WiMAX networks for emergency management based on UAVs

Mesh wireless networks represent a solution to create adaptive networks during emergency situations. In this paper we propose a network solution, using WiMAX technology without fixed access points, based on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to realize the network backbone in emergency scenario. We analyze coverage properties of UAV nodes and we provide a methodology for the network planning and UAV deploying. Starting from the area to be covered, we plan network in terms of number and positions of UAVs by determining the single cell radius setting also the desired modulation scheme. We present our results obtained by considering different scenarios: Free Space scenario, Random scenario, which is characterized by the presence of obstacles of random dimensions and positions and Manhattan scenario, which reminds the typical perpendicular streets of Manhattan in New York City.