초록 ▼

A virtual workstation and network, each virtual workstation including a virtual environment controller for creating a display of a virtual representation of a work area and tools and assets therein. An interface processes inputs from a user and provides environment control signals to the environment

A virtual workstation and network, each virtual workstation including a virtual environment controller for creating a display of a virtual representation of a work area and tools and assets therein. An interface processes inputs from a user and provides environment control signals to the environment controller, which adjusts the display to provide an image which appears to allow the user to virtually move within the work area and access the tools and assets therein. An intuitive controller is provided for activating each of the tools and assets when they are accessed virtually in the environment. A first embodiment provides a realistic three-dimensional representation of an office. To facilitate remote management and supervision, the invention provides a virtual or real image of coworkers on intuitive command. Thus, one user may virtually walk into the office of another worker and have face to face meeting while viewing and editing a common document. An alternate embodiment provides for a virtual trade show allowing the user to attend a trade show as it happens with live or virtual imagery. The invention allows a camera at the trade show to move through the show under remote control. This imagery may be combined with virtual imagery which may depict a top level graphical show directory or floor plan.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A virtual workstation comprising:virtual environment controller means for creating a display of a virtual representation of a work area and tools and assets therein;virtual interfacing means for processing inputs from a user to provide environment control signals to said

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A virtual workstation comprising:virtual environment controller means for creating a display of a virtual representation of a work area and tools and assets therein;virtual interfacing means for processing inputs from a user to provide environment control signals to said environment controller means by which said environment controller means adjusts the display to provide an image which appears to allow the user to move within said work area and utilize said tools and assets depicted therein; andintuitive control means for activating at least one of said tools or assets based on the apparent movement or location of the user in said work area relative to the respective tool or asset whereby, as a result of said apparent movement or location of the user in said work area relative to the respective tool or asset software called by said tool or asset runs on standby in the background and is available for immediate execution based on certain subsequent inputs from a user.