In the field of robotics and automation, path planning holds significant potential for optimizing field operations. These operations must cover the work area comprehensively and efficiently with minimal movement. To achieve these goals, coverage path planning (CPP) utilizing the Boustrophedon method is essential. However, in an experimental environment, CPP often results in missed work areas due to cumulative sensor errors and structural inconsistencies. This paper aimed to improve CPP by employing the Douglas-Peucker algorithm to simplify the work path and minimizing missed areas. Additionally, Edge Zone Path method was used to generate edge paths, enhancing safety of the trajectory. For experimental purposes, data were acquired from an actual barn. The work area was divided using three segmentation algorithms. Among these, the Voronoi Segmentation, which demonstrated superior performance, was used to extract the data. Experimental results indicated that the proposed optimized CPP improved path safety by maintaining a safe distance from obstacles during frequent turns. Additionally, the Coverage Ratio increased the coverage area of the autonomous robot by an average of 17% compared to the original CPP. These findings suggest that the proposed method can generate more efficient and safe work paths.

This study proposes a path-tracking algorithm based on feed-forward (preview distance control) and feedback (LQR, linear quadratic regulator) controllers to reduce heading angle errors and lateral distance errors between a predefined path and an autonomous vehicle. The main objective of path-tracking is to generate control commands to follow a predefined path. The feed-forward control is applied to solve heading angle errors and lateral distance errors in the trajectory caused by curvatures of the road by controlling the steering angle of the vehicle. An LQR was applied to decrease the errors caused by environmental and external disturbances. The proposed algorithm was verified by simulating the driving environment of an autonomous vehicle using a CARLA simulator. Safety and comfort were demonstrated using the test vehicle. The study also demonstrated that the tracking performance of the proposed algorithm exceeded that of other path-tracking algorithms, such as Pure Pursuit and the Stanley Method.