450  UAV: FANETs and Integration

450.1 Overview

This section covers Flying Ad Hoc Networks (FANETs) and their integration with ground networks. FANETs are mobile ad hoc networks formed by UAVs, characterized by high mobility, 3D topology, and dynamic membership. These chapters explore FANET architecture, gateway selection algorithms, and integration with vehicular and sensor networks.

450.2 Chapters in This Section

450.2.1 FANET: Flying Ad Hoc Network Fundamentals

Understand the core concepts of Flying Ad Hoc Networks:

  • FANET Architecture: UAV-to-UAV communication in 3D space
  • Comparison with MANETs/VANETs: Mobility, topology dimension, and energy constraints
  • Communication Types: Intra-plane, inter-plane, ground station, and WSN links
  • Routing Protocols: Position-based and predictive routing for high-mobility environments

450.2.2 FANET: Gateway Selection and Optimization

Design algorithms for optimal ground station connectivity:

  • Stability Score Formula: Weighted combination of link quality, energy, and centrality
  • Sub-Area Partitioning: K-means clustering for balanced gateway distribution
  • Dynamic Reselection: Triggers and handover procedures for changing conditions
  • Load Balancing: Distributing traffic among multiple gateways

450.2.3 FANET-VANET Integration and Ground Networks

Integrate UAV networks with vehicular and ground infrastructure:

  • Integration Use Cases: Coverage extension, traffic monitoring, emergency response
  • Dual Mobility Challenges: Handling both UAV and vehicle movement
  • Position-Based Routing: Energy-aware geographic forwarding in 3D
  • Multi-Layer Architecture: Altitude stratification for sensing and relay separation

450.3 Learning Path

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flowchart LR
    A[UAV Fundamentals] --> B[FANET Fundamentals]
    B --> C[Gateway Selection]
    B --> D[FANET-VANET Integration]
    C --> E[Trajectory & Implementation]
    D --> E

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450.4 Prerequisites

Before starting these chapters, ensure familiarity with:

450.5 Key Concepts

Concept Description
FANET Flying Ad Hoc Network—UAVs forming temporary wireless networks in 3D space
3D Topology Network connections in three-dimensional space with altitude layers
High Mobility UAVs move at 10-30 m/s, causing very fast topology changes
Intra-Layer Horizontal communication between UAVs at same altitude
Inter-Layer Vertical communication between UAVs at different altitudes
Gateway UAV Selected UAV that relays data between FANET and ground control station
Stability Score Weighted metric combining link quality, energy, and centrality for gateway selection
Position-Based Routing Geographic forwarding using GPS coordinates without explicit route discovery

450.6 What You’ll Learn

By completing these chapters, you will be able to:

  1. Understand FANET Architecture: Explain Flying Ad Hoc Networks and UAV-to-UAV communication
  2. Compare Network Types: Differentiate FANETs from MANETs and VANETs based on mobility and topology
  3. Design 3D Topologies: Plan aerial network formations accounting for three-dimensional space
  4. Handle High Mobility: Select routing protocols suitable for very fast topology changes
  5. Implement Gateway Selection: Design stability-score-based algorithms for optimal ground connectivity
  6. Integrate Ground Networks: Connect FANETs with terrestrial IoT and vehicular infrastructure
  7. Optimize for Constraints: Balance communication range, energy, and mission requirements

450.7 Next Steps

After completing these chapters, continue with: