Optimal Coverage Path Planning for Agricultural Vehicles with Curvature Constraints

Autor: Maria Höffmann, Shruti Patel, Christof Büskens
Jazyk: angličtina
Rok vydání: 2023
Předmět:
Zdroj: Agriculture, Vol 13, Iss 11, p 2112 (2023)
Druh dokumentu: article
ISSN: 13112112
2077-0472
DOI: 10.3390/agriculture13112112
Popis: Complete coverage path planning (CCPP) is vital in mobile robot applications. Optimizing CCPP is particularly significant in precision agriculture, where it enhances resource utilization, reduces soil compaction, and boosts crop yields. This work offers a comprehensive approach to CCPP for agricultural vehicles with curvature constraints. Our methodology comprises four key stages. First, it decomposes complex agricultural areas into simpler cells, each equipped with guidance tracks, forming a fixed track system. The subsequent route planning and smooth path planning stages compute a path that adheres to path constraints, optimally traverses the cells, and aligns with the track system. We use the generalized traveling salesman problem (GTSP) to determine the optimal traversing sequence. Additionally, we introduce an algorithm for calculating paths that are both smooth and curvature-constrained within individual cells, as well as paths that enable seamless transitions between cells, resulting in a smooth, curvature-constraint coverage path. Our modular approach allows method flexibility at each step. We evaluate our method on real agricultural fields, demonstrating its effectiveness in minimizing path length, ensuring efficient coverage, and adhering to curvature constraints. This work establishes a strong foundation for precise and efficient agricultural coverage path planning, with potential for further real-world applications and enhancements.
Databáze: Directory of Open Access Journals