Tramcar: A Context-Aware Cross-Layer Architecture for Next Generation Heterogeneous Wireless Networks

Major research challenges in the next generation (4G) of wireless networks include the provisioning of worldwide seamless mobility across heterogeneous wireless networks, the improvement of end-to-end Quality of Service (QoS) and enabling users to specify their personal preferences. Under this motivation, we design a novel cross-layer architecture that provides context-awareness, smart handoff and mobility control in heterogeneous wireless IP networks. We develop a Transport and Application Layer Architecture for vertical Mobility with Context-awareness (Tramcar). Tramcar is tailored for a variety of different network technologies with different characteristics and has the ability of adapting to changing environment conditions and unpredictable background traffic. Furthermore, Tramcar allows users to identify and prioritize their preferences. Simulation results demonstrate that Tramcar increases user satisfaction levels and network throughput under rough network conditions and reduces overall handoff latencies.