Rapidly Exploring Random Trees for Autonomous Navigation in Observable and Uncertain Environments

Abstract

This paper proposes the use of a small differential robot with two DC motors, controlled by an ESP32 microcon-troller, that implements the Rapidly Exploring Random Trees algorithm to navigate from an origin point to a destination point in an unknown but observable environment. The motivation behind this research is to explore the use of a low-cost, versatile and efficient robotic platform for autonomous navigation in complex environments. This work presents a practical and cost-effective solution that can be easily replicated and implemented in various scenarios such as search and rescue, surveillance, and industrial automation. The proposed robotic platform is equipped with a set of sensors and actuators that allow it to observe the environment, estimate its position, and move through it. The Rapidly Exploring Random Trees algorithm is implemented to generate a path from an origin to a destination point, avoiding obstacles and adjusting the robot’s motion accordingly. The implementation of this algorithm enables the robot to navigate through complex environments with high efficiency and reliability, making it a suitable solution for a wide range of applications. The results obtained through simulations and experiments show that the proposed robotic platform and algorithm achieve high performance and accuracy in autonomous navigation, even in complex environments.