A virtual remote access system for measuring instruments

Abstract

A virtual instrument remote access system for laboratories, consisting of: any function generator (AFG) configured to generate analog and digital modulation signals, including amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), phase modulation (PM), amplitude shift keying (ASK), frequency shift keying (FSK), phase shift keying (PSK), pulse amplitude modulation (PAM), pulse width modulation (PWM), and pulse position modulation (PPM); a digital storage oscilloscope (DSO) configured to capture and display waveform outputs from experimental circuits; a user computer device that is communicatively connected to the AFG and the DSO and is configured to execute a virtual instrumentation mechanism, wherein this mechanism is further configured to generate control commands for the AFG and the DSO using the Virtual Instrument Software Architecture (VISA) protocol; a communication interface module configured to establish multiple connection paths between the user computer device and the AFG and DSO; a scheduling module connected to the communication interface, configured to manage multi-user access using a first-come-first-serve (FCFS) queuing algorithm, the scheduling module further being configured to queue multiple user requests and allocate device access based on availability and priority; a security module integrated with the communication interface module, configured to enable secure remote access via VPN tunneling and NAT mapping, the security module further being configured to authenticate users using multi-factor authentication and encrypt data transmission using SSL / TLS protocols; a data acquisition module configured to collect and process experimental data from the AFG and DSO, wherein the data acquisition module is further configured to log experimental results and export data in Excel and TDMS formats; and a visualization module that is communicatively connected to the data acquisition module and is configured to enable real-time waveform monitoring and experimental control via the user computer display; the system is configured to allow remote users to conduct analog and digital communication experiments through real-time control and monitoring of the AFG and DSO.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a virtual instrumentation system for remote access to laboratories. In particular, the invention relates to such a system which integrates a function generator and a digital storage oscilloscope to develop a remote laboratory infrastructure for analog and digital communication experiments. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Traditional engineering education requires students to have physical access to laboratory equipment such as function generators, digital storage oscilloscopes, and modulation kits to conduct practical experiments in analog and digital communication systems. However, equal access to such specialized equipment is limited by geographical conditions, institutional capacities, and socioeconomic barriers, particularly affecting students in disadvantaged regions.

[0003] Existing remote laboratory solutions primarily focus on simulation-based approaches, which cannot fully replace the direct hardware interaction necessary for analog and digital communication. Current systems lack comprehensive frameworks that enable real-time control of physical instruments while simultaneously supporting multi-user access, secure global connectivity, and performance optimization under varying network conditions.

[0004] Furthermore, conventional laboratory facilities are reaching their limits: fixed schedules, limited equipment availability, and the need for physical presence restrict scalability and accessibility in education. There is a need for a system that enables the remote control of real laboratory equipment via standardized communication protocols while simultaneously ensuring security, performance, and fair resource allocation among multiple users.

[0005] The state of the art does not adequately address the technical challenges associated with integrating virtual, instrument-based systems with the control of physical hardware, implementing secure global access through VPN tunneling and network address translation, and providing real-time data acquisition and visualization for analog and digital communication experiments in a scalable multi-user environment.

[0006] In light of the preceding discussion, it is clear that there is a need for a virtual instrumentation remote access system for laboratories, based on analog and digital communication. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention provides a virtual instrumentation system for remote access to laboratory equipment, enabling students to conduct experiments on analog and digital communication via networked control of physical laboratory equipment. The system integrates a function generator (AFG) and a digital storage oscilloscope (DSO) with virtual instrumentation software and supports various connectivity options such as USB, Ethernet, and WLAN. A scheduling module manages multi-user access on a first-come, first-served basis, while a security module ensures secure global access via VPN tunneling and network address translation (NAT). The system allows for real-time control and monitoring of modulation experiments using AM, FM, PM, ASK, FSK, PSK, PAM, PWM, and PPM, and offers comprehensive data acquisition, visualization, and export functions.

