Patent Publication Number: US-2023140043-A1

Title: Electronic device that provides customized ergonomic prompts

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     1. Technical Field 
     The present disclosure relates generally to electronic devices, and more particularly to electronic devices that can visually recognize characteristics of and provide output directed to objects in an image stream produced by a local camera. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     Electronic devices such as mobile phones, network servers, desktop workstations, laptops, and tablets are powerful tools that are used for many functions, including work, entertainment, and communication. Some of these activities require extended periods of time positioned in front of a display device. In one example, electronic devices are often used to enable a user to participate in online human communication, which includes video-based communication where the electronic device is equipped with or connected to a local camera. So as to simulate an in-person conversation, meeting, or lecture, each participant in a video communication session generally positions themself within the field of view of the local camera and within detection range of the microphone. The respective image and audio streams are communicated to the video communication session for presentation by one or more second electronic devices. The participant needs to remain within proximity to the electronic device in a sedentary position while viewing the display device. 
     Recent trends are for increased use of video communications, including online meetings/sessions. Unlike attending in-person meetings, where the participants have to move from a home location or an office to another location to enable the face-to-face interaction, with online meetings, many people simply transition from one online work activity or communication session to another online work activity. The participant is able to make this transition without ever having to stand up or look away from the display device. 
     Excessive amount of time staring at a display screen can have detrimental health impacts on one&#39;s vision and overall health. With intent gazing, a person can even forget to blink as often as is recommended. The person can fail to periodically re-adjust eye focus to a more distant object, leading to eye strain and headaches. The person may tend to recline or stand with a slouching posture that is not ergonomically correct, leading to injury of the back and neck. The person may sit too long, increasing the risk of blood clots in the leg and other issues affecting health. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The description of the illustrative embodiments can be read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements illustrated in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements are exaggerated relative to other elements. Embodiments incorporating teachings of the present disclosure are shown and described with respect to the figures presented herein, in which: 
         FIG.  1    depicts a functional block diagram of a communication environment including a communication device having components that automatically detects position or movement of at least one body portion of a person and responds with health recommendations, and within which the features of the present disclosure are advantageously implemented, according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG.  2    depicts a functional block diagram of a network communication device that facilitates a video communication session and automatically manages healthy participation by a participant who is using a second communication device, according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG.  3    depicts a communication environment of a host/teacher communication device, network communication device, and participant/student communication device during a video communication session, according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG.  4    depicts the communication device visually identifying position and/or movement by a person and comparing the position/movement to library template images for posture and eye position, according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG.  5    depicts the communication device having a user interface that presents prompts related to health recommendations for positioning and/or movement of the person who uses the communication device, according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG.  6    depicts a flow diagram of a method performed by a host or network communication device for prompting healthy positioning and movement of a person using a second communication device during a video communication session, according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG.  7 A- 7 C  (collectively  FIG.  7   ) depicts a flow diagram of a method for prompting the person who uses the communication device, according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG.  8    depicts a communication device providing background noise alerts to a person, according to one or more embodiments; and 
         FIG.  9    depicts a flow diagram of a method performed by a communication device for prompting avoidance of an excessively noisy environment, according to one or more embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device, a computer program product, and a method are provided that automatically visually monitors a person using the electronic device to provide health recommendations. The electronic device includes at least one image capturing device(s) that produces an image stream and is configured to have a field of view that incorporates a person positioned to use the electronic device (e.g., by gazing at an embedded or connected display devices). A controller of the electronic device identifies at least one of a position or movement of at least one body part of the person incorporated in the image stream. The controller determines whether a health recommendation is associated with the position and/or movement of the at least one body part. The controller presents one or more of a visual, tactile, or auditory prompt requesting the person to reposition the at least one body part based on the associated health recommendation. 
     In the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, specific exemplary embodiments in which the various aspects of the disclosure may be practiced are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical, architectural, programmatic, mechanical, electrical, and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof. Within the descriptions of the different views of the figures, similar elements are provided similar names and reference numerals as those of the previous figure(s). The specific numerals assigned to the elements are provided solely to aid in the description and are not meant to imply any limitations (structural or functional or otherwise) on the described embodiment. It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements illustrated in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements are exaggerated relative to other elements. 
     It is understood that the use of specific component, device and/or parameter names, such as those of the executing utility, logic, and/or firmware described herein, are for example only and not meant to imply any limitations on the described embodiments. The embodiments may thus be described with different nomenclature and/or terminology utilized to describe the components, devices, parameters, methods and/or functions herein, without limitation. References to any specific protocol or proprietary name in describing one or more elements, features or concepts of the embodiments are provided solely as examples of one implementation, and such references do not limit the extension of the claimed embodiments to embodiments in which different element, feature, protocol, or concept names are utilized. Thus, each term utilized herein is to be given its broadest interpretation given the context in which that term is utilized. 
     As further described below, implementation of the functional features of the disclosure described herein is provided within processing devices and/or structures and can involve use of a combination of hardware, firmware, as well as several software-level constructs (e.g., program code and/or program instructions and/or pseudo-code) that execute to provide a specific utility for the device or a specific functional logic. The presented figures illustrate both hardware components and software and/or logic components. 
     Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the hardware components and basic configurations depicted in the figures may vary. The illustrative components are not intended to be exhaustive, but rather are representative to highlight essential components that are utilized to implement aspects of the described embodiments. For example, other devices/components may be used in addition to or in place of the hardware and/or firmware depicted. The depicted example is not meant to imply architectural or other limitations with respect to the presently described embodiments and/or the general invention. The description of the illustrative embodiments can be read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. Embodiments incorporating teachings of the present disclosure are shown and described with respect to the figures presented herein. 
