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Search Results (1,241)

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Keywords = vehicle path optimization

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33 pages, 10397 KiB  
Article
Multi-AUV Dynamic Cooperative Path Planning with Hybrid Particle Swarm and Dynamic Window Algorithm in Three-Dimensional Terrain and Ocean Current Environment
by Bing Sun and Ziang Lv
Biomimetics 2025, 10(8), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10080536 - 15 Aug 2025
Abstract
Aiming at the cooperative path-planning problem of multiple autonomous underwater vehicles in underwater three-dimensional terrain and dynamic ocean current environments, a hybrid algorithm based on the Improved Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization (IMOPSO) and Dynamic Window (DWA) is proposed. The traditional particle swarm optimization [...] Read more.
Aiming at the cooperative path-planning problem of multiple autonomous underwater vehicles in underwater three-dimensional terrain and dynamic ocean current environments, a hybrid algorithm based on the Improved Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization (IMOPSO) and Dynamic Window (DWA) is proposed. The traditional particle swarm optimization algorithm is prone to falling into local optimization in high-dimensional and complex marine environments. It is difficult to meet multiple constraint conditions, the particle distribution is uneven, and the adaptability to dynamic environments is poor. In response to these problems, a hybrid initialization method based on Chebyshev chaotic mapping, pre-iterative elimination, and boundary particle injection (CPB) is proposed, and the particle swarm optimization algorithm is improved by combining dynamic parameter adjustment and a hybrid perturbation mechanism. On this basis, the Dynamic Window Method (DWA) is introduced as the local path optimization module to achieve real-time avoidance of dynamic obstacles and rolling path correction, thereby constructing a globally and locally coupled hybrid path-planning framework. Finally, cubic spline interpolation is used to smooth the planned path. Considering factors such as path length, smoothness, deflection Angle, and ocean current kinetic energy loss, the dynamic penalty function is adopted to optimize the multi-AUV cooperative collision avoidance and terrain constraints. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively plan the dynamic safe path planning of multiple AUVs. By comparing it with other algorithms, the efficiency and security of the proposed algorithm are verified, meeting the navigation requirements in the current environment. Experiments show that the IMOPSO–DWA hybrid algorithm reduces the path length by 15.5%, the threat penalty by 8.3%, and the total fitness by 3.2% compared with the traditional PSO algorithm. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computer-Aided Biomimetics: 3rd Edition)
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20 pages, 1242 KiB  
Article
Probability-Constrained Path Planning for UAV Logistics Using Mixed Integer Linear Programming
by Zhongxiang Chen, Shengchun Wang, Kaige Chen and Xiaoke Zhang
Modelling 2025, 6(3), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/modelling6030082 - 15 Aug 2025
Abstract
In three-dimensional (3D) logistics environments, finding optimal paths for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is challenging due to positioning inaccuracies that require ground-based corrections. These inaccuracies are exacerbated in harsh environments, leading to a significant risk of correction failure. This research proposes a multi-objective [...] Read more.
In three-dimensional (3D) logistics environments, finding optimal paths for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is challenging due to positioning inaccuracies that require ground-based corrections. These inaccuracies are exacerbated in harsh environments, leading to a significant risk of correction failure. This research proposes a multi-objective mixed integer programming model (MILP) that transforms dynamic uncertainties into binary constraints, utilizing a hierarchical sequencing strategy in the Gurobi optimizer to efficiently identify optimal paths. Our simulations indicate that achieving an 80% mission success probability necessitates an optimal path of 104,946 m with nine corrections. For a 100% success rate, the path length increases to 105,874 m, with corrections remaining constant. These results validate the model’s effectiveness in navigating environments with probabilistic constraints, highlighting its potential for addressing complex logistical challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Modelling Techniques in Transportation Engineering)
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28 pages, 9030 KiB  
Article
UAV Path Planning via Semantic Segmentation of 3D Reality Mesh Models
by Xiaoxinxi Zhang, Zheng Ji, Lingfeng Chen and Yang Lyu
Drones 2025, 9(8), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones9080578 - 14 Aug 2025
Abstract
Traditional unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) path planning methods for image-based 3D reconstruction often rely solely on geometric information from initial models, resulting in redundant data acquisition in non-architectural areas. This paper proposes a UAV path planning method via semantic segmentation of 3D reality [...] Read more.
