Assignment of dynamic transmission range based on estimation of vehicle density

ABSTRACT

Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANET) have several characteristics that distinguish them from other ad hoc networks. Among those is the rapid change in topology due to traffic jams, which also disturbs the homogenous distribution of vehicles on the road. For this reason, a dynamic transmission range is more effective in maintaining connectivity while minimizing the adverse effects of a high transmission power.We provide a relationship that allows vehicles to estimate the local density and distinguish between two phases of traffic, free-flow and congested traffic. The density estimate is used to develop an algorithm that sets a vehicle transmission range dynamically according to local traffic conditions.Simulations of various road configurations show that the algorithm is successful in maintaining connectivity in highly dynamic networks.

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Index Terms

• Networks

  • Network types

    • Mobile networks

    • Wireless access networks