An augmented reality interface for training robotics through the web

Abstract

The exponential spread of the World Wide Web has had an enormous impact on educational institutions. New technologies, such as virtual and remote laboratories, have improved learning and training in the academic community, mainly in the field of technical and science subjects. They allow students to acquire methods, skills and experience related to real equipment in an intuitive and cost-effective way. The purpose of this paper is to present the last improvements of an e-learning environment, based on a Java applet, in the field of Robotics. This application allows students the simulation and teleoperation of a robotic arm by means of an interface with augmented reality support. Other main features of this system are its realistic graphical interface and its portability, which have been possible thanks to Easy Java Simulations, a Java-based tool which has been used to create this application.