Autonomous UAV navigation using deep learning-based computer vision frameworks: A systematic literature review

Abstract

The increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in both military and civilian applications, such as infrastructure inspection, package delivery, and recreational activities, underscores the importance of enhancing their autonomous functionalities. Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly deep learning-based computer vision (DL-based CV), plays a crucial role in this enhancement. This paper aims to provide a systematic literature review (SLR) of Scopus-indexed research studies published from 2019 to 2024, focusing on DL-based CV approaches for autonomous UAV applications. By analyzing 173 studies, we categorize the research into four domains: sensing and inspection, landing, surveillance and tracking, and search and rescue. Our review reveals a significant increase in research utilizing computer vision for UAV applications, with over 39.5 % of studies employing the You Only Look Once (YOLO) framework. We discuss the key findings, including the dominant trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, and highlight emerging technologies such as in-sensor computing. This review provides valuable insights into the current state and future directions of DL-based CV for autonomous UAVs, emphasizing its growing significance as legislative frameworks evolve to support these technologies. • Rising Global Adoption: UAV usage has surged globally, expanding across military and civilian applications.The global use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has surged, spanning military and civilian applications. • AI's Pivotal Role: AI enhances autonomous UAV capabilities, driving advancements across multiple domains. • Systematic Literature Review: An SLR of 129 Scopus-indexed studies on DL-based CV for UAVs shows a notable upward trend. • YOLO Framework Dominance: The You Only Look Once (YOLO) framework is a major influencer, featured in over 39.5 % of studies. • Challenges and Opportunities: Highlights UAV challenges, opportunities, and the potential of in-sensor computing.