A Novel Predictive Link Quality Metric for Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks in Urban Contexts

Abstract

In Mobile Ad hoc networks (MANETs), advanced routing metrics use Link Quality Estimators (LQE) for making routing decisions. To be efficient and in a strong interaction with the physical layer transmission conditions, the accuracy and the reactivity of LQE used by metrics are crucial for maintaining connectivity. Current LQE estimates the link quality into a single value. This method limits the accuracy of the estimators, especially in highly volatile environments such as VANETs in urban environments. In this paper we propose multi-estimators LQE approach that provides both a better link quality and a link behavior assessment. These novel estimators deal with LQE requirements, reactivity, stability and accuracy to become a reliable LQE. We evaluate they reactivity and accuracy with realistic physical layer and mobility patterns and also found their forecasting properties.