Traditional unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) path planning methods for image-based 3D reconstruction often rely solely on geometric information from initial models, resulting in redundant data acquisition in non-architectural areas. This paper proposes a UAV path planning method via semantic segmentation of 3D reality mesh models to enhance efficiency and accuracy in complex scenarios. The scene is segmented into buildings, vegetation, ground, and water bodies. Lightweight polygonal surfaces are extracted for buildings, while planar segments in non-building regions are fitted and projected into simplified polygonal patches. These photography targets are further decomposed into point, line, and surface primitives. A multi-resolution image acquisition strategy is adopted, featuring high-resolution coverage for buildings and rapid scanning for non-building areas. To ensure flight safety, a Digital Surface Model (DSM)-based shell model is utilized for obstacle avoidance, and sky-view-based Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) signal evaluation is applied to guide viewpoint optimization. Finally, a complete weighted graph is constructed, and ant colony optimization is employed to generate a low-energy-cost flight path. Experimental results demonstrate that, compared with traditional oblique photogrammetry, the proposed method achieves higher reconstruction quality. Compared with the commercial software Metashape, it reduces the number of images by 30.5% and energy consumption by 37.7%, while significantly improving reconstruction results in both architectural and non-architectural areas. Full article
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21 pages, 10005 KiB  
Article
Improved Genetic Algorithm-Based Path Planning for Multi-Vehicle Pickup in Smart Transportation
by Zeyu Liu, Chengyu Zhou, Junxiang Li, Chenggang Wang and Pengnian Zhang
Smart Cities 2025, 8(4), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/smartcities8040136 - 14 Aug 2025
Abstract
With the rapid development of intelligent transportation systems and online ride-hailing platforms, the demand for promptly responding to passenger requests while minimizing vehicle idling and travel costs has grown substantially. This paper addresses the challenges of suboptimal vehicle path planning and partially connected [...] Read more.
With the rapid development of intelligent transportation systems and online ride-hailing platforms, the demand for promptly responding to passenger requests while minimizing vehicle idling and travel costs has grown substantially. This paper addresses the challenges of suboptimal vehicle path planning and partially connected pickup stations by formulating the task as a Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem (CVRP). We propose an Improved Genetic Algorithm (IGA)-based path planning model designed to minimize total travel distance while respecting vehicle capacity constraints. To handle scenarios where certain pickup points are not directly connected, we integrate graph-theoretic techniques to ensure route continuity. The proposed model incorporates a multi-objective fitness function, a rank-based selection strategy with adjusted weights, and Dijkstra-based path estimation to enhance convergence speed and global optimization performance. Experimental evaluations on four benchmark maps from the Carla simulation platform demonstrate that the proposed approach can rapidly generate optimized multi-vehicle path planning solutions and effectively coordinate pickup tasks, achieving significant improvements in both route quality and computational efficiency compared to traditional methods. Full article
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19 pages, 7309 KiB  
Article
Hierarchical Coordination Control of Distributed Drive Intelligent Vehicle Based on TSMPC and Tire Force Optimization Allocation
by Junmin Li, Fei Wang, Wenguang Guo, Zhengyong Zhou, Shuaike Miao and Te Chen
Algorithms 2025, 18(8), 508; https://doi.org/10.3390/a18080508 - 13 Aug 2025
Viewed by 176
Abstract
An intelligent vehicle hierarchical coordinated control strategy based on time delay state feedback model predictive control (TSMPC) and tire force optimization allocation is presented. Aiming at the problem of insufficient trajectory tracking accuracy and the limited time delay compensation capability of distributed drive [...] Read more.
