Next-generation ad hoc networking through joint cognitive routing and spread-spectrum channelization

ABSTRACT: The primary objective of this STTR project is to develop a completely new approach to cognitive joint routing and spectrum allocation that will enable next-generation cognitive wireless networking between space, air, and ground USAF assets. The majority of cognitive radio network proposals rely on the notion of spectrum holes. This proposal will develop a system where cognitive users transmit wideband spread-spectrum signals that are designed to adaptively avoid the interference dynamics of the available spectrum at the receiver. In this way, cognitive users implicitly cooperate with existing narrowband or wideband users of the spectrum without effectively limiting each individual device"s throughput, operating distance, or both. This project will first demonstrate the feasibility of our new approach, referred to as cooperative spread-spectrum access, in terms of enhanced throughput, reliability, and reduced delay. We will then develop a new theoretical framework based on nonlinear optimization to rigorously derive provably-efficient distributed algorithms for joint adaptive cognitive routing and spread-spectrum allocation (code/signature and power) based on waveforms compatible with existing DoD programs. If we are successful, we will set the technological foundation and prototype technology that will be instrumental towards developing the next generation cognitive networking technology to maintain air superiority and spectral dominance. BENEFIT: If we are successful, we will set the technological foundation and prototype technology that will be instrumental towards developing the next generation cognitive networking technology between USAF space, air, and ground assets and achieve an at least ten-fold improvement in network throughput, delay, and reliability.