Buffer-based channel dependent UpLink scheduling in relay-assisted LTE networks

We consider the problem of UpLink (UL) scheduling in relay-assisted Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks and propose a Buffer-based Channel dependent Scheduler (BCS) for the same. Our objectives are to minimize packet loss due to buffer overflow and increase resource utilization efficiency while ensuring fairness among users. This is achieved by utilizing the Buffer Status Report (BSR) available in Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP)-LTE. The proposed scheduler comprise three-phases. Phase I partitions the resources between eNB (Base Station in LTE) and Relay Nodes (RNs) