Networked virtual environments

The Virtual Environment Realtime Network (VERN) is an object oriented testbed for the interconnection of environments over a network of graphical workstations. VERN is based on extensions to the networking technology of the DARPA sponsored SIMNET combined combat training system and the Distributed Interactive Simulation protocol being developed as a DOD standard. It allows for multiple participants to interact in an environment. sharing ideas and solving problems, regardless of their physical locations. Furthermore, dramatic reconstructions of historical events for education or entertainment will be possible. Indeed, much of the impact of VERN is likely to result from the ability of participants to learn from each other even if they and their machines are separated by long distances.