Real-time graph visualization tool for vehicular ad-hoc networks: (VIVAGr: VIsualization tool of VAnet graphs in real-time)

In this work we describe VIVAGr, a graphical-oriented real time visualization tool for vehicular ad-hoc network connectivity graphs. This tool enables the effective synthesis of structural, topological, and dynamic characteristics of VANET graphs, with a variety of parameters that affect the shape and characteristics of a vehicular ad hoc network (wireless range, mobility models, road-network topology, market penetration ratio, and exhibited interference). Our design allows researchers to explore and understand problems and issues related with vehicular ad-hoc networks that face today significant design challenges. The tool is able to present all active connection of the network in real-time mode using mobility traces. A visual encoding syntax is used to represent semantic meanings and highlight the effect of mobility and topology on vehicular network specific properties.