AIExplainer

What is trajectory?

The path an object or process follows over time or space

A trajectory is the course or path that something, like a projectile, a vehicle, or even a process, takes as it moves or evolves. It can be thought of as the sequence of positions or states that the object or process goes through over a period of time or space.

Imagine throwing a ball - the trajectory is the curved path the ball follows from your hand to where it lands, influenced by factors like gravity and air resistance.

Self-driving cars use trajectory planning to navigate through roads and avoid obstacles, ensuring a safe and efficient path to their destination.

In AI, trajectories are used to predict and analyze the behavior of complex systems, like the movement of robots, the progression of diseases, or the evolution of customer preferences.

A common misconception is that a trajectory is always a straight line, when in fact it can be curved, irregular, or even chaotic, depending on the factors influencing it.

The concept of trajectory has its roots in physics and mathematics, dating back to the work of Sir Isaac Newton and other pioneers in the field of mechanics.

path course orbit route

Three products for different needs — explore what’s relevant to you.