Introduction to AirSim
AirSim is an innovative simulation platform crafted by Microsoft Research in 2017, designed to support AI research and experimentation. It has served as a valuable tool for sharing research code and testing new ideas in the realm of aerial AI and simulation. Over five years, AirSim has evolved significantly, supporting developments in aerial mobility and autonomous systems. A tangible example of such technological advancement is drone delivery, which has transitioned from a sci-fi concept to a business reality.
In a move towards future innovation, Microsoft is set to release a new simulation platform, Microsoft Project AirSim, while archiving the original AirSim project by 2023. Despite the archiving, users will continue to have access to the original AirSim code, but it will no longer receive updates. Project AirSim will focus on satisfying the burgeoning needs of the aerospace industry by offering an end-to-end platform for developing and testing aerial autonomy. This new product promises advanced simulation, AI capabilities, and enhanced safety features.
Features of AirSim
Realistic Simulation
AirSim offers highly realistic simulations for drones, cars, and other vehicles, leveraging Unreal Engine's powerful capabilities. There is also an experimental Unity release. It’s an open-source, cross-platform software that supports both software-in-the-loop simulation with popular flight controllers like PX4 and ArduPilot and hardware-in-loop with PX4.
API and Programmatic Control
AirSim provides APIs allowing users to retrieve data and control vehicles in a platform-independent manner. These APIs, accessible in languages like C++, Python, C#, and Java, enable programmatic interaction with vehicles in simulation. This functionality is ideal for developing and testing code in the simulation before application to real-world scenarios.
Training Data and Computer Vision
Users can easily generate training data for deep-learning purposes either manually via a recording feature or through programmatic API access. AirSim’s "Computer Vision" mode allows users to collect diverse image data, facilitating advanced AI and machine learning research.
Weather Effects
AirSim accommodates weather simulation, allowing users to experiment with various weather scenarios to test their AI algorithms under different environmental conditions.
Getting Started
AirSim is available for several platforms, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. Users can download binaries or build from source depending on their operating system. Comprehensive documentation and tutorials are available to guide new users through the setup and usage processes.
Community and Contribution
The AirSim project encourages community involvement. Researchers and developers can contribute to AirSim by addressing open issues on GitHub. Additionally, the project maintains a list of those using AirSim and encourages new participants to join.
Transition to Project AirSim
With Project AirSim on the horizon, Microsoft is offering learning tools to enable a smooth transition. This new platform aims to extend AirSim's promise, addressing the growing demands of aerospace technology with enhanced features and capabilities. To learn more, visit Microsoft Project AirSim.
In conclusion, AirSim has been a crucial tool in AI and autonomous vehicle development. As it transitions to the next phase with Project AirSim, it continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in simulation technology.