Simulating Collaborative and Autonomous Persistent Surveillance by Drones for Search and Rescue Operations

In search and rescue operations, time plays a critical role in saving lives. To address this challenge, a multi-drone surveillance system has emerged as a valuable tool for first responders, enabling them to cover large areas efficiently. However, for optimal effectiveness, such a system needs to be collaborative and autonomous, allowing first responders and operational rescue teams to focus on crucial tasks. This paper presents a simulation framework designed to assist in the selection of optimal design characteristics for a multi-drone collaboration system in a specific search and rescue environment, the objective of this simulation framework is (i) to optimize coordination and continuity in large scale missions while (ii) taking into account various factors and considerations to guide the decision-making process and (iii) adapt to dynamic in the resource allocation. By leveraging this simulation framework, stakeholders can evaluate and choose design features that enhance situational insight, optimize resource allocation, and streamline rescue operations in their unique context.