UAV-Aided outdoor positioning in wireless networks.

Abstract

The wide spread adoption of smart devices requiring wireless connectivity has led to the constraint of the available infrastructure in meeting this need. Due to the heavy reliance on network connectivity for business and running other day to day activities, cases of emergencies and connectivity demand in case of events may lead to the disconnection of some devices as the available infrastructure is not robust enough to adjust to the constraints. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) can be looked at as alternatives for the provision of wireless network connectivity in such scenarios. The rotary wing type are the preferred version due to their ease of deployment. In this study, we shall look at how best the UAVs can be deployed in a given area that has been affected by natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes and these have affected the available infrastructure which may not be easily and quickly restored to provide connectivity due to time and cost constraints. The UAVs therefore come in handy in supporting a heterogeneous network that is able to provide connectivity to affected areas. For best connectivity, the height of deployment, number of UAVs and signal power are key factors in providing a network with a good quality of service. For a wider adoption of UAVs in providing network connectivity, the Civil Aviation Authority of Uganda can put in place laws in favor of UAV-based research and application to all sectors.