Introduction

Abstract

A Collaboratively Teleoperated Robotic Camera (CTRC) refers to a robotic camera simultaneously controlled by multiple online users via the Internet. The applications of a CTRC system, such as distance learning, natural observation, security surveillance, emergency response, traffic monitoring, etc., are wide-ranging. A CTRC has its roots in both robotics and computer vision. As illustrated in Figure 1.1, a CTRC is first a telerobot because it allows the remote control of a robotic device. Since its communication usually relies on computer networks, it belongs to the category of networked telerobots. The collaborative element of a CTRC also allows multiple users to share control the single robotic camera simultaneously, which classifies it as a collaborative telerobot. Since it transmits a live video stream via the network and uses web browsers as clients, it is a special kind of web cameras.