Dual-Rate Extended Kalman Filter Based Path-Following Motion Control for an Unmanned Ground Vehicle: Realistic Simulation

Abstract

[EN] In this paper, a two-wheel drive unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) path-following motion control is proposed. The UGV is equipped with encoders to sense angular velocities and a beacon system which provides position and orientation data. Whereas velocities can be sampled at a fast rate, position and orientation can only be sensed at a slower rate. Designing a dynamic controller at this slower rate implies not reaching the desired control requirements, and hence, the UGV is not able to follow the predefined path. The use of dual-rate extended Kalman filtering techniques enables the estimation of the fast-rate non-available position and orientation measurements. As a result, a fast-rate dynamic controller can be designed, which is provided with the fast-rate estimates to generate the control signal. The fast-rate controller is able to achieve a satisfactory path following, outperforming the slow-rate counterpart. Additionally, the dual-rate extended Kalman filter (DREKF) is fit for dealing with non-linear dynamics of the vehicle and possible Gaussian-like modeling and measurement uncertainties. A Simscape Multibody (TM) (Matlab(R)/Simulink) model has been developed for a realistic simulation, considering the contact forces between the wheels and the ground, not included in the kinematic and dynamic UGV representation. Non-linear behavior of the motors and limited resolution of the encoders have also been included in the model for a more accurate simulation of the real vehicle. The simulation model has been experimentally validated from the real process. Simulation results reveal the benefits of the control solution.Grant RTI2018-096590-B-I00 funded by MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and by "ERDF Away of making Europe" and Grant PRE2019-088467 funded by MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and by "ESF Investing in your future".Carbonell-Lázaro, R.; Cuenca, Á.; Casanova Calvo, V.; Pizá, R.; Salt Llobregat, JJ. (2021). Dual-Rate Extended Kalman Filter Based Path-Following Motion Control for an Unmanned Ground Vehicle: Realistic Simulation. Sensors. 21(22):1-17. https://doi.org/10.3390/s21227557117212