An Algorithm to Satisfy the QoS Requirements in a Heterogeneous LoRaWAN Network

TL;DR

This paper presents a mathematical model and an algorithm for QoS provisioning in heterogeneous LoRaWAN networks, ensuring device groups meet specific packet loss rate requirements by optimal modulation and coding scheme assignment.

Contribution

It introduces a novel mathematical model for PLR distribution in LoRaWAN and an algorithm for modulation scheme assignment to satisfy QoS needs.

Findings

PLR varies significantly across devices in the network.

Average PLR is insufficient for QoS assessment.

The proposed algorithm effectively meets PLR thresholds.

Abstract

LoRaWAN is a popular low power wide area network technology widely used in many scenarios, such as environmental monitoring and smart cities. Different applications demand various quality of service (QoS), and their service within a single network requires special solutions for QoS provision. We consider the problem of QoS provision in heterogeneous LoRaWAN networks that consist of several groups of devices that require different packet loss rate (PLR). To solve this problem, we develop a mathematical model that can find the PLR distribution in a LoRaWAN network. With the model, we show that the PLR can vary significantly, and it is wrong to consider only the average PLR for the QoS provision. Finally, we develop an algorithm for assigning modulation and coding schemes to end-devices that provides PLRs below the required thresholds.