Dynamic Cross-Layer Design for Robust Cognitive Networking with Physical Channel and Delay Awareness

We propose to develop a complete end-to-end Cognitive Radio nEtworking ArchiTecturE (CREATE) that adapts the network protocol stack for spectrum dominance and interoperability of heterogeneous communications systems across terrestrial, aerial, and space domains. The integrated cross-layer design solutions will be validated via extensive experimentation and software-defined-radio prototyping within an emulated airborne network environment. CREATE facilitates joint optimization of routing and dynamic spectrum allocation to balance the throughput-delay trade-offs with security and energy objectives under realistic physical channel effects. Robust network adaptation is supported by asynchronous and distributed spectrum negotiation and coordination channels that balance different exploration-exploitation trade-offs involving network stability and spectrum agility objectives. Since cognitive radio networks offer several dimensions of tunable actions including channel, power, rate, and route selection, we develop a repeatable and high-fidelity Network Emulation Simulation Testbed (NEST) capability to understand and evaluate the physical channel and dynamic spectrum effects in cognitive radio networks. Based on Radio Frequency Network Emulator Simulator Tool, RF-NEST, real signals are sent over emulated channels to generate realistic physical channel effects. Supporting dynamic topology, mobility and traffic patterns, CREATE NEST will facilitate flexible and low-cost design, test and prototyping of large-scale multi-hop CR networks with automated spectral agility.