Zolich, Artur (NTNU), Palma, David (Norwegian University of Science and Technology), Birkeland, Roger (Norwegian University of Science and Technology), Cisek, Krzysztof (Norwegian University of Science and Technology), Johansen, Tor Arne (Norweigian Univ. Of Sci. & Tech.)

Wi-Fi Based Telecommunication Infrastructure Delivered As a Service by UAV for Emergency Response

Scheduled for presentation during the Regular Session "UAS Communications" (FrB3), Friday, June 24, 2022, 13:10−13:30, Divona-1

2022 International Conference on Unmanned Aircraft Systems (ICUAS), June 21-24, 2022, Dubrovnik, Croatia

This information is tentative and subject to change. Compiled on April 19, 2024

Abstract

In this paper we discuss Wi-Fi and complementary technologies that can be used to mitigate telecommunication gaps in search and rescue (SAR) activities and during natural disaster (ND) response scenarios. We present and evaluate a standalone communication system solution in a field experiment. It utilizes a fixed-wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) to enable Wi-Fi based, audio-video communication between users equipped with a smartphone and the operation control center. We describe a custom, actuated UAV payload that compensates the fixed-wing UAV's bank angle for improved antenna pointing. Through a qualitative analysis, the field trials confirm the suitability of a UAV solution for SAR, using Wi-Fi and standard protocols available on most smartphones.