Topology-transparent node activation scheduling schemes for multihop TDMA ad hoc networks

In this paper, we study topology-transparent node activation transmission scheduling protocols for multihop TDMA ad hoc networks. We focus on quality-of-service (QoS) provisioning for each node, particularly when node mobility is considered. A framework for topology-transparent node activation scheduling based on theory of block designs is proposed. The proposed framework guarantees conflict-free transmission slots for each node in each frame by mathematical properties of block designs. Based on two mapping methods, called mapping I and mapping II, the proposed framework can be categorized into two types. With the proposed framework, we study and evaluate some series of block constructions. We then propose several topology-transparent scheduling algorithms based on the results derived. The proposed schemes maximize the minimum system throughput. Numerical results show that the proposed algorithms can outperform existing algorithms in achieving a higher minimum system throughput.