3 February 2016 |
Gazebo is a real time simulator with many promising features for the simulation of the next generation of robots in their environments. Robot simulation is an essential tool in every roboticist’s toolbox. A well-designed simulator makes it possible to rapidly test algorithms, design robots, and perform regression testing using realistic scenarios. Gazebo offers the ability to accurately and efficiently simulate populations of robots in complex indoor and outdoor environments.
On 25th of January 2016 the Gazebo community released its 7th version of software – GAZEBO 7. This version of Gazebo will have long term support (LTS), and marks a transition in release process. Also now the new version of Gazebo will occur yearly instead of every six months. Odd versions will have LTS, lasting five years. Even versions will have support for two years. This change will slow the rate of change in Gazebo, and give the developers a bit more time to polish features.
A large change in this release consists of a move to a consistent API, integration of Ignition Math, and a switch from boost to standard library features. You may notice numerous deprecation warnings as a result. While these changes may induce some burden on developers, it is important for Gazebo to advance toward a stable interface.
New in GAZEBO 7
- Improved graphical model editor
- Torsional friction
- Wide angle camera sensor
- Simulation models composed of other models
- Improved log playback speed and graphical interface
- New GUI tools including alignment functionality and undo
- Explore further: ROSCon 2015 Talks Announced – ROS State of Art
- Image: Gazebo