Optimizing the Deployment of UAV for Mesh Access Network Coverage

This paper proposes an optimal deployment strategy for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to create a wireless mesh network above ground users in an area without internet connectivity. The deployment strategy is aimed at maximizing user coverage and providing in-network connectivity, even with the added challenge of ground user mobility. The area is modeled as a grid, and ground user mobility is simulated using BonnMotion and represented as a list of temporal heatmaps. The problem is formulated as a mixed integer linear program with a network connectivity constraint based on network flows. The proposed approach’s performance is evaluated through simulation, and the results validate its effectiveness in terms of coverage. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of UAVs to serve as a flying network backbone, providing temporary connectivity to users.