The AI architecture and models behind drone technology vary depending on the application (e.g., navigation, object detection, surveillance, delivery), but typically involve a combination of the following:


1. AI Architectures Commonly Used in Drones:

a. Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs)

Used for:

  • Object detection and recognition
  • Image segmentation
  • Target tracking

Examples:

  • YOLO (You Only Look Once)
  • SSD (Single Shot Detector)
  • Faster R-CNN
  • U-Net (for segmentation tasks)

b. Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs) & LSTMs

Used for:

  • Time-series data analysis (e.g., trajectory prediction)
  • Sensor fusion and flight path optimization

c. Reinforcement Learning (RL)

Used for:

  • Autonomous navigation and decision-making in dynamic environments
  • Obstacle avoidance

Frameworks/Algorithms:

  • Deep Q-Networks (DQN)
  • Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO)
  • Soft Actor-Critic (SAC)

d. Transformer-based Architectures (Emerging Use)

Used in:

  • Multi-agent drone communication and coordination
  • Situational awareness from multimodal data (e.g., vision + GPS + sensor)