Importance

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Abstract

A system and method is disclosed for instructing personnel in the operation and servicing of machinery at a plant from a geographically remote service center employing trained personnel. The system and method includes monitoring operating machinery at the plant with a video camera and transmitting a video signal to a base unit associated with the plant having a high resolution monitor. Audio communication is also provided between plant personnel and the personnel at the service center wherein audio signals are received and transmitted through the base unit. The video and audio signals are processed together at the base unit for synchronous transmission over a telecommunication system to the remote service center. The machinery is monitored in the plant with a cordless portable video camera by moving the portable video camera to a desired area of the operating machinery which needs monitoring. Cordless headsets, worn by plant personnel attending the machinery, are utilized to provide audio communication through the base unit at the plant. The plant may be divided into a plurality of machinery zones having zone interface units hard wired to the base units. The video signal is transmitted using radio frequency (RF) transmissions to the zone interface unit, and then to the plant base unit. Switches may be used between the zone interface units and the base unit to provide reception of a strong video signal at the base units.

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First Claim