[0008] The present disclosure relates to a virtual instrumentation system for remote access to laboratory equipment. The system comprises: a function generator (FGM) for generating analog and digital modulation signals, including amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), phase modulation (PM), amplitude shift keying (ASK), frequency shift keying (FSK), phase shift keying (PSK), pulse amplitude modulation (PAM), pulse width modulation (PWM), and pulse position modulation (PPM); a digital storage oscilloscope (DSO) for acquiring and displaying signal outputs of experimental circuits; a user device that is communicatively connected to the FGM and the DSO and executes a virtual instrumentation mechanism that, in turn, generates control commands for the FGM and the DSO using the VISA (Virtual Instrument Software Architecture) protocol; and a communication interface module for establishing multiple communication paths between the user device and the FGM and the DSO.A scheduling module connected to the communication interface manages multi-user access using a first-come, first-served (FCFS) queuing algorithm. The scheduling module queues multiple user requests and assigns device access based on availability and priority. A security module integrated into the communication interface module enables secure remote access via VPN tunneling and NAT mapping. It authenticates users using multi-factor authentication and encrypts data transmission with SSL / TLS protocols. A data acquisition module collects and processes experimental data from the AFG and DSO, logs the results, and exports the data in Excel and TDMS formats. A visualization module is connected to the data acquisition module and enables real-time monitoring of waveforms and control of experiments on the user device.The system allows users to conduct analog and digital communication experiments in real time and to control and monitor AFG and DSO in real time.

[0009] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a virtual instrumentation remote access system for laboratories based on analog and digital communication.

[0010] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a remote access laboratory system, a pipelined remote laboratory framework specifically designed for analog and digital communication experiments.

[0011] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide real-time remote access to physical laboratory equipment via multiple connection interfaces (USB, LAN, WiFi).

[0012] Another objective of the present disclosure is to facilitate interactive analog modulation experiments (AM, FM, PM) with waveform generation, data acquisition and visual feedback.

[0013] Another objective of the present disclosure is to enable multi-user scheduling by means of a pipelined queuing algorithm that optimizes resource utilization and maintains the fairness of the "first come, first served" principle.

[0014] Another objective of the present disclosure is to carry out a comprehensive performance evaluation, comparing execution time, memory consumption, bandwidth requirements and network-related delays across different connection types.

[0015] However, another objective of the present disclosure is to investigate practical challenges in implementation, including data security, remote monitoring of devices and global accessibility through VPN mapping and firewall tunneling.

[0016] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, the invention is described in more detail with reference to specific embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It is understood that these drawings merely show typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be understood as limiting its scope of protection. The invention is described and explained in more detail and with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE IMAGES

[0017] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will be better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which identical symbols represent identical parts, wherein: Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a virtual instrumentation remote access system for laboratories according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and Fig. Figure 2 shows a diagram illustrating the architecture of the proposed system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that the elements in the drawings are simplified and not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the flowcharts illustrate the process by highlighting the main steps to facilitate understanding of this disclosure. With regard to the construction of the device, one or more components may be represented in the drawings by conventional symbols. The drawings may show only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of this disclosure, so as not to clutter the drawings with details that are already apparent to those skilled in the art from the description contained herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION:

[0019] To facilitate understanding of the principles of the invention, reference is made below to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings, which is described using specific terms. It is understood, however, that this does not limit the scope of protection of the invention. Rather, modifications and further developments of the illustrated system, as well as further applications of the inventive principles depicted therein, are conceivable, insofar as they would typically occur to a person skilled in the art in the field of the invention.

[0020] It will be clear to those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not to be understood as a limitation thereof.

[0021] References to “an aspect”, “another aspect”, or similar phrases in this description mean that a particular feature, structure, or property described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, phrases such as “in one embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar expressions in this description may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0022] The terms "includes," "comprehensive," or similar expressions denote non-exclusive inclusion. Thus, a procedure or method containing a list of steps does not only include those steps but may also include further steps not explicitly listed or inherent in the procedure or method. Likewise, the statement "includes..." for one or more devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components, without further limitations, does not preclude the existence of other devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components.

[0023] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings generally known to those skilled in the art in the field to which this invention belongs. The systems, methods, and examples described herein serve only for illustration and are not to be understood as limiting.

[0024] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0025] The functional units described in this specification are referred to as devices. A device may be implemented in programmable hardware such as processors, digital signal processors, central processing units, FPGAs, PALs, PLDs, cloud processing systems, or similar. Devices may also be implemented in software for execution by various processor types. An identified device may contain executable code and, for example, comprise one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions, which may be organized as an object, procedure, function, or other construct. However, the executable files of an identified device need not be physically related; they may consist of different instructions stored in different locations that, when logically combined, constitute the device and fulfill its purpose.

