Awesome Robotics Libraries: Your Guide to Robotics Simulators and Libraries

Mar 1, 2021 | Data Science

Robotics is a rapidly evolving field, and keeping up with the latest tools and libraries can be overwhelming. This guide presents a curated list of simulators and libraries that can help you navigate the complexities of robotics development. Whether you are just getting started or are a seasoned expert, these resources will provide the essential components for various applications in robotics.

Table of Contents

Simulators

Simulators are crucial for testing and developing robotic applications in a safe environment. Here are some free and open-source simulators:

  • AI2-THOR – Python framework with a Unity backend.
  • AirSim – Simulator based on Unreal Engine for autonomous vehicles.
  • ARGoS – Physics-based simulator for large-scale robot swarms.
  • CARLA – Open-source simulator for autonomous driving research.
  • Gazebo – Dynamic multi-robot simulator.
  • Webots – A complete development environment for simulating robots.

Libraries

When it comes to developing advanced robotics applications, you need robust libraries. Below are categories of libraries that can facilitate various robotic functions:

Dynamics Simulation

Finding the right library for dynamics simulation can be akin to selecting the right ingredients for a recipe. Each ingredient plays a specific role, just like libraries provide unique functionalities for simulations:

  • Bullet – Rigid and soft body dynamics.
  • CHRONO::ENGINE – Supports granular and fluid simulations.
  • Drake – Excellent for complex robotic models.

Inverse Kinematics

Inverse Kinematics allows robots to determine the necessary angles and positions of their parts to reach a certain endpoint:

  • IKBT – Solves robot arm inverse kinematics in symbolic form.
  • RelaxedIK – Real-time synthesis of robot arm motion.

Machine Learning

Integrating machine learning into robotics can be compared to giving your robot a brain, allowing it to learn from its environment:

  • AllenAct – Framework for embodied AI.
  • mlpack – Scalable C++ machine learning library.

Motion Planning and Control

Effective motion planning can be crucial for a successful robotic application. These libraries excel in this aspect:

  • MoveIt! – A motion planning framework.
  • OMPL – Open motion planning library.

Other Awesome Lists

For additional resources, check these curated lists:

Contributing

Your contributions to the robotics community are invaluable! Feel free to share your experiences or suggest more libraries.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues or have questions while working with these libraries or simulators, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Check the library’s documentation for common issues and resolutions.
  • Make sure you have the correct dependencies installed.
  • Look for community forums or GitHub issues for similar problems.

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At fxis.ai, we believe that such advancements are crucial for the future of AI, as they enable more comprehensive and effective solutions. Our team is continually exploring new methodologies to push the envelope in artificial intelligence, ensuring that our clients benefit from the latest technological innovations.

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