A 2-layer Dynamic and Stable Clustering Scheme in Vehicular Ad-hoc Networks

VANETs are a class of Mobile Ad hoc Networks (MANETs) that characterized by their high mobility and frequent topology changes. According to the previous research، clustering can be used in VANETs to partition the network into smaller groups of moving vehicles. In this paper، we propose a novel 2-layer dynamic and stable clustering technique combining the features of static and dynamic clustering methods. In order to have dissemination and collection of messages، the proposed scheme uses Agents. Agents learn from the environment in which they are deployed، and accordingly، performs its task in collaboration with the other agents. Cluster head is selected among the cluster members based on a new stability metric derived from connectivity degree، relative average speed، time to leave the road intersection and quality of static cluster head connectivity. Cluster head predicts future association of cluster members based on mobility patterns، in two scenarios. Performance of the proposed scheme is evaluated using extensive simulation with respect to the various metrics such as the average cluster head duration، the average number of clusters changed per vehicle، the average cluster lifetime and the clustering overheads. The simulation shows that our technique has better results and provides more stable cluster structure compared to the two existing techniques.