[0026] The executable code of a device or module can consist of a single instruction or multiple instructions and can even extend across different code sections, applications, and storage media. Similarly, operational data within the device can be identified and represented, and can exist in any suitable form and be organized in any data structure. The operational data can be captured as a single data record or distributed across various storage media and may exist, at least partially, as electronic signals within a system or network.

[0027] References to “a selected embodiment”, “an embodiment”, or “an embodiment” in this description mean that a particular feature, structure, or property described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. Therefore, the phrases “a selected embodiment”, “in an embodiment”, or “in an embodiment” appearing at different points in this description do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0028] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or properties can be combined in one or more embodiments in any suitable manner. The following description contains numerous specific details to enable a comprehensive understanding of the embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. However, a person skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosed subject matter can also be realized without one or more of the specific details or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other cases, known structures, materials, or processes are not presented or described in detail so as not to obscure aspects of the disclosed subject matter.

[0029] According to the exemplary embodiments, the disclosed computer programs or modules can be executed in a variety of ways, for example, as an application running in the memory of a device or as a hosted application running on a server and communicating with the device application or browser via various standard protocols such as TCP / IP, HTTP, XML, SOAP, REST, JSON, and other suitable protocols. The disclosed computer programs can be written in programming languages ​​that run either in the device's memory or on a hosted server, such as BASIC, COBOL, C, C++, Java, Pascal, or scripting languages ​​such as JavaScript, Python, Ruby, PHP, Perl, or other suitable programming languages.

[0030] Some of the described embodiments involve data transmission over a network, such as the transmission of various inputs or files. The network may include, for example, the internet, wide area networks (WANs), local area networks (LANs), analog or digital wired and wireless telephone networks (e.g., PSTN, ISDN, cellular networks, and xDSL), radio, television, cable, satellite, and / or other transmission or tunneling mechanisms for data. It may include multiple networks or subnetworks, each of which may, for example, have a wired or wireless data path. The network may include a circuit-switched voice network, a packet-switched data network, or another network for transmitting electronic data. For example, it may be based on the Internet Protocol (IP) or Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) and support voice communication using VoIP, Voice over ATM, or similar protocols.In one embodiment, the network comprises a mobile network configured for the exchange of text or SMS messages.

[0031] Examples of networks include Personal Area Networks (PAN), Storage Area Networks (SAN), Home Area Networks (HAN), Campus Area Networks (CAN), Local Area Networks (LAN), Wide Area Networks (WAN), Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN), Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Enterprise Private Networks (EPN), the Internet, Global Area Networks (GAN), and so on.

[0032] Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a virtual instrumentation remote access system for laboratories (100) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] According to Fig. 1 The system comprises: a function generator (AFG) (102) that generates analog and digital modulation signals such as amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), phase modulation (PM), amplitude shift keying (ASK), frequency shift keying (FSK), phase shift keying (PSK), pulse amplitude modulation (PAM), pulse width modulation (PWM) and pulse position modulation (PPM); a digital storage oscilloscope (DSO) (104) that captures and displays waveform outputs from experimental circuits; a user computer (106) that is communicatively connected to the AFG (102) and the DSO (104) and executes a virtual instrumentation mechanism that in turn generates control commands for the AFG and the DSO using the VISA (Virtual Instrument Software Architecture) protocol; a communication interface module (108) configured to establish multiple communication paths between the user computer (106) and the AFG (102) and the DSO (104);a scheduling module (110) connected to the communication interface (108) and configured to manage multi-user access using a first-come, first-served (FCFS) algorithm, wherein the scheduling module (110) is further configured to queue multiple user requests and allocate device access based on availability and priority; a security module (112) integrated into the communication interface module (108) and configured to enable secure remote access via VPN tunneling and NAT mapping, wherein the security module (112) is further configured to authenticate users through multi-factor authentication and encrypt data transmission using SSL / TLS protocols;a data acquisition module (114) configured to acquire and process experimental data from the AFG (102) and DSO (104), the data acquisition module (114) further being configured to log experimental results and export data in Excel and TDMS formats; and a visualization module (116) communicatively connected to the data acquisition module (114) and configured to enable real-time waveform monitoring and experimental control via the user computer's display (106).

