If the field plot shape is not rectangular and if it contains obstacles, the coverage path planning problem is hard to solve for a non-omnidirectional machine. Scientists have developed several algorithms to solve this coverage path planning problem, but all of them have pros and cons. If the machines were omnidirectional and turning times were decreased to insignificant, the problem would be quite easy to solve using known robotic path planning methods. Traditional agricultural machines, like tractors, tractor-trailer combinations, self-propelled harvesters and other man-driven machines are slow to turn at headlands. This is the most differentiating property of the problem formulation compared to traditional robotic coverage path planning, which has dealt... |