Description:
This release, "Horizon", marks the integration of PX4 v1.14, bringing enhanced stability, improved performance, and expanded capabilities for multi-drone operations. Designed for researchers, developers, and hobbyists, this version includes refined support for advanced G-code-based trajectory planning, scalable multi-drone simulations, and seamless ROS 2 integration.
Key Features:
-
Full PX4 v1.14 Support:
- Optimized for the latest PX4 firmware, ensuring compatibility with new flight modes and features.
-
Advanced G-Code System:
- Added support for new G-code commands, including circular trajectories, orbital maneuvers, and spiral paths.
- Enhanced error handling and debugging tools for G-code execution.
-
Improved Multi-Drone Coordination:
- Simplified deployment for multi-drone scenarios with robust message protocols.
- Updated examples for group coordination in simulation.
-
Gazebo Simulation Enhancements:
- Added support for custom models and environments with streamlined YAML-based configuration.
- Improved rendering and physics fidelity for large-scale simulations.
-
Extensible Drone Controllers:
- Base classes for custom drone types and new G-code commands.
- Simplified architecture for integrating user-defined behaviors.
Recommended Use Cases:
- Academic research in robotics and swarm intelligence.
- Simulation and testing of autonomous drone missions.
- Real-world applications like delivery, mapping, and surveillance.
Getting Started:
Refer to the updated [documentation](documentation/main.md) for detailed setup instructions, examples, and advanced usage scenarios.
Known Issues:
- Compatibility with older PX4 versions is not guaranteed. Users are encouraged to migrate to PX4 v1.14.
Looking Ahead:
Future updates will focus on machine learning integration, real-time obstacle avoidance, and decentralized swarm algorithms. Stay tuned for the next release!