[0034] In one embodiment, the system (100) is configured to allow remote users to conduct analog and digital communication experiments through real-time control and monitoring of the AFG (102) and the DSO (104).

[0035] In one embodiment, the communication interface module (108) comprises: a USB interface (108a) configured for a direct connection between the computer device and the AFG and DSO; an Ethernet interface (108b) configured for network access via a local area network (LAN); and a Wi-Fi interface (108c) configured for wireless connection via a wireless router connected to the AFG and DSO via Ethernet.

[0036] In one embodiment, the AFG (102) is further configured to: generate waveforms such as sine, square, triangle, ramp and user-defined waveforms; operate in a frequency range from a few hertz to hundreds of kilohertz; and dynamically configure parameters such as frequency, amplitude, phase and DC offset via programmable software interfaces.

[0037] In one embodiment, the DSO (104) is further configured to: acquire real-time waveform data from experimental circuits; enable high-resolution signal visualization; and transmit acquired waveform data to the computing device for analysis and display.

[0038] In one embodiment, the virtual instrumentation mechanism is further configured to: create modular programs using block diagrams; visualize the logic flow and data connections between hardware and software components; implement real-time signal processing modules for peak detection, Fourier transforms, harmonic analysis, and spectral analysis; and provide debugging functions to trace execution paths and identify performance bottlenecks.

[0039] In one embodiment, the scheduling module (110) is further configured to implement a pipelined queuing algorithm for simultaneous access by multiple users, wherein the implemented pipelined queuing algorithm enables the system to optimize resource utilization and maintain the fairness of the "first come, first served" principle, wherein the scheduling module (110) is further configured to track execution time, manage memory requirements, and optimize bandwidth usage.

[0040] In one embodiment, the security module (112) further comprises: a firewall configuration module (112a) for implementing IP whitelisting and access control rules; an encryption module (112b) for securing data transmission between remote users and laboratory equipment; an authentication module (112c) for verifying user data using multi-factor authentication; a VPN server (112d) for establishing a secure tunnel for access from outside the campus; and a logging module (112e) for monitoring usage patterns and access times for traceability and security auditing.

[0041] In one embodiment, the system is configured to enable global access by: mapping internal IP addresses of the AFG (102) and DSO (104) to public IP addresses using NAT; establishing VPN connections to tunnel external user traffic into the institutional network; authenticating remote users via encrypted channels; and providing real-time camera streams for visual monitoring of the condition of the physical equipment.

[0042] In one embodiment, the data acquisition module (114) is further configured to: implement automated reporting for experimental results; provide comprehensive data logging with timestamps and user identification; support export formats such as Excel spreadsheets and Technical Data Management Streaming (TDMS) files; enable data sharing for collaborative research and academic submissions; and maintain the integrity of experimental data through checksums and version control.

[0043] In one embodiment, the visualization module (116) comprises: real-time waveform display interfaces configured to display AFG output signals and waveforms acquired by the DSO; interactive control panels configured to adjust AFG parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and modulation settings; measurement tools configured to perform signal analysis, including frequency domain analysis and time domain measurements; 3D graph controls configured to visualize complex signal relationships; and alarm mechanisms configured to notify users of system status changes and the completion of the experiment.

[0044] In one embodiment, the communication interface module (108), the planning unit (110), the safety module (112), the data acquisition module (114) and the visualization module (116) can be implemented in programmable hardware devices such as processors, digital signal processors, central processing units, field-programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, programmable logic devices, cloud processing systems or the like.

[0045] Fig. Figure 2 shows a diagram illustrating the architecture of the proposed system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] The remote-accessible virtual instrumentation lab system enables remote experiments in analog and digital communication. It consists of a user computer with integrated virtual instrumentation (VI) software, connected via the internet to experimental hardware instruments such as a function generator (AFG), a digital storage oscilloscope (DSO), and analog communication kits. The system supports real-time remote experiments with analog and digital communication techniques such as amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), and phase modulation (PM), allowing students to simulate practical laboratory experiences remotely.

