Large-Scale Cellular Coverage Analyses for UAV Data Relay via Channel Modeling
Channel: OATS Center
Date: 2020-07-31

In this presentation Yaguang Zhang of the Purdue University Open Ag Technologies and Systems (OATS) Center looks at the challenges faced by modern wireless communication systems in rural areas and discuss how drones may help in improving the system-level coverage performance. Basic channel modeling ideas, for instance, line-of-sight paths and the free space path loss, are introduced. From there, more advanced models including the Fresnel zone and the extended Hata model are explained for locating blocked regions and estimating path loss values. At last, simulations have been carried out for the 4G cellular network in Indiana State to analyze a drone-aided data relay scenario. A coverage ratio gain of around 45% can be expected with relay drones deployed at a height of 100 meters, compared to a typical pedestrian case of 1.5 meters.

This talk was delivered remotely to the Mid-Year AgGateway Meeting on July 8, 2020.