Integration of CAD/CAE with multimedia teleconferencing and messaging via broadband networks and shared resource servers

It is noted that, if multimedia electronic meeting and messaging systems were tightly integrated with networked CAE/CAD (computer-aided engineering and design) resources, great value could be added to modern design projects. Work in Bellcore's Integrated Media Architecture Laboratory (IMAL) relevant to these and other related capabilities is described. A working premises-based network with shared CAD/CAE systems, conferencing, and messaging servers, encompassing video, graphics, text and audio, has been constructed as part of the Bellcore IMAL project. The example IMAL network can be duplicated with off-the-shelf products and can be extended to link multiple premise locations through the use of commonly available DS-3 codecs and telephone-company-provided DS-3 fibers.<<ETX>>