Investigation of Optimal Number and Positioning of MOAP Robots: A Case Study for Hakata Train Station

Recently, various communication technologies have been developed to meet the needs of numerous users. In particular, mobile communication technologies are advancing rapidly and Wireless Mesh Networks (WMNs) are gaining significant attention from researchers due to their cost-efficient provision of broadband wireless connectivity. The primary challenge of WMNs is to enhance network connectivity and stability, while improving the user coverage. In our previous work, we introduced the Moving Omnidirectional Access Point (MOAP) robot, which can move omnidirectionally in real space to enhance the communication and stability for WMNs. In this paper, we investigate the optimal number of MOAP robots and their positions at Hakata train station in Fukuoka, Japan. The simulation results indicate that by using Elbow and Silhouette theories can be determinded the optimal number of MOAP robots for providing a good communication environment for clients.