Optimal path planning of mobile robot using the hybrid cuckoo–bat algorithm in assorted environment

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to obtain an optimal mobile robot path planning by the hybrid algorithm, which is developed by two nature inspired meta-heuristic algorithms, namely, cuckoo-search and bat algorithm (BA) in an unknown or partially known environment. The cuckoo-search algorithm is based on the parasitic behavior of the cuckoo, and the BA is based on the echolocation behavior of the bats. Design/methodology/approach The developed algorithm starts by sensing the obstacles in the environment using ultrasonic sensor. If there are any obstacles in the path, the authors apply the developed algorithm to find the optimal path otherwise reach the target point directly through diagonal distance. Findings The developed algorithm is implemented in MATLAB for the simulation to test the efficiency of the algorithm for different environments. The same path is considered to implement the experiment in the real-world environment. The ARDUINO microcontroller along with the ultrasonic sensor is considered to obtain the path length and time of travel of the robot to reach the goal point. Originality/value In this paper, a new hybrid algorithm has been developed to find the optimal path of the mobile robot using cuckoo search and BAs. The developed algorithm is tested with the real-world environment using the mobile robot.