Ad hoc and Sensor Networks

Ad-hoc networks are formed in situations where mobile computing devices require networking applications when a fixed network infrastructure is not available or not preferred to be used. In such cases, mobile devices may possibly set up an ad hoc network themselves. Ad-hoc networks are decentralized, self-organizing networks and are capable of forming a communication network without relying on any fixed infrastructure.

Ad-hoc networks form a relatively new field of research. In this lecture, besides a general introduction to ad-hoc networks and their applications, we will focus on state-of-the-art methods and technologies for forming an ad-hoc network and maintaining its stability despite the dynamics of the network.

The contents of the course are as follows:

Positioning and applications (Chapters 1, 2, and 3 of the textbook, these topics are basics en prerequisites; And Chapter 5)

• Definition of ad-hoc networks

• Comparison with infrastructure-based systems

• Typical applications

• Advantages and challenges

• Radio technologies for ad-hoc networks

• Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Bluetooth

Modelling ad-hoc networks

• Propagation models

• Topology models based on graph theory

• Degree and hopcount

• Connectivity theorems

MAC protocols for ad-hoc networks (Chapter 6, 10 of the textbook)

• Introduction to MAC protocols

• Issues and design goals

• Classification

• Directional, muli-channel MAC protocols

• Energy efficiency in MAC protocols

• Quality of service

Self-organisation and Routing (Chapters 7, 8, 11 of the textbook)

• Flooding

• Node discovery, neighbour discovery

• Route establishment

• Topology maintenance, localisation

• Proactive, reactive, and hybrid routing

• Typical protocols

• Energy efficiency in routing

• Broadcast and multicast

• Effects of mobility on connectivity and capacity

• Effect of nodes joining and leaving the network

Advanced issues in ad hoc networks

• Wireless sensor networks (Chapter 12 of the textbook and papers)

• Cooperation (Reference papers)

• Measuring Wireless Networks and Simulating MAC and Routng in ad hoc networks as part of projects (optional: ns3, OMNET, OPNET)

• Energy Harvesting

Project presentations by students

1. There will be a total of three written/oral tests/examinations for this course (including the final exam).

2. The students will carry out a project individually and two simulation projects in groups, and submit a short report.

3. Participation in off-track discussions on Facebook/Brightspace/FeedbackFruits and wikis.

The final score is based on marks obtained during tests, a project, an assignment (in groups), and bonus marks. All the details will be given in the first class.

Breakup:

3 Tests = 45%

Project 50%

Self assessment + Reflection 2%

Activities on Feedback Fruits or any Online platform 3%

Resit: written/oral exam [+ carry over from projects].

There are three chapters

Chapter 1: Network modelling

Chapter 2: MAC protocol

Chapter 3: Routing

And Projects: Simple experiments using laptops (individual) + simulations (group-wise)

Marks Breakup

Homework/Assignments/Group work

Part A1: Group-wise assignment. 3 times (1 per chapter) -- 15 marks

Part A2: Group-wise QenA. 3 times (1 per chapter) -- 30 marks

Part B1: Individual experiment + report -- 20 marks

Part B2: Group-wise simulations + report + demo -- 30 marks

Part B1 + Part B2-- 50 Marks

Part C: Self-assessment + peer activities -- 5 marks

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(More information will be given in the first class)

Disclaimer: information may change depending on unforeseen circumstances or measures (see: TER Art 2, sub 5).