Robots use GPS for outdoor navigation by leveraging signals from satellites to determine their precise location on Earth. GPS, or Global Positioning System, consists of a network of satellites orbiting the planet that transmit location data. When a robot is equipped with a GPS receiver, it can capture these signals to calculate its position by triangulating the data from at least four satellites. This process allows the robot to understand where it is in relation to its intended destination.
Once the robot knows its location, it can use that information to navigate effectively. Developers typically program robots with predefined waypoints or routes. For example, a delivery robot may have a list of addresses it needs to reach. The robot uses GPS data to track its movement along these waypoints and adjust its course if it deviates. Additionally, GPS can help the robot find the most efficient path by considering factors like distance and obstacles. In practical applications, such as agriculture, a robot might use GPS to navigate fields while planting seeds or monitoring crops, moving in a grid pattern to cover the area systematically.
However, GPS has its limitations. In dense urban environments or areas with tall buildings, signals can be reflected or obstructed, leading to inaccuracies. To overcome this, developers often integrate other sensors, such as inertial measurement units (IMUs) and visual or lidar systems, which help refine the robot's positioning and enhance navigation. This combined approach ensures that robots can operate more reliably in varied environments, allowing them to perform their tasks effectively while depending on GPS for fundamental location data.