Mariano De Paula

Martín Arce Llobera, Julio A. Placed, Mariano De Paula et al.

Recent advances in parallel computing and GPU acceleration have created new opportunities for computation-intensive learning problems such as Active SLAM -- where actions are selected to reduce uncertainty and improve joint mapping and localization. However, existing DRL-based approaches remain constrained by the lack of scalable parallel training. In this work, we address this challenge by proposing a scalable end-to-end DRL framework for Active SLAM that enables massively parallel training. Compared with the state of the art, our method significantly reduces training time, supports continuous action spaces and facilitates the exploration of more realistic scenarios. It is released as an open-source framework to promote reproducibility and community adoption.

Ignacio Carlucho, Manuel F. Bailey, Mariano De Paula et al.

Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) are platforms used for research and exploration of marine environments. However, these types of vehicles face many challenges that hinder their widespread use in the industry. One of the main limitations is obtaining accurate position estimation, due to the lack of GPS signal underwater. This estimation is usually done with Kalman filters. However, new developments in the neuroscience field have shed light on the mechanisms by which mammals are able to obtain a reliable estimation of their current position based on external and internal motion cues. A new type of neuron, called Grid cells, has been shown to be part of path integration system in the brain. In this article, we show how grid cells can be used for obtaining a position estimation of underwater vehicles. The model of grid cells used requires only the linear velocities together with heading orientation and provides a reliable estimation of the vehicle's position. We provide simulation results for an AUV which show the feasibility of our proposed methodology.