Vladimir Petrov Kostov
Papers
1
Total Citations
14
H-Index
1
About
Vladimir Petrov Kostov is a mathematician whose work bridges control theory, differential geometry, and robotics. His research focuses on optimal control problems for nonholonomic systems, particularly the geometry of trajectories for car-like robots. Kostov’s major contribution lies in analyzing the irregularity of optimal paths under curvature constraints, revealing that even simple robotic motion can yield surprisingly complex, non-smooth optimal trajectories. His most-cited paper, “Irregularity of Optimal Trajectories in a Control Problem for a Car-like Robot” (1998, 14 citations), rigorously studies shortest plane curves joining two points with prescribed tangent angles and curvatures, where the derivative of curvature is bounded. This work provides foundational insights into the structure of optimal controls, showing that regularity assumptions often fail—a key result for autonomous vehicle path planning and motion optimization. Though his citation count is modest, Kostov’s theoretical contributions are valued by researchers in geometric control and robotics for their mathematical depth and practical implications. His work exemplifies how abstract geometric analysis can illuminate fundamental limits in robotic motion, making him a notable figure in the intersection of applied mathematics and engineering.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1