Communication system for controlling the sequence and duration of speeches at public debates

摘要

The present invention is a communication system for use in debates, for example, in Congress, Parliament, Presidential elections, online meetings, webinars, etc. The system includes multiple single-channel, time-controlled microphones, each having a STOP button. The STOP button activates the next speaker's microphone and timer while turning off the timer and microphone of the current speaker. The microphones can only be activated by the host or by the STOP button of another microphone. This prevents speakers from interrupting one another. If the time limit is reached, STOP button-activated-control is relinquished to the next speaker and his/her timer and microphone is activated. The remaining and/or elapsed time of each speaker may be displayed on computer screens of each participant, on a display for the audience and/or on lighted digital displays and/or dials. Time limits and the sequence of speeches may be altered by the host.