ROS-NetSim: A Framework for the Integration of Robotic and Network Simulators

Multi-agent systems play an important role in modern robotics. Due to the nature of these systems, coordination among agents via communication is frequently necessary. Indeed, Perception-Action-Communication (PAC) loops, or Perception-Action loops closed over a communication channel, are a critical component of multi-robot systems. However, we lack appropriate tools for simulating PAC loops. To that end, in this letter, we introduce ROS-NetSim, a ROS package that acts as an interface between robotic and network simulators. With ROS-NetSim, we can attain high-fidelity representations of both robotic and network interactions by accurately simulating the PAC loop. Our proposed approach is lightweight, modular and adaptive. Furthermore, it can be used with many available network and physics simulators by making use of our proposed interface. In summary, ROS-NetSim is (i) Transparent to the ROS target application, (ii) Agnostic to the specific network and physics simulator being used, and (iii) Tunable in fidelity and complexity. As part of our contribution, we have made available an open-source implementation of ROS-NetSim to the community.

Automated summary

Multi-agent systems are crucial in modern robotics, often requiring coordination among agents through communication. ROS-NetSim serves as an interface between robotic and network simulators, offering a lightweight, modular, and adaptive approach to accurately simulate interactions and loops, regardless of the specific network or physics simulator being used. By providing transparency, independency, and tunability, ROS-NetSim enables high-fidelity representations of robotic and network interactions.