Robert Tilove

Papers

Total Citations

160

H-Index

About

Robert Tilove is a pioneering researcher in robotics, best known for his foundational work in motion planning and obstacle avoidance. His most influential contribution is the development of the artificial potential field method for mobile robot navigation, detailed in his highly cited 2002 paper (141 citations). This approach models the robot as a charged particle attracted to its goal while repelled by obstacles, providing an elegant and computationally efficient framework that has become a cornerstone of real-time robot control. Tilove’s work unified common variations of this method, enabling robust local navigation in dynamic environments. Beyond motion planning, he contributed to off-line robot programming with the Roboteach system (1984), and addressed practical challenges in manufacturing, such as weld gun selection for collision-free robotic welding (2008). His research bridges theoretical innovation and industrial application, with his artificial potential method remaining a standard reference for students and engineers developing autonomous systems. Tilove’s legacy lies in simplifying complex spatial reasoning problems, making robotics more accessible and reliable in real-world settings.