Computer method and apparatus for video conferencing

Computer apparatus for remote communication of images and graphics comprising:

• a communication channel;
• and
• a multiplicity of workstations coupled to the communication channel for communication across a distance, such that at least one of the workstations is remote from a second one of the workstations, each workstation in the multiplicity having (i) input means enabling user input of image data through the workstation to the communication channel for transmission thereon, (ii) a display monitor, and (iii) a computer graphics and animation assembly for forming views of a subject from parameter values using hyper basis function interpolation with respect to predefined sample views;
• in response to user input at the one workstation of parameter values of desired views, the second workstation receiving the input parameter values across the communication channel and using its computer graphics and animation assembly forms the desired views and displays said views on the display monitor of the second workstation, such that the views are displayed remotely from the one workstation.

A method for remote communication of computer images and graphics, comprising the steps of:

• providing a low bandwidth communication channel;
• coupling a first workstation to one end of the communication channel, the first workstation including a display monitor and an input device for user input of data to the first workstation end of the communication channel;
• coupling a second workstation to an opposite end of the communication channel such that data is able to be transmitted between the first and second workstations, the second workstation including (a) a display monitor, (b) input means, and (c) a computer graphics and animation assembly for forming views of a subject using interpolation of input parameters of the views with respect to predefined initial sample views;
• at the first workstation end of the communication channel, inputting parameters of desired views, and transmitting said input parameters across the communication channel from the first workstation to the second workstation;
• and
• receiving the input parameters at the second workstation, and using the computer graphics and animation assembly of the second workstation, forming the desired views and displaying said views on the display monitor of the second workstation, such that the desired views are displayed remotely from the first workstation.