URDF importer plugin

The URDF file format (*.urdf) is supported for import operations via a plugin (simExtURDF) coutesy of Ignacio Tartavull. Next to API functions related to the URDF format, the plugin also offers a GUI dialog accessible via [Menu bar --> Add-ons --> URDF importer]:

[URDF plugin dialog]


  • Assign collision links to layer 9: hides collision links in layer 9 (layer 9 is off by default).
  • Assign joints to layer 10: hides joints in layer 10 (layer 10 is off by default).
  • Convex decompose non-convex collision links: decomposes non-convex respondable shapes into convex shapes. This item should always be checked, since convex shapes perform faster and are more stable during dynamic collision response calculations.
  • Show convex decomposition dialog: allows to adjust the way how the convex decomposition operates.
  • Create visual links if none: creates an artificial visual element if the link doesn't define one.
  • Center model above ground: centers the imported model above the ground.
  • Prepare model definition if feasable: tags the root object as "model base" and adapts the other objects accordingly (e.g. clicking an object in the model will select the whole model instead of an individual object).
  • Alternate local respondable masks: when checked, alternates the local collision masks so that adjacent respondable shapes won't react to collision. If unckecked, then all respondable shapes will only react to collision with objects outside of the model.
  • Enable position control for revolute and prismatic joints: if checked, then revolute and prismatic joints will be in position control mode. Joint force/torque and upper regulation velocity are taken from the URDF file.
  • Import: triggers an import operation.