Webots: Open-Source Robot Simulator
Webots is a powerful and versatile open-source simulator designed for modeling, programming, and simulating robots, vehicles, and mechanical systems. Built with the intent to provide a comprehensive development environment, Webots offers users a rich platform to create and experiment with robotic systems in a virtual setting.
Overview
Webots stands out as a complete development tool that brings together the capabilities needed for designing and simulating complex robotic systems. It is an invaluable resource for both beginners and experienced developers, providing everything from simple educational projects to advanced industrial simulations.
Key Features
Webots includes several features that make it an attractive choice for developers:
- Comprehensive Environment: Webots provides tools to model, program, and simulate various robotic and mechanical systems in a detailed and realistic way.
- Open-Source Flexibility: As an open-source project, developers can freely use and modify Webots, tailoring it to meet specific project needs.
- Wide Range of Applications: From educational purposes to advanced research and commercial applications, Webots supports a diverse array of robotic applications.
Getting Started
Webots can be easily accessed with pre-compiled binaries available for the latest release. Users can also explore older versions and nightly builds to find a version that perfectly suits their project needs.
Download Links:
Webots is supported across multiple platforms, including Linux, Windows, and macOS, ensuring that it can be used in various operating environments.
Installation Instructions:
Building From Source
For developers interested in seeing how Webots works at a deeper level or contributing to its development, building it from source is an option. More details can be found in the contributing guidelines on Webots' GitHub repository.
Continuous Integration and Testing
Webots employs a robust continuous integration system that ensures its stability and reliability across different operating systems. Regular nightly tests are conducted on both the master and develop branches for Linux, Windows, and macOS, facilitating a stable software development lifecycle.
History and Community
Originally developed at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in 1996, Webots has evolved significantly over time. Commercialized by Cyberbotics since 1998, Webots was open-sourced in December 2018, allowing for greater community involvement and innovation.
Cyberbotics continues to lead the development of Webots, supported by a community engaged through user discussions, feedback, and contributions.
Getting Involved
Webots is more than just a simulator; it's an active community. Developers and users can participate in discussions on GitHub, join chat platforms, and contribute to the ongoing improvements of the software.
Contact Cyberbotics for support or to discuss custom robot simulation projects by emailing [email protected].
In conclusion, Webots is a vibrant and dynamic platform that continues to grow and evolve, driven by a dedicated community and the expertise of Cyberbotics. Whether used for educational purposes, research, or commercial projects, Webots provides a solid foundation for innovative robotic simulations.