Analysing energy-incentivized cooperation in next generation mobile networks using normative frameworks and an agent-based simulation

Wireless mobile grids (WMG) have been proposed as the next generation mobile networks in order to address the energy issues arising for the next generation of mobile phones. WMG are based on the notion that local communication is more energy-efficient than the standard 3G communication. Despite their energy advantages, they create a social dilemma as it is advantageous for rational users to benefit from the energy savings without any contribution to the cooperation, as every commitment has its price. This paper proposes the use of a normative framework modelling technique and multi-agent simulations to support the early and rapid development of prototype systems to analyse solutions for solving the collaboration dilemma in WMG. Both tools allow for the capture of essential features of interactions between components in open architectures, therefore assisting in concept refinement, identification of actors, policy exploration and the feasibility assessment of new systems. With the help of these models we show how it is possible to quantify energy consumption, explore management policies and evaluate individual utility functions, all of which act as drivers in helping realise the WMG concept. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.