Adaptive search control applied to Search and Rescue operations using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

Abstract

Despite there being some researches about unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), operations with this kind of robots are not yet occurring in search and rescue (SAR) operations. Using adaptive concepts, a Cooperative UAV model applied to search and rescue operations applied is proposed. The adaptive concepts are well suited to the dynamism present in search operations in unknown environment. Thus, applying adaptiveness, each UAV takes decision in order to best accomplish the goal. Simulations were carried out and the results observed show that the model reduces until 75% of the search time (comparing with a manned search using the SAR navigation rules). Furthermore, related works, UAV evolution, conclusion and future works suggestions are presented.