Abstract: A system consisting of interconnectible, hearing-assistive, portable “units” which can address communication problems that persons who are hard of hearing experience in many social settings (such as while dining out with friends in a noisy restaurant). The system allows each unit operator to share multiple audio input signals coming into any of the connected units with the other participants using the system. The operator is also able to selectively amplify one or more of the incoming audio signals (such as from the voices of one or more of the participants) while blocking out or turning down another (such as from background music). The units are capable of integrating audio signals with video, word processing and internet data. An innovative method for improving communication for persons who are hard of hearing in public and private settings is also claimed.

Abstract: Improvements to a system for enhancing the quality of group interaction, group activities, and group environments over computer networks. New features include the capacity for participants to form subgroups within a larger group, as well as to move about a virtual environment, interacting with other participants they come across in the environment as desired. Unique methods for creating and distributing structured group programs for use on the system, for playing computerized board games or card games on the system, and for building virtual social environments using the system are also disclosed. The system creates improved virtual environments for high-tech business meetings, on-line classrooms, conferences, group counseling sessions, internet trade shows, and private meeting places where family and friends can spend quality time together.