A framework for joint optical-wireless resource management in multi-RAT, heterogeneous mobile networks

Mobile networks are constantly evolving: new Radio Access Technologies (RATs) are being introduced, and backhaul architectures like Cloud-RAN (C-RAN) and distributed base stations are being proposed. Furthermore, small cells are being deployed to enhance network capacity. The end-users wish to be always connected to a high-quality service (high bit rates, low latency), thus causing a very complex network control task from an operator´s point of view. We thus propose a framework allowing joint overall network resource management. This scheme covers different types of network heterogeneity (multi-RAT, multi-layer, multi-architecture) by introducing a novel, hierarchical approach to network resource management. Self-Organizing Networks (SON) and cognitive network behaviors are covered as well as more traditional mobile network features. The framework is applicable to all phases of network operation like planning, deployment, operation, maintenance and therefore aids network operators in improving their business potential.