       FIG.  1    depicts a functional block diagram of an electronic device, specifically communication device  100 , within an operating environment and within which several of the features of the present disclosure are advantageously implemented. Referring now to the specific component makeup and the associated functionality of communication device  100 . In one or more embodiments, communication device  100  has device memory  102 , communication subsystem  104 , data storage subsystem  106 , and input/output (I/O) subsystem  108 . Device memory  102  and each subsystem ( 104 ,  106 , and  108 ) are managed by controller  110 . Device memory  102  includes program code for applications, such as body position/movement (BPM) application  112 , video conference application  113 , and other application(s)  114 . Device memory  102  further includes operating system (OS)  115 , firmware interface  116 , such as basic input/output system (BIOS) or Uniform Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI), and firmware  117 . 
     Controller  110  includes processor subsystem  118  that executes program code to provide operating functionality of communication device  100  that automatically detects positioning and movement by a person by visually identifying objects that include body part of the person in an image stream and generates alerts in response to positions/movements that are not in line with health recommendations. The software and/or firmware modules have varying functionality when their corresponding program code is executed by processor subsystem  118  or secondary processing devices within communication device  100 . Processor subsystem  118  of controller  110  can execute program code of BPM application  112 , video conference application  113 , and other application(s)  114  to configure communication device  100  to perform specific functions. Device memory  102  can include data  119  used by the applications. In one or more embodiments, BPM application  112  can use BPM health rules data  120  and BPM visual library  121  to generate alerts for positioning and movement of person  123 . 
     I/O subsystem  108  includes user interface components such as vibration output device  128 , light output device  129 , image capturing devices  130   a - 130   b , microphone  132 , display device  133 , touch/haptic controls  134 , and audio output device(s)  136 . In an example, image capturing devices  130   a - 130   b  are front and back cameras. In another example, image capturing devices  130   a - 130   b  are on the same side but have different lenses such as two different ones of telephoto, wide angle, macro, or general purpose lenses. I/O subsystem  108  also includes I/O controller  137 . 
     I/O controller  137  provides communication and power signals to functional components described herein as part of device memory  102 , communication subsystem  104 , data storage subsystem  106 , or I/O subsystem  108 . I/O controller  137  connects to internal devices  138 , which are internal to housing  139 , and to peripheral devices  140 , such as external speakers, which are external to housing  139  of communication device  100 . Internal devices  138  include computing, storage, communication, or sensing components depicted within housing  139 . I/O controller  137  supports the necessary configuration of connectors, electrical power, communication protocols, and data buffering to act as an interface between internal devices  138  and peripheral devices  140  and other components of communication device  100  that use a different configuration for inputs and outputs. 
     Communication device  100  is managed by controller  110 , which is communicatively coupled to image capturing devices  130   a - 130   b  and to at least one user interface device  142 , such as at least one microphone  132 . Image capturing device  130   a  and user interface device  142  allows a participant using communication device  100  to be an active participant in a video communication session with a second participant using a corresponding one of second communication device(s)  144   a - 144   d  that can be similarly configured and/or provide similar functionality as communication device  100 . Controller  110  is also communicatively coupled to at least one display device  133  that presents user interface  146  for the video communication session. In an example, controller  110  executes BPM application  112  and video conference application  113  stored in device memory  102  to configure communication device  100  to enable health related alerts and communication respectively with second communication device(s)  144   a - 144   d  in the video communication session. It is appreciated that second communication device(s)  144   a - 144   d  can be identically or similarly equipped with components and functionality described for communication device  100 . According to aspects of the present disclosure, communication device  100  can be communicatively coupled to one or more of image capturing devices (“ICD”)  130   c - 130   e  respectively provided for example by communication devices  144   c / 144   d  and peripheral device  140 . 
     Each of communication device  100  and second communication device(s)  144   a - 144   d  can be one of a host of different types of devices, including but not limited to, a mobile cellular phone, satellite phone, or smart-phone, a laptop, a net-book, an ultra-book, a networked smart watch or networked sports/exercise watch, and/or a tablet computing device or similar device that can include wireless and/or wired communication functionality. As an electronic device supporting wireless communication, communication device  100  can be utilized as, and also be referred to as, a system, device, subscriber unit, subscriber station, mobile station (MS), mobile, mobile device, remote station, remote terminal, user terminal, terminal, user agent, user device, a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phone, a wireless local loop (WLL) station, a personal digital assistant (PDA), computer workstation, a handheld device having wireless connection capability, a computing device, or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem. Within the description of the remaining figures, references to similar components presented in a previous figure are provided the same reference numbers across the different figures. Where the named component is presented with different features or functionality, a different reference numeral or a subscripted reference numeral is provided (e.g.,  100   a  in place of  100 ). 
     Referring now to the communication components and features of communication device  100 . Communication subsystem  104  of communication device  100  enables wireless communication with external communication system  148 . Communication sub system  104  includes antenna subsystem  150  having lower band antennas  151   a - 151   m  and higher band antenna arrays  152   a - 152   n  that can be attached in/at different portions of housing  139 . Communication subsystem  104  includes radio frequency (RF) front end  153  and communication module  154 . RF front end  153  includes transceiver(s)  155 , which includes transmitter(s)  156  and receiver(s)  157 . RF front end  153  further includes modem(s)  158 . RF front end  153  includes antenna feed/source networks  159 , antenna switch network  160 , antenna impedance sensor(s)  161 , and antenna matching network(s)  162 . Communication module  154  of communication sub system  104  includes baseband processor  163  that communicates with controller  110  and RF front end  153 . Baseband processor  163  operates in a baseband frequency range to encode data for transmission and decode received data, according to a communication protocol. Modem(s)  158  modulate baseband encoded data from communication module  154  onto a carrier signal to provide a transmit signal that is amplified by transmitter(s)  156 . Modem(s)  158  demodulates each signal received from external communication system  148  using by antenna subsystem  150 . The received signal is amplified and filtered by receiver(s)  157 , which demodulate received encoded data from a received carrier signal. Antenna feed/source networks  159  transmits or receives from particular portions of antenna subsystem  150  and can adjust a phase between particular portions of antenna subsystem  150 . Antenna switch network  160  can connect particular combinations of antennas ( 151   a - 151   m ,  152   a - 152   n ) to transceiver(s)  155 . Controller  110  can monitor changes in antenna impedance detected by antenna impedance sensor(s)  161  for determining portions of antenna subsystem  150  that are blocked. Antenna matching network(s)  162  are connected to particular lower band antennas  151   a - 151   m  to tune impedance respectively of lower band antennas  151   a - 151   m  to match impedance of transceiver(s)  155 . Antenna matching network(s)  162  can also be used to detune the impedance of lower band antennas  151   a - 151   m  to not match the impedance of transceiver(s)  155  to electromagnetically isolate a particular antenna. 
