A Multi-Layer Data Routing on Multi-Hop Wireless Networks

This paper deals with study of video streaming from a source to multiple receivers in wireless networks. This video is streaming with the help of intermediate users who forward the video to others. Two main challenges affect user satisfaction in the wireless network. The users usually have (i) different willingness to contribute (forwarding the video) (ii) different preference regarding the video quality. To overcome the challenges, we propose a framework based on a taxation mechanism in which the forwarding users, depending on their energy, are paid by their corresponding receivers. The video is layered such that the more video layers are received, the quality-of-experience (QoE) and the higher the price. Using a decentralized s coding scheme we define a user-specific utility function whose maximization determines the number of video layers a user wishes to receive. The utility function captures the users preferences including the importance of the video quality to her and her willingness to contribute. Our model supports the multicast transmission by which the receiver can use a common forwarder and share the cost. Simulation results show that the proposed model not only provides a higher QoE for the users and it is compared to the preference-agnostic models but also improves the network social-welfare.