Semantic-Aware Dynamic and Distributed Power Allocation: a Multi-UAV Area Coverage Use Case

Abstract: The advancement towards 6G technology leverages improvements in aerial-terrestrial networking, where one of the critical challenges is the efficient allocation of transmit power. Although existing studies have shown commendable performance in addressing this challenge, a revolutionary breakthrough is anticipated to meet the demands and dynamism of 6G. Potential solutions include: 1) semantic communication and orchestration, which transitions the focus from mere transmission of bits to the communication of intended meanings of data and their integration into the network orchestration process; and 2) distributed machine learning techniques to develop adaptable and scalable solutions. In this context, this paper introduces a power allocation framework specifically designed for semantic-aware networks. The framework addresses a scenario involving multiple Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) that collaboratively transmit observations over a multi-channel uplink medium to a central server, aiming to maximise observation quality. To tackle this problem, we present the Semantic-Aware Multi-Agent Double and Dueling Deep Q-Learning (SAMA-D3QL) algorithm, which utilizes the data quality of observing areas as reward feedback during the training phase, thereby constituting a semantic-aware learning mechanism. Simulation results substantiate the efficacy and scalability of our approach, demonstrating its superior performance compared to traditional bit-oriented learning and heuristic algorithms.