Collaborative multimedia architecture for packet-switched data networks

Abstract

A collaborative multimedia system includes a plurality of notebook processes operatively interconnected over a computer network to a conference server, and, an optional podium process capable of controlling the priority of communications within the conference. The notebook processes are capable of privately communicating with other conference participants in addition to participating in the conference. A sophisticated graphic user interface provides public and private whiteboard areas by which graphic information may be exchanged with other processes in a conference or over separate communication link.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A collaborative multimedia system for use with a plurality of computer processes and servers interconnected by a computer network comprises: 
 a plurality of client processes, each process coupled to the computer network and addressable by a network protocol address;    a connection server operatively coupled to the network and capable of interacting with one or more of the client processes to provide information services;    a conference server operatively coupled to the computer network and responsive to one or more of the client processes for enabling conferenced communications among the client processes to which communication links are established.    
     
     
         2 . The collaborative multimedia system of  claim 1  further comprising: 
 a control process, operatively coupled to the computer network and the conference server for controlling the priority of communications in a conference among the plurality of client processes.  
 
     
     
         3 . The collaborative multimedia system of  claim 1  wherein one or more client processes on a conference communication may communicate individually on a separate communication link.