Abstract: A network-accessible virtual environment includes objects that represent users of a service. The users are allowed to control their representative objects in the virtual environment to interact with other users represented in the virtual environment and also to become voice-enabled. Those users who are voice-enabled can speak with other voice-enabled users via phones.

Abstract: A virtual representation includes objects that represent participants (i.e., users) in a teleconference. Volume of sound data in the teleconference is controlled according to how the users change location and relative orientation of their objects in the virtual representation.

Abstract: A virtual reality environment is applied to teleconferencing such that the environment is used to enter into a teleconference.

Abstract: A local computer generates requests for a remote computer to control a remotely-located lighting load. The local computer generates and displays a control panel, which prompts a user to enter an intensity for the remotely located lighting load. When an intensity is entered into the computer, the computer generates a lighting control request and sends the lighting control request to the remote computer. The remote computer controls power to the remotely-located lighting load according to the lighting control request.

Abstract: A lighting control system includes a server that is instructed by a lighting daemon to receive lighting control requests on a computer network and respond to the lighting control requests. Each lighting control request identifies a lighting load (directly or indirectly) and a lighting load state (e.g., full intensity) for the identified lighting load. When the server receives a lighting control request over the network, it is instructed to generate proprietary commands for an interface module, which controls the identified lighting load according to the lighting load state. Thus, the server allows lighting loads to be controlled by any Network Appliances connected to a computer network. Network Appliances can include web browsers, Virtual Light Switches and smart sensors.

Abstract: A lighting control system for multiple lighting loads includes a computer that displays a pictograph and a lighting control panel. The pictograph includes selectable representations of the lighting loads. A particular lighting load is controlled by selecting a lighting state such as "on" or "off" on the lighting control panel and selecting a representation of the particular lighting load on the pictograph.