Extended Realistic Network Optimization with Terrian Fading Model

The U.S. Army is seeking a software tool to accurately model environmental obstacles in mobile ad hoc network (MANET) simulation for cross-layer optimization analysis. To address this need, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to complete the development of the Extended Realistic Network Optimization with Terrain fading model (ERENOT) with accurate representation of complex terrain effects in network simulations based on extension of terrain effects and cross-layering to the open-source NS-2 network simulator. The ERENOT extensions include not only NLOS and LOS models, but also realistic terrain effects based on inclusion of geographical models with mesh representation of terrain, reflecting its characteristics of RF fading, either completely dropped or partially transparent to RF signals. ERENOT further extends NS-2 with cross-layering control and activity analysis, enabling assessment and analysis of cross-layer optimization on end-to-end quality of service matrices in complex environments. In Phase I POC successfully demonstrated ERENOT feasibility by developing and validating a terrain fading model at 315 MHz and integrating it with NS-2. In Phase II POC will advance the ERENOT design to a full-scale simulation software prototype with both spatial and temporal fading and cross-layering, and demonstrate the impact of multiple cross-layer interactions on end-to-end quality of service metrics.