A Case Study: Web Enabled Virtual Reality Robotics Training System

Virtual Reality Robotics Training System is the use of desk-top Virtual Reality (VR) system for preparing a user to operate on a real robotics system. The computer system presents the user with a view of a virtual robotics system. The virtual world replicates actions of the actual robotics system. The view will be a 3D scene and a user can immerse in this virtual world by wearing a Head Mounted Display. As the user of system, he can move around a virtual robotics system through the use of foot switches, go to a particular view of the system and operate or control it just like the real machine. A virtual teach pendant will appear and the machine can be operated individually by activating the contact buttons of the pendant using a trackball. All sound normally heard in the operation of the actual system is replicated so that the user would be able to tell both visually as well as aurally if the actions are correct. With Internet fast moving towards full 3D multimedia, interactive platform, it is possible to link the virtual world to the real physical system and place the virtual world on the Internet so that user can control, operate, and manipulate the physical system remotely. This paper investigates the possibility of using such a virtual training system without having to invest on an actual system but achieving the same training effectiveness as the actual system. It also describes how the training system could be remotely operated using Virtual Reality technology through a platform independent, Internet enabled graphical user interface with real time video feedback. Possible applications of this case study include tele-control of robot in hazardous environments, remote diagnosis of manufacturing systems, tele-manufacturing and high value-added training.