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Fig. 2-12 The schematic of the computer networks for remote handling The change between the position of the edge of the moving robot and the blanket module is shown in the real time 3-dimensional picture. The remote-handled robot controlled by computer network is also shown in the figure.

Fig. 2-13 The picture of the virtual reality system for ITER The picture shows the 3-dimensional position of the moving robot in the vacuum vessel of ITER.

Experimental equipments should be controlled by remote handling in the fusion experimental reactor, ITER. We need repairs and modifications in operating facilities to investigate plasma behavior. The experiments are, so to speak, similar to adventures and/or explorations. It is a key point to make many trials and errors as quickly as thinking. A comprehensive computer network is needed to control a trial and error for unknown factors. It is assumed that ITER will be operated under international cooperation. Therefore, on-line experimental participation over the domestic boundaries is foreseen. We made a mock-up test of the computer networks for remote handled robots to install and dismantle real equipments. The schematic diagram of the computer networks is shown in Fig. 2-12. An example of the virtual reality system for ITER is shown in Fig. 2-13. The new technology is being developed in the ITER program, that is, the trial on software technologies, by which we will be able to understand the laws of nature and exploit them through manipulating the mechanism.

Reference K. Oka et al., Measurement and Control System for the ITER Remote Handling Mock-Up Test, Proc. 20th Symp. on Fusion Technology, Sep. 7-11, 1998, Marseilles, France (1999).

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