BlueAdapt: Enhancing Smart Bike Connectivity via Variable Step-Size OLLA in Bluetooth
Problem Statement:
As urban mobility increasingly embraces smart and connected bicycles, Bluetooth plays a key role in enabling communication between on-bike sensors, smartphones, and external infrastructure (e.g., traffic lights, navigation beacons). However, these environments pose challenges: constant movement, fluctuating interference from other wireless devices, and obstructed line-of-sight all degrade Bluetooth performance.
Bluetooth, while efficient and low power, lacks advanced link adaptation mechanisms found in cellular and Wi-Fi systems. In particular, it does not support Outer Loop Link Adaptation (OLLA) - a feedback-driven control mechanism that adjusts transmission parameters based on link quality.
This project explores the novel application of variable step-size OLLA to Bluetooth communication in smart bike systems. By dynamically adjusting link parameters (e.g., modulation rate or transmit power) using adaptive feedback, we aim to improve reliability, reduce retransmissions, and maintain stable performance during real-world biking conditions.
Task:
Design and evaluate a variable step-size OLLA algorithm for Bluetooth, tailored to the connectivity needs of smart bikes. The system should optimize link quality in dynamic scenarios such as city streets and open roads.
Work:
· 30% Theory:
o Study Bluetooth link-layer behavior and adaptation techniques.
o Review OLLA models from LTE/Wi-Fi and explore how they can be repurposed for Bluetooth use.
· 60% Simulations & Modeling:
o Build a simulation of a Bluetooth link on a moving bike, with varying signal quality and interference.
o Implement and tune a variable step-size OLLA controller that adjusts transmission behavior based on packet success/failure feedback.
o Compare against baseline fixed-step adaptation and Bluetooth’s default behavior.
· 10% Writing:
o Report findings, including performance improvements, feasibility of implementation in smart bike hardware, and recommendations for real-world adoption.
Contact:
Khalil Ben Fredj (k.benfredj@utwente.nl)
Sabari Nathan Anbalagan (s.n.anbalagan@utwente.nl)