Fusion of VR and teleoperation for innovative near-presence laboratory experience in engineering education

Abstract

Distance learning is becoming a popular mode of learning among individuals seeking to add new skills to their repertoire or acquire an advanced degree. The availability of online course materials from institutions in academia aid this process, lending standardized and validated information to the audience seeking such knowledge. Although the online system of learning is extremely convenient for acquiring theoretical knowledge, the scope of hands-on experience is limited to the use of simulation software or involves the purchase of expensive laboratory kits. The proliferation of new technology like Virtual Reality (VR), Fifth Generation cellular networks (5G), and industrial robotics can be leveraged to bridge this gap, however. This will enable effective delivery of traditional disciplines like Electrical, Computer, or Mechanical Engineering using the online mode. This paper discusses the enabling technologies for implementing such a system. An ongoing effort to establish a proof-of-concept system in the Electrical and Computer Engineering department of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is presented.