3-dimensional kinodynamic motion planning for an X4-Flyer using 2-dimensional harmonic potential fields

Abstract

In this research, it is aimed at guiding an X4-Flyer, which is a VTOL type UAV, to an arbitrary target point. In the previous research, we proposed a controller for an X4-Flyer to move on the X-Y plane by using a 2-dimensional harmonic potential field (HPF), assuming that the X4-Flyer keeps its altitude constantly. In this paper, the controller guides the X4-Flyer to an arbitrary target point in a 3-dimensional space by switching some 2-dimensional HPFs appropriately. It is confirmed on the simulation that the X4-Flyer can reach the arbitrary target point in the 3-dimensional space by using the proposed method.