Cross-layer concurrent transmission scheduling in WiMAX mesh networks

An effective scheduling scheme is critical for enhancing the capability of WiMAX mesh networks. In this paper, we propose an efficient cross-layer concurrent transmission scheduling algorithm to offer superior performance in a WiMAX mesh network. Through elaborating the scheduling strategy, available potential multiple links can be activated to enhance concurrent transmission. Furthermore, to increase the bandwidth efficiency, link transmission rates are regulated at different layers according to their respective traffic loads. Associated with it, an adaptive power control scheme at physical layer has been designed to support different data transmission rate for different paths. The effectiveness of the proposal is verified by experimental results, which show much better performance in terms of delay, scheduling validity and link utilization.