RobotWebTools/rosbridge_suite

Server Implementations of the rosbridge v2 Protocol

What it solves

It provides a way for non-ROS applications to communicate with a Robot Operating System (ROS) network. Since ROS typically requires specific libraries and environments, this project creates a bridge that allows any client capable of sending JSON to interact with ROS without needing a full ROS installation.

How it works

The suite implements a JSON-based protocol that acts as an intermediary. It uses a library to translate JSON strings into ROS actions (like publishing to topics or calling services) and provides server implementations—most notably via WebSockets and TCP—to handle the incoming network traffic from external clients.

Who it’s for

Developers who want to build web-based dashboards, mobile apps, or external software in languages like JavaScript, Java, Rust, or Python that need to control or monitor a robot running ROS.

Highlights

  • JSON Interface: Simplifies ROS interaction by using a universal data format.
  • Multiple Transport Layers: Supports both WebSockets and TCP for flexible connectivity.
  • Broad Client Support: Compatible with various client libraries including roslibjs, jrosbridge, roslibpy, and roslibrust.
  • Meta-information Access: Includes tools to retrieve ROS topic lists and interact with the Parameter Server.

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