A distributed multiparty desktop conferencing system and its architecture

A distributed multiparty desktop conferencing system (MERMAID) and the architecture on which it is based are described. This architecture is a framework for assisting geographically separate group members to work together at the same time or at different times, efficiently and effectively, by means of computers and electronic communications equipment. The desktop conferencing system provides distributed participants, seated at their desks, with an environment for holding conferences. This system is implemented by using ISDN, satellite communication, and Unix-based EWSs with electronic writing pads, image scanners, video cameras, microphone-installed loudspeakers etc. The system provides participants with the means of for sharing information in such multimedia forms as video images, voice, text, graphics, static images, and hand drawn figures