Network Partition Detection and Recovery with the Integration of UAVs: A Systematic Review

Wireless Sensor and Actuator Networks (WSANs) are gaining significant recognition due to their usability in inhospitable environments with limited human access. These networks are extensively applied across various domains which further requires effectiveness, reliability, and robustness. However, WSANs face challenges such as frequent node failures caused by deployment in rough environments, energy depletion, and on-board electronics malfunctions. These failures can lead to areas without network coverage, resulting in compromised data collection. Among the severe consequences is network partitioning, where the network fragments into disjointed parts, hindering data exchange and coordination among nodes. Detecting network partitioning and restoring connectivity is thus of utmost importance. This paper reviews existing techniques for network recovery, highlighting their limitations. Additionally, it emphasizes the benefits of integrating Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) into ground wireless networks. Furthermore, it discusses reported techniques for UAV-assisted partition recovery and explores potential application scenarios where UAVs can aid in network partition detection and recovery. The paper also highlights implementation challenges linked to incorporating UAVs into the network recovery process. This comprehensive analysis can serve as the foundation for researchers interested in working for including UAVs to restore connectivity and address the associated challenges in this research domain.