In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Photonics, researchers have unveiled a novel approach to enhancing wireless power transfer (WPT) systems using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and free space optics (FSO). Led by Jinho Kang from the School of Electronic Engineering at Gyeongsang National University in South Korea, the research addresses a pressing challenge in the maritime sector: providing consistent power to Internet of Things (IoT) devices operating in remote or challenging environments.
As the maritime industry increasingly relies on IoT technologies for everything from navigation to monitoring environmental conditions, ensuring a reliable power source is crucial. This is especially true in areas like disaster recovery zones or military operations, where traditional power supply methods may fall short. The study proposes a joint design of the divergence angle of the FSO link and UAV trajectory, a strategy that could significantly enhance power transfer efficiency.
Kang and his team have identified that the power harvested by ground devices is influenced by two key factors: the divergence angle of the FSO beam and the UAV’s flight path. By optimizing these elements, the researchers aim to maximize the minimum power received by all devices, ensuring fairness and efficiency in power distribution. “We formulated the problem of jointly optimizing the divergence angle and UAV trajectory to maximize the minimum harvested power among all devices,” Kang explained.
The implications for maritime operations are substantial. For instance, vessels operating in remote waters could deploy UAVs equipped with FSO technology to maintain power levels for critical systems, thus reducing the need for frequent returns to port for recharging. This could revolutionize how maritime missions are conducted, offering greater flexibility and operational efficiency.
Moreover, the study introduces a Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO)-based method that enhances the optimization process, improving execution times compared to traditional algorithms. This advancement could lead to quicker deployment of UAVs in maritime scenarios, allowing for real-time adjustments based on environmental conditions or operational needs.
The potential commercial applications are vast. Shipping companies, for example, could leverage this technology to ensure that their fleets remain powered while at sea, enhancing their capabilities in monitoring and communication. Additionally, offshore oil rigs and research vessels could benefit from a more reliable power source for their IoT devices, facilitating better data collection and operational efficiency.
As the maritime sector continues to evolve with technological advancements, the integration of UAVs and FSO systems could provide a robust solution to power challenges. This research highlights not just the scientific innovation but also the practical benefits that can be harnessed in real-world applications, paving the way for a more connected and efficient maritime industry.
