Results in Engineering (Dec 2024)
Optimizing UAV performance with IoT and fuzzy linear fractional transportation models
Abstract
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have become indispensable in replacing human pilots for high-risk, high-intensity operations, including search-and-rescue missions, infrastructure inspection, and environmental monitoring. As a key enabler of these operations, UAV task planning systems require advanced trajectory optimization to operate effectively in dynamic, complex environments. This paper presents an innovative model integrating fully fuzzy linear fractional transportation programming (FTMP) with Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to enhance UAV performance. Unlike conventional path-planning methods, the proposed model leverages bio-inspired artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms and mixed-integer programming to solve multi-objective optimization problems under uncertainty. A critical feature of this platform is its ability to continuously adjust flight altitude based on real-time data, accounting for varying terrain morphology, fuel constraints, flight restrictions, and threats, thus ensuring optimal 3D trajectory planning. This makes the platform particularly effective in emergency scenarios such as natural disasters, explosions, or fires, where it supports rapid and accurate search-and-rescue efforts. The UAV system not only minimizes human involvement but also reduces the response time by transmitting real-time video, audio, and GPS data to responders over long distances. The proposed solution offers several advantages over traditional aerial platforms, including: (a) Precision tracking and path optimization with a demonstrated accuracy exceeding 88 % across recall, precision, and F-measure metrics. (b) Cost-effectiveness: The UAV is compact, lightweight, and affordable, significantly reducing operational expenses compared to helicopters. (c) Adaptability: Remote sensing allows for seamless control in rugged and obstructed environments. (d) Scalability: IoT integration supports multi-drone coordination for continuous real-time data collection and transmission to smartphones or command centers. This pragmatic UAV model offers transformative potential for emergency response, environmental monitoring, and smart infrastructure management, validating its reliability and efficiency through comprehensive performance metrics.
