Exploring Software-Defined Robotics: Its Requirements and Applications of Information Models

Abstract

This paper explores the application of Software-Defined x (SDx) principles to robotics, specifically focusing on Software-Defined Robot (SDR), to enhance flexibility, interoperability, and portability in robotic systems. SDR facilitates a significant paradigm shift from traditional, hardware-dependent configurations to more agile, software-defined setups. By abstracting hardware functions into software or separating hardware from software, SDR allows for more dynamic development, rapid updates, and adjustments of robotic applications without the constraints of physical hardware. Utilizing standardized information model of ISO 22166-201 and DIS 22166-202, this paper discusses how SDR facilitates the development, testing, and deployment of robotic functionalities such as mobility services without direct hardware interaction. The implementation of SDR is demonstrated using a Jackal robot and a TurtleBot, which are examples of mobile platforms, with further testing through digital twins in a simulated environment, showcasing the potential of SDR to transform the robotics industry by reducing hardware dependency and enhancing system adaptability.