EAGER: PHYSICAL SYSTEM DYNAMICS FOR THE CHARACTERIZATION AND CONTROL OF COMPLEX WIRELESS NETWORKS

这一早期概念探索性研究拨款(AGER)项目解决了无线网络自主重新配置自身的需求，以适应网络或受支持应用程序要求的变化。该方法利用基于物理的模型来描述和控制，这些模型受到形成分子网络的多个相连原子的动力学的启发。该研究考虑了两层异质网络，其中自组织网络使用全向通信链路，由利用射频或自由空间光链路的定向无线骨干网络互连；在智能优势方面，研究使用多学科方法来建模和控制健壮的自组织异质网络。用于分析和操作的模型和方法具有处理此类网络日益增长的复杂性和动态行为的潜力。通过评估网络的健壮性和将网络拓扑结构驱动到最低能量配置的策略，该研究可以得到以下模型：(I)在复杂网络中通过拓扑控制来最小化能量；(Ii)动态网络中的链路中断和重新配置机制的特征，包括可能导致网络分区的链路中断的成本；以及(Iii)通过网络退化、网络拥塞、节点和链路故障等机制来评估网络演化。从更广泛的影响来看，该研究具有改变下一代动态无线网络的分析和运营的潜力。这种动态无线网络具有许多重要应用，包括个人和商业通信、灾难和应急响应以及战术军事通信。该项目有助于正在进行的努力，包括暑期实习计划，以扩大参与度。

This EArly-concept Grants for Exploratory Research (EAGER) project addresses the need for wireless networks to autonomously reconfigure themselves to adapt to changes in the network or in the requirements of the supported applications. The approach utilizes physics-based models for characterization and control that are inspired by the dynamics of multiple-connected atoms forming a molecular network. The research considers two-tiered heterogeneous networks with ad-hoc networks using omni-directional communication links interconnected by a directional wireless backbone network that utilizes radio frequency or free-space optical links.With respect to intellectual merit, the research uses a multidisciplinary approach to model and control robust, self-organizing heterogeneous networks. The models and methods for analysis and operation have the potential to deal with the growing complexity and dynamical behavior of such networks. The research could lead to models that would enable: (i) energy minimization through topology control in complex networks by assessing network robustness and strategies for driving a network topology to a minimum energy configuration; (ii) characterization of link breaks and reconfiguration mechanisms in dynamic networks, including the cost of link breaks that can lead to network partitions; and (iii) evaluation of network evolution through mechanisms including network degradation, network congestion, and node and link failures.With respect to broader impact, the research has the potential to transform the analysis and operation of next-generation dynamic wireless networks. Such dynamic wireless networks have a number of important applications including personal and commercial communication, disaster and emergency response, and tactical military communications. The project contributes to ongoing efforts, including a summer internship program, for broadening participation.