Improved APF-based path planning for aircraft towbarless towing vehicle system

To enhance the maneuvering efficiency and safety of the aircraft towbarless towing vehicle (TTV) system, this study presents an optimized path planning method based on an improved artificial potential field (APF) algorithm. First, comprehensive kinematic and dynamic models are established, incorporating both lateral and yaw motions of the TTV system. Second, to mitigate obstacle interference challenges in complex airport environments, the proposed method introduces an innovative relative-distance safety factor and implements a dual-repulsive-force cooperative planning strategy, effectively overcoming the traditional APF algorithm’s limitations regarding goal unreachability and local minima. Furthermore, the integration of Bézier curves ensures curvature continuity in the planned path, thereby maintaining compliance with kinematic constraints. Finally, a constrained-motion TTV simulation model is developed to validate the algorithm’s performance. Simulation results demonstrate that, in static obstacle scenarios, the proposed method successfully enables autonomous path planning, generating smooth and collision-free trajectories. This approach offers a robust solution for ensuring stable and reliable operation of the TTV system in real-world airport environments.