Enhancing the VANET Network Layer

The aim of this thesis is to examine existing VANET network layer functionality and to propose enhancements to the VANET network layer to facilitate vehicular (V2X) communication. This thesis proposes three enhancements to the VANET network layer which address many of the issues with V2X communication, these enhancements are: a geographic overlay allowing vehicles to localize themselves; an IPv6 addressing strategy which embeds positional information within an IP address allowing for location based routing; and finally a novel position based routing protocol which has two primary advantages over existing protocols, firstly removing unnecessary overhead information and control communication, and secondly support for multiple types of V2X communication models. The simulation results show that the proposed enhancements are well suited in low and medium vehicular density environments. Based on the observed behaviors the author recommends further modification and study of position based routing protocols.