An intelligent vehicle hierarchical coordinated control strategy based on time delay state feedback model predictive control (TSMPC) and tire force optimization allocation is presented. Aiming at the problem of insufficient trajectory tracking accuracy and the limited time delay compensation capability of distributed drive intelligent vehicles in complex working conditions, an innovative hierarchical control architecture was designed by establishing vehicle dynamics models and path tracking models. The upper-level controller adopts TSMPC algorithm, which significantly improves the coordinated control ability of path tracking and vehicle stability through incremental prediction model and time–delay state feedback mechanism. The lower-level controller adopts an improved artificial bee colony (IABC) algorithm to optimize tire force allocation, effectively solving the dynamic performance optimization problem of redundant drive systems. Simulation verification shows that compared with traditional model predictive control (MPC) algorithms, TSMPC algorithm exhibits significant advantages in trajectory accurateness, error suppression, and stability control. In addition, the IABC algorithm further improves the trajectory accurateness and stability control performance of vehicles in tire force optimization allocation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Parallel and Distributed Algorithms)
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26 pages, 10272 KiB  
Article
Research on Disaster Environment Map Fusion Construction and Reinforcement Learning Navigation Technology Based on Air–Ground Collaborative Multi-Heterogeneous Robot Systems
by Hongtao Tao, Wen Zhao, Li Zhao and Junlong Wang
Sensors 2025, 25(16), 4988; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25164988 - 12 Aug 2025
Viewed by 329
Abstract
The primary challenge that robots face in disaster rescue is to precisely and efficiently construct disaster maps and achieve autonomous navigation. This paper proposes a method for air–ground collaborative map construction. It utilizes the flight capability of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to [...] Read more.
The primary challenge that robots face in disaster rescue is to precisely and efficiently construct disaster maps and achieve autonomous navigation. This paper proposes a method for air–ground collaborative map construction. It utilizes the flight capability of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to achieve rapid three-dimensional space coverage and complex terrain crossing for rapid and efficient map construction. Meanwhile, it utilizes the stable operation capability of an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) and the ground detail survey capability to achieve precise map construction. The maps constructed by the two are accurately integrated to obtain precise disaster environment maps. Among them, the map construction and positioning technology is based on the FAST LiDAR–inertial odometry 2 (FAST-LIO2) framework, enabling the robot to achieve precise positioning even in complex environments, thereby obtaining more accurate point cloud maps. Before conducting map fusion, the point cloud is preprocessed first to reduce the density of the point cloud and also minimize the interference of noise and outliers. Subsequently, the coarse and fine registrations of the point clouds are carried out in sequence. The coarse registration is used to reduce the initial pose difference of the two point clouds, which is conducive to the subsequent rapid and efficient fine registration. The coarse registration uses the improved sample consensus initial alignment (SAC-IA) algorithm, which significantly reduces the registration time compared with the traditional SAC-IA algorithm. The precise registration uses the voxelized generalized iterative closest point (VGICP) algorithm. It has a faster registration speed compared with the generalized iterative closest point (GICP) algorithm while ensuring accuracy. In reinforcement learning navigation, we adopted the deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) path planning algorithm. Compared with the deep Q-network (DQN) algorithm and the A* algorithm, the DDPG algorithm is more conducive to the robot choosing a better route in a complex and unknown environment, and at the same time, the motion trajectory is smoother. This paper adopts Gazebo simulation. Compared with physical robot operation, it provides a safe, controllable, and cost-effective environment, supports efficient large-scale experiments and algorithm debugging, and also supports flexible sensor simulation and automated verification, thereby optimizing the overall testing process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Navigation and Positioning)
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21 pages, 1549 KiB  
Article
Reinforcement Learning-Guided Particle Swarm Optimization for Multi-Objective Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Path Planning
by Wuke Li, Ying Xiong and Qi Xiong
Symmetry 2025, 17(8), 1292; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17081292 - 11 Aug 2025
Viewed by 179
Abstract
Multi-objective Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) path planning in complex 3D environments presents a fundamental challenge requiring the simultaneous optimization of conflicting objectives such as path length, safety, altitude constraints, and smoothness. This study proposes a novel hybrid framework, termed QL-MOPSO, that integrates reinforcement [...] Read more.
