Enhanced Multi-UAV Formation Control and Obstacle Avoidance Using IAAPF-SMC

In response to safety concerns pertaining to multi-UAV formation flights, a novel obstacle avoidance method based on an Improved Adaptive Artificial Potential field (IAAPF) is presented. This approach enhances UAV obstacle avoidance capabilities by utilizing segmented attraction potential fields ref...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Pengfei Zhang, Zhongliu Wang, Ziwen Zhu, Qinyang Liang, Jiangyu Luo
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2024-09-01
Series:Drones
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2504-446X/8/9/514
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:In response to safety concerns pertaining to multi-UAV formation flights, a novel obstacle avoidance method based on an Improved Adaptive Artificial Potential field (IAAPF) is presented. This approach enhances UAV obstacle avoidance capabilities by utilizing segmented attraction potential fields refined with adaptive factors and augmented with virtual forces for inter-UAV collision avoidance. To further enhance the control and stability of multi-UAV formations, a Sliding Mode Control (SMC) method is integrated into the IAAPF-based obstacle avoidance framework. Renowned for its robustness and ability to handle system uncertainties and disturbances, the SMC method is combined with a feedback control system that utilizes inner and outer loops. The outer loop generates the desired path based on the leader’s state and control commands, while the inner loop tracks these trajectories and adjusts the follower UAVs’ motions. This design ensures that obstacle feedback is accounted for before the desired state information is received, enabling effective obstacle avoidance while maintaining formation integrity. Integrating leader-follower formation control techniques with SMC-based multi-UAV obstacle avoidance strategies ensures the effective convergence of the formation velocity and spacing to predetermined values, meeting the cooperative obstacle avoidance requirements of multi-UAV formations. Simulation results validate the efficacy of the proposed method in reaching otherwise unreachable destinations within obstacle-rich environments, while ensuring robust collision avoidance among UAVs.
ISSN:2504-446X