The Top Five Linux-powered Robots in the World Today

Linux may not be a front-runner in the arena of personal computing or a force in the multi-million dollar industrial robot sector, but in the world of research and independent robotics projects it’s a different story. Many prestigious organizations use Linux to drive their robotics projects; for example, NASA uses Linux in many of its robotic vehicles.

Linux has a reputation among average computer users – not entirely undeserved – for complexity and a lack of user-friendliness. For researchers involved in robotics, however, Linux offers many advantages. It’s seen as being more stable and more versatile than commercial operating systems; because Linux is open source, the basic code can be altered to suit the user’s needs. The existence of a global Linux community facilitates the development of new software and applications. Linux is also free, an important consideration when research budgets are tight.
1. NAO: A humanoid robot.
Developed by Aldebaran Robotics, NAO is a programmable humanoid robot. NAO is available in various sizes and configurations but always retains a humanoid figure and face. NAO can be used in a variety of contexts; it can help motivate and teach students; provide a non-threatening way for children with autism to learn about expressions and gestures; or investigate human-machine interactions. NAO uses Choregraphe, a multi-platform programming language that runs on Linux.
2. The ASV Roboat: a fully autonomous solar powered research vessel.
Converted from a 12-foot Laerling keelboat by a team from the Austrian Society for Innovative Computer Sciences (INNOC), the unmanned Robot uses a solar-powered Linux-based ‘brain’ to navigate and perform various functions. Its chief purpose is to conduct ecological research at sea; with no human crew, the Robot can stay out on the ocean for long periods of time.
3. OpenRov: a submersible robot.
While the Roboat sails across the waves, the OpenRov is designed to investigate beneath them. A submarine robot, the OpenRov uses Linux running on a Raspberry Pi microprocessor board.
4. SkyNET: a flying robot.
Another robot that uses the Rasperry Pi is the unfortunately-named SkyNET. This miniature drone is capable of flying complex routes over long distances.
5. K-10: an explorer
K-10 is one of a long line of Linux-powered vehicles developed by NASA. One of the K-10’s jobs is to patrol the Black Point Lava Flow in Arizona, gathering data for geology fieldwork.