Exploration of the Internet Controlled 'Rent-a-Factory' Concept

There are several robots and other devices which can now be controlled over the Internet. It is possible that an expansion of this concept ultimately leading to an Internet controlled factory could assist Australia overcome the 'tyranny' both of distance and of small production volumes. This paper discusses initial work being performed to investigate the relevance and practicality of the Internet for remote factory operations. A review of current Internet controlled equipment is presented. New experimental work involving the development of a web based graphical interface enabling clear observation and control of an Adept-One robot over the World Wide Web is also described.