Topology management for wireless mesh self-organizing mobile backhauls

Abstract

The mobile data consumption is increasing exponentially, creating demand for more capacity from the network. Cell densification with small cells, also known as Heterogeneous networks, is seen as a solution for the capacity problem. On the downside, this creates a problem for providing a cost-effective backhaul connection to these small cells.

The Self-optimizing Wireless Mesh Network (SWMN) backhaul has been proposed as a backhaul solution for small cells. In SWMN, the nodes form a partial mesh topology, where routing and data transmission is based on pre-computed prioritized set of routes and link-schedules. Hence, an entity that handles topology management functionalities is required, which enables automatic network configuration, network monitoring, optimization and management.

The main aim of this thesis is to verify the topology management functionalities. The work involved development of a simulator for creating test topology scenarios. Additionally, the task involved verifying the feasibility of functionalities in the proof-of-concept system.