Fuzzy inference system-assisted human-aware navigation framework based on enhanced potential field

Abstract

With the advent of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) in public areas such as malls and airports, their harmonious coexistence with humans is crucial. AMRs must operate in a manner that ensures human safety, comfort, and acceptability to reduce stress. This is called Human Aware Navigation. This study introduces a framework for AMR navigation that prioritizes safety and human comfort in such environments, utilizing an enhanced Potential Field approach augmented by Fuzzy Inference Systems. To achieve a smooth AMR trajectory, the framework employs these systems based on AMR, human, and obstacle information. The proposed approach is tested across various scenarios, including complex, cluttered environments that mimic practical situations. Simulation results demonstrate that AMRs using the proposed method navigate human-rich environments safely and comfortably while mitigating common issues associated with Potential Field-based approaches, such as local minima and obstacles near the goal.

Keywords

Human Aware Navigation (HAN) / Potential Field (PF) / Fuzzy Inference System (FIS) / Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR)