RAFM - A Remote Controllable AFM

Collaborative Remote Measurements

The last stage in our virtual e-learning environment is accomplished by a microscope which we designed fully remote controllable. Users can collaboratively work on real experiments from multiple clients anywhere and anytime. One single remote, multi-accessible apparatus keeps the time of support at a minimum level and offers a maximum of usability. In addition, our remote atomic force microscope (RAFM) features an automatic positioning robotic to allow students to automatically choose from different samples. This means, various experiments can be done using the same instrument without the need of an operator.

The RAFM is designed for the use in an e-learning environment and fully remote controllable. A server enables the connection to various clients. Because of the easy protocol, the clients can have customized graphical interfaces. This means the look and feel can be adjusted to the actual user and the specific application.

Customizeable "look and feel"

The RAFM represents a state-of-the-art system using modern internet technologies and a robust, accurate and easy to handle robotics. The instrument is controlled by a LabViewTM server that manages the robotics as well as the remote accessibility. LabViewTM is an industry standard graphical programming environment. The implemented server supports a simple and open command line language. This keeps the accessibility very flexible. For the use as an e-learning tool, the graphical user interface (GUI) can be customized to fit the needs of students with various knowledge levels. This feature is interesting for the industrial user as well. The GUI can be adjusted to a specific application or experiment within minutes.

(top left) The fundamental protocol is based on a command language. Every operation like changing the sample or starting a scan can be executed by using the corresponding command line. (bottom left) A LabView user interface as it could be used in an industrial application. Every element of the front panel can be customized and the executing command can be defined autonomously. (right) The microscope server runs multiple LabView applications for the network connection and the hardware control.