PeerJ Computer Science (Feb 2024)

Laser communications system with drones as relay medium for healthcare applications

  • Adeeb Sait,
  • Tawfik Al-Hadhrami,
  • Faisal Saeed,
  • Shadi Basurra,
  • Sultan Noman Qasem

DOI
https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj-cs.1759
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 10
p. e1759

Abstract

Read online Read online

This article introduces a prototype laser communication system integrated with uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs), aimed at enhancing data connectivity in remote healthcare applications. Traditional radio frequency systems are limited by their range and reliability, particularly in challenging environments. By leveraging UAVs as relay points, the proposed system seeks to address these limitations, offering a novel solution for real-time, high-speed data transmission. The system has been empirically tested, showcasing its ability to maintain data transmission integrity under various conditions. Results indicate a substantial improvement in connectivity, with high data transmission success rate (DTSR) scores, even amidst environmental disturbances. This study underscores the system’s potential for critical applications such as emergency response, public health monitoring, and extending services to remote or underserved areas.

Keywords