On game theoretic DSA-driven MAC for cognitive radio networks
The game theoretic dynamic spectrum allocation (DSA) technique is an efficient approach to coordinate cognitive radios sharing the spectrum. However, existing game based DSA algorithms lack a platform to support the game process. On the other hand, existing medium access control (MAC) protocols for cognitive radio networks do not fully utilize the adaptability and intelligence of the cognitive radio (CR) to achieve efficient spectrum utilization, let alone fairness and QoS support. Therefore it is necessary to develop DSA-driven MAC protocols with the game theoretic DSA embedded into the MAC layer. In this paper, based on the analysis of challenges for the game theoretic DSA in realistic applications, we conclude that a unified game theoretic DSA-driven MAC framework should constitute of four integral components: (I) DSA algorithm, deriving the spectrum access strategy for data communication; (2) negotiation mechanism, coordinating players to follow the right game policy: (3) clustering algorithm, limiting the negotiation within one cluster for scalability; (4) collision avoidance mechanism, eliminating collisions among clusters. With our MAC framework, DSA-driven MAC protocols can be conveniently developed, as illustrated in the design process of a concrete QoSe-DSA-driven MAC protocol. The game theoretic DSA-driven MAC framework can fulfill merits of game theoretic DSA algorithms including high spectrum utilization, collision-free channel access for data communication, QoS and fairness support. Through simulations, the merits of the DSA-driven MAC framework are demonstrated. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
dsa-driven mac cognitive radio networks game theory