Multi-Quadrotor Cooperative Encirclement and Capture Approach in Obstacle Environments

This article proposes an algorithm designed for autonomous quadrotors to capture target quadrotors in complex obstacle environments, enabling multiple pursuers to perform distributed capture while simultaneously avoiding obstacles and collisions. We first introduce a 3D obstacle space representation method based on safety-priority reachable region (SPRR) and implement real-time construction for general point cloud maps. Subsequently, leveraging SPRR, we employ an area minimization approach to ensure the effective capture of the evader within a limited time. The outcomes are then integrated into a MINCO-based trajectory planning framework to ensure their practical execution by real quadrotors. Relying on SPRR, the optimization problem is simplified and the solution efficiency is improved. In the scenario of simulating the dynamics of real quadrotors, we compare the proposed algorithm with state-of-the-art evasion and pursuit methods, validating its effectiveness and advancements. This work presents a practical solution for multi-quadrotor collaborative capture.