Virtual obstacles for sensors incapacitation in robot navigation : a systematic review of 2D path planning

The field of mobile robot (MR) navigation with obstacle avoidance has largely focused on real, physical obstacles as the sole external causative agent for navigation impediment. This paper has explored the possible option of virtual obstacles (VOs) dominance in robot navigation impediment in certain navigation environments as a MR move from one point in the workspace to a desired target point. The systematically explored literature presented reviews mostly between the years 2000 and 2021; however, some outlier reviews from earlier years were also covered. An exploratory review approach was deployed to itemise and discuss different navigation environments and how VOs can impact the efficacy of both algorithms and sensors on a robotic vehicle. The associated limitations and the specific problem types addressed in the different literature sources were highlighted including whether or not a VO was considered in the path planning simulation or experiment. The discussion and conclusive sections further recommended some solutions as a measure towards addressing sensor performance incapacitation in a robot vehicle navigation problem.The Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Pretoria.https://www.mdpi.com/journal/sensorsam2023Industrial and Systems Engineerin

COVID-19 and older people’s wellbeing in northern KwaZulu-Natal – the importance of relationships

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic and the non-pharmacological prevention methods have affected the wellbeing of older people.  In this paper we focus on the wellbeing, and vulnerability, of older people in rural northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa during the first year of the pandemic. Methods: We conducted a series of up to four monthly in-depth interviews with 26 people aged 60 years and older.  Interviews were conducted by telephone, because of restrictions on face-to-face contact, and digitally recorded.  After transcription and translation, the data were coded thematically, with analysis guided by a wellbeing theoretical framework. Results: Having access to food, to healthcare and to somewhere they felt safe to stay, was essential for everyone, but for many managing expenses became more of a struggle as adult children who had lost their source of employment came home to stay.  However, despite the shortages of money, the importance of relationships, whether they are familial or the close community of neighbours, was highlighted in the accounts from a number of participants. Older people not only got help with day-to-day life from others, but also found solace in the company of others. The sense of community, from family and neighbours, helped to ease some of the stress experienced as a result of the lockdowns. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions imposed to limit the spread of the virus impacted the wellbeing of older adults in rural KwaZulu-Natal. Wellbeing for many older people has been nurtured by relationships with family and friends.</ns4:p

Virtual Obstacles for Sensors Incapacitation in Robot Navigation: A Systematic Review of 2D Path Planning

The field of mobile robot (MR) navigation with obstacle avoidance has largely focused on real, physical obstacles as the sole external causative agent for navigation impediment. This paper has explored the possible option of virtual obstacles (VOs) dominance in robot navigation impediment in certain navigation environments as a MR move from one point in the workspace to a desired target point. The systematically explored literature presented reviews mostly between the years 2000 and 2021; however, some outlier reviews from earlier years were also covered. An exploratory review approach was deployed to itemise and discuss different navigation environments and how VOs can impact the efficacy of both algorithms and sensors on a robotic vehicle. The associated limitations and the specific problem types addressed in the different literature sources were highlighted including whether or not a VO was considered in the path planning simulation or experiment. The discussion and conclusive sections further recommended some solutions as a measure towards addressing sensor performance incapacitation in a robot vehicle navigation problem