MANET topology control based on the node degree and energy detection threshold

Abstract

In a mobile ad hoc network (MANET) constructed of mobile terminals, instability of communication and energy consumption are often a problem. Topology control of the network by transmission power has been investigated to stabilize the communication in a dense environment and to reduce energy consumption. However, the singly-linked nodes generated by topology control may cause the routing packets to collide. Therefore, in this study, we propose a new topology control that maintains the doubly-linked nodes by controlling not only the transmission power but also the threshold of energy detection based on the number of adjacent nodes (node degree). In addition, in order to minimize electric wave interference and the time required to control the topology, the proposed method controls the average degree to within a range, rather than to a single point. Our topology control suppresses electric wave interference, stabilizes communication, and conserves electrical power in the nodes. Simulation under mobile environments revealed that the proposed method increases the packet delivery ratio and decreases power consumption.