     In one or more embodiments, controller  110 , via communication subsystem  104 , performs multiple types of over-the-air (OTA) communication with network nodes  164  of external communication system  148 . Particular network nodes  164  can be part of communication networks  165  of public land mobile networks (PLMNs) that provide connections to plain old telephone systems (POTS)  166  for voice calls and wide area networks (WANs)  167  for data sessions. WANs  167  can include Internet and other data networks to communication device  100  and second communication device(s)  144   a / 144   b . The particular network nodes  164  can be cellular “cells”, base nodes, or base stations  168  that support cellular OTA communication using RAT as part of a radio access network (RAN). Unlike earlier generations of cellular services, where voice and data were handled using different RATs, both are now integrated with voice being considered one kind of data communication. Conventionally, broadband, packet-based transmission of text, digitized voice, video, and multimedia communication are provided using Fourth generation (4G) RAT of evolved UTMS radio access (E-UTRA), referred to a Long Term Evolved (LTE), although some cellular data service is still being provided by third generation (3G) Universal Mobile Telecommunications Service (UMTS). A fifth generation (5G) RAT, referred to as fifth generation new radio (5G NR), is being deployed to at least augment capabilities of 4G LTE with a yet higher capability of data transfer. Development continues for what will be six generation (6G) RATs and more advanced RATs. With wireless frequency spectrum seemingly ever expanding, additional antennas ( 151   a - 151   m ,  152   a - 152   n ) are incorporated to support newer radio access technologies (RATs) and multi band operation. Dual low band (2L) or quad low band (4L) multiple input multiple output (MIMO) operation dictates multiple antennas communicate on multiple bands simultaneously. 
     In one or more embodiments, network nodes  164  can be access node(s)  169  that support wireless OTA communication. Communication subsystem  104  can receive OTA communication from location services such as provided by global positioning system (GPS) satellites  170 . Communication subsystem  104  communicates via OTA communication channel(s)  172   a  with base stations  168 . Communication subsystem  104  communicates via wireless communication channel(s)  172   b  with access node(s)  169 . In one or more particular embodiments, access node(s)  169  supports communication using one or more IEEE 802.11 wireless local area network (WLAN) protocols. Wi-Fi™ is a family of wireless network protocols, based on the IEEE 802.11 family of standards, which are commonly used between user devices and network devices that provide Internet access. In one or more particular embodiments, communication subsystem  104  communicates with one or more locally networked devices  173  via wired or wireless link  172   c  provided by access node(s)  169 . Communication subsystem  104  receives GPS signal(s)  172   d  broadcast by GPS satellites  170  to obtain geospatial location information. 
     In one or more embodiments, controller  110 , via communication subsystem  104 , performs multiple types of OTA communication with local communication system  174 . In one or more embodiments, local communication system  174  includes wireless headset  175  and smart watch  176  that are coupled to communication device  100  to form a personal access network (PAN). Communication subsystem  104  communicates via low power wireless communication channel(s)  172   e  with wireless headset  175 . Communication subsystem  104  communicates via second low power wireless communication channel(s)  172   f , such as Bluetooth, with smart watch  176  such as used by person  123   a . In one or more particular embodiments, communication subsystem  104  communicates with second communication device(s)  144   c  via wireless link  172   g  to form an ad hoc network. 
     Data storage subsystem  106  of communication device  100  includes data storage device(s)  179 . Controller  110  is communicatively connected, via system interlink  180 , to data storage device(s)  179 . Data storage subsystem  106  provides applications, program code, and stored data on nonvolatile storage that is accessible by controller  110 . For example, data storage subsystem  106  can provide a selection of applications and computer data such as BPM application  112 , video conference application  113  and other application(s)  114  that use communication services. These applications can be loaded into device memory  102  for execution by controller  110 . In one or more embodiments, data storage device(s)  179  can include hard disk drives (HDDs), optical disk drives, and/or solid-state drives (SSDs), etc. Data storage subsystem  106  of communication device  100  can include removable storage device(s) (RSD(s))  181 , which is received in RSD interface  182 . Controller  110  is communicatively connected to RSD  181 , via system interlink  180  and RSD interface  182 . In one or more embodiments, RSD  181  is a non-transitory computer program product or computer readable storage device. Controller  110  can access RSD  181  or data storage device(s)  179  to provision communication device  100  with program code, such as code for BPM application  112 , video conference application  113 , and other application(s)  114 . 
     In one or more embodiments, I/O subsystem  108  includes network interface controller (NIC or “network interface”)  185  with a network connection (NC)  186 . Network cable  187  connects NC  186  to wired area network  188 . NIC  185  can be referred to as a “network interface” that can support one or more network communication protocols. Wired area network  188  can be a local area network (LAN), a campus area network (CAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), or a wide area network (WAN). For example, NC  186  can be an Ethernet connection. Second communication devices  144   d  is communicatively coupled to wired area network  188 . 
     Controller  110  manages, and in some instances directly controls, the various functions and/or operations of communication device  100 . These functions and/or operations include, but are not limited to including, application data processing, communication with second communication devices, navigation tasks, image processing, and signal processing. In one or more alternate embodiments, communication device  100  may use hardware component equivalents for application data processing and signal processing. For example, communication device  100  may use special purpose hardware, dedicated processors, general purpose computers, microprocessor-based computers, micro-controllers, optical computers, analog computers, dedicated processors and/or dedicated hard-wired logic. 
