Autonomous Navigation Robot

A mobile robot that plans and executes its own path through an environment to deliver a user or payload to a chosen destination, using onboard sensors (LiDAR, cameras, IMU) and a map for localisation, obstacle avoidance, and path planning. In accessibility contexts, autonomous navigation robots are used as guide devices for blind travellers in airports, shopping malls, and museums; the user typically follows the robot via a handle, and the robot handles wayfinding, obstacle avoidance, and speed control. Unlike a guide dog, an autonomous robot can be commanded to specific destinations and can integrate with apps and databases, but it requires mapping and regular maintenance of the environment.