A virtual laboratory for the study of Mechatronics

In this paper we describe the design and implementation of a remote virtual laboratory for cooperative learning of Mechatronics over the Internet. The proposed architecture provides several advantages to institutions offering eLearning and distance education courses in industrial automation. It facilitates the learning process over the Internet by providing a Web based user interface that allows remote users to access and control several physical models of technological processes and also verify created control programs via a virtual model without damaging the system equipment. The architecture presented in the paper is not dependent on a specific SLC hardware or software configuration and offers a great potential for industry by providing means of remote controlling and verifying control programs in manufacturing systems located at different locations.