Patent ID: 8533596
Filing Date: 2013-09-10
Classification: G06F,G06Q

Abstract:
1. A method for isolating a plurality of avatars belonging to a virtual space in a virtual universe, comprising: accessing a predefined grouping method associated with the virtual space; accessing grouping information associated with each of the plurality of avatars belonging to the virtual space based the predefined grouping method; dynamically grouping each of the plurality of avatars belonging to the virtual space according to the predefined grouping method and grouping information, said dynamic grouping defined as changing grouping information upon each avatar's entry into a new virtual space; and isolating each of the plurality of avatars belonging to the virtual space based on the grouping, said groups being isolated from one another so they may exist in the same virtual space without overcrowding or a need to duplicate the virtual environment, said isolating comprising applying visibility and transparency properties among avatars based on said avatars' grouping information to allow for any one group to be isolated from other groups while occupying a same said virtual space, and while members of said group remain joined with each other, said visibility and transparency properties comprising video, audio, chat and physical isolation among groups so that said groups do not interfere with one another in the same virtual space.