Abstract: A system for extracting and transplanting live video avatar images including a depth sensor for creating a depth map based first live video avatar of a user or object disposed in a heterogeneous first environment with an arbitrary background; a processor coupled to the depth sensor; code fixed in a tangible medium for execution by the processor for extracting the depth map from the first environment to provide an extracted depth map based live video avatar; and a display system coupled to the processor for showing the extracted depth map based live video avatar in a second environment diverse from the first environment. In a second embodiment, the system includes a camera coupled to the processor to provide live video images of the user in the first environment and code for spatially filtering the images to provide a spatially filtered extracted second live video avatar.

Abstract: A system for extracting and transplanting live video avatar images including a depth sensor for creating a depth map based first live video avatar of a user or object disposed in a heterogeneous first environment with an arbitrary background; a processor coupled to the depth sensor; code fixed in a tangible medium for execution by the processor for extracting the depth map from the first environment to provide an extracted depth map based live video avatar; and a display system coupled to the processor for showing the extracted depth map based live video avatar in a second environment diverse from the first environment. In a second embodiment, the system includes a camera coupled to the processor to provide live video images of the user in the first environment and code for spatially filtering the images to provide a spatially filtered extracted second live video avatar.

Abstract: A system and method for volumetric display of video images extracted from arbitrary background environments comprising an arrangement for extracting a video image in real time from an arbitrary background and creating a stream of extracted image data in response thereto and a free space or volumetric display operationally adapted to display the stream.

Abstract: A system and method for combining computer generated 3D environments (virtual environments) with satellite images. In a specific application, the system enables users to see and communicate with each other as live avatars in the computer generated environment in real time.

Abstract: A system and method for creating a live 3D avatar and effecting interworld operability. The system includes an arrangement for providing a 3D wireframe or surface; an arrangement for providing a series of images; and an arrangement for mapping the series of images onto the wireframe or surface. A mechanism is included for predistorting the images prior to mapping. An additional mechanism is included for simulating the lower body of the user, preferably based on the upper body thereof. Ideally, the system and method is implemented in software stored on a machine readable medium and executed by a processor.

Abstract: A system and method for volumetric display of video images extracted from arbitrary background environments comprising an arrangement for extracting a video image in real time from an arbitrary background and creating a stream of extracted image data in response thereto and a free space or volumetric display operationally adapted to display the stream.

Abstract: A system and method for providing a functional virtual environment with real time extracted and transplanted images. The system includes hardware and software for providing a multi-dimensional computer generated environment and for receiving a plurality of extracted video images. The system is adapted to transplant the extracted video images into the environment in a manner that preserves the virtual metaphor thereof. In the illustrative embodiment, a realistic virtual city is created in accordance with the Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML) protocol. The extracted images are transplanted onto an object in the environment as a texture. In the best mode, the object is invisible. The extracted video images are streamed continuously into the environment such that a live real time interaction is enabled. The environment is networked and the system is adapted to receive multiple simultaneous streams which are transplanted and exported to enable a virtual community.

Abstract: A virtual workstation and network, each virtual workstation including a virtual environment controller for creating a display of a virtual representation of a work area and tools and assets therein. An interface processes inputs from a user and provides environment control signals to the environment controller, which adjusts the display to provide an image which appears to allow the user to virtually move within the work area and access the tools and assets therein. An intuitive controller is provided for activating each of the tools and assets when they are accessed virtually in the environment. A first embodiment provides a realistic three-dimensional representation of an office. To facilitate remote management and supervision, the invention provides a virtual or real image of coworkers on intuitive command. Thus, one user may virtually walk into the office of another worker and have face to face meeting while viewing and editing a common document.

Abstract: A virtual workstation includes a virtual environment controller for creating a display of a virtual representation of a work area and tools and assets therein. A virtual interface processes inputs from a user and provides environmental control signals to the environmental controller which adjusts the display to provide an image which allows the user to move within the work area and access tools and assets virtually. An intuitive controller activates the tools and assets in background for virtual access by anticipating access based on virtual motion within the environment. A first embodiment provides a realistic three dimensional office representation in a network of workstations facilitating remote management and supervision by providing virtual or real images of coworkers on intuitive command. A second embodiment provides a virtual trade show with live or virtual imagery allowing the user to attend remotely as the trade show happens.