[0047] Fig.Figure 2 shows a block diagram of the system architecture and illustrates the communication paths between the virtual instrumentation software modules and the hardware components. The system allows external users to initiate experiments, configure AFG parameters, and monitor DSO signal outputs in real time. This overcomes infrastructure limitations and ensures equal access to experimental resources. The system consists of an API-driven software environment that communicates with the hardware units. The software environment is responsible for command transmission, data acquisition, and hardware configuration. This modular framework addresses didactic and financial challenges in educational institutions by reducing reliance on physical laboratory setups and lowering the cost of specialized instruments.

[0048] In one embodiment, a virtual instrumentation programming environment, such as LabVIEW (Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench), forms the core of the system. LabVIEW provides a graphical programming interface for developing measurement, control, and test applications. The virtual instrumentation environment is configured to allow the creation of modular programs using block diagrams, logic flow visualization, and hardware-to-software data connections. This configuration provides instructors and students with an intuitive development framework that does not require low-level programming knowledge. The system replaces hardware-defined functionalities with software-defined measurement and control, thus enabling customizable virtual instruments (VIs).The VIs are configured to be adapted, reused, and extended in various experimental contexts without requiring new hardware development. The system also includes a data acquisition and analysis module that integrates real-time signal processing functions such as peak detection, Fourier transforms, harmonic analysis, and spectral analysis. This module supports high-resolution visualization of measurement data through waveform plots, displays, digital gauges, and 3D diagrams, enabling dynamic observation of signal changes and system responses. Additionally, the system includes a debugging and reporting module that logs experimental data, supports step-by-step debugging, and generates automated reports. The debugging functionality traces execution paths, examines data nodes, and identifies performance bottlenecks.The reporting function ensures the secure documentation and dissemination of experimental results for academic and research purposes. The system includes a communication interface module that supports various connection standards such as GPIB, USB, Ethernet, PXI, VXI, DAQ, and serial protocols (RS232 / 485). This interface ensures interoperability with a wide range of instruments and enables interdisciplinary experiments. The system utilizes distributed computing and parallel processing techniques via multi-core processors and networked environments, thus supporting simultaneous multi-user sessions and the execution of data-intensive operations.

[0049] The system is configured to provide an experimental remote environment that enables real-time interaction with professional analog communication technology, thus extending experiential learning beyond the confines of the traditional classroom. At the heart of the system is an arbitrary waveform generator (AFG), specifically a Tektronix AFG31000 series device. This generates a wide variety of precise waveforms, including sine, square, triangle, ramp, and user-defined complex signals. Operating in a frequency range from a few hertz to several hundred kilohertz, the AFG31000 allows for experimentation in analog modulation, filter design, and signal analysis. Furthermore, the AFG31000 dynamically adjusts parameters such as frequency, amplitude, phase, and DC content via programmable software interfaces. These configurations can be performed both locally and remotely.To enable scalable and flexible user access to the AFG, the system includes a communication interface module with three different connection architectures: USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi integration. Each connection path was evaluated for latency, reliability, ease of configuration, and integration with LabVIEW's VISA (Virtual Instrumentation Software Architecture) protocol. The system features a USB interface for direct plug-and-play connection between the AFG and the computer using a standard USB-A to B cable. Once connected, the AFG is automatically recognized by VISA and appears as a controllable instrument in Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX). This configuration is optimized for local experiments and environments with limited remote access where low latency and bandwidth requirements are paramount.The system also includes an Ethernet interface for multi-user access in institutional and networked laboratory environments. The AFG connects to a local area network (LAN) via RJ45 Ethernet. It can be assigned either a static or dynamic IP address to ensure consistent communication within the subnet. Users on the same subnet can access the AFG through LabVIEW-based VISA interfaces. This supports multi-node experiments and the expansion of data acquisition (DAQ) systems. The system also features a WLAN interface for wireless access to the AFG. The AFG connects via Ethernet to a WLAN router, which provides DHCP-based IP address assignment and a LAN uplink connection via port 3. A user device connected via WLAN can seamlessly access the AFG using the VISA TCP / IP protocol.This configuration enables the cost-effective and mobile deployment of remote labs and supports hybrid and distance learning programs. The Wi-Fi-based architecture improves device mobility, simplifies deployment, and facilitates collaborative workflows, as multiple devices can access the system via a single network.

