The overall objective of the proposed research is to develop suitable networking concepts for mobile networks, along with analytical models and methodology that permit both theoretical prediction of system performance and examination of parameter tradeoffs. Of particular interest are techniques that provide intelligent features in the sense that they enable mobile networks to maintain performance levels by adjusting and adapting to changes in the communications environment. Dynamic control, assignment, and reallocation of communication resources due to changes in traffic loading, interference, and topology will be investigated for cellular and non-cellular configurations. Areas to be investigated include: techniques for managing hand-offs of communicating platforms; use of spatial macro-diversity features; and dynamic control and assignment of communications assets - including both borrowing and sharing of channels and gateways. Procedures to accomplish this may involve mixtures of central and distributed control. Appropriateness of the techniques for various settings will be considered. Analytical modeling and computer simulation will provide the primary underlying bases. It is expected that as a result of this investigation new techniques will be devised that will allow improved communications with large numbers of mobile platforms over wide geographical areas. In addition, the analytical models and approach will provide tan enhanced foundation for understanding, modeling, and designing mobile communications networks.