     Controller  110  includes processor subsystem  118 , which includes one or more central processing units (CPUs), depicted as data processor  189 . Processor subsystem  118  can include one or more digital signal processors  190  that are integrated with data processor  189 . Processor subsystem  118  can include other processors that are communicatively coupled to data processor  189 , such as baseband processor  163  of communication module  154 . In one or embodiments that are not depicted, controller  110  can further include distributed processing and control components that are external to housing  139  or grouped with other components, such as I/O subsystem  108 . Data processor  189  is communicatively coupled, via system interlink  180 , to device memory  102 . In one or more embodiments, controller  110  of communication device  100  is communicatively coupled via system interlink  180  to communication subsystem  104 , data storage subsystem  106 , and I/O subsystem  108 . 
     System interlink  180  represents internal components that facilitate internal communication by way of one or more shared or dedicated internal communication links, such as internal serial or parallel buses. As utilized herein, the term “communicatively coupled” means that information signals are transmissible through various interconnections, including wired and/or wireless links, between the components. The interconnections between the components can be direct interconnections that include conductive transmission media or may be indirect interconnections that include one or more intermediate electrical components. Although certain direct interconnections (system interlink  180 ) are illustrated in  FIG.  1   , it is to be understood that more, fewer, or different interconnections may be present in other embodiments. 
     According to one aspect, communication device  100  can function as a content-discerning “transmitting device” that operates as a host or presenter, providing one of multiple image streams  193   a - 193   d  to communicate to one or more second communication device(s)  144   a - 144   b  that function as “receiving device(s)” for remote participants. The multiple image streams  193   a - 193   d  can originate from different image capturing devices. In an example, image capturing devices  130   a - 130   b  of communication device  100  can provide respective ones of multiple image streams  193   a - 193   b . In another example, at least one of second communication devices  144   c - 144   d  is available locally to communication device  100  to provide a respective one or more of image streams  193   c - 193   d  to controller  110 . Communication device  144   d  includes image capturing device (ICD)  130   d . In an additional example, peripheral device  140  has image capturing device  130   e  that provides image stream  193   e  to controller  110 . Controller  110  configures communication device  100  and the communicatively connected one or more second communication devices  144   c - 144   e  and peripheral device  140  to perform functionality described herein by visually identifying positioning and movement by person  123  captured in one image stream  193   a - 193   e  that may be local or remote to communication device  100  According to one embodiment, controller  110  executes BPM application  112  and video conference application  113 , stored in a computer readable medium such as device memory  102 , to visually detect compliance with policies by person  123  using communication device  100  or one of second communication device(s)  144   a - 144   d.    
       FIG.  2    depicts a functional block diagram of a communication environment including a network communication device  100   a  having network server components that facilitates a video communication session and that automatically manages healthy participation by a participant who is using a second communication device, and within which the features of the present disclosure are advantageously implemented. In one or more embodiments, communication device  100   a  can have similar or identical components to communication device  100  with certain components unused or removed to enable communication device  100   a  to function as a network server. In one or more embodiment, communication device  100   a  is purpose assembled as a network server having controller  110  that manages device memory  102 , data storage subsystem  106 , and NIC  185 . Management console  196  can periodically communicatively connect to communication device  100   a  via wired area network  188  to configure program code such as BPM application  112  and video conference application  113  and data  119 . Controller  110  executes video conference application  113  to configure communication device  100   a  to facilitate one or more communication sessions for second communication device(s)  144 . In an example, second communication device(s)  144  are not configured to monitor healthy/ergonomic positioning and movement of a person using each second communication device  144 . In one or more embodiments, communication device  100   a  provides the functionality for prompting healthy body positioning and movement during computer usage. Communication device  100   a  receives image stream(s)  193  from second communication device(s)  144  and identifies positioning and/or body part movement by corresponding person  123  incorporated in each image stream  193 . Communication device  100   a  identifies particular health recommendations applicable to person  123  and communicates or transmits prompt  201  to the corresponding second communication device(s)  144  with the health recommendations. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure can promote healthy body positioning and movement for situations where a person is standing or sitting in a particular location for an extended period of time. Having at least one output device and at least one image capturing device near the person provides an opportunity for monitoring the person for body position and movement and then presenting customized alerts. In an example, the person is using the communication device as a computer workstation providing one or more applications. In another example, the person may be using a communication device for playing back media content such as a recorded classroom lecture. In an additional example, the person may be using a communication device for a live communication session as an active participant, sharing at least an audio stream with second communication devices. In a further example, the person may be using a communication device for a live communication session as a passive participant who is not called upon to respond. The communication device may not communicate an audio stream or may not communicate a video stream. When the image stream is communicated to another “receiving” communication device, that receiving communication device can provide the functionality of monitoring body positioning and movement of the person. In both instances when the image stream is communicated and when the image stream is not communicated, the local communication device may provide the functionality of monitoring positioning and movement of the person. A video communication session is an example of a situation in which a person may remain in a particular position for an extended period of time but is not the only such situation. The host or presenter of the video communication session may be a teacher, a lecturer, a trainer, a supervisor, an entertainer, a demonstrator, a religious figure, or other functionary. More than one person may take turns presenting visual and/or aural content to the communication session. Media content that is pre-recorded may constitute the entirety or a portion of the visual and/or aural content. Aspects of the present disclosure further apply to haptic or tactile content. 
