Multi-Tier Location-Based Joint Channel Assignment and Power Control Architecture for Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks

Abstract

Previously proposed Space Division Multiple Access (SDMA) schemes for Vehicular Ad-hoc Networks (VANETs) are based on having uniform cell (i.e., space division) size, shape, and transmission range parameters throughout the entire network geographic area; this is a problem because it creates a `one size fits all' type of inefficiency, preventing the network from reacting to localized network density extremes in an optimal and targeted manner. We propose a novel SDMA-based scheme that enables nodes located in neighboring geographic areas with different node densities to use different cell size, shape and transmission range parameters that are optimal for the node density in each of the neighboring areas; this is accomplished by a multi-tier, joint channel assignment and power control architecture that enables neighboring cells to instantly adapt to local density variations by allowing the cells to dynamically merge (in sparse areas), or split (in dense areas), in a predictable manner, so that local message throughput and latency performance are kept within a desired range, bringing SDMA-based VANETs one step closer to a feasible deployment.