With robots entering new environments and verticals every day, robot simulators streamline the development cycle of robots, trims expenses, and boost overall efficiency. If you’re trying to decide which simulation software best fits your needs, let’s take a look at some of the top choices available.
NVIDIA Isaac SIM
NVIDIA Isaac SIM powered by Omniverse™ takes realism to new heights with photorealistic, physically accurate virtual environments. This simulation software is tailored for AI-driven robotics development, empowering users to create highly detailed environments and intricate robot interactions. With a focus on advancing perception and control algorithms, NVIDIA Isaac SIM is a vital asset for researchers and developers pushing the boundaries of autonomous robotics.
Gazebo
Gazebo is a free, open-source robot simulator. Run by Open Robotics, this powerhouse tool is managed separately from ROS but does integrate with it quite well. It empowers developers to transition fluidly between real-world and virtual testing, enabling them to validate algorithms and systems rigorously before deployment.
RoboDK
RoboDK stands as a great example of precision paired with ease of use. Its intuitive interface enables users to effortlessly generate complex robotic simulations, even without a comprehensive programming background. Supporting an extensive library of robots and peripherals, RoboDK is a go-to solution for both novices and experts, offering seamless integration with popular robot controllers and a powerful offline programming feature.
Webots
Webots offers excellent versatility and a rich repository of pre-built robot models. This simulation software provides an array of sensors, actuators, and controllers, facilitating the precise emulation of intricate interactions and behaviors. Its multi-language support and user-friendly interface make it accessible to all levels of users, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a potent yet intuitive robotics simulation tool.
Unity
Unity’s prowess extends beyond game development; it’s a robust simulation platform for robotics enthusiasts also. In 2019, we worked with Unity to build our own robot simulator to aid in our development and testing. With its well-established game engine foundation, Unity offers stunning visual fidelity and physics simulation for robots and environments. Its scripting capabilities enable users to create custom simulations and integrate them seamlessly with real-world hardware, bridging the gap between virtual experimentation and practical implementation.
AWS RoboMaker
In the age of cloud computing, AWS RoboMaker emerged as a game-changer. This cloud-powered simulation platform provides scalable resources for simulating, testing, and deploying robotic applications. With integration into the broader AWS ecosystem, RoboMaker offers unmatched flexibility, enabling developers to simulate various scenarios efficiently and deploy their applications seamlessly to physical robots.
As more robots push into the world, simulation software stands as a vital conduit for innovation and progress. We hope this list can help you determine which tool is best for your specific needs and goals. If you’re looking for other tools to aid in your robotics development, check out our list of the best tools for roboticists.
