Autonomous broadcast pruning in wireless ad hoc networks using coverage estimation

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to find a practical method to minimize unnecessary rebroadcasts for ad hoc networks in a remote area. Design/methodology/approach - The authors design a theoretical coverage estimation model for autonomous broadcast pruning. To verify the effect of the model, simulations are performed to evaluate the effect of confidence level and the actual performance by using ns2 network simulator. Findings - The algorithm used to predict the coverage area of broadcasts can minimize unnecessary rebroadcasts. Originality/value - Autonomous broadcast pruning scheme based on the local prediction of a remained coverage area in the on-going broadcast process brings us beneficial results in terms of energy savings and limited bandwidth preservation.