Mehmet Kaan Erol and Eyup Emre Ulku, researchers from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Bogazici University in Istanbul, Turkey, have recently explored the potential of Software Defined Radio (SDR) in enhancing communication and coordination among Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Their work, titled “Location Information Sharing Using Software Defined Radio in Multi-UAV Systems,” delves into the practical applications of SDR technology in both military and civilian contexts.
The researchers focused on establishing multi-channel wireless communication between two SDRs to facilitate the sharing of location information among UAVs, which are part of a Flying Ad-Hoc Network (FANET). SDR, a radio communication system where components are implemented as software, offers flexible, reproducible, and long-lasting tools for wireless communications infrastructure. This flexibility allows for rapid adaptation to different communication protocols and environments, making it particularly useful in dynamic military and security scenarios.
Erol and Ulku utilized a multi-channel token circulation protocol for channel access and developed their SDR software using the GNU Radio platform. This approach enables UAVs to share critical location data efficiently, enhancing situational awareness and coordination in complex operations. The researchers emphasized the importance of testing such systems in realistic environments, as simulations, while useful for initial development, often fail to account for hardware, software, and environmental factors that can affect communication channels.
One of the study’s key contributions is the provision of clear and reproducible block diagrams and codes, which are available on GitHub. This transparency allows other researchers and developers to build upon their work, fostering further innovation in the field. The practical applications of this research are significant for the defence and security sector, where reliable and adaptable communication systems are crucial for mission success. By leveraging SDR technology, military and security forces can enhance the coordination and effectiveness of UAVs in various operational scenarios, from surveillance and reconnaissance to search and rescue missions.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.