Mobile robot navigation in unknown environment based on exploration principles

Abstract

This article focuses on the mobile robot's autonomous navigation problem in an unknown environment. Considering a robot equipped with an omnidirectional range-sensor a map of the discovered area is constructed in an iterative manner. Given a target position located in the unexplored territory, initially a motion planning scheme is employed that relies on exploration-principles of the area near the target. This is achieved by assigning an exploration cost function that indirectly attracts the robot close to target. Upon discovery of the target, the robot moves to it following the shortest-distance path. Simulation studies that prove the efficiency of the overall method are presented.