A distributed time-slot assignment protocol for mobile multi-hop broadcast packet radio networks

A distributed time-slot-assignment protocol for a mobile multihop broadcast packet radio network, using time division multiple access channel access, virtual circuit switching, and minimum hop path routing is developed. The protocol eliminates the single-point failure mode of centralized network management and the delays of centralized processing. It is applicable to the user-to-user communications functions of such systems as the Army's Enhanced Position Location and Reporting System (EPLRS). The important functions of the distributed protocol, including time-slot assignment, virtual circuit setup, and network synthesis, are identified, and implementing algorithms are presented and analyzed.<
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