       FIG.  3    depicts communication environment  301 , which manages monitoring of body positioning and movement of participants during a video communication session conducted across network  302  and provides prompting of health recommendations during the video communication session. For clarity, network  302  is depicted as a single node but may be a combination of wired and wireless connections as described above with regard to  FIG.  1   . Communication environment  301  includes host/teacher communication devices  300   a - 300   b  used by first person  123   a  that may have similar or identical components and functionality as described for communication device  100  ( FIG.  1   ). Communication device  300   a  is depicted as a smartphone. Communication device  300   b  is depicted as a laptop. Network communication device  300   c  is generally autonomous but can be controlled by management console  303  on occasion to make configuration changes. Network communication device  300   c  may have similar identical components and functionality of communication device  100   a  ( FIG.  2   ). Participant communication device  300   d  is operated/used by second person  123   b . In one or more embodiments, additional second communication device(s)  144   a - 144   z  are connected via network  302  to the video communication session and operated/used by corresponding additional participants  323   a - 323   z . First person  123   a  is creating speech  325   a  that is captured by microphone  132   a  of host/teacher communication device  300   a  and communicated as audio stream  327   a  to the video communication session. First person  123   a  is also creating written content  329   a  that is captured by image capturing device  130   a  of host/teacher communication device  300   a  and communicated as image stream  331   a  to the video communication session. Participant communication device  300   d  presents audio stream  327   a  and image stream  331   a  for second person  123   b . Microphone  132   b  of participant communication device  300   d  captures speech  325   b  by second person  123   b  as second audio stream  327   b  and may communicate second audio stream  327   b  to the video communication session if microphone function is not muted at participant communication device  300   d . Image capturing device  130   b  of participant communication device  300   d  has a field of view (FOV)  340  that captures second image stream  331   b , which incorporates second person  123   b . Participant communication device  300   d  may communicate second image stream  331   b  to the video communication session if image capturing device  130   b  is not disabled at participant communication device  300   d . Notably, even if second audio stream  327   b  and second image stream  331   b  are transmitted to and received by host/teacher communication devices  300   a - 300   b , host/teacher communication devices  300   a - 300   b  may not present second audio stream  327   b  and second image stream  331   b  to first person  123   a  or to other second persons participating in the video communication session. In addition, first person  123   a  may be occupied with presenting instructional content and be unable to monitor positioning of and/or movement by second person  123   b . Prompting for healthy positioning and movement may be performed in conjunction with monitoring other visually detected compliance factors such as attendance, attentiveness, proper attire, etc. Alternatively, prompting for healthy positioning and movement may be performed in situations in which attendance, attentiveness, proper attire, etc., are not tracked. Ergonomic compliance may be individually scored and reported as part of automated participant performance monitoring. Automated affirmations or cautions may be presented to participants to encourage proper ergonomic behaviors. In an example, messages are presented: (i) “You have been identified as a participant with best seating posture, well done!” (ii) “You have been blinking better that 40% of the participants, perhaps you should blink more often!” (iii) “There is an external noise detected which seem to be not related to this call and might disturb other participants, consider muting yourself!” In one or more embodiments, the messages are private to the applicable participant. In one or more embodiments, the ergonomic monitoring is furtherance of a video communication session. Non-compliance is flagged and reported to a host participant such as a trainer, teacher, or supervisor to support discussions during the session or later for improved behavior. In one or more embodiments, the reporting does not occur until after the participant has failed to respond to a private prompt. 
     Second person  123   b  may tend to be sedentary during the video communication sessions or to stare at participant communication device  300   d  for extended periods. According to different embodiments, one or more of host/teacher communication devices  300   a - 300   b , network communication device  300   c , and participant communication device  300   d  can perform the functionality of monitoring and prompting health recommendations related to positioning and/or movement of second person  123   b . In an example, to reduce transmission and computational overhead for host/teacher communication devices  300   a - 300   b  and network communication device  300   c , participant communication device  300   d  can be configured to monitor image stream  331   b  from image capturing device  130   b  and report health recommendation alerts to host/teacher communication devices  300   a - 300   b  and/or network communication device  300   c . In one or more embodiments, one or more of host/teacher communication devices  300   a - 300   b  and network communication device  300   c  receive second image stream  331   b  and manage transmission of health prompts to participant communication device  300   d , enabling participant communication device  300   d  to present health prompts even if participant communication device  300   d  is not specifically configured or equipped to perform the functionality of the present disclosure. 
     In one or more embodiments, 
       FIG.  4    depicts communication device  300   a  positioned to have FOV  403   a  for visually identifying position and/or movement by person  123 . In one embodiment, communication device  300   a  is positioned to detect position of eyes  405  of face  409  of person  123 . Communication device  300   a  is equipped with face visual library  407 , which can be a subset of BPM visual library  121 . Face visual library  407  provides facial recognition template or recognition rules for identifying face shape  411  that matches or is substantially similar to face  409 . In an example, face visual library  407  can provide other face shapes  411 ′ that do not match face  409  but would match other faces. In one or more embodiments, communication device  300   a  determines distance to face  409  and defines face shape  411  as being within a pre-defined range of face sizes. Facial features, such as mouth  413 , nose  415 , and left and right eyes  405   a ,  405   b , may be identified to be within a certain portion of face shape  411 . As shown, left and right eyes  405   a - 405   b  are within eye box area  417  of face shape  411  and left and right eyes  405   a - 405   b  are open. Controller  110  ( FIG.  1   ) of communication device  300   a  detects when left and right eyes  405   a - 405   b  become closed eyes  405   a ′- 405   b ′, such as when the person is blinking or when left and right eyes  405   a - 405   b  are closed for an extended period. 
     In another example, communication device  100   b  is positioned to detect posture of person  123  to be in one or more sitting and standing positions. In an example, FOV  403   b  of communication device  100   b  can detect an ergonomic (straight) posture of head  419 , neck  421  and back  423 . In another example, communication device  300   a ′ can detect one or more of: (i) feet  425  being flat on the floor or on a foot support; (ii) knees  427  bent between 90-120°; (iii) thighs  429  horizontal; (iv) arms  431  supported; (v) elbows  433  bent between 90-120°; (vi) display device  133  positioned about 18-24 inches and level with eyes  405 . In one or more embodiments, communication device  100   b  visually compares the current posture of person  123  to posture visual library  435 , which can be a subset of BPM visual library  121 . In an example, posture visual library  435  includes: (i) ergonomically correct standing posture image(s)  437 ; (ii) ergonomically incorrect standing posture image(s)  439 ; (iii) ergonomically correct sitting posture image(s)  441 ; and (iv) ergonomically incorrect sitting posture images  443   a - 443   d.    
