Hierarchical Task Assignment for Multi-UAV System in Large-Scale Group-to-Group Interception Scenarios

The multi-UAV task assignment problem in large-scale group-to-group interception scenarios presents challenges in terms of large computational complexity and the lack of accurate evaluation models. This paper proposes an effective evaluation model and hierarchical task assignment framework to address these challenges. The evaluation model incorporates the dynamics constraints specific to fixed-wing UAVs and improves the Apollonius circle model to accurately describe the cooperative interception effectiveness of multiple UAVs. By evaluating the interception effectiveness during the interception process, the assignment scheme of the multiple UAVs could be given based on the model. To optimize the configuration of UAVs and targets, a hierarchical framework based on the network flow algorithm is employed. This framework utilizes a clustering method based on feature similarity and interception advantage to decompose the large-scale task assignment problem into smaller, complete submodels. Following the assignment, Dubins curves are planned to the optimal interception points, ensuring the effectiveness of the interception task. Simulation results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed scheme. With the increase in the model scale, the proposed scheme has a greater descending rate of runtime. In a large-scale scenario involving 200 UAVs and 100 targets, the runtime is reduced by 84.86%.