An efficient data transmission scheme for WSNs assisted by multiple UAVs

In this paper, we conducted a study on multi-UAV-assisted Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) data collection. First, to address the challenges of network construction and data transmission timeliness, we introduced the concepts of data collection UAV (UAV \(_{col}\) $_{\mathit{col}}^{}$ ) and communication UAV (UAV \(_{com}\) $_{\mathit{com}}^{}$ ). Based on this, we built a UAV group cooperative WSNs data collection framework to improve the system’s data transmission timeliness. Second, to tackle the problem of high SN data transmission energy consumption, we established a dynamic UAV data collection position adjustment model driven by WSN data. Then, we proposed a two-stage UAV group task allocation strategy, which decomposed the UAV group dynamic task allocation problem into a combination of static traveling salesman problem (TSP) problem and dynamic assignment problem (AP), and designed a simple but efficient UAV dynamic task area selection strategy. Finally, we conducted simulation experiments, and the experimental results and numerical statistics showed the feasibility and effectiveness of the above strategies.