[0050] To enable secure global access to remote instruments in an implementation, the system also includes a global access module that allows secure access to remote devices beyond the institutional intranet. To address the challenges of off-campus connectivity, the system utilizes Network Address Translation (NAT). This maps the internal IP addresses of the laboratory equipment to public IP addresses via the institutional firewall. Additionally, a VPN server is configured to establish a secure tunnel for external user traffic. After successful VPN authentication, users from anywhere in the world receive encrypted access to the AFG and the digital storage oscilloscope (DSO). The system further includes a security module integrated into the communication interface that implements multi-layered cybersecurity measures.These include: multi-factor authentication (MFA) for secure login, firewall rules and IP whitelisting for device-level access control, SSL / TLS encryption for secure data transmission, regular penetration tests and audits for vulnerability analysis, and usage logging and access time monitoring for traceability. Through this two-tier NAT and VPN configuration, the system provides secure, real-time, and borderless access to laboratory equipment. This global network transforms local experiments into a scalable, equitable educational opportunity, enabling real-time learning, inter-institutional collaboration, and inclusive access to specialized resources regardless of geographical or socioeconomic barriers.

[0051] In its implementation, the system is configured to integrate virtual instrumentation platforms with the SG communication infrastructure, enabling scalable and interactive real-time remote access to laboratories. The system comprises a multi-layered architecture with the following components: an experimentation backend, a virtual instrumentation layer, a remote access server, a 5G communication layer, and an end-user interface. The experimentation backend includes physical laboratory instruments such as signal generators, modulators, communication kits, and data acquisition systems. These instruments are communicatively connected via the virtual instrumentation layer implemented in LabVIEW to enable online control and monitoring of hardware performance. The remote access server acts as middleware, translating user commands into hardware instructions and sending the corresponding data back to the client.It ensures secure and reliable communication via standard protocols and supports scalability through cloud-based infrastructure. The remote access server is also configured for integration into IoT structures and offers device abstraction, real-time telemetry, and remote diagnostics. The 5G communication layer provides extremely reliable, low-latency communication (URLLC) and enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), enabling the transmission of control signals, waveform data, and real-time audiovisual feedback. Advanced 5G features such as Massive MIMO and network slicing ensure quality of service (QoS), resource isolation, and high-performance data streaming for real-time spectrum analysis and camera images. The system is configured for conducting remote experiments in the areas of analog and digital communication, modulation techniques, RF systems, and IoT communication protocols.Students access the hardware remotely to conduct experiments with amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), phase modulation (PM), amplitude shift keying (ASK), frequency shift keying (FSK), phase shift keying (PSK), pulse amplitude modulation (PAM), pulse width modulation (PWM), and pulse position modulation (PPM). Real-time measurement and remote control of the devices are enabled by the virtual instrumentation layer.

[0052] In the implementation, the system is operated in both traditional lab mode and online remote control mode, allowing for a comparison of the responsiveness and realism of both environments. Unlike simulation-based labs, which rely on mathematical models and do not represent hardware anomalies, this system provides access to physical instruments. This allows users to interact with real hardware and monitor signal responses, component behavior, and measurement uncertainties in real time.

[0053] In one embodiment, the system comprises: a LabVIEW server configured to manage connections and control experimental activities, the server acting as a front-end interface between students and instruments, enabling real-time experiments, and a 5G-enabled Wi-Fi router providing high-throughput, low-latency communication; any function generator (AFG) configured to generate waveforms, the AFG connected to the Wi-Fi router via Ethernet, enabling remote waveform generation and modulation experiments; a digital storage oscilloscope (DSO) configured to capture and display modulation outputs, the DSO connected to the router via Ethernet, allowing students to remotely monitor signal responses; and a modulation kit capable of analog and digital modulation techniques such as AM, FM, PM, ASK, FSK, PSK, and PAM.Configured for PWM and PPM, it processes baseband signals from the AFG and outputs modulated signals to the DSO for real-time visualization. A 5G-enabled Wi-Fi router serves as the central communication interface for all lab equipment and supports IEEE 802.11ac / ax standards in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. It enables VPN-based multi-user access. A VPN server secures remote access via protocols such as OpenVPN, IPSec / IKEv2, and SSL / TLS 1.3, utilizing AES-256 encryption, SHA-512 authentication, RADIUS / LDAP authentication, multi-factor authentication, intrusion detection / prevention (IDS / IPS), and firewall integration. Load balancing and failover clustering ensure high availability. A webcam server is configured to record and transmit real-time video streams of the lab environment to provide remote users with situational awareness and visual feedback. and a 5G-enabled camera configured in such a way thatthat it enables high-resolution video streaming with low latency, autofocus, HDR and low-light sensitivity, thus allowing real-time monitoring of instrument status and experimental signals.