     In one or more embodiments, one or more communication devices  100   a - 100   b  is/are positioned to monitor position and movement of person  123  but is/are not facilitating an activity for person  123 . In an example, person  123  is watching or listening to media content, is staring out of a window, is reading a book, or engaged in any other activity that tends to be sedentary and/or that enables bad posture. One or more communication devices  100   a - 100   b  may visually monitor person  123  and present, or cause to be presented, an alert to comply with a health recommendation. In an example, communication device  100   b  may be placed in an assistive living situation wherein one or more person  123  may remain seated for an extended period. An alert may prompt a particular person  123  to move when recommended or alert a care giver to prompt the particular person  123 . The amount of time for each person  123  may be customized. In an example, person  123  may have a circulatory situation in which blood clots in the legs may occur in a shorter time when not taking an anticoagulant drug. One or more communication devices  100   a - 100   b  may access settings specific to each identified person  123  within an image stream. 
       FIG.  5    depicts communication device  100  having user interface  146  that presents prompts related to health recommendations for positioning and/or movement of person  123  who uses communication device  100 . Visual content such as screen share  501  and image stream  503  are presented on display device  133  of communication device  100 . In an example, user interface  146  facilitates participation in a one-way or two-way video communication session by having video conference controls  505  such as: (i) “home” control; (ii) mute/unmute toggle control; (iii) stop/start video toggle control; (iv) view mode control; (v) chat window toggle control; (vi) share/unshare screen toggle control; (vii) start/stop record toggle control; and (viii) leave session control. User interface  146  can include chat interface  507 . Image capturing device  130  of communication device  100  monitors position/movement of person  123 . Communication device  100  presents one or more different alerts  509 - 513  to prompt person  123  to comply with health recommendations. In an example, alert  509  indicates how long person  123  has remained sitting and that person  123  should stand to ensure proper blood circulation in the legs. In another example, alert  511  indicates how long person  123  has not blinked and should blink or take a rest. In an additional example, alert  513  indicates that person  123  is not standing or sitting in an ergonomically correct position. To enhance the likelihood of the alert being noticed by person  123 , vibration output device  128  can vibrate. Similarly, light output device  129  can illuminate, such as with a blinking or colored light output, to gain the attention of person  123 . Alternatively, or in addition, audio output device(s)  136  can produce a tone or instructional audio outputs to prompt person  123 . 
       FIG.  5    depicts user interface  146 , which presents alerts on display device  133  of communication device  100 . In an example, user interface  146  provides control and user settings for a video communication session. First person  123  may operate communication device  100  by being positioned within detection range of image capturing device  130  and microphone  132  to produce an audiovisual stream that is communicated to second communication device(s)  144   a - 144   b  ( FIG.  1   ). User interface  146  provides general video communication session controls  505  such as “home” for settings, audio mute/unmute toggle, stop/start video toggle, view mode toggle, chat window selection, share screen toggle, record start/stop control, and video communication session join/leave toggle. 
     With reference now to the flow charts, there are presented method  600  ( FIG.  6   ) and method  700  ( FIGS.  7 A- 7 B ). Method  600 , depicted in  FIG.  6   , describe examples of functionality performed by one or more of host communication devices  300   a - 300   b  used by person  123   a , network communication device  300   c , or communication device  300   d  which is used by person  123   b  ( FIG.  3   ). The functionality includes prompting healthy positioning and movement of person  123   b  ( FIG.  3   ). Method  700 , depicted in  FIGS.  7 A- 7 B  (collectively  FIG.  7   ), provides for monitoring more than one health recommendation for prompting healthy positioning and movement of person  123   b  who uses communication device  300   d  ( FIG.  3   ). The descriptions of methods  600  and  700  are provided with general reference to the specific components illustrated within the preceding  FIGS.  1 - 5   , and specific components referenced in methods  600  and  700  may be identical or similar to components of the same name used in describing preceding  FIGS.  1 - 5   . 
     With reference to  FIG.  6   , method  600  includes receiving an image stream produced by at least one image capturing device, which is configured to have a field of view that incorporates a person positioned to gaze toward at least one display device (block  602 ). In one or more embodiments, aspects of the present disclosure assist the person who may be doing an activity that does not encourage or require gazing toward a display device. Method  600  includes identifying at least one of a position or movement of at least one body part of the person incorporated in the image stream by comparing one or more of two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) imaging data of a posture or eye movement of the person to one or more library templates (block  604 ). Method  600  includes determining at least one health recommendation associated with the position and/or movement of the at least one body part (e.g., unblinking open eyes, closed eyes, extended sitting, sitting in a non-ergonomic slouching posture, standing in a non-ergonomic posture) (block  606 ). 
     Method  600  includes determining whether the position and/or movement of the at least one body part is not in accordance with one or more pre-established health recommendations for more than a threshold period of time (decision block  608 ). In one or more embodiments, a different threshold period of time is applicable to each of at least one body part, body position, and/or movement. It is appreciated that method  600  may monitor concurrently for more than one health recommendation. In one or more embodiments, the health recommendation is further customized for a particular demographic category or pre-determined health history of the person. 
     In response to the determining that the position and/or movement of the at least one body part is not out of compliance with the health recommendation for more than the threshold period of time, method  600  returns block  602 . In response to determining that the position and/or movement of the at least one body part is not in accordance with the health recommendation for more than the threshold period of time, method  600  includes presenting a prompt requesting the person to reposition the at least one body part based on the health recommendation (block  610 ). The prompt can be presented on one or more of at least one display device and at least one audio output device. In one or more embodiments, method  600  includes presenting a second prompt on one or more of a light output device (e.g., blinking or colored light), an audio output device (e.g., alert tone), and a vibration output device to get the attention of the person who may not be paying attention to the at least one display device. 
