Applied Sciences (Jun 2023)

Autonomous Navigation of Robots: Optimization with DQN

  • Juan Escobar-Naranjo,
  • Gustavo Caiza,
  • Paulina Ayala,
  • Edisson Jordan,
  • Carlos A. Garcia,
  • Marcelo V. Garcia

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/app13127202
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 13, no. 12
p. 7202

Abstract

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In the field of artificial intelligence, control systems for mobile robots have undergone significant advancements, particularly within the realm of autonomous learning. However, previous studies have primarily focused on predefined paths, neglecting real-time obstacle avoidance and trajectory reconfiguration. This research introduces a novel algorithm that integrates reinforcement learning with the Deep Q-Network (DQN) to empower an agent with the ability to execute actions, gather information from a simulated environment in Gazebo, and maximize rewards. Through a series of carefully designed experiments, the algorithm’s parameters were meticulously configured, and its performance was rigorously validated. Unlike conventional navigation systems, our approach embraces the exploration of the environment, facilitating effective trajectory planning based on acquired knowledge. By leveraging randomized training conditions within a simulated environment, the DQN network exhibits superior capabilities in computing complex functions compared to traditional methods. This breakthrough underscores the potential of our algorithm to significantly enhance the autonomous learning capacities of mobile robots.

Keywords