Inter-Cell Interference Management in WiMAX Downlinks by A Stackelberg Game between BSs

We develop a game theoretic framework for effective and adaptive inter-cell interference management in the OFDMA-based WiMAX/3GPP-LTE systems. Such approach requires no fixed spectrum planning beforehand and does not affect the spectrum usage for users that are not subject to inter-cell interference. Based on the handoff mechanisms in WiMAX systems, we also examine means of categorizing users who are, or are not, subject to potential interference. Different optimization opportunities for BSs are identified and analyzed. The interactions between BSs are modeled by a Stackelberg game in which BSs can make intelligent and rational decisions to reduce interference with minimum optimization cost. The algorithm to attain stable Nash Equilibrium is investigated and the behaviors of BSs with different preferences in the game are examined.