[0054] In practice, the system is configured for conducting remote experiments as follows: The student connects to the Remote Access Laboratory's virtual instrumentation server via VPN; the student specifies waveform parameters in LabVIEW, and the AFG generates the waveform accordingly; the waveform is forwarded to the modulation kit, where the selected modulation technique is applied; and the modulated signal is fed into the DSO, and waveform data, along with webcam streams, is transmitted to the student's device for real-time monitoring and analysis.

[0055] In the implementation, system performance is evaluated and compared across various experiments based on execution time, memory requirements, bandwidth usage, and estimated latency. Observed execution times per experiment ranged from 2.59 to 2.84 s (2592–2836 ms), memory requirements from approximately 4.52 to 4.98 MB, and bandwidth from approximately 1.62 to 1.90 Mbit / s. Under conservative transmission assumptions, estimated end-to-end transmission latencies (dominated by data movement and rendering overhead, rather than core network latency) ranged from 21.2 to 23.2 s. These results demonstrate that while the RAL reliably enables interaction with real hardware and scalable access, throughput and responsiveness are primarily limited by the logging / streaming volume and the overhead of remote visualization.The proposed architecture demonstrates its technical feasibility and educational value, offering a clear pathway to inclusive, high-quality laboratory learning on a large scale. In nine modulation experiments, the platform consistently achieved execution times of approximately 2.6–2.8 seconds with moderate bandwidth requirements (approximately 1.6–1.9 Mbps) and low memory usage (approximately 4.5–5.0 MB). Delay analysis reveals that end-to-end responsiveness depends less on network propagation than on data serialization, bulk transfers, and remote rendering. These results confirm the suitability of the RAL for routine use in teaching and assessments, particularly in institutions seeking to expand access without proportionally increasing their physical infrastructure.Methodologically, the study offers a reproducible instrumentation stack, a safety concept, and a measurement approach that can be adopted or extended by other programs.

[0056] The drawings and the preceding description illustrate embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more of the described elements can be combined to form a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements can be divided into several functional elements. Elements of one embodiment can be added to another. For example, the process sequences described here can be modified and are not limited to the manner described herein. Furthermore, the actions of a flowchart need not be performed in the sequence shown; nor do all actions necessarily need to be carried out. Actions that do not depend on other actions can be performed in parallel with the other actions. The scope of protection of the embodiments is in no way limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations, whether explicitly stated in the description or not, such as...Differences in structure, dimensions, and materials are possible. The scope of protection of the embodiments is at least as comprehensive as described by the following claims.

[0057] The advantages, other benefits, and problem solutions have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, the advantages, benefits, problem solutions, and any components that can effect or enhance an advantage, benefit, or solution are not to be construed as critical, necessary, or essential features or components of the claims. REFERENCES 100 A laboratory system for remote access to virtual instruments. 102 Arbitrary Function Generator (AFG) 104 digital storage oscilloscope (DSO) 106 User device 108 Communication interface module 108a USB port 108b Ethernet interface 108c Wi-Fi interface 110 Planning Module 112 Safety module 112a Firewall configuration module 112b Encryption module 112c authentication module 112d VPN server 112e Logging Module 114 Data Acquisition Module 116 Visualization module 202 Establishes a stable internet connection for remote access. 204 Access to the experimental setup 206 The students look at real-time data from the experiments. 208 Student's home office with virtual instrumentation, computer and webcam 210 The student accesses the laboratory's experimental setup remotely. 212 parameters of the control function generator by executing virtual instrumentation programs. 214 The student analyzes the results as if they were in the laboratory.