Multi-objective Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) path planning in complex 3D environments presents a fundamental challenge requiring the simultaneous optimization of conflicting objectives such as path length, safety, altitude constraints, and smoothness. This study proposes a novel hybrid framework, termed QL-MOPSO, that integrates reinforcement learning with metaheuristic optimization through a three-stage hierarchical architecture. The framework employs Q-learning to generate a global guidance path in a discretized 2D grid environment using an eight-directional symmetric action space that embodies rotational symmetry at π/4 intervals, ensuring uniform exploration capabilities and unbiased path planning. A crucial intermediate stage transforms the discrete 2D path into a 3D initial trajectory, bridging the gap between discrete learning and continuous optimization domains. The MOPSO algorithm then performs fine-grained refinement in continuous 3D space, guided by a novel Q-learning path deviation objective that ensures continuous knowledge transfer throughout the optimization process. Experimental results demonstrate that the symmetric action space design yields 20.6% shorter paths compared to asymmetric alternatives, while the complete QL-MOPSO framework achieves 5% path length reduction and significantly faster convergence compared to standard MOPSO. The proposed method successfully generates Pareto-optimal solutions that balance multiple objectives while leveraging the symmetry-aware guidance mechanism to avoid local optima and accelerate convergence, offering a robust solution for complex multi-objective UAV path planning problems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetry in Chaos Theory and Applications)
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30 pages, 7398 KiB  
Article
A Study on UAV Path Planning for Navigation Mark Inspection Using Two Improved SOM Algorithms
by Liangkun Xu, Zaiwei Zhu, Zhihui Hu, Liyan Cai, Xinqiang Chen and Xiaomeng Wang
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(8), 1537; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13081537 - 10 Aug 2025
Viewed by 242
Abstract
With the widespread application of unmanned aerial vehicle technology in navigation mark inspection, path planning algorithm efficiency has become crucial to improve inspection effectiveness. The traditional self-organizing mapping (SOM) algorithm suffers from dual limitations in UAV inspection path optimization, including insufficient global exploration [...] Read more.
With the widespread application of unmanned aerial vehicle technology in navigation mark inspection, path planning algorithm efficiency has become crucial to improve inspection effectiveness. The traditional self-organizing mapping (SOM) algorithm suffers from dual limitations in UAV inspection path optimization, including insufficient global exploration during early training stages and susceptibility to local optima entrapment in later stages, resulting in limited inspection efficiency and increased operational costs. For this reason, this study proposes two improved self-organizing mapping algorithms. First, the ORC_SOM algorithm incorporating a generalized competition mechanism and local infiltration strategy is developed. Second, the ORCTS_SOM hybrid optimization model is constructed by integrating the Tabu Search algorithm. Validation using two different scale navigation mark datasets shows that compared with traditional methods, the proposed improved methods achieve significantly enhanced path planning optimization. This study provides effective path planning methods for unmanned aerial vehicle navigation mark inspection, offering algorithmic support for intelligent maritime supervision system construction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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33 pages, 7832 KiB  
Article
Path Navigation and Precise Deviation Correction Control for Tracked Roadheaders in Confined Roadway Spaces of Underground Coal Mines
by Rui Li, Dongjie Wang, Weixiong Zheng, Tong Li and Miao Wu
Mathematics 2025, 13(16), 2557; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13162557 - 9 Aug 2025
Viewed by 224
Abstract
Aiming at the complex construction environment and autonomous navigation challenges in underground coal mine roadways, this paper proposes a path navigation and deviation correction control method for tracked roadheaders in confined roadway spaces. First, a two-dimensional planar grid model of the working scenario [...] Read more.
