Open Robotics
Open Robotics develops open software and hardware platforms for robotics, including ROS, Gazebo, and Open-RMF, and collaborates with organizations like NASA and Blue Origin.
Company Overview
Open Robotics is dedicated to creating open software and hardware platforms for robotics. Operating under the Open Source Robotics Foundation, Inc. (OSRF), it supports the development, distribution, and adoption of open-source software for robotics. OSRF, established in 2012, is a Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation incorporated in California. The organization operates through its subsidiaries, Open Source Robotics Corporation (OSRC) and OSRC-SG, to collaborate effectively with the global robotics industry.
Software Platforms
Open Robotics offers three main open platforms: ROS, Gazebo, and Open-RMF. ROS is a software development kit for building robot applications, while Gazebo is a simulation tool for robots, providing a robust physics engine and high-quality graphics. Open-RMF is designed for robotic system interoperability, coordinating multiple fleets of indoor and outdoor robots and integrating them with infrastructure like elevators and doors. These platforms are essential tools for developers and researchers in the robotics field.
Major Collaborations
Open Robotics has engaged in significant collaborations to enhance its software platforms. The Space ROS Project Committee was launched following a collaboration with NASA and Blue Origin. Additionally, the company has extended Open-RMF capabilities in partnership with NCS for fleet management of security robots. These collaborations exemplify the company's commitment to advancing robotic technology through strategic partnerships.
Events and Releases
Open Robotics hosts key events and releases new versions of its software regularly. ROSCon 2023 was held in New Orleans, Louisiana, attracting over 700 ROS developers from 42 countries. The Gazebo simulation tool saw its eighth release, Gazebo Harmonic, featuring new capabilities and improvements. ROS 2 Iron Irwini, the ninth release of ROS 2, supports Ubuntu 22.04 and Windows 10. Clearpath Robotics introduced Humble Hawksbill packages for the TurtleBot 4, further expanding the ROS ecosystem.
Communication and Support
To foster real-time communication and support among its users, Open Robotics launched an official Discord server. This platform enables chat-based interaction and resource sharing among the robotics community. The organization continues to provide extensive support to its users, ensuring that the open-source software remains robust and user-friendly.