DCF-based cooperative MAC protocol employing fuzzy logic partner selection scheme

We propose FuzzyCoop, a cooperative MAC layer protocol employing a fuzzy logic partner selection algorithm. The protocol is based on the Distributed Coordination Function (DCF) protocol used in the IEEE 802.11 standard. There are three inputs to the fuzzy system: the Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR), the error ratio between two neighbors and the time the most recent packet was received from a neighbor. The fuzzy output is the partnership probability of a neighboring terminal. Besides, we introduce a cooperation incentive to the stations by providing them with the right to transmit their own data without contention after a successful cooperation. The protocol is evaluated through extensive simulations in different scenarios and is compared to the DCF protocol and a previously proposed cooperative protocol. Simulation results show that FuzzyCoop improves the performances of a wireless network and provides a more robust partner selection scheme.