A game-theoretic perspective on resource management for large-scale UAV communication networks

Abstract

As a result of rapid development in electronics and communication technology, large-scale unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are harnessed for various promising applications in a coordinated manner. Although it poses numerous advantages, resource management among various domains in large-scale UAV communication networks is the key challenge to be solved urgently. Specifically, due to the inherent requirements and future development trend, distributed resource management is suitable. In this article, we investigate the resource management problem for large-scale UAV communication networks from game-theoretic perspective which are exactly coincident with the distributed and autonomous manner. By exploring the inherent features, the distinctive challenges are discussed. Then, we explore several game-theoretic models that not only combat the challenges but also have broad application prospects. We provide the basics of each game-theoretic model and discuss the potential applications for resource management in large-scale UAV communication networks. Specifically, mean-field game, graphical game, Stackelberg game, coalition game and potential game are included. After that, we propose two innovative case studies to highlight the feasibility of such novel game-theoretic models. Finally, we give some future research directions to shed light on future opportunities and applications.