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Publications

Publications by Paulo José Costa

2024

Dynamic AMR Navigation: Simulation with Trajectory Prediction of Moving Obstacles

Authors
Cadete, T; Pinto, VH; Lima, J; Gonçalves, G; Costa, P;

Publication
2024 7TH IBERIAN ROBOTICS CONFERENCE, ROBOT 2024

Abstract
Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) have significantly transformed task management in factories, warehouses, and urban environments. These robots enhance operational efficiency, reduce labor costs, and automate various tasks. However, navigating dynamic environments with moving obstacles, such as human workers, vehicles, and machinery, remains challenging. Traditional navigation systems, which rely on static maps and predefined routes, struggle to adapt to these dynamic settings. This research addresses these limitations by developing a dynamic navigation system that improves AMR performance in industrial and urban scenarios. The system enhances the A* algorithm to account for the current positions and predicted trajectories of moving obstacles, allowing the AMR to navigate safely and efficiently. Advanced sensor technologies, such as LiDAR and stereo cameras, are utilized for real-time environmental perception. The system integrates trajectory prediction and an Artificial Potential Field (APF) method for emergency collision avoidance. The solution is implemented using the Gazebo simulator and the Robot Operating System (ROS2), ensuring real-time operation and adaptive path planning. This research aims to significantly improve AMR safety, efficiency, and adaptability in dynamic environments.

2024

Developing a Modular Anthropomorphic Robotic Manipulator

Authors
Martins, J; Pinto, VH; Lima, J; Costa, P;

Publication
2024 7TH IBERIAN ROBOTICS CONFERENCE, ROBOT 2024

Abstract
Robotics has emerged as a cornerstone of modern society, significantly impacting diverse sectors including industry, healthcare, and defense. Among its varied applications, one of the most crucial fields is the control of rigid-structure robotic manipulators. However, conventional robotic arms are typically highly specialized and rigid in design, which limits their adaptability to different tasks and environments. One promising solution to this challenge is the development of modular robotic manipulators. This work proposes a cost-effective approach for implementing a n-Degrees-of-Freedom (DoF) manipulator. It introduces a design consisting of 3D printable links that allow for flexible assembly into custom configurations. A reconfigurable software architecture is presented, enabling automated generation of description and configuration files. This facilitates visualization, planning, and control of various custom configurations. The solution leverages the open-source Robot Operating System (ROS) as a digital twin for the modular setups. Additionally, it explores the development of hardware modules accompanying each link, facilitating independent joint control irrespective of motor type. Communication with ROS software is achieved via a CAN-based OpenCyphal network.

2024

Enhancing Quadruped Robot Performance Through Gait Optimization

Authors
Cohen, G; Lima, J; Costa, P;

Publication
OPTIMIZATION, LEARNING ALGORITHMS AND APPLICATIONS, OL2A 2024, PT I

Abstract
Quadruped robots hold immense potential for navigating in unknown environments due to their ability to use individual footholds as well as their increased stability in uneven terrain. However, legged robots often experience limitations due to weight shifts during gait transitions. These weight shifts can cause torque peaks that exceed the capacity of the jointmotors (overdrive torque), which lead to an increased risk of mechanical failure. Through the optimization of gait parameters, it is possible to reduce these risks while maximizing performance. This paper presents the use of multi-objective optimization algorithms for gait optimization in a simulated quadruped mammal robot within the Pybullet physics engine. The main focus of the study was to compare the performance of NSGA-II, NSGA-III and U-NSGA-III in minimizing overdrive torque while maximizing travel distance. The results showed that the three algorithms solve this problem, although the NSGA-III consistently yields better results in comparison to the other versions of the NSGA algorithm.

2025

Performance Comparison Between Position Controllers for a Robotic Arm Manipulator

Authors
Braun, J; Chellal, AA; Lima, J; Pinto, VH; Pereira, AI; Costa, P;

Publication
2025 IEEE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON AUTONOMOUS ROBOT SYSTEMS AND COMPETITIONS, ICARSC

Abstract
This paper compares five PID controller architectures for robotic manipulator position control, addressing the challenge of maintaining performance under varying inertial loads while providing accessible implementations for research and education. The five PID controller architectures for a three degrees-of-freedom SCARA manipulator position control are a basic Proportional-Derivative (PD), PD with Feed-Forward (FF), Parallel PD-PI-FF, Cascade PD-PI-FF, and Cascade PD-PI-FF with dead zone (DZ) compensation. The controllers were evaluated under varying inertial loads to assess robustness, extending beyond previous work's idealized conditions. Results show advanced configurations reduced errors by up to 64% compared to the baseline PD, with Parallel-FF achieving optimal dynamic performance and Cascade-FF-DZ excelling in steady-state control. The Feed-Forward addition enhanced tracking performance, while DZ compensation effectively eliminated limit cycles. The work provides open-source implementations and simulation environments, supporting research reproducibility and educational applications in robotics control.

2025

Integrating Multimodal Perception into Ground Mobile Robots

Authors
Sousa, RB; Sobreira, HM; Martins, JG; Costa, PG; Silva, MF; Moreira, AP;

Publication
2025 IEEE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON AUTONOMOUS ROBOT SYSTEMS AND COMPETITIONS, ICARSC

Abstract
Multimodal perception systems enhance the robustness and adaptability of autonomous mobile robots by integrating heterogeneous sensor modalities, improving long-term localisation and mapping in dynamic environments and human-robot interaction. Current mobile platforms often focus on specific sensor configurations and prioritise cost-effectiveness, possibly limiting the flexibility of the user to extend the original robots further. This paper presents a methodology to integrate multimodal perception into a ground mobile platform, incorporating wheel odometry, 2D laser scanners, 3D Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), and RGBD cameras. The methodology describes the electronics design to power devices, firmware, computation and networking architecture aspects, and mechanical mounting for the sensory system based on 3D printing, laser cutting, and bending metal sheet processes. Experiments demonstrate the usage of the revised platform in 2D and 3D localisation and mapping and pallet pocket estimation applications. All the documentation and designs are accessible in a public repository.

2025

From Competition to Classroom: A Hands-on Approach to Robotics Learning

Authors
Lopes, MS; Ribeiro, JD; Moreira, AP; Rocha, CD; Martins, JG; Sarmento, JM; Carvalho, JP; Costa, PG; Sousa, RB;

Publication
2025 IEEE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON AUTONOMOUS ROBOT SYSTEMS AND COMPETITIONS, ICARSC

Abstract
Robotics education plays a crucial role in developing STEM skills. However, university-level courses often emphasize theoretical learning, which can lead to decreased student engagement and motivation. In this paper, we tackle the challenge of providing hands-on robotics experience in higher education by adapting a mobile robot originally designed for competitions to be used in laboratory classes. Our approach integrates real-world robot operation into coursework, bridging the gap between simulation and physical implementation while maintaining accessibility. The robot's software is developed using ROS, and its effectiveness is assessed through student surveys. The results indicate that the platform increases student engagement and interest in robotics topics. Furthermore, feedback from teachers is also collected and confirmed that the platform boosts students' confidence and understanding of robotics.

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