Aiming at the complex construction environment and autonomous navigation challenges in underground coal mine roadways, this paper proposes a path navigation and deviation correction control method for tracked roadheaders in confined roadway spaces. First, a two-dimensional planar grid model of the working scenario was constructed, with dimensionality reduction in the roadway model achieved through a heading reference influence degree threshold of the tracked roadheaders. Based on the kinematics theory of tracked roadheaders, kinematic and dynamic models for deviation correction in fully mechanized excavation roadways were established. Subsequently, a path planning and tracking correction algorithm was developed, along with a heading deviation correction control algorithm based on fuzzy neural network PID. Online optimization of the particle swarm algorithm was realized through crossover-mutation operations, enabling optimal strategy solving for construction path planning and precise control of travel deviation correction. Finally, simulation experiments evaluating algorithm performance and comparative simulations of control algorithms validated the feasibility and superiority of the proposed method. This research provides strategic guidance and theoretical foundations for rapid precision deployment and intelligent deviation correction control of tracked engineering vehicles in confined underground coal mine spaces. Full article
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27 pages, 3200 KiB  
Article
IoT-Enhanced Multi-Base Station Networks for Real-Time UAV Surveillance and Tracking
by Zhihua Chen, Tao Zhang and Tao Hong
Drones 2025, 9(8), 558; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones9080558 - 8 Aug 2025
Viewed by 231
Abstract
The proliferation of small, agile unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has exposed the limits of single-sensor surveillance in cluttered airspace. We propose an Internet of Things-enabled integrated sensing and communication (IoT-ISAC) framework that converts cellular base stations into cooperative, edge-intelligent sensing nodes. Within a [...] Read more.
The proliferation of small, agile unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has exposed the limits of single-sensor surveillance in cluttered airspace. We propose an Internet of Things-enabled integrated sensing and communication (IoT-ISAC) framework that converts cellular base stations into cooperative, edge-intelligent sensing nodes. Within a four-layer design—terminal, edge, IoT platform, and cloud—stations exchange raw echoes and low-level features in real time, while adaptive beam registration and cross-correlation timing mitigate spatial and temporal misalignments. A hybrid processing pipeline first produces coarse data-level estimates and then applies symbol-level refinements, sustaining rapid response without sacrificing precision. Simulation evaluations using multi-band ISAC waveforms confirm high detection reliability, sub-frame latency, and energy-aware operation in dense urban clutter, adverse weather, and multi-target scenarios. Preliminary hardware tests validate the feasibility of the proposed signal processing approach. Simulation analysis demonstrates detection accuracy of 85–90% under optimal conditions with processing latency of 15–25 ms and potential energy efficiency improvement of 10–20% through cooperative operation, pending real-world validation. By extending coverage, suppressing blind zones, and supporting dynamic surveillance of fast-moving UAVs, the proposed system provides a scalable path toward smart city air safety networks, cooperative autonomous navigation aids, and other remote-sensing applications that require agile, coordinated situational awareness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Drone Communications)
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25 pages, 3588 KiB  
Article
An Intelligent Collaborative Charging System for Open-Pit Mines
by Jinbo Li, Lin Bi, Zhuo Wang and Liyun Zhou
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8720; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158720 - 7 Aug 2025
Viewed by 370
Abstract
To address challenges in automated charging operations of bulk explosive trucks in open-pit mines—specifically difficulties in borehole identification, positioning inaccuracies, and low operational efficiency—this study proposes an intelligent collaborative charging system integrating three modular components: (1) an explosive transport vehicle (with onboard terminal, [...] Read more.
