Abstract: The present invention is an interactive video training system with bar code access for use in combination with a videodisc on which training material is stored and a workbook having a printed index of the training material. A unique bar code is associated with each unique item in the printed index. The training system includes a bar code reading device for reading each unique bar code and a videodisc player for playing the training material which is stored on the videodisc. The videodisc player has a first microprocessor for receiving mode inputs and address inputs and a driving mechanism for rotatively driving the videodisc. The training system also includes a second microprocessor which is electrically coupled to the bar code reading device. The second microprocessor receives an input signal from the bar code reading device and processes the input signal in order to generate a set of output signals, which are the mode inputs and the address inputs.

Abstract: A teleconference system for N conferees, N being greater than two, includes at least two separate stations. Each station has N conferee positions, confronting a virtual conference space, and corresponding conferee positions at each station have the same relative locations about the virtual conference space. At least one conferee position at each station is adapted to be occupied by a conferee in person. Surrogate conferees, which include a video display, a video camera, and a loudspeaker, occupy each conferee position not adapted to be occupied by a conferee in person. Each video display faces one conferee and displays the image of another conferee at a corresponding position at another station; the loudspeaker reproduces the voice of the other conferee. The video camera forms image signals of the one conferee and couples these signals to the display device of a surrogate conferee at a conferee position corresponding to the position of the one conferee at the other station.