     Method  600  includes waiting for a pre-established period of time (block  612 ). In an example, the pre-established period of time can be different for each different healthcare recommendation. For example, a recommendation to stand can be less time critical, allowing a longer pre-established period of time to elapse, such as 5-15 minutes, allowing the person to wait for an appropriate moment to stand. In another example, an inability to wake the person may indicate a serious health incident that requires a response with 15-60 seconds. With this example, failure of the person to respond to the prompt may indicate a more serious health condition that requires intervention by others. The health condition can be a known condition, and the method thus implements this periodic check on the participant&#39;s alertness/attentiveness, in part based on the health information known about the particular participant. Method  600  includes identifying whether the at least one body part has been repositioned, in response to and/or based on the prompt (decision block  614 ). In an example, blinking after being prompted to blink is an example of repositioning. In another example, standing after being prompted to stand is an example of repositioning. In a further example, opening the eyes after being prompted to open the eyes is an example of repositioning. In an additional example, straightening the head, neck, and back into an ergonomic posture after being prompted to straighten the posture is an example of repositioning. In yet another example, standing up after being prompted to change a poor ergonomic sitting posture is an example of repositioning. Adjusting seat heights for proper alignment of legs, knees and feet when prompted to correct leg position to a proper ergonomic position is an example of repositioning. In response to identifying that the at least one body part has been repositioned, method  600  returns to block  602 . In response to identifying that the at least one body part has not been repositioned, method  600  includes communicating an alert over a network to a host electronic device (block  616 ). Then method  600  returns to block  602 . 
       FIGS.  7 A- 7 B  ( FIG.  7   ) presents a flow diagram of method  700 , which includes responding to particular examples of healthcare recommendations related to positioning and moving body parts of a person. With reference to  FIG.  7 A , method  700  includes producing an image stream by at least one image capturing device of an electronic device (block  702 ). The at least one image capturing device is configured to have a field of view that incorporates a person positioned to gaze toward at least one display device. Method  700  includes communicatively connecting the electronic device over a network to one or more second electronic devices during a video communication session (block  704 ). Method  700  includes determining a health recommendation is associated with a position of at least one body part (block  706 ). Method  700  includes identifying a position of the at least one body part of the person incorporated in the image stream (e.g., eyes staring, eyes closed, seated with a non-ergonomic position, or standing with a non-ergonomic posture) (block  708 ). Method  700  includes determining whether the at least one body part is identified with the person being in a seated posture (decision block  710 ). In response to determining that the at least one body part is not identified with the person being in a seated posture, method  700  proceeds to decision block  720  ( FIG.  7 B ). In response to determining that the at least one body part indicates that the person is in a seated posture, method  700  includes determining whether the seated posture is a recommended ergonomic posture (decision block  712 ). In response to determining that the seated posture is a recommended ergonomic posture, method  700  proceeds to decision block  716 . In response to determining that the seated posture is not a recommended ergonomic posture, method  700  includes presenting a prompt for the person to reposition the seated posture to the recommended ergonomic posture (block  714 ). In response to determining that the seated posture is a recommended ergonomic posture in decision block  712  or after block  714 , method  700  includes determining whether the person has remained in a seated posture for more than a threshold period of time (decision block  716 ). In response to determining that the person has not remained in a seated posture for more than a threshold period of time, method  700  proceeds to decision block  720  ( FIG.  7 B ). In response to determining that the person has remained in a seated posture for more than a threshold period of time, method  700  includes presenting a prompt that includes prompting the person to stand. Then method  700  proceeds to decision block  720  ( FIG.  7 B ). Method  700  proceeds to decision block  720  after the “No” exit from either decision block  710  and  716  or after block  718 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  7 B , method  700  includes determining whether at least one eyelid has remained open and unblinking for more than a threshold period of time related to the minimum rate of blinking (decision block  720 ). In response to determining that the at least one eyelid has remained open and unblinking for more than a threshold period of time related to the minimum rate of blinking, method  700  includes presenting the prompt requesting the person to blink (block  722 ). Then method  700  returns to block  702  ( FIG.  7 A ). 
     In response to determining that the at least one eyelid has not remained open and unblinking for more than a threshold period of time related to the minimum rate of blinking, method  700  includes determining whether the at least one eyelid has remained closed for more than a second period of time (decision block  724 ). For clarity, decision block  724  may make determinations on being able to monitor one eye based on positioning of an image capturing device to one lateral side of the person. Additional functionality may be incorporated to detect that a person has a bandaged or covered eye that is not a closed eye. The functionality can include detecting that the person continues to gaze with one eye while the other eye is closed, such as to accommodate an irritated eye. The functionality may include determining that the particular person is visually impaired and that this health recommendation is not applicable to the person. In response to determining that the at least one eyelid has remained closed for more than the second period of time, method  700  includes activating an output device to produce one or more of a light output, an audio output, and a vibration output (block  726 ). In response to determining that the at least one eyelid has not remained closed for more than the second period of time, method  700  returns to block  702  ( FIG.  7 A ). 
       FIG.  8    depicts communication device  100  providing background noise alerts  801 - 802 , respectively, on external display device  803  and on communication device  100  to person  123 . Excessive background noise may violate a health recommendation for protecting hearing of person  123 . Reducing excessive background noise can further avoid a distraction to other persons who may receive an audio signal from communication device  100  and/or avoid person  123  having a degraded learning (or communication) experience. In one or more embodiments, communication device  100  dynamically and periodically evaluates background noise by determining what sounds  805 - 806  are intentionally produced respectively by communication device  100  and person  123  and what sounds  807  are produced by an external source such as audio output player  809 . In one or more embodiments, communication device  100  can determine a source of each sound  805 - 807  by at least one: (i) identifying an originating location of the sound; (ii) recognizing the sound; and (iii) comparing an audio signal that is communicated to an output device such as external display device  803  to an audio input sensed by microphone  132 . Communication device  100  can compare the current background noise level to one or more thresholds such as: (i) a first threshold below which it is allowable to share an audio stream to a video communication session; (ii) a second threshold that should not be exceeded for more than 30 seconds to avoid a personal distraction to person  123 ; and (iii) a third threshold that should not be exceeded for more than 10 minutes to avoid temporary hearing loss. 
