A Remote Access Robotics And Plc Laboratory For Distance Learning Program

This paper describes an internet-based remote control automation laboratory which includes a robot and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) unit developed at Elizabeth City State University (ECSU). The laboratory was designed in response to emerging internet -based technology in industries and educational application. Most engineering and technology courses are laboratory intensive and have been considered impractical for distance education. Furthermore, it has been determined that the laboratory requirement is a major obstacle facing non-traditional students desiring to pursue online degrees in engineering and technical disciplines. Offering internet based laboratories may eliminate this obstacle for distance learning program students. This concept is of particular interest in countries with large distances between major educational centers and those with limited budgets and facilities. This paper illustrates a general architecture of an online laboratory. A Local Area Network (LAN) based "Host Computer" is set up in the laboratory and is connected to a robot, a PLC unit and a networked camera (Webcam). They are accessed and controlled via a remote computer through a secure "Virtual Private Network" (VPN) connection to the campus LAN.