What is the purpose of trajectory planning in robotics?

Trajectory planning in robotics is fundamentally about determining the optimal path a robot should take from one point to another, considering various constraints and objectives. This involves calculating the most efficient route that the robot can follow while ensuring safe and accurate execution of its tasks. The planned trajectory accounts for factors such as avoiding obstacles, managing the robot's kinematic and dynamic constraints, and optimizing the path to minimize time, energy consumption, or other criteria relevant to the specific application.

By establishing a precise trajectory, robots can execute complex movements smoothly and accurately, enhancing their performance in various tasks such as assembly, manipulation, or navigation in dynamic environments. Proper trajectory planning is crucial for improving the overall efficiency and effectiveness of robotic operations, making it a vital aspect of robotic system design and implementation.