The future of communications
The future of mobile and wireless networks will require seamless integration of network operators and access technologies together with a business plan able to adapt to future economic infrastructures. The EU-funded project PLANOPTI was initiated to develop and demonstrate cooperative radio resource management and optimisation strategies for fourth-generation (4G) mobile communications systems. Economic analyses and optimising the impact of pricing help lay the groundwork for future network convergence in a very heterogeneous environment while maximising profit. Importantly, PLANOPTI considered the use of measurement issues related to cellular coverage, interference and resource reuse in cellular planning and optimisation. Scientists also addressed quality of experience and quality of service issues, cost and revenues, and a number of network protocols and architectures. One of the most innovative aspects of PLANOPTI is validation of spectrum aggregation algorithms for actual operator networks. Spectrum aggregation that makes efficient use of spectral fragments has received a great deal of attention recently. It makes it possible for multiple spectral bands to be utilised by the same user, increasing bandwidth and achieving better performance. Scientists analysed a long-term evolution advanced scenario 4G system for spectrum aggregation, and developed specifications for a wireless planning tool and simulator. Researchers also proposed a multi-channel protocol to enable higher throughputs with shorter delays. A cross-layer simulator and wireless planning tool were developed, making it possible to obtain signal coverage and throughput maps from the plan for a given zone. Finally, the scientists delivered radio and network simulation tools including optimisation of profit that accounts for both costs and revenue. Costs included licensing, spectrum fees and installation costs. PLANOPTI engaged in a rigorous dissemination campaign with numerous invited talks and distinguished lectures, a book, several book chapters, journal papers, and delivery of demonstrators and prototypes. The socioeconomic impact of the work cannot be underestimated. The world is turning toward dynamic spectrum access and technologies for seamless integration of heterogeneous mobile and wireless communication systems. PLANOPTI has successfully delivered the foundations.
Keywords
Communications, mobile, wireless networks, radio resource management, fourth-generation, cellular coverage, cellular planning, network protocol, spectrum aggregation, bandwidth, multi-channel protocol, simulation tools