Mobility aware topology control framework for dynamic multi-robot networks

Abstract

Multi-robot networks used in surveillance, industrial manufacturing, defense and distributed monitoring require maximal coverage and connectivity while adapting to changes in environmental and channel conditions. Traditional algorithms attempt at solving this issue using deployment schemes and power control. In the case of mobile robot networks, the additional degree of freedom rendered by the mobility of the robots can additionally be used. In this paper we introduce a novel robot topology control mechanism aiming at maximizing coverage, connectivity and reliability using an irregular hexagonal static/mobile multi-robot deployment scheme. Experimental data, along with simulation results demonstrate connectivity enhancement under signal loss.