Claims

[1] A virtual instrument remote access system for laboratories, consisting of: any function generator (AFG) configured to generate analog and digital modulation signals, including amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), phase modulation (PM), amplitude shift keying (ASK), frequency shift keying (FSK), phase shift keying (PSK), pulse amplitude modulation (PAM), pulse width modulation (PWM), and pulse position modulation (PPM); a digital storage oscilloscope (DSO) configured to capture and display waveform outputs from experimental circuits; a user computer device that is communicatively connected to the AFG and the DSO and is configured to execute a virtual instrumentation mechanism, wherein this mechanism is further configured to generate control commands for the AFG and the DSO using the Virtual Instrument Software Architecture (VISA) protocol; a communication interface module configured to establish multiple connection paths between the user computer device and the AFG and DSO; a scheduling module connected to the communication interface, configured to manage multi-user access using a first-come-first-serve (FCFS) queuing algorithm, the scheduling module further being configured to queue multiple user requests and allocate device access based on availability and priority; a security module integrated with the communication interface module, configured to enable secure remote access via VPN tunneling and NAT mapping, the security module further being configured to authenticate users using multi-factor authentication and encrypt data transmission using SSL / TLS protocols; a data acquisition module configured to collect and process experimental data from the AFG and DSO, wherein the data acquisition module is further configured to log experimental results and export data in Excel and TDMS formats; and a visualization module that is communicatively connected to the data acquisition module and is configured to enable real-time waveform monitoring and experimental control via the user computer display; the system is configured to allow remote users to conduct analog and digital communication experiments through real-time control and monitoring of the AFG and DSO. [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the communication interface module comprises: a USB interface for direct connection between the computer device and the AFG and DSO; an Ethernet interface for network connection via a local area network (LAN); and a Wi-Fi interface for wireless connection via a wireless router connected to the AFG and DSO via Ethernet. [3] System according to claim 1, wherein the AFG is further configured to: generate waveforms such as sine, square, triangle, ramp and user-defined waveforms; operate in a frequency range from a few hertz to hundreds of kilohertz; and dynamically configure parameters such as frequency, amplitude, phase and DC offset via programmable software interfaces. [4] System according to claim 1, wherein the DSO is further configured to: acquire real-time waveform data from experimental circuits; enable high-resolution signal visualization; and transmit acquired waveform data to the computing device for analysis and display. [5] System according to claim 1, wherein the virtual instrumentation mechanism is further configured to: create modular programs using block diagrams; visualize the logic flow and data connections between hardware and software components; implement real-time signal processing modules for peak detection, Fourier transforms, harmonic analysis and spectral analysis; and provide debugging functions to trace execution paths and identify performance bottlenecks. [6] System according to claim 1, wherein the scheduling module is further configured to implement a pipelined queuing algorithm for simultaneous access by multiple users, wherein the implemented pipelined queuing algorithm enables the system to optimize resource utilization and maintain the fairness of the first-come, first-served principle, wherein the scheduling module is further configured to track execution time, manage memory requirements, and optimize bandwidth usage. [7] System according to claim 1, wherein the security module further comprises: a firewall configuration module for implementing IP whitelisting and access control rules; an encryption module for securing data transmission between remote users and laboratory equipment; an authentication module for verifying user data using multi-factor authentication; a VPN server for establishing a secure tunnel for access from off-campus; and a logging module for monitoring usage patterns and access times for traceability and security auditing. [8] System according to claims 2 and 7, wherein the system is configured to enable global access by: mapping internal IP addresses of the AFG and DSO to public IP addresses using NAT; establishing VPN connections to tunnel external user traffic into the institutional network; authenticating remote users via encrypted channels; and providing real-time camera streams for visual monitoring of the status of physical devices. [9] System according to claim 1, wherein the data acquisition module is further configured to: implement automated reporting for experimental results; provide comprehensive data logging with timestamps and user identification; support export formats including Excel spreadsheets and Technical Data Management Streaming (TDMS) files; enable data sharing for collaborative research and academic submissions; and maintain the integrity of experimental data through checksums and version control. [10] System according to claim 1, wherein the visualization module comprises: real-time waveform display interfaces configured to display AFG output signals and waveforms acquired by the DSO; interactive control panels configured to adjust AFG parameters including frequency, amplitude, and modulation settings; measurement tools configured to perform signal analysis including frequency domain analysis and time domain measurements; 3D graph controls configured to visualize complex signal relationships; and alarm mechanisms configured to notify users of system status changes and the completion of the experiment.

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