Applied Sciences (May 2024)

RL-Based Sim2Real Enhancements for Autonomous Beach-Cleaning Agents

  • Francisco Quiroga,
  • Gabriel Hermosilla,
  • German Varas,
  • Francisco Alonso,
  • Karla Schröder

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114602
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 14, no. 11
p. 4602

Abstract

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This paper explores the application of Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) and Sim2Real strategies to enhance the autonomy of beach-cleaning robots. Experiments demonstrate that DRL agents, initially refined in simulations, effectively transfer their navigation skills to real-world scenarios, achieving precise and efficient operation in complex natural environments. This method provides a scalable and effective solution for beach conservation, establishing a significant precedent for the use of autonomous robots in environmental management. The key advancements include the ability of robots to adhere to predefined routes and dynamically avoid obstacles. Additionally, a newly developed platform validates the Sim2Real strategy, proving its capability to bridge the gap between simulated training and practical application, thus offering a robust methodology for addressing real-life environmental challenges.

Keywords