Real-Time Mechatronics Measurement System In Virtual Environment Raivo Sell Department of Mechatronics Tallinn Technical University Tallinn, Estonia Raivo@saabnet.ee ABSTRACT The paper is meant to introduce the possibility of the use of computer-based low-cost measurement systems in a virtual environment implemented in Tallinn Technical University Mechatronics Department. This gives possibilities to establish more flexible labs for students and a convenient visual environment for enterprises interested in measurement service, using WWW. The virtual system is a combination of real-time video tracking, analysis and instrument managing. Internet clients anywhere can monitor the experiment, talk with instructor and control the process if enabled. Among the conclusions are, besides low-cost virtual lab, enhanced motivation for the students, better service for enterprises, better usage of existing technology and the added value of more flexible technical education. Keywords: measurement, mechatronics, internet, real-time control. 1. INTRODUCTION There is no question the Internet has more than proved its worth on university campuses around the world. From videoconferencing and chat room discussions to course Web sites and e-mail tutoring, the Web continues to demonstrate its versatility as a learning tool in the realm of higher education. It was only a matter of time before the Web wove its way into engineering laboratories (Mannix, 2000). Accordingly, a web-based laboratory was elaborated. The technical goal of this project was to create an experiment environment, suitable for remote access and control of experiments. The environment allows a number of users to connect to the experiment server and perform research experiment. At the same time the system can be used in remote multimedia education and research via Internet, because it provides a method to broaden the high technology education through building an Internet-based experiment classroom. Consumers can experience graphical analysis data, real-time video pictures, analysis reports and the explanations. 2. THE CONTENT OF THE PROJECT The aim of the project was to create a virtual environment for engineering laboratory experiments supported by theoretical sources and formulas. The environment makes it possible to share experiment data over the net and analyse the result of the experiments right after the real test has been completed. Participants can also use a chat room and message board to continue discussions and comment results or experiment process, all in one convenient virtual environment. Being able to perform the experiment anywhere is another benefit of a virtual lab. An Important role of virtual lab is also that lectures can be more attractive and theoretical knowledge could be obtained in more flexible forms. The project contains two targets: The first target group is students using the virtual lab in conjunction with a curriculum. The virtual lab environment for students is mostly created to make the study process more attractive and successful. All experiments foreseen by the curriculum can be carried out in the virtual environment where all methodical materials and sources of theoretical knowledge have been concentrated on a particular experiment. Another important benefit of virtual lab is the fact that all process can be monitored, as real-time video with a regular PC (special hardware or software is not needed). The system is planned as an alternative for a wider audience for participating in experiments virtually. The second target group are enterprises interested in an experiment or test service from the university. This is a major additional value for customers who can track the experiment from their own desk without leaving the office. Customers can log into the virtual lab with a password given with the contract and watch how an ordered experiment takes place by real-time video. The results will be reported right after the test. Time is very