Map-based multi-path routing protocol in VANETs

Due to vehicle movement and propagation loss of radio channel, providing a routing protocol for reliable multihop communication in VANETs is particularly challenging. In this paper, we present a map-based multi-path routing protocol for VANETs - MBMPR, which utilizes GPS, digital map and sensors in vehicle. With global road information, MBMPR finds an optimal forward path and an alternate path using Dijkstra algorithm, which improves the reliability of data transmission. Considering the load balance problem in junctions, a congestion detection mechanism is proposed. Aiming at the packet loss problem due to target vehicle's mobility, MBMPR adopts recovery strategy using location-based services and target vehicle mobility prediction. The simulations demonstrate MBMPR has significant performances comparing with classical VANETs routing protocols.