SMART-Net

SMART-Net (SMART antenna multimode wireless mesh Network) comes from the limitations of conventional Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) systems based on star topologies in which all communications are required to pass through one costly central base station. Wireless Mesh Networks significantly improve system capacities, but suffers from inherent scalability limitations mainly related to bandwidth provisioning and latency. Therefore, SMART-Net proposes a novel system architecture and associated networking protocols enabling next generation of BWA which will support new applications by the Internet, innovative service packages delivery offered by telecom operators and advanced communication solutions for public safety and homeland security.

The SMART-Net concept is based on a decentralised vision in which access infrastructure and functions are partly distributed across the network, allowing reduction of service cost and significant increase of performance. To this end, smart antennas, traditionally deployed in base stations, are provided for use with each subscriber unit. The ability to combine efficiently these new capabilities with mesh networking will allow the system to support a high number of simultaneous transmissions, reconfigurability, scalability and security. This approach is strengthened with advanced routing and scheduling protocols specifically designed for heterogeneous wireless mesh networks.

Another key objective of the project is to provide a comprehensive and configurable shared experimental infrastructure for investigation of future BWA networks. This will be accomplished by deploying a Real-life Testbed based on advanced mesh/ad-hoc technologies, and a simulation Testbed. Assessment of the proposed solutions will be conducted in large-scale experimental facilities by interconnecting the real and virtual Testbeds, thereby merging both real and simulated worlds. An open-access will be provided for use by external entities and potential federations with other Testbeds.

Coordinator: Arnaud Tonnerre