Computing clothoid segments for trajectory generation

Abstract

A new, simple, and fast method to compute the sharpness and curvature of a clothoid segment of a continuous curvature path is presented. When generating continuous curvature paths, clothoid segments are needed to connect straight segments to perfect arc segments. This algorithm is part of a new trajectory generator and motion planner that generates smooth, natural, drivable paths, using a minimal amount of steering to reach the desired ending position similar to the way a human would drive.