Measurement and Modeling of RF Propagation in Forested Terrains for Emergency Communication
Keywords:
RF Propagation, Forested Terrain, Emergency Communication, Path Loss Modeling, Vegetation Attenuation, VHF/UHF/L-Band, Signal Measurement, Shadowing, Multipath, Wireless Resilience.Abstract
Emergency teams need dependable RF communication in the woods and in remote areas where there is no regular infrastructure. But signal travels in a forest area are difficult due to signal bouncing, attenuation by leaves, and the effects of changing ground heights. A measurement experiment and the creation of models were carried out to better understand and improve communication in emergencies within forests. The measurements were made using portable RF equipment in three frequencies: 150 MHz (VHF), 450 MHz (UHF), and 1.2 GHz (L-band). They were taken under a wide range of forest types, some with tall trees, others with short ones, and in different wetness conditions. By looking at the sample data, we worked to characterize path loss, direct signal delay spread, and shadowing. Researchers checked how well the MED, ITU-R, and Weissberger models matched up with real-world data. A new model is introduced, which uses both empirical and statistical methods to make better predictions of RF path loss in emergencies close to forests. These findings back up the call for improving wireless networks and help develop useful protocols for emergency communication in vegetation.
