CloudSim is an open source web application that launches pre-configured machines designed to run many of the most common open source robotic tools, especially the open source robotics simulator Gazebo. We are developing CloudSim to support the DARPA Robotics Challenge, in which competitors are designing, programming, and testing robots to perform disaster response tasks. In particular, CloudSim and Gazebo will be used heavily in the upcoming Virtual Robotics Challenge, wherein approximately 100 teams from around the world will perform interactive, real-time simulation tasks in parallel. The cloud provides access to the necessary computing resources for this one time event in a flexible manner. In general, cloud-based simulation tasks can be conducted in parallel, for multiple purposes, such as:
- validating design decisions
- optimizing designs
- predicting performance
- training users
- hosting competitions
- improving robotics education and sharing research