To address challenges in automated charging operations of bulk explosive trucks in open-pit mines—specifically difficulties in borehole identification, positioning inaccuracies, and low operational efficiency—this study proposes an intelligent collaborative charging system integrating three modular components: (1) an explosive transport vehicle (with onboard terminal, explosive compartment, and mobility system enabling optimal routing and quantitative dispensing), (2) a charging robot (equipped with borehole detection, loading mechanisms, and mobility system for optimized search path planning and precision positioning), and (3) interconnection systems (coupling devices and interfaces facilitating auxiliary explosive transfer). This approach resolves three critical limitations of conventional systems: (i) mechanical arm-based borehole detection difficulties, (ii) blast hole positioning inaccuracies, and (iii) complex transport routing. The experimental results demonstrate that the intelligent cooperative charging method for open-pit mines achieves an 18% improvement in operational efficiency through intelligent collaboration among its modular components, while simultaneously realizing automated and intelligent charging operations. This advancement has significant implications for promoting intelligent development in open-pit mining operations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Technologies in Intelligent Coal Mining)
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31 pages, 1737 KiB  
Article
Trajectory Optimization for Autonomous Highway Driving Using Quintic Splines
by Wael A. Farag and Morsi M. Mahmoud
World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(8), 434; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16080434 - 3 Aug 2025
Viewed by 480
Abstract
This paper introduces a robust and efficient Localized Spline-based Path-Planning (LSPP) algorithm designed to enhance autonomous vehicle navigation on highways. The LSPP approach prioritizes smooth maneuvering, obstacle avoidance, passenger comfort, and adherence to road constraints, including lane boundaries, through optimized trajectory generation using [...] Read more.
This paper introduces a robust and efficient Localized Spline-based Path-Planning (LSPP) algorithm designed to enhance autonomous vehicle navigation on highways. The LSPP approach prioritizes smooth maneuvering, obstacle avoidance, passenger comfort, and adherence to road constraints, including lane boundaries, through optimized trajectory generation using quintic spline functions and a dynamic speed profile. Leveraging real-time data from the vehicle’s sensor fusion module, the LSPP algorithm accurately interprets the positions of surrounding vehicles and obstacles, creating a safe, dynamically feasible path that is relayed to the Model Predictive Control (MPC) track-following module for precise execution. The theoretical distinction of LSPP lies in its modular integration of: (1) a finite state machine (FSM)-based decision-making layer that selects maneuver-specific goal states (e.g., keep lane, change lane left/right); (2) quintic spline optimization to generate smooth, jerk-minimized, and kinematically consistent trajectories; (3) a multi-objective cost evaluation framework that ranks competing paths according to safety, comfort, and efficiency; and (4) a closed-loop MPC controller to ensure real-time trajectory execution with robustness. Extensive simulations conducted in diverse highway scenarios and traffic conditions demonstrate LSPP’s effectiveness in delivering smooth, safe, and computationally efficient trajectories. Results show consistent improvements in lane-keeping accuracy, collision avoidance, enhanced materials wear performance, and planning responsiveness compared to traditional path-planning methods. These findings confirm LSPP’s potential as a practical and high-performance solution for autonomous highway driving. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Motion Planning and Control of Autonomous Vehicles)
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32 pages, 6588 KiB  
Article
Path Planning for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle: A-Star-Guided Potential Field Method
by Jaewan Choi and Younghoon Choi
Drones 2025, 9(8), 545; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones9080545 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 452
Abstract
The utilization of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in missions such as reconnaissance and surveillance has grown rapidly, underscoring the need for efficient path planning algorithms that ensure both optimality and collision avoidance. The A-star algorithm is widely used for global path planning due [...] Read more.
