WiFi Direct Communication

Cooperative MultiHop WiFi Direct Networking for Android Devices

The WiFiBeta Android Application allows communication via a WiFi Direct network when other methods of communication are not possible, such as in a disaster scenario. By utilizing multi hop capabilities, the network could transmit emergency broadcasts to devices that are not in range of each other via hops through other devices. Text, SMS, and voice communication are implemented in a “chatbox” type interface. SMS messages are sent to devices with an active cellular data connection for transmission.

The App features Multi hop, which involves transmitting a message through a series of devices in order to reach a target device that is out of range of the initial device. Text and voice messages are proliferated to all devices to increase the likelihood of the message being delivered to somebody who could help in the case of a disaster scenario. SMS messages are sent only to devices with cellular network capabilities.

Currently, no more than two devices can be connected directly to each other. Every device can connect to the Group Owner, but Peers cannot connect to each other. The maximum range a device can reach is just the range from the device to the group owner, and then the range of the group owner.