Model and algorithm for forming spatially distributed groups of aerial objects to optimize their energy supply

Background. The object of the research is the energy supply system for spatially distributed groups of aerial objects. The subject of the research is algorithms for forming optimal clusters for simultaneous energy transmission to multiple unmanned aerial vehicles. The purpose of the work is to develop a new hybrid algorithm that optimizes the energy supply of aerial object groups, taking into account their current energy state and spatial distribution. Materials and methods. The research develops and analyzes a hybrid optimization algorithm for energy supply of spatially distributed groups of aerial objects. The algorithm is based on an adapted greedy method for solving the set covering problem with the application of a specialized objective function that includes three key criteria: maximizing the number of simultaneously serviced objects, prioritizing objects with critical charge levels, and minimizing angular movements of the energy support complex. The proposed strategy takes into account the spatial-energy characteristics of objects to optimize the distribution of energy resources. A mathematical model of spatial intersections of energy beam radiation patterns has been developed for the formation of optimal clusters. Results. A new hybrid algorithm has been proposed that provides priority service to objects with critically low charge levels and minimizes the number of necessary rotations of the energy support complex. The results of numerical modeling demonstrated the superiority of the developed algorithm over classical clustering methods (k-means, DBSCAN, hierarchical clustering) according to key metrics: coverage coefficient, efficiency of servicing aerial objects with critical charge, and angular efficiency. Conclusions. The developed hybrid algorithm for forming spatially distributed groups of aerial objects is more effective than existing methods for optimizing the energy supply of unmanned aerial vehicles. The proposed approach has a wide range of practical applications in energy supply systems for group flights of unmanned aerial vehicles for various purposes.