LiDAR-IMU Sensor Fusion-Based SLAM for Enhanced Autonomous Navigation in Orchards

Labor shortages and uneven terrain in orchards present significant challenges to autonomous navigation. This study proposes a navigation system that integrates Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) data to enhance localization accuracy and map stability through Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM). To minimize distortions in LiDAR scans caused by ground irregularities, real-time tilt correction was implemented based on IMU feedback. Furthermore, the path planning module was improved by modifying the Rapidly-Exploring Random Tree (RRT) algorithm. The enhanced RRT generated smoother and more efficient trajectories with quantifiable improvements: the average shortest path length was 2.26 m, compared to 2.59 m with conventional RRT and 2.71 m with A* algorithm. Tracking performance also improved, achieving a root mean square error of 0.890 m and a maximum lateral deviation of 0.423 m. In addition, yaw stability was strengthened, as heading fluctuations decreased by approximately 7% relative to the standard RRT. Field results validated the robustness and adaptability of the proposed system under real-world agricultural conditions. These findings highlight the potential of LiDAR–IMU sensor fusion and optimized path planning to enable scalable and reliable autonomous navigation for precision agriculture.