Empowering Drones’ Teamwork with Airborne Network

Abstract

We propose a unified platform for multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). Recently, the UAV technology has seen a great development. However, the capability of single drone1 is yet limited by its physical features. To better enhance the capability of drones, we have devised and implemented a fleet based multi-UAV platform. Our proposed platform consists of powerful network functions and enhanced control and sensing algorithms, so that a unified fleet control can be accomplished. Further, it provides a platform for applications that require multiple UAVs working together. The network functions of the proposed platform achieves a strong connectivity and robustness, and a precise relative and absolute localization enables a fleet based control system. With the help of core modules, the proposed platform achieves a well controlled fleet flight and network management.