       FIG.  9    depicts a flow diagram of method  900  performed by communication device  100  for prompting avoidance of an excessively noisy environment. Method  900  can be performed independently or in conjunction with monitoring of positioning and movement of person  123  ( FIG.  8   ). The descriptions of method  900  is provided with general reference to the specific components illustrated within the preceding  FIGS.  1 - 6 ,  7 A- 7 B, and  8   , and specific components referenced in method  900  may be identical or similar to components of the same name used in describing preceding  FIGS.  1 - 6 ,  7 A- 7 B, and  8   . Method  900  includes characterizing unique audio attributes of a voice of the person in the local audio stream for subsequent voice recognition (block  902 ). Method  900  includes receiving an audio stream from a second communication session (block  904 ). Method  900  includes communicating the audio stream to at least one audio output device that presents an audio output (block  906 ). Method  900  includes monitoring at least one microphone that detects audio input and produces a corresponding local audio stream (block  908 ). Method  900  includes determining a background noise level contained in the local audio stream by excluding the voice of the person and the audio output from the received audio stream (block  910 ). Method  900  includes determining whether the background noise level exceeds a non-compliant noise level (decision block  912 ). In response to the background noise level not exceeding the non-compliant noise level, method  900  returns to block  904 . In response to the background noise level not exceeding the non-compliant noise level, method  900  includes presenting an alert on at least one display device (block  914 ). Then method  900  returns to block  904 . 
     In one or more embodiments, method  900  includes receiving an image stream produced by at least one image capturing device that is configured to have a field of view that incorporates a person positioned to gaze toward at least one display device. Method  900  includes identifying at least one of a position or movement of at least one body part of the person incorporated in the image stream. Method  900  includes determining whether a health recommendation is associated with the position and/or movement of the at least one body part. Method  900  includes presenting a prompt at the at least one display device requesting the person to reposition the at least one body part based on the health recommendation being associated with the position and/or movement of the at least one body part. 
     In one or more embodiments, method  900  further includes identifying the position of the at least one body part by comparing one of two-dimensional and three-dimensional imaging data of a posture of the person to one or more library templates that are each identified as one of ergonomically correct and ergonomically incorrect. Method  900  includes determining whether the health recommendation is associated with the position by determining whether the posture is a recommended ergonomic posture. Method  900  includes presenting the prompt to request the person reposition at least the one body part in order to have a posture that aligns with the recommended ergonomic posture. 
     In one or more embodiments, method  900  further includes the at least one body part is at least one eyelid. The health recommendation is a minimum rate of blinking of an eyelid. Method  900  includes determining whether the at least one eyelid has remained open or closed and unblinking for more than a blinking threshold period of time corresponding to the minimum rate of blinking. Method  900  includes presenting the prompt notifying the person at least one of: (i) to blink; and (ii) to take a rest break. 
     In one or more embodiments, method  900  further includes identifying the position of the at least one body part by detecting a seated posture. Method  900  includes determining whether the health recommendation is associated with the position by determining whether the person has remained in a seated position for more than a sitting threshold period of time. Method  900  includes presenting the prompt notifying the person to stand based on determining that the person has remained in a seated position for more than the sitting threshold period of time. 
     In one or more embodiments, method  900  further includes presenting the prompt by: (i) triggering one or more of the at least one output device to generate a corresponding output from among the light output, the audio output, and the vibration output; and (ii) presenting one or more of a notification with specific information about a change that is required via one or more of the at least one display device and the audio output device. 
     In one or more embodiments, method  900  further includes: (i) identifying whether the at least one body part has been repositioned, in response to the prompt, within a pre-established response period of time; and (ii) communicating an alert over a network to a host electronic device in response to determining that the at least one body part has not been repositioned within the response period of time. 
     In one or more embodiments, method  900  further includes monitoring at least one eyelid of the person as the at least one body part. Method  900  includes determining whether the at least one eyelid has remained closed for more than a threshold period of time. Method  900  includes activating an output device that produces one or more of a light output, an audio output, and a vibration output in an attempt to wake the person. In one or more particular embodiments, method  900  further includes: (i) determining whether the person has opened the at least one eyelid within a response threshold period of time following the activation of the output device; and (ii) communicating an alert over the network to a host electronic device in response to determining that the person has not opened the at least one eyelid within the response period of time. 
     In one or more embodiments, method  900  further includes monitoring at least one microphone that detects audio input and produces a corresponding local audio stream. Method  900  includes characterizing unique audio attributes of a voice of the person in the local audio stream for subsequent voice recognition. During the video communication session, method  900  includes: (i) receiving, via the at least one network interface and the network, a received audio stream from the video communication session; (ii) presenting the received audio stream at the at least one audio output device as an audio output; (iii) determining a background noise level contained in the local audio stream by excluding the voice of the person and the audio output from the received audio stream; and (iv) presenting an alert on the at least one display device in response to the background noise level exceeding a noise threshold level related to the health recommendation. 
     Aspects of the present innovation are described above with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the innovation. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. 
     As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, embodiments of the present innovation may be embodied as a system, device, and/or method. Accordingly, embodiments of the present innovation may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment or an embodiment combining software and hardware embodiments that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module” or “system.” 
     While the innovation has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made, and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the innovation. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular system, device, or component thereof to the teachings of the innovation without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the innovation not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed for carrying out this innovation, but that the innovation will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, the use of the terms first, second, etc. do not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one element from another. 
     The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the innovation. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprise” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. 
     The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present innovation has been presented for purposes of illustration and description but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the innovation in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the innovation. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the innovation and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the innovation for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.