Bi-directional remote visualization for supporting collaborative machine troubleshooting

摘要

A communication system and apparatus for a xerographic imaging system for enhanced collaborative communication between the machine user and the remote troubleshooting advisor. The machine includes an imager for showing a selected virtual representation of the machine including an image of the machine illustrating an area of the machine having the troubleshooting need. A communication link exists between the user and the advisor and comprises a bi-directional visualization of a selected virtual representation synchronously displayed to the user and the advisor via respective imagers. An image adjuster is operated by the expert for selective adjustment of the virtual representation to suggest a section of the area of the machine wherein action by the machine user may resolve the troubleshooting need. The selective adjustment is communicated to the machine user through the communication link whereby upon viewing this suggested adjustment, corrective action is suggested to the user. The corrective action is identified to the user by identifying a difference between the actual machine state and the shared virtual representation. The visual indicators may direct the user to a particular location and percussion centers on the machine identify a particular tapping location by the user to verify position identification to the troubleshooting expert.