Micro Aerial Vehicle Networks: An Experimental Analysis of Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

The need for aerial networks is growing with the recent advance of micro aerial vehicles (MAVs), which enable a wide range of civilian applications. Our experimental analysis shows that wireless connectivity among MAVs is challenged by the mobility and heterogeneity of the nodes, light-weight antenna design, body blockage, constrained embedded resources, and limited battery power. Yet, the movement and location of MAVs are known and may be controlled to establish wireless links with best transmission opportunities in time and space. This special ecosystem undoubtedly requires a rethinking of wireless communications and calls for novel networking approaches. Supported by empirical results, we identify important research questions and introduce potential solutions and directions for investigation.