Neural networks for autonomous path-following with an omnidirectional image sensor

This paper presents a path-following system implemented with two different types of neural networks, that enables an autonomous mobile robot to return along a previously learned path in a dynamic environment. The path-following is based on data provided by an omnidirectional conical visual system, derived from the COPIS sensor, but with different optical reflective properties. The system uses optical and software processing and a neural network to learn the path, described as a sequence of selected points. In the navigation phase it drives the robot along this learned path. Interesting results have been achieved using low cost equipment. Test and results are presented.