Multiplex system capable of dividing a group into several subgroup in simple procedure

Abstract

A conference terminal is incorporated in a multicast conferencing system. The conference terminal receives a request for division into groups. The request includes information indicating that the terminal belongs to which group. The terminal then produces, in response to the request, only the stream data coming from one or more other conference terminals belonging to the same group as the terminal. This production is realized by selectively accepting such stream data at a reception unit to which all stream data are transmitted from all the terminals having the same multicast address. Alternatively, the production is realized by selectively re-writing stream data at a scene re-writer. Thus, the produced stream data are replayed and displayed. The division of an entire group into plural small groups can be performed without additionally issuing multicast addresses.

Description

Field of invention:

[0001] The present invention relates to a multicast system in which a plurality of terminals are distributed and connected via a network so that data can be transmitted in a multicast mode in the system. By way of example, the present invention is implemented as a multicast conference system having such a structure and capable of dividing an entire multicast conference group into a plurality of multicast conference groups with a simpler procedure. Background of the invention:

[0002] related technology

[0003] There has been a heightened demand for videoconferencing systems that allow people to meet, meet, meet, conference, or other event (ie, "conference") that are located far apart from each other. A multicast conferencing system is an example of such a system.

[0004] A conventional system of a multicast conference is shown in FIG. 1, in which a plurality of conference terminals 2001-a to 2001-d are connected to each other via a communication netw...

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