Mobile Robot Simulation in a Virtual World

Abstract

Second Life virtual world offers 3D modeling tools, scripting support, and a physics engine which provide a platform to develop mobile robot simulations and interactive educational exhibits. Benefits of employing virtual world simulation tools include rapid prototyping, low-cost development and delivery, collaboration, and access to an international community. An interactive robotics exhibit in the area of mobile robot programming education has been constructed and deployed in the virtual world. A second exhibit to enable 3D human-robot interaction studies has also been established. Student access, involvement, and collaboration in the virtual robotics exhibits have been successful. Simulations developed in 3D virtual worlds, such as Second Life, can serve as a highly accessible virtual laboratory and can support a variety of educational and research objectives in the area of mobile robotics and human-robot interactions.