Robotic kinematics teaching system with virtual reality, remote control and an on–site laboratory

Abstract

Given the ever-growing need for robotics learning, an experimental teaching model was developed in combination with virtual reality, remote control and an on-site laboratory to support robotic kinematics teaching. Based on the Browser/Server mode, a kinematics simulation platform of a 6-DOF articulated robot and a 4-DOF SCARA robot was established. Furthermore, a Client/Server mode SCARA robot’s remote-control system was developed along with a simulation with the same functionality and interface. Experiments with virtual reality simulation can eliminate the safety concerns associated with real-world robot operations. Test resources can be web-shared for wider audiences. Remote-controlled experiments could operate the robot off-site and achieve the same results as on-site operations. Virtual reality and remote-controlled experiments could also alleviate the shortages of lab time, space, equipment, staff and teaching time. Students could choose one of the three modes to examine the effectiveness of their study, or they could first use simulations and later operate robots on-site or remotely and obtain real-world experimental results. The various testing combinations available to learners would improve the flexibility, effectiveness and safety of experiments and would meet various learners’ needs.