A navigation device with MAC supporting multiple physical networks for extended coverage and operations

This paper presents a novel consumer device that seamless integrates a VHF/UHF radio based mobile ad hoc network with GSM and Satellite networks. The device possesses the capability of operating in a wireless environment where multiple media covers patches of specified areas. The device acts like a universal communication gateway incorporating an intelligent communication controller and multiple physical interfaces for extended coverage. The controller is a cognitive cross-layer design that automatically selects and switches to most optimal network technology based on pre-defined Quality of Service criteria. This cognitive controller keeps communicating nodes connected to the vehicular network. A hybrid zone based QoS aware routing mechanism for multiple physical interfaces and networks is also presented. The device supports two GSM networks, one Satellite carrier, 802.11 interface and VHF or UHF modems including a GPS receiver. Such devices find applications in emerging Wireless Access in Vehicular Environment.