Patent ID: 6169545
Filing Date: 2001-01-02
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
Data processing apparatus configured as a virtual environment data browser, the apparatus comprising a processor coupled with a least one memory device and data network interface means capable of receiving data defining a virtual environment and objects therein when coupled to a data network including a source of such data, the apparatus further comprising user input means and being configured to periodically generate an image based on said data defining the virtual environment and objects and from a viewpoint at a location and with an orientation in said virtual environment determined at least partially by input from said user input means; characterized in that the apparatus is arranged to maintain a record in the form of a master list in the memory identifying two or more different types of data assets received via said network and stored in the memory wherein the master list is subdivided into respective sections for each asset type, to scan the master list to determine whether a particular asset is already stored on encountering a subsequent apparatus requirement for that asset and, if not, to formulate and send to the remote source of data via the data network a request for supply of said asset.