Abstract: An internet-based conferencing system simulates the experience of Citizens' Band (CB) radio communications without the use of CB radio transceivers. Instead of direct RF links between participants, the CBI system employs a combination of user-resident application software, central server-based conferencing software, GPS location data, and Voice over IP (VoIP) or voice over cellular technology. In the set-up procedure of the application software, the participant selects an alias CB-style “handle” and a caricature picture, neither of which disclose the true identity or location of the participant. Since the participants are known only by their alias and caricature, their anonymity is preserved, thereby enabling greater freedom of expression and interpersonal tolerance. Participants do not select the other participants in their conference, but are assigned to a virtual “channel” based on a selected conference category and proximity criteria, thereby simulating the serendipity of CB radio communications.

Abstract: An internet-based conferencing system simulates the experience of Citizens' Band (CB) radio communications without the use of CB radio transceivers. Instead of direct RF links between participants, the CBI system employs a combination of user-resident application software, central server-based conferencing software, GPS location data, and Voice over IP (VoIP) or voice over cellular technology. In the set-up procedure of the application software, the participant selects an alias CB-style “handle” and a caricature picture, neither of which disclose the true identity or location of the participant. Since the participants are known only by their alias and caricature, their anonymity is preserved, thereby enabling greater freedom of expression and interpersonal tolerance. Participants do not select the other participants in their conference, but are assigned to a virtual “channel” based on a selected conference category and proximity criteria, thereby simulating the serendipity of CB radio communications.

Abstract: An internet-based conferencing system simulates the experience of Citizens' Band (CB) radio communications without the use of CB radio transceivers. Instead of direct RF links between participants, the CBI system employs a combination of user-resident application software, central server-based conferencing software, GPS location data, and Voice over IP (VoIP) technology. In the set-up procedure of the application software, the participant selects an alias CB-style “handle” and a caricature picture, neither of which disclose the true identity or location of the participant. Since the participants are known only by their alias and caricature, their anonymity is preserved, thereby enabling greater freedom of expression and interpersonal tolerance. Participants do not select the other participants in their conference, but are assigned to a virtual “channel” based on a selected conference category and proximity criteria, thereby simulating the serendipity of CB radio communications.