Robust target tracking using distributed unmanned aerial vehicle networks

Postlethwaite, Ian, Gu, Da-Wei and Kim, Yoonsoo (2010) Robust target tracking using distributed unmanned aerial vehicle networks. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part G: Journal of Aerospace Engineering, 224 (4). pp. 417-426. ISSN 0954-4100

Full text not available from this repository. (Request a copy)

Abstract

In this article, a target tracking scheme for operation in distributed unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) networks in which sensors may read the target position incorrectly is proposed. The proposed scheme operates two algorithms concurrently: semi-decentralized dynamic data fusion and fault detection. The semi-decentralized dynamic data fusion algorithm employs a median-consensus algorithm using extended non-faulty neighbours (whose sensor readings for the target position are within a prescribed tolerance level) and subsequently makes local estimates of the target position converge to nearly the actual target position. Meanwhile, the fault detection algorithm first asks each UAV to find the global median of the local target position through extended neighbours, and then diffuses the determined global median to all the UAVs in the network. As a result, the fault detection algorithm allows UAVs to detect and isolate faulty sensors quickly and to carry on target tracking in the semi-decentralized dynamic data fusion mode. As opposed to existing target tracking schemes, the proposed scheme is deterministic and guarantees the complete detection and isolation of faulty sensors on UAVs and thus successful target tracking. Numerical examples as well as experimental results are provided to support the developed ideas.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	fault-tolerant control, unmanned aerial vehicle, multi-agent network, median consensus, extended neighbours
Subjects:	H600 Electronic and Electrical Engineering
Department:	Faculties > Engineering and Environment > Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering
Depositing User:	Sarah Howells
Date Deposited:	10 Sep 2012 09:09
Last Modified:	10 Oct 2019 22:30
URI:	http://nrl.northumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/8722

Downloads