Cognitive architecture and system solutions to offload LTE networks in TVWS

This paper presents an application of cognitive radio system concepts for the off-loading operation of LTE networks by the opportunistic use of TV whitespace (TVWS). A flexible functional architecture based on two cognitive managers for spectrum management and resource management respectively, and developed for various mobile scenarios, is mapped to the LTE network architecture. Corresponding system solutions for incumbent protection and quality of service management (including spectrum sensing, interference monitoring and flexible transceiver techniques) are introduced and described in more details for that scenario. Finally, a possible system realisation is shown with enhancements to evolved node B´s and User Equipments accessing the TVWS in an opportunistic way. A timeline for rolling out this realisation taking standardisation plans and regulatory constraints into account is also given.