Quality-based irregular area coverage algorithm in aerial sensor networks

Abstract

Wireless communication technology is increasingly gaining popularity, with aerial wireless sensor networks being highly regarded for their high mobility, ability to handle special environments, and wide coverage. To enhance the performance of aerial wireless sensor networks, the study of area coverage algorithms is crucial. However, most existing coverage algorithms primarily focus on the coverage area without considering coverage quality. To address this limitation, this paper proposes a coverage algorithm based on coverage quality for regional coverage by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The algorithm incorporates the importance and priority of the coverage area, utilizes an adaptive spatial distribution function for weight distribution, and employs horizontal and vertical control strategies to strike a balance between maximum coverage and optimization of coverage quality. Simulation experiments are conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. This research contributes to the field by emphasizing the significance and impact of considering coverage quality in aerial wireless sensor networks, thereby enhancing their overall performance.