Networked Virtual Reality and Cooperative Work

Abstract

We explore the issue of supporting cooperative work using networked virtual reality. This exploration covers three major themes: supporting communication and awareness, structuring space, and embodying users. Correspondingly, three sets of concepts are introduced. The first is a spatial model of interaction, which defines the mechanisms of aura, awareness, focus, nimbus, and adapters to allow the inhabitants of virtual environments to flexibly manage their communication across a number of media. The second is a set of techniques for constructing Populated Information Terrains (PITS), abstract data spaces that support the cooperative browsing of information. The third is a set of design issues for virtual bodies. Each set of concepts is illustrated with a discussion of prototype applications implemented within our own DIVE and MASSIVE networked virtual reality systems.