8 research outputs found
Multi-UAV Data Collection Framework for Wireless Sensor Networks
In this paper, we propose a framework design for wireless sensor networks
based on multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Specifically, we aim to
minimize deployment and operational costs, with respect to budget and power
constraints. To this end, we first optimize the number and locations of cluster
heads (CHs) guaranteeing data collection from all sensors. Then, to minimize
the data collection flight time, we optimize the number and trajectories of
UAVs. Accordingly, we distinguish two trajectory approaches: 1) where a UAV
hovers exactly above the visited CH; and 2) where a UAV hovers within a range
of the CH. The results of this include guidelines for data collection design.
The characteristics of sensor nodes' K-means clustering are then discussed.
Next, we illustrate the performance of optimal and heuristic solutions for
trajectory planning. The genetic algorithm is shown to be near-optimal with
only degradation. The impacts of the trajectory approach, environment,
and UAVs' altitude are investigated. Finally, fairness of UAVs trajectories is
discussed.Comment: To be presented at 2019 IEEE Global Communications Conference
(Globecom
Multi-Mode High Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS) for Next Generation Wireless Networks
The high altitude platform station (HAPS) concept has recently received
notable attention from both industry and academia to support future wireless
networks. A HAPS can be equipped with 5th generation (5G) and beyond
technologies such as massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) and
reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS). Hence, it is expected that HAPS will
support numerous applications in both rural and urban areas. However, this
comes at the expense of high energy consumption and thus shorter loitering
time. To tackle this issue, we envision the use of a multi-mode HAPS that can
adaptively switch between different modes so as to reduce energy consumption
and extend the HAPS loitering time. These modes comprise a HAPS super macro
base station (HAPS-SMBS) mode for enhanced computing, caching, and
communication services, a HAPS relay station (HAPS-RS) mode for active
communication, and a HAPS-RIS mode for passive communication. This multimode
HAPS ensures that operations rely mostly on the passive communication payload,
while switching to an energy-greedy active mode only when necessary. In this
article, we begin with a brief review of HAPS features compared to other
non-terrestrial systems, followed by an exposition of the different HAPS modes
proposed. Subsequently, we illustrate the envisioned multi-mode HAPS, and
discuss its benefits and challenges. Finally, we validate the multi-mode
efficiency through a case study.Comment: 7 pages, 6 figures, to appear in IEEE Vehicular Technology Magazin
A Vision and Framework for the High Altitude Platform Station (HAPS) Networks of the Future
A High Altitude Platform Station (HAPS) is a network node that operates in
the stratosphere at an of altitude around 20 km and is instrumental for
providing communication services. Precipitated by technological innovations in
the areas of autonomous avionics, array antennas, solar panel efficiency
levels, and battery energy densities, and fueled by flourishing industry
ecosystems, the HAPS has emerged as an indispensable component of
next-generations of wireless networks. In this article, we provide a vision and
framework for the HAPS networks of the future supported by a comprehensive and
state-of-the-art literature review. We highlight the unrealized potential of
HAPS systems and elaborate on their unique ability to serve metropolitan areas.
The latest advancements and promising technologies in the HAPS energy and
payload systems are discussed. The integration of the emerging Reconfigurable
Smart Surface (RSS) technology in the communications payload of HAPS systems
for providing a cost-effective deployment is proposed. A detailed overview of
the radio resource management in HAPS systems is presented along with
synergistic physical layer techniques, including Faster-Than-Nyquist (FTN)
signaling. Numerous aspects of handoff management in HAPS systems are
described. The notable contributions of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in HAPS,
including machine learning in the design, topology management, handoff, and
resource allocation aspects are emphasized. The extensive overview of the
literature we provide is crucial for substantiating our vision that depicts the
expected deployment opportunities and challenges in the next 10 years
(next-generation networks), as well as in the subsequent 10 years
(next-next-generation networks).Comment: To appear in IEEE Communications Surveys & Tutorial
Beyond-Cell Communications via HAPS-RIS
The ever-increasing number of users and new services in urban regions can
lead terrestrial base stations (BSs) to become overloaded and, consequently,
some users to go unserved. Compounding this, users in urban areas can face
severe shadowing and blockages, which means that some users do not receive a
desired quality of service (QoS). Motivated by the energy and cost benefits of
reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) and the advantages of high altitude
platform stations (HAPS), including their wide footprint and strong
line-of-sight (LoS) links, we propose a solution to service the stranded users
using the RISaided HAPS. More specifically, we propose to service the stranded
users by a dedicated control station (CS) via a HAPS equipped with RIS
(HAPS-RIS). Through this approach, users are not restricted from being serviced
by the cell they belong to; hence, we refer to this approach as beyond-cell
communication. As we demonstrate in this paper, beyond-cell communication works
in tandem with legacy terrestrial networks to support uncovered or unserved
users. Optimal transmit power and RIS unit assignment strategies for the users
based on different network objectives are introduced. Numerical results
demonstrate the benefits of the proposed beyond-cell communication approach.
Moreover, the results provide insights into the different optimization
objectives and their interplay with minimum quality-of-service (QoS) and
network resources, such as transmit power and the number of reflectors.Comment: 6 pages, 5 fugures, submitted to Globecom 202
Link Budget Analysis for Reconfigurable Smart Surfaces in Aerial Platforms
International audienceNon-terrestrial networks, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), High Altitude Platform Station (HAPS) nodes and Low Earth Orbiting (LEO) satellites, are expected to have a pivotal role in sixth-generation wireless networks. With inherent features such as flexible placement, wide footprints, and preferred channel conditions, they can tackle several challenges faced by current terrestrial networks. However, their successful and widespread adoption relies on energy-efficient on-board communication systems. In this context, the integration of Reconfigurable Smart Surfaces (RSS) into aerial platforms is envisioned as a key enabler of energy-efficient and cost-effective aerial platform deployments. RSS consist of low-cost reflectors capable of smartly directing signals in a nearly passive way. In this paper, we investigate the link budget of RSS-assisted communications for two RSS reflection paradigms discussed in the literature, namely "specular" and "scattering" paradigms. Specifically, we analyze the characteristics of RSS-equipped aerial platforms and compare their communication performance with that of RSS-assisted terrestrial networks using standardized channel models. In addition, we derive the optimal aerial platform placements for both reflection paradigms. Our results provide important insights for the design of RSS-assisted communications. For instance, given that a HAPS has a large area for RSS, it provides superior link budget performance in most studied scenarios. In contrast, the limited RSS area on UAVs and the large propagation loss in LEO satellite communications make them unfavorable candidates for supporting terrestrial users. Finally, the optimal location of an RSS-equipped platform may depend on the platform's altitude, coverage footprint, and type of environment
Aerial Platforms with Reconfigurable Smart Surfaces for 5G and Beyond
International audienceAerial platforms are expected to deliver enhanced and seamless connectivity in the fifth generation (5G) wireless networks and beyond (B5G). This is generally achievable by supporting advanced onboard communication features embedded in heavy and energy-intensive equipment. Alternatively, reconfig-urable smart surfaces (RSS), which smartly exploit/recycle signal reflections in the environment, are increasingly being recognized as a new wireless communication paradigm to improve communication links. In fact, their reduced cost, low power use, light weight, and flexible deployment make them an attractive candidate for integration with 5G/B5G technologies. In this article, we discuss comprehensive approaches to the integration of RSS in aerial platforms. First, we present a review of RSS technology, its operations and types of communication. Next, we describe how RSS can be used in aerial platforms, and we propose a control architecture workflow. Then, several potential use cases are presented and discussed. Finally, associated research challenges are identified