Resource management in UAV-assisted wireless networks: An optimization perspective

Abstract

Wireless networks are expected to provide connectivity to an increasing number of users with heterogeneous requirements. Future wireless networks will integrate aerial and terrestrial networks to provide massive (a large number of users) connectivity. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) can be deployed on-demand to provide connectivity in aerial networks. UAV-assisted wireless networks offer a broad range of applications in an overload situation, broadcasting and advertisement, public safety, disaster management, and many more. However, UAV-assisted wireless networks must use their resources efficiently to maintain key performance indicators. The challenges for the successful deployment of UAV-assisted wireless networks include spectrum efficiency, energy consumption, deployment time, backhaul, and cost of deployment. This paper provides a comprehensive survey of resource management in UAV-assisted wireless networks from an optimization viewpoint. We present the classification of UAVs, their benefits, and applications to highlight UAV-assisted wireless networks’ significance. We then provide a detailed discussion on resource management with metrics including placement of UAVs, UAV trajectory, backhaul, path planning, charging, spectrum, and data offloading. Moreover, different constraints, optimization types, and solutions tailored to support UAV-assisted wireless networks are discussed. Finally, we provide future research directions to address the challenges for the successful deployment of UAV-assisted wireless networks.