ROS-Based Navigation and Obstacle Avoidance: A Study of Architectures, Methods, and Trends

With the widespread adoption of the Robot Operating System (ROS), technologies for autonomous navigation in mobile robots have advanced considerably. ROS provides a modular navigation stack that integrates essential components, such as SLAM, localisation, global path planning, and obstacle avoidance, forming the foundation for applications including service robotics and autonomous driving. Nonetheless, achieving safe and reliable navigation in complex and dynamic environments remains a formidable challenge, due to the need for real-time perception of moving obstacles, sensor fusion requirements, and the demand for robust and efficient algorithms. This study presents a systematic examination of the ROS-based navigation stack and obstacle-avoidance mechanisms. The architecture and implementation principles of the core modules are analysed, along with a comparison of the features and application suitability of common local planners such as the Dynamic Window Approach (DWA) and Timed Elastic Band (TEB). The key technical challenges in autonomous navigation are summarised, and recent advancements are reviewed to outline emerging trends in ROS-based systems, including integration with deep learning, multi-robot coordination, and real-time optimisation. The findings contribute to a deeper theoretical understanding of robotic navigation and offer practical guidance for the design and development of autonomous systems.