On multi-layer game-theoretical modelling of spectrum markets and cognitive radio networks

This paper presents a powerful innovative multi-layer game theoretical modelling framework for the evolution of spectrum markets. It integrates models of the channel, client and network operator (provider) paradigms, wireless infrastructures, types of interaction, and price adaptation. This modelling framework incorporates an extensive set of parameters that allow the modelling of various complex interactions of CRNs entities and business-driven cases in multiple spatio-temporal scales in a realistic manner. It also provides a modular simulation environment that implements this framework to enable researchers to instantiate various models and perform comparative assessments of spectrum-sharing and spectrum-provision mechanisms. To address several practical and systems-based issues, we proposed two novel mechanisms: a price adaptation algorithm for providers and the u-map, a user-centric community-based mechanism that enables clients to record and upload their feedback about their QoE during a call in a shared location-based database. To illustrate how the proposed modelling framework and simulation platform can be used, this paper analyzes the evolution of a cellular-based market that uses the proposed price adaptation algorithm. In the context of this market, we also evaluated the u-map and show how it can improve the network operator selection process. Finally, we discuss how this framework and simulation platform can be extended to analyze various spectrum markets and cognitive radio networks (CRNs).