Simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) is the computational problem of constructing or updating a map of an unknown environment while simultaneously keeping track of an agent's location within it. SLAM algorithms are widely and successfully used in navigation, robotic mapping, environment reconstruction, and odometry for virtual reality or augmented reality.
SLAM algorithms are tailored to the available resources, and hence not aimed at perfection but at operational compliance, and thus, they often require various optimizations. Recent advances in deep learning, mobile technology, 5G communications, and sensors are continually changing and pushing the limits of traditional SLAM algorithms so that SLAM becomes more accurate, fast, and even intelligent. The focus of this Special Issue of the ETRI Journal is to publish recent outstanding results in the rapidly progressing subject of SLAM and its applications. The topics of particular interest include but are not limited to:

• Visual SLAM
• Sensor fusion for SLAM
• AI/Deep learning for SLAM
• Semantic SLAM
• SLAM-based reconstruction
• SLAM for dynamic objects and environments
• 2D/3D mapping and data association
• Relocalization, loop closure, and realignment techniques
• Performance optimization for SLAM
• Cloud-based SLAM
• SLAM-based applications (self-driving cars, drones, autonomous robots, augmented reality, and virtual reality)

Important Dates (extended)
Paper submission due: March 7, 2021
First decision: April 19, 2021
Revised submission due: May 25, 2021
Final decision: June 1, 2021
Final paper due: June 6, 2021
Tentative publication date: Aug 10, 2021

Paper Submission
Papers should be submitted at https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/etrij and should adhere to the journal’s Author Guidelines.

Section Editor
Jounghyun Gerard Kim, Korea University, Rep. of Korea, gjkim@korea.ac.kr

Guest Editors
Jong-Il Park, Hanyang University, Rep. of Korea, jipark@hanyang.ac.kr¬¬
Soon-Yong Park, Kyungpook National University, Rep. of Korea, sypark@knu.ac.kr
Junho Kim, Kookmin University, Rep. of Korea, junho@kookmin.ac.kr
Sejin Lee, Kongju National University, Rep. of Korea, sejiny3@kongju.ac.kr
Seonghun Hong, Keimyung University, Rep. of Korea, sh.hong@kmu.ac.kr

The Editorial Office can be contacted at etrij@etri.re.kr.