Page 9 - Autonomous Mobile Robots

Preface ix

to knowledge representation and decision making, algorithms for planning
under uncertainties, and the behavior-based coordination of multiple robots.
In the final part of the book, we present a collection of chapters that deal
with the system integration and engineering aspects of large-scale autonom-
ous systems. These are usually considered as necessary steps in making new
technologies operational and are relatively neglected in the academic com-
munity. However, there is no doubt that system integration plays a vital role
in the successful development and deployment of autonomous mobile systems.
Chapters 15 and 16 examine the issues involved in the design of autonomous
commercial robots and automotive systems, respectively. Chapter 17 presents a
hierarchical system architecture that encompasses and links the various (higher
and lower level) components to form an intelligent, complex system.
We sincerely hope that this book will provide the reader with a cohesive
picture of the diverse, yet intimately related, issues involved in bringing about
truly intelligent autonomous robots. Although the treatment of the topics is
by no means exhaustive, we hope to give the readers a broad-enough view of
the various aspects involved in the development of autonomous systems. The
authors have, however, provided a splendid list of references at the end of each
chapter, and interested readers are encouraged to refer to these references for
more information. This book represents the amalgamation of the truly excellent
work and effort of all the contributing authors, and could not have come to
fruition without their contributions. Finally, we are also immensely grateful
to Marsha Pronin, Michael Slaughter, and all others at CRC Press (Taylor &
Francis Group) for their efforts in making this project a success.

© 2006 by Taylor & Francis Group, LLC

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