A map data representation of environments of a mobile robot performing a navigation task is specified in this standard. It provides data models and data formats for two-dimensional (2D) metric and topological maps.

This standard provides specifications for representing 2D metric and topological maps. This standard defines a recommended format for exchanging map data among robots, computers, and other devices. The map representation format specified by this standard only considers static maps; in other words, moving objects are not explicitly represented in the maps. Additionally, no limit is placed on geographic scale or sensor modalities in applying this standard.

The purpose of this standard is to define a common representation for robot map data, including metric and topological maps. It is intended to facilitate interoperability among different navigating robots, extending operational range and application areas of the robots. While facilitating technological advancement for spatial mapping carried out by robots and/or other relevant devices, this standard does not cover the activities of building, maintaining, updating, and revising robot maps.