Improvement in Monte Carlo localization using information theory and statistical approaches

Monte Carlo localization methods deploy a particle filter to resolve a hidden Markov process based on recursive Bayesian estimation, which approximates the internal states of a dynamic system given observation data. When the observed data are corrupted by outliers, the particle filter's performance may deteriorate, preventing the algorithm from accurately computing dynamic system states such as a robot's position, which in turn reduces the accuracy of the localization and navigation. In this paper, the notion of information entropy is used to identify outliers. Then, a probability-based approach is used to remove the discovered outliers. In addition, a new mutation process is added to the localization algorithm to exploit the posterior probability density function in order to actively detect the high-likelihood region. The goal of incorporating the mutation operator into this method is to solve the problem of algorithm impoverishment which is due to insufficient representation of the complete probability density function. Simulation experiments are used to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed techniques. They also are employed to predict the remaining viability of a lithium-ion battery. Furthermore, in an experimental study, the modified Monte Carlo localization algorithm was applied to a mobile robot to demonstrate the local planner's improved accuracy. The test results indicate that developed techniques are capable of effectively capturing the dynamic behavior of a system and accurately tracking its characteristics.