THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO 
Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) on ModalAI’s VOXL 2

Hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) simulation is a critical technique for testing embedded systems by integrating real hardware components with a virtual simulation environment. This approach allows engineers to evaluate performance, validate control algorithms, and detect potential issues before deploying systems in real-world conditions.

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Learn more: Running Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) on ModalAI’s VOXL 2

Why Use HITL for VOXL 2?

ModalAI’s VOXL 2 is a high-performance computing platform designed for autonomous drones and robots. Leveraging HITL with VOXL 2 enables developers to:

• Test flight controllers in a simulated yet realistic environment.

• Identify and fix software and hardware integration issues before deployment.

• Reduce costs associated with physical prototyping and testing.

• Accelerate development cycles by minimizing trial-and-error approaches in the field.

Learn more: Running Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) on ModalAI’s VOXL 2

 

Key Components for HITL with VOXL 2

To set up HITL for VOXL 2, you need:

1. VOXL 2 Development Kit – The core processing unit for running autonomous drone software.

2. Flight Controller – The real-time processor managing drone stability and control.

3. Simulator (e.g., Gazebo or PX4 SITL) – A virtual environment mimicking real-world flight conditions.

4. Communication Interfaces – Protocols such as MAVLink facilitate data exchange between hardware and simulation.

5. Debugging Tools – Software like QGroundControl for real-time monitoring and analysis.

Learn more: Running Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) on ModalAI’s VOXL 2

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How to Set Up HITL on VOXL 2

Step 1: Configure the Simulation Environment

• Install PX4 SITL or Gazebo on a workstation.

• Ensure that the necessary plugins and dependencies are installed.

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Step 2: Connect VOXL 2 to the Simulator

• Establish MAVLink communication between the VOXL 2 and the simulator.

• Configure the flight controller parameters to interact with the virtual drone environment.

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Step 3: Run HITL Testing

• Initiate the HITL simulation and observe telemetry data.

• Test different flight conditions, including takeoff, landing, and obstacle avoidance.

• Fine-tune algorithms based on performance insights gathered from HITL runs.

Learn more: Running Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) on ModalAI’s VOXL 2

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Benefits of HITL Testing for VOXL 2 Development

• Enhanced Reliability – Early detection of software and hardware issues improves the stability of autonomous systems.

• Cost Savings – Reduces the need for extensive physical flight tests, saving resources and time.

• Improved Safety – Minimizes risks associated with real-world drone testing by allowing rigorous evaluation in a controlled simulation environment.​

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Best Practices for HITL with VOXL 2

• Optimize Latency: Ensure minimal communication delays between the hardware and the simulator.

• Validate Sensor Integration: Simulate sensor data to verify real-world performance.

• Automate Testing: Implement automated HITL tests for continuous integration and deployment.

Learn more: Running Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) on ModalAI’s VOXL 2

 

Real-World Applications of HITL for Autonomous Drones

• Case studies of HITL being used in drone development.

• How HITL testing improves safety in UAV operations.

• Future trends in HITL for robotics and autonomous systems.

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Learn more: Running Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) on ModalAI’s VOXL 2

 

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Conclusion

Hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) testing with ModalAI’s VOXL 2 is a powerful technique for accelerating development, improving reliability, and reducing costs in autonomous drone applications. By leveraging HITL, engineers can rigorously validate their systems in a safe, efficient, and scalable manner before deploying them in real-world environments.

 

Looking to streamline your HITL setup? Contact us today to learn more about integrating HITL with VOXL 2!