Self-adaptive neighbor discovery in ad hoc networks with directional antennas

In this paper we present a novel neighbor discovery protocol for networks with directional antennas. The novelty of this protocol lies in two aspects. Firstly, in order to cope with mobility issues, we adjust the frequency of neighbor discovery attempts according to the dynamics of the network. Secondly, to improve power efficiency and reduce overhead, the protocol has the ability to limit neighbor discovery attempts in directions where no new neighbors are likely to be found. The superior performance of our protocol is shown through simulations. Furthermore, we provide an analytical model to analyze directional neighbor discovery protocols in general. This model reveals the impacts of using directional antennas in neighbor discovery process. The accuracy of this analytical model is validated through simulations.