A Machine Learning-Based Rate Adaptation Mechanism for LoRaWAN Networks in Semi-Intensive Livestock Farming
LoRaWAN, LoRa, ADR, Livestock, Machine Learning, Reinforcement Learning, IoT.
This work aims to explore Adaptive Data Rate (ADR) techniques in LoRaWAN networks for cattle monitoring in semi-intensive livestock systems, evaluating network performance and energy consumption based on the number of monitored animals and coverage area. The proposed approach was evaluated through simulations using ns-3. The simulation scenario considers the seasonal movement of animals, alternating between a confinement period in a corral and a grazing period in the field. An analysis of classical ADR techniques applied to this scenario shows that different ADR algorithms perform better at specific moments. Based on this evidence, this work employs reinforcement learning techniques to dynamically adjust transmission parameters, adapting to the dynamic nature of the proposed scenario. The results show that the adoption of machine learning leads to significant network gains in terms of packet delivery reliability, data rate at the Gateway, and energy efficiency of the End devices.