Need a basic direction in the following project.
There is a linux based controller doing some industrial control stuff. The box is equipped with cellular modem and is capable to get online through cellular carrier. Cellular communication is used because controller is mostly installed where no cables or short range radio is available. Places where sun don't normally shine :)
The task is to allow internet clients to connect directly to the box for some basic control/monitoring stuff. The problem is connectivity - how clients will discover the box? - I'd like to have the box act as a server (if possible). Assuming that cellular carrier allows the box to get online doesn't necessarily mean that the box will get public IP so that anyone would be able to get connected. To my understanding the cellular network acts as a gateway from those who are working inside of it, and reaching someone in that network from outside isn't possible. Am I wrong? We are looking for a generic solution, not a solution around particular cellular provider. The controller is installed in different countries, we need to find the standard way to "webify" it.
The software (and hardware) in the box is ours, we can basically do anything, but I am looking for the right way to do it in order to avoid surprises with different providers later. BTW, the solution doesn't necessarily have to be technical, may be it's possible to buy a permanent IP's per box, or setup VPNs.. Which way should I dig to? What questions to ask?
Your ideas are welcome!