How can you overcome ROS tool limitations on different platforms?

1 Use Docker containers

One way to deal with ROS tool limitations on different platforms is to use Docker containers. Docker is a software that allows you to create and run isolated environments for your applications, regardless of the underlying operating system. You can use Docker to create a ROS container that has all the dependencies and packages you need for your project, and then run it on any platform that supports Docker. This way, you can avoid installing and configuring ROS tools on each platform, and ensure consistent and reproducible results. To use Docker with ROS, you can follow the official tutorials or use pre-built images from the ROS Docker Hub.

2 Use cross-compilation tools

Another way to overcome ROS tool limitations on different platforms is to use cross-compilation tools. Cross-compilation is the process of building executable code for a target platform that is different from the one you are developing on. For example, you can use cross-compilation tools to build ROS code for an embedded system, such as a Raspberry Pi, from your desktop computer. This way, you can leverage the power and convenience of your desktop tools, and avoid the hassle and limitations of installing and running ROS tools on the embedded system. To use cross-compilation tools with ROS, you can use tools such as rosserial, ros2arduino, or ros_cross_compile.

3 Use platform-specific tools

A third way to overcome ROS tool limitations on different platforms is to use platform-specific tools. Platform-specific tools are tools that are designed or adapted for a particular platform, and can offer better performance, compatibility, or functionality than the standard ROS tools. For example, you can use platform-specific tools to integrate ROS with native features of the platform, such as graphical interfaces, sensors, or hardware drivers. To use platform-specific tools with ROS, you can use tools such as ROS for Windows, ROS for Mac, or ROS Industrial.

4 Use online tools

A fourth way to overcome ROS tool limitations on different platforms is to use online tools. Online tools are tools that run on the cloud or on a web browser, and can provide access to ROS tools and utilities without requiring installation or configuration on your local platform. For example, you can use online tools to learn, test, or simulate ROS applications, or to collaborate with other ROS users. To use online tools with ROS, you can use tools such as ROS Development Studio, Robot Ignite Academy, or The Construct.

5 Use alternative tools

A fifth way to overcome ROS tool limitations on different platforms is to use alternative tools. Alternative tools are tools that are not part of the official ROS distribution, but can offer similar or complementary functionality for your ROS projects. For example, you can use alternative tools to edit, debug, or visualize ROS code, or to communicate with ROS nodes. To use alternative tools with ROS, you can use tools such as VS Code, PyCharm, or rqt.

6 Use custom tools

A sixth way to overcome ROS tool limitations on different platforms is to use custom tools. Custom tools are tools that you create or modify yourself, according to your specific needs and preferences. For example, you can use custom tools to extend, improve, or automate ROS tools and utilities, or to create new ones. To use custom tools with ROS, you can use tools such as roslaunch, rosbag, or rosnode, or write your own scripts or programs using the ROS APIs.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?