to avoid sending notifications at inopportune moments. By integrating these diverse data points, the Al and machine learning algorithms provide a comprehensive and personalized approach to managing the user's communication needs, ensuring that notifications and conversation suggestions are both timely and relevant.

[0085] The present invention is embodied as a computer-implemented system, utilizing software executed on communication devices and servers to facilitate its functionalities. The system's operations are carried out through a series of programmed instructions that enable the collection, analysis, and processing of data related to user communication preferences and availability. By leveraging computational resources, the invention efficiently manages and coordinates multi-party communication, ensuring optimal performance and user experience.

[0086] Central to the invention's implementation is the integration of advanced algorithms, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, which are executed on computing devices to perform complex data analysis. These algorithms are designed to process large volumes of data, such as user schedules, historical usage patterns, and real-time device activity, to make informed decisions about conversation timing and prioritization. The computational power of modern devices allows the system to execute these tasks rapidly and accurately, providing users with timely and relevant communication suggestions.

[0087] The invention's reliance on computer-implemented processes ensures scalability and adaptability, allowing it to accommodate a wide range of user scenarios and preferences. By utilizing networked communication devices and servers, the system can seamlessly integrate with existing digital infrastructures, offering a robust and flexible solution for managing multi-party communication. This computer-implemented approach not only enhances the system's efficiency but also ensures that it can evolve alongside technological advancements, maintaining its relevance and effectiveness in a dynamic digital landscape.

[0088] It will also be appreciated that the terms "comprise", "comprising", "include", "including", "contain", "containing", "have", "having", and any variations thereof, used in this document are intended to be understood in an inclusive (i.e. non-exclusive) sense, such that the process, method, device, apparatus, or system described herein is not limited to those features, integers, parts, elements, or steps recited but may include other features, integers, parts, elements, or steps not expressly listed and/or inherent to such process, method, process, method, device, apparatus, or system. Furthermore, the terms "a" and "an" used herein are intended to be understood as meaning one or more unless explicitly stated otherwise. Moreover, the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on or to establish a certain ranking of importance of their objects. In addition, reference to positional terms, such as “lower” and “upper”, used in the above description are to be taken in context of the embodiments depicted in the figures, and are not to be taken as limiting the invention to the literal interpretation of the term but rather as would be understood by the skilled addressee in the appropriate context.

Claims

1. A -computer-implemented method for coordinating multi-party communication, comprising: receiving a request for a conversation from a communication device operated by a first user; analyzing user data, including preferences, location, calendar information, and historical behavior, to determine a mutually convenient time for the conversation; notifying each party involved in the conversation of the determined time via their respective communication devices; prompting each party to declare availability for the conversation through notifications on their communication devices; initiating the conversation on the communication devices once all parties have declared availability.

2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein analyzing user data further comprises incorporating machine learning algorithms to improve the accuracy of determining a mutually convenient time.

3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein notifying each party involved in the conversation includes a message appearing on the communication device of at least one party.

4. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising allowing users to set automatic responses for availability through their communication devices.

5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein initiating the conversation on the communication devices supports various communication platforms, including video and voice calls. 6. The method according to claim 2, wherein the machine learning algorithms utilize realtime data such as current device usage to enhance decision-making.

7. The method according to claim 3, wherein the notifications are customized based on user preferences and provide reminders as the conversation time approaches.

8. The method according to claim 4, wherein users can declare availability using voice commands through their communication devices.

9. An apparatus for coordinating multi-party communication, comprising: a communication device configured to receive a request for a conversation from a first user; a processing unit configured to analyze user data, including preferences, location, calendar information, and historical behavior, to determine a mutually convenient time for the conversation; a notification module configured to notify each party involved in the conversation of the determined time via their respective communication devices; an availability module configured to prompt each party to declare availability for the conversation through notifications on their communication devices; a communication module configured to initiate the conversation on the communication devices once all parties have declared availability.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the processing unit incorporates machine learning algorithms to improve the accuracy of determining a mutually convenient time.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the notification module includes a message appearing on the communication device of at least one party. 12. The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a response module allowing users to set automatic responses for availability through their communication devices.

13. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the communication module supports various communication platforms, including video and voice calls.

14. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the machine learning algorithms utilize real-time data such as current device usage to enhance decision-making.

15. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the notifications are customized based on user preferences and provide reminders as the conversation time approaches.

16. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein users can declare availability using voice commands through their communication devices.

17. A computer-implemented method for determining user availability for conversations, comprising: collecting information on device usage, user habits, and schedule from a first communication device; calculating a likelihood of the user's availability to answer a phone call at various times using the collected information; communicating this likelihood to a second device; alerting the second device's user of the likelihood the first user is available to answer a phone call.

18. An apparatus for determining user availability for conversations, comprising: a first communication device configured to collect information on device usage, user habits, and schedule; a processing unit configured to calculate a likelihood of the user's availability to answer a phone call at various times using the collected information; a communication module configured to convey this likelihood to a second device; an alert module on the second device configured to notify the user of the likelihood that the first user is available to answer a phone call.

Abstract

A computer-implemented method for coordinating multi-party communication involves receiving a conversation request from a communication device operated by a first user. The system analyzes user data, including preferences, location, calendar information, and historical behavior, to determine a mutually convenient time. Notifications are sent to each party involved, prompting them to declare availability. The conversation initiates on the communication devices once all parties confirm availability. Machine learning algorithms enhance the accuracy of time determination, utilizing real-time data such as current device usage. The system supports various communication platforms, including video and voice calls, and allows users to set automatic responses for availability.

Claims

Claims

1. A -computer-implemented method for coordinating multi-party communication, comprising: receiving a request for a conversation from a communication device operated by a first user; analyzing user data, including preferences, location, calendar information, and historical behavior, to determine a mutually convenient time for the conversation; notifying each party involved in the conversation of the determined time via their respective communication devices; prompting each party to declare availability for the conversation through notifications on their communication devices; initiating the conversation on the communication devices once all parties have declared availability.

2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein analyzing user data further comprises incorporating machine learning algorithms to improve the accuracy of determining a mutually convenient time.

3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein notifying each party involved in the conversation includes a message appearing on the communication device of at least one party.

4. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising allowing users to set automatic responses for availability through their communication devices.

5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein initiating the conversation on the communication devices supports various communication platforms, including video and voice calls.

6. The method according to claim 2, wherein the machine learning algorithms utilize realtime data such as current device usage to enhance decision-making.

7. The method according to claim 3, wherein the notifications are customized based on user preferences and provide reminders as the conversation time approaches.

8. The method according to claim 4, wherein users can declare availability using voice commands through their communication devices.

9. An apparatus for coordinating multi-party communication, comprising: a communication device configured to receive a request for a conversation from a first user; a processing unit configured to analyze user data, including preferences, location, calendar information, and historical behavior, to determine a mutually convenient time for the conversation; a notification module configured to notify each party involved in the conversation of the determined time via their respective communication devices; an availability module configured to prompt each party to declare availability for the conversation through notifications on their communication devices; a communication module configured to initiate the conversation on the communication devices once all parties have declared availability.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the processing unit incorporates machine learning algorithms to improve the accuracy of determining a mutually convenient time.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the notification module includes a message appearing on the communication device of at least one party. 18

12. The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a response module allowing users to set automatic responses for availability through their communication devices.

13. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the communication module supports various communication platforms, including video and voice calls.

14. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the machine learning algorithms utilize real-time data such as current device usage to enhance decision-making.

15. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the notifications are customized based on user preferences and provide reminders as the conversation time approaches.

16. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein users can declare availability using voice commands through their communication devices.

17. A computer-implemented method for determining user availability for conversations, comprising: collecting information on device usage, user habits, and schedule from a first communication device; calculating a likelihood of the user's availability to answer a phone call at various times using the collected information; communicating this likelihood to a second device; alerting the second device's user of the likelihood the first user is available to answer a phone call.

18. An apparatus for determining user availability for conversations, comprising: a first communication device configured to collect information on device usage, user habits, and schedule; a processing unit configured to calculate a likelihood of the user's availability to answer a phone call at various times using the collected information; a communication module configured to convey this likelihood to a second device; an alert module on the second device configured to notify the user of the likelihood that the first user is available to answer a phone call.