Visual simulation of UAV mission planning schemes

Abstract To effectively assess the rationality of trajectory planning for small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) executing search missions in complex terrain areas, we suggest using the STK (System Tool Kit) software to evaluate the reconnaissance effectiveness of UAVs. Firstly, the STK software is employed to calculate and analyze the coverage characteristics of UAV sensors in the target area. Secondly, the connectivity of UAV-to-GPS satellite communication links is evaluated. Lastly, the effectiveness of communication links such as UAV-to-ground control stations is examined. Simulation results indicate that STK enables multi-angle analysis and assessment of route planning effectiveness. The computed results are accurate, the display is intuitive, and the operation is simple and fast, making it suitable for evaluating and analyzing the rationality of UAV search and rescue route planning schemes in complex terrain conditions. This, in turn, provides reliable and effective data support for optimizing UAV route planning.