The utilization of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in missions such as reconnaissance and surveillance has grown rapidly, underscoring the need for efficient path planning algorithms that ensure both optimality and collision avoidance. The A-star algorithm is widely used for global path planning due to its ability to generate optimal routes; however, its high computational cost makes it unsuitable for real-time applications, particularly in unknown or dynamic environments. For local path planning, the Artificial Potential Field (APF) algorithm enables real-time navigation by attracting the UAV toward the target while repelling it from obstacles. Despite its efficiency, APF suffers from local minima and limited performance in dynamic settings. To address these challenges, this paper proposes the A-star-Guided Potential Field (AGPF) algorithm, which integrates the strengths of A-star and APF to achieve robust performance in both global and local path planning. The AGPF algorithm was validated through simulations conducted in the Robot Operating System (ROS) environment. Simulation results demonstrate that AGPF produces smoother and more optimal paths than A-star, while avoiding the local minima issues inherent in APF. Furthermore, AGPF effectively handles moving and previously unknown obstacles by generating real-time avoidance trajectories, demonstrating strong adaptability in dynamic and uncertain environments. Full article
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26 pages, 4289 KiB  
Article
A Voronoi–A* Fusion Algorithm with Adaptive Layering for Efficient UAV Path Planning in Complex Terrain
by Boyu Dong, Gong Zhang, Yan Yang, Peiyuan Yuan and Shuntong Lu
Drones 2025, 9(8), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones9080542 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 362
Abstract
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) face significant challenges in global path planning within complex terrains, as traditional algorithms (e.g., A*, PSO, APF) struggle to balance computational efficiency, path optimality, and safety. This study proposes a Voronoi–A* fusion algorithm, combining Voronoi-vertex-based rapid trajectory generation with [...] Read more.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) face significant challenges in global path planning within complex terrains, as traditional algorithms (e.g., A*, PSO, APF) struggle to balance computational efficiency, path optimality, and safety. This study proposes a Voronoi–A* fusion algorithm, combining Voronoi-vertex-based rapid trajectory generation with A* supplementary expansion for enhanced performance. First, an adaptive DEM layering strategy divides the terrain into horizontal planes based on obstacle density, reducing computational complexity while preserving 3D flexibility. The Voronoi vertices within each layer serve as a sparse waypoint network, with greedy heuristic prioritizing vertices that ensure safety margins, directional coherence, and goal proximity. For unresolved segments, A* performs localized searches to ensure complete connectivity. Finally, a line-segment interpolation search further optimizes the path to minimize both length and turning maneuvers. Simulations in mountainous environments demonstrate superior performance over traditional methods in terms of path planning success rates, path optimality, and computation. Our framework excels in real-time scenarios, such as disaster rescue and logistics, although it assumes static environments and trades slight path elongation for robustness. Future research should integrate dynamic obstacle avoidance and weather impact analysis to enhance adaptability in real-world conditions. Full article
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21 pages, 7362 KiB  
Article
Multi-Layer Path Planning for Complete Structural Inspection Using UAV
by Ho Wang Tong, Boyang Li, Hailong Huang and Chih-Yung Wen
Drones 2025, 9(8), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones9080541 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 335
Abstract
This article addresses the path planning problem for complete structural inspection using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The proposed method emphasizes the scalability of the viewpoints and aims to provide practical solutions to different inspection distance requirements, eliminating the need for extra view-planning [...] Read more.
This article addresses the path planning problem for complete structural inspection using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The proposed method emphasizes the scalability of the viewpoints and aims to provide practical solutions to different inspection distance requirements, eliminating the need for extra view-planning procedures. First, the mixed-viewpoint generation is proposed. Then, the Multi-Layered Angle-Distance Traveling Salesman Problem (ML-ADTSP) is solved, which aims to reduce overall energy consumption and inspection path complexity. A two-step Genetic Algorithm (GA) is used to solve the combinatorial optimization problem. The performance of different crossover functions is also discussed. By solving the ML-ADTSP, the simulation results demonstrate that the mean accelerations of the UAV throughout the inspection path are flattened significantly, improving the overall path smoothness and reducing traversal difficulty. With minor low-level optimization, the proposed framework can be applied to inspect different structures. Full article
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