Tele-Presence Microscopy: An Interactive Multi-User Environment For Collaborative Research using High Speed Networks and The Internet

Abstract

Tele-Presence Microscopy (TPM) is an advanced concept in the integration of computers and high speed networks with scientific instruments for operation, control, communication and research which makes use of ANL's Advanced Analytical Electron Microscope (AAEM) and Analytical Scanning Electron Microscope (ASEM) as development/testbed sites. The implementation of a Tele-Presence Microscopy Facility allows a user from a remote location to either observe and/or control state-of-the-art instrumentation in a real time interactive mode. Using TPM, a user will be able toactivelyparticipate in scientific investigations at unique resources such as user facilities without being physically present at those locations. Manufacturers would be able to configure demonstration equipment which are accessible via the TPM system and thus allow prospective customers to remotely evaluate instrumentation before purchase. After acquisition, implementation by the manufacturer of a TPM system would allow remote service/diagnostics by a systems engineer who resides at the manufacturing site. Finally in an educational environment, students can initiate tele-presence operation of instruments which may not be available at their host institution, allowing widest possible access to unique facilities, Alternatively, should students have access to local equipment, they will have the opportunity of consulting an advisor or non-local expert in the field in an on-line mode during their actual experimental session, thus freeing valuable time which would be otherwise wasted during unproductive experiments.