Distance Estimation Schemes for Diffusion Based Molecular Communication Systems

TLDR

Molecule concentration is commonly used as the information carrier in diffusion‑based molecular communications among nano‑machines, and knowing the distance between the transmitter and receiver nano‑machines is essential for optimal functionality. This paper proposes two distance‑estimation schemes based on the receiver‑sensed concentration that varies with time and distance. The receiver estimates distance by measuring either the concentration‑peak time or the received concentration energy, and simulations compare the accuracy of each scheme while examining the influence of the diffusion channel and noise. Results show that both schemes provide a beneficial enhancement to molecular communication systems.

Abstract

Molecule concentration is often used as the information carrier to accomplish diffusion-based molecular communications (DMC) among nano-machines. To achieve the optimal functionality, knowing the distance between the transmitter nano-machine (TN) and the receiver nano-machine (RN) is of high importance. In this paper, two distance estimation schemes are proposed based upon the RN-sensed concentration which changes with regards to the time and distance. The RN estimates the distance by means of measuring either the concentration-peak time or received concentration energy. Simulations are performed to compare the accuracy of each scheme and to discover how the diffusion channel and noise may influence the accuracy. Results show that both schemes will provide a beneficial enhancement to molecular communication systems.