Remote framework for publishing distibuted RCLs

Abstract

Remote Controlled Laboratories (RLCs) are expanding everywhere and there is a need for an accessible, yet robust and affordable framework to convey private experiments to the Internet based on the "Internet of Things". In this article we shall introduce a framework based on ready available open hardware and software that can be used in schools, or even at home by anyone with elementary programming skills. In a simple way we discuss how to connect a microcontroller capable of handling an experimental apparatus to the Internet based on a Raspberry Pi, and how to connect the latter using the Go-Lab framework. Moreover remote maintenance for this distributed apparatus can be provided on-line namely for update the firmware when needed. An example of an experiment provided within this technology is given showing the possibilities of this approach.