The Cutting Edge: COMPUTING / TECHNOLOGY / INNOVATION : Sick Kids to Get ‘Virtual Playspace’

Steven Spielberg’s Starbright Foundation said Tuesday that it plans to develop an on-line computer network that aims to link seriously ill children in hospitals worldwide. A pilot program involving several U.S. hospitals is set to be launched this summer.

Using high-speed telecommunications equipment and mobile computer workstations, the children will be able to dial into the network from their beds and talk to other kids logged into a three-dimensional “virtual playspace.”

Designed by Worlds Inc., the software will allow them to choose an animated character to represent themselves in the on-line world. And the broad-band connection will enable participants unable to type to engage in real-time video and voice communication.

In addition to Worlds Inc., UB Networks, Intel Corp. and Sprint Corp. will provide the equipment for the multimillion-dollar venture.

Starbright officials said the recovery of very sick children, such as bone marrow transplant patients, is often slowed by their isolation from peers.