Abstract: A distributed connection management system for an interactive multimedia network that controls the allocation and recovery of bandwidth resources in the network between client and server. The connection manager accepts as input the topology of a network to be controlled and partitions the local access portion of the network into separately administered neighborhoods. Resources for each of the partitioned neighborhoods are allocated by a replicated neighborhood connection manager. The remainder of the network is partitioned into the switched ATM network and into server network resources. Resources within the switched ATM network are administered by an ATM connection manager. Resources into and out of the servers are managed using a server connection manager.

Abstract: A system and method for facilitating communication between layers in a multi-layer system. Opaque information is utilized to pass information between layers in an indirect communication. A single horizontal communication between the highest layer in a first communication end of the system passes opaque information collected from all lower layers to the highest layer in a second communication end. Vertical communications are utilized to distribute the opaque information to the intended layer.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for implementing intelligent work surfaces are provided. Work surfaces, such as desktops and floors, are covered with a tactile sensing array to provide tactile data to a processor. Regions on the sensing arrays may be defined to include predetermined sensing elements of the sensing array and may be specified to function as input devices, such as a keyboard, a mouse, or the like. Once defined, regions may be redefined to reposition a specified input device. Regions also may be respecified to function as a different input device. The arrays also may collect data at predetermined intervals for analysis, such as for identifying an individual or an object. For example, the force-image of an individual's handprint or footprint could be taken, analyzed, and compared against data representing the force-images of known individuals.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for dynamically varying the resolution of a tactile sensor array. Sensing elements in the array are selectively coupled to reduce the resolution of the array, thereby permitting very fast sampling rates with low resolution, while retaining the ability to sample with higher resolution at lower sampling rates. Sensing elements may be coupled, for example, through the sensor array addressing circuitry. The present invention permits a single sensor array to be used for both low and high resolution applications, thereby eliminating the need to change sensors between applications or to maintain several sets of sensor arrays.