We examine the issue of cooperation between mobile nodes for the retrieval of information objects from fixed points of a network (e.g., digital announcement boards, interactive maps, sensor data for traffic, etc. in a city environment). We consider that the mobile nodes have either common or different interests for information objects. In the first case, we study a scheme for distributing the information retrieval tasks between a group of nodes that have the same interests. In the second case, we study incentives (in the form of bilateral object exchanges) that are necessary to achieve cooperation. The problems that arise are treated using concepts from game theory, and we derive useful conclusions on the plausibility and efficacy of the cooperation mechanisms.
Ioannis Koukoutsidis is currently a visiting lecturer at the Department of Telecommunications Science and Technology of the University of Peloponnese. During the last 10 years, he has performed research in various fields of telecommunications, with emphasis on networking. Previous employments include the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (2007-2008), the Foundation for Research and Technology - Hellas (FORTH) (2006-2007), and INRIA, France (2004-2005). He obtained the PhD and Diploma degrees in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens, in 2004 and 1998 respectively. His main research interest lies in the analysis, modeling and performance evaluation of telecommunication systems and networks.
