Resource Allocation in Multi-Tier Femtocell and Visible-Light Heterogeneous Wireless Networks

Abstract

The increasing demand in mobile data traffic, data hungry services and high QoS prerequisites have led to the design of advanced multi-tier heterogeneous cellular networks. In this chapter, a multi-tier heterogeneous wireless network is examined consisting of the macrocell, multiple femtocells and multiple Visible Light Communication (VLC) cells. Distributed resource allocation approaches in two-tier femtocells are presented focusing on (a) power allocation and interference management, (b) joint power and rate allocation, and (c) resource allocation and pricing policies. Similarly, the most prominent resource allocation approaches in two-tier VLC cells are examined, including (a) user association and adaptive bandwidth allocation, (b) joint bandwidth and power allocation, and (c) interference bounded resource blocks allocation and power control. The resource allocation problem in the two-tier heterogeneous environment where both femtocells and VLC-LANs are simultaneously present is also discussed. Finally, detailed future directions and comprehensive conclusions are provided.