Preface

 *Advances in Human and Machine Navigation Systems* provides a platform for practicing re‐ searchers, academics, PhD students, and other scientists to design, analyze, evaluate, proc‐ ess, and implement diversiform issues of navigation systems, including life-improving advances in human navigation systems and advances improving machine navigation sys‐ tems. The five chapters of the book demonstrate the capabilities of navigation systems to solve scientific and engineering problems with varying degrees of complexity.

 The first chapter introduces the theme of life improving advances in navigation systems.The following two chapters are oriented towards advances in modern technologies improving various real-life aspects of populations. A walking support system that takes into account each user'shealth conditions, needs, and preferences is a real possibility for utilizing naviga‐ tion systems by common users. Development of appropriate navigation systems for visually impaired persons who rely on guide canes to avoid obstructions or hazardous situations is also very important.

 The last two chapters are dedicated to improving the functionalities of machine navigation systems. Utilizing navigation systems specialized for the pipeline industry can lead to lifeimproving advances. From the viewpoint of surrounding environments and public safety, it is important to eliminate negative influences of potential pipeline leakages. With advanced technological improvements and modern equipment, aircraft disasters are still happening. An enhancement strategy for nap-of-the-earth operations presents an optimization method using sensors. The establishment of new systems and improvement of existing ones may lead to the prevention of accidents while conducting nap-of-the-earth operations or flying at low levels.

 I hope that beginners and professionals in the field will benefit from the details given in the chapters of this book.

> **Rastislav Róka**  Slovak University of Technology Institute of MICT FEI STU Bratislava, Slovakia

**Section 1**

**Introduction**

**Section 1** 
