Maximizing Mission Success: Optimized Drone Assignments in Multi-UAV Search Operations

This paper presents an optimized multi-UAV system designed to enhance post-disaster search and rescue (SAR) operations, improving both the efficiency and effectiveness of locating individuals trapped beneath rubble or debris. Leveraging Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) equipped with advanced sensing and communication capabilities, this framework focuses on maximizing detection accuracy in challenging disaster environments. The core of the approach involves formulating and solving a drone assignment problem to ensure optimal multiUAV coverage across multiple targets within damaged zones. By strategically assigning drones, our approach achieves superior search accuracy compared to traditional assignment methods while also significantly reducing computational complexity relative to exhaustive search techniques. Results demonstrate that the proposed framework enhances detection precision, making it a practical and efficient solution for real-world SAR missions.