HoloPort - A Device for Simultaneous Video and Data Conferencing Featuring Gaze Awareness

Complex business processes and globally distributed teams require new means to support net-based teamwork. Here, virtual reality technologies offer new ways to a more intuitive collaboration. In this paper, a system setup dubbed HoloPort is presented, which enables intuitive point-to-point video conferencing between two small groups. The device features gaze awareness between local and remote conferees during video and data conferences, and pen-based on-screen interaction. After an introduction to tele-collaboration systems, the working principle of the proposed HoloPort is illustrated, and the device’s individual components are described in detail. Then, different application scenarios using the HoloPort are discussed. Finally, the paper concludes with an outlook on future improvements.