Remote Access to LabVIEW using HTML5

[Roso]

HTML5 supports WebSockets which allows low-latency, two-way communication between browser and server.  There are various screen-sharing technologies in existence based on this, but integrating a similar server in LabVIEW would enable capabilities that could be accessed from any desktop or mobile browser, no configuration required on the client side.  The key to this feature is the ability to configure the server and enable sharing from within LabVIEW or from a VI (i.e. a LabVIEW-aware server).

An idea of what this could do:

• Remote control of LabVIEW development machine

 

• Selective sharing of windows, for instance allowing interaction with only LabVIEW windows.  The server application would have a mechanism for selecting which of the open windows to share.

• A view-only mode so users could check the status of a running application from anywhere, including their cell phone.

 

• A brat or Express VI that when dropped in a VI would automatically share the VI when run.
• Third-party toolkits and applications could build in sharing capability for their own app using the API.

This feature would be more powerful than Remote Panels in that:

• It would give access to the LabVIEW development environment in addition to running applications.
• No configuration or special software required on the client side, enabling multiple platforms including mobile.

[vitoi]

Many thanks SimonH. Great to see remote access solutions for the iPad.

Since you've been so helpful, I may impose a bit more. My future application, when I get some time, is to put together a Home Automation application using LabVIEW and iPads. My house was built just under 2 years ago with the intention of being highly automated. For instance, I have 41 awning windows each with motor control to a central cupboard, multiple Cat6 cabling to every room (for motion detectors, camera, temperature sensors, IP phone, curtain control, etc) and three wall-mounted iPads. These are all in place. I'll even have some iPads floating around. When I get time the idea is to use LabVIEW to implement passive climate control, security, lighting control, home theatre control, video intercom, front door camera viewing and door latch operation, change TV channels, etc. Ideally I also want to use the iPads to also look up the weather forecast and browse the web. And when not required, I can rotate through family pictures so the iPads look like picture displays. All very nice and an engineers playhouse. Can't wait to get started!

One of my concerns is that other users are not very computer literate. VNC sounds like you need to know how to navigate your way around. I really want a set of buttons on the iPads that are labeled windows, TV, lighting, intercom, weather, etc. These then take you to a screen where you can operate windows, set TV channels and set themes, etc. There would be some graphics involved since rather than open Window 1, it would be better to put a map of the house and you click on the window. Would probably also want graphs showing the inside and outside temperatures during the course of the day. The system will undoubtedly grow over the years, so versatility is important.

When the time comes, I want to take the easiest path for getting an iPad to be a LabVIEW user interface front panel. Ideally, NI would provide a facility where a VIs (including subVIs) front panel is displayed on the iPad so that I can do all the layout design at a central computer. Standard HTML would fulfill all my requirements. Others may want faster moving data so HTML5 may be needed. I think it's useful to be able to use a standard web browser without any plugins or client side configuring as it makes life easier.  Such an approach allows people to use Android tablets and in fact any device that can run a web browser. It would also allow a visitor with a mobile phone or tablet to have (limited) access to the system.

If all else fails, I can always send my own HTML code to put the buttons up and receive button presses. Not the end of the world, but wouldn't it be great to have any VI or subVI front panel show up in a web browser and be able to see the indicators and manipulate the controls! Surely this would have wide appeal. LabVIEW after all is the most touch ready programming language in the world!

In summary, I'm after an easy to develop, versatile iPad (and other mobile device) LabVIEW user interface where new devices can be introduced without loading special software or configuring them (just enter an access password).

Given all this, and your knowledge in this area, what path would you suggest?

[SimonH]

If downloading an app from the various app stores is an option then I think Data Dashboard may meet your needs (the iPad version is currently the most advanced and shows you the direction we are headed). The configuration of a dashboard is a simple file that can be emailed, downloaded, posted to a web-page etc. We can't yet link between dashboards but you can have multiple pages and swipe between them.

If you require zero installation then HTML without plugins in a browser is likely always going to be your only option.  Currently LabVIEW cannot generate HTML front panels (and it's not on the short-term roadmap) so your best bet would be to create your own HTML and call a LabVIEW web service to get readings and update values.

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but wouldn't it be great to have any VI or subVI front panel show up in a web browser and be able to see the indicators and manipulate the controls! Surely this would have wide appeal.

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Absolutely agree. However the current state of things (technology standards, performance, development efficiency, economics, etc.) means that we've determined other avenues will allow us to better meet our customer's needs. The door isn't closed but don't hold your breath either.

Good luck with home automation -- it's a project we've all thought about doing.

[vitoi]

Simon, I'm glad you also have an interest in Home Automation. LabVIEW is a good choice for such an application. All it needs is the easy-to-use and versatile web interface as described here to complete the picture. (Also, LabVIEW programmers passionately honing their skills at home with LabVIEW would be a good thing all round.)

I see good remote access as the next significant step in LabVIEW Desktops evolution. We need both Data Dashboard evolution and also the ability to use a standard web browser. Each has their application and they are both needed.

[VijayGujjar]

This idea is good.. but my question is that is it possible to have control over instrument remotely.

 i mean i want to control working of my instrument remotely using labview  without connecting  instrument to computer at client side.i.e.,

 i want to switch on,switch off ,enable working,disable working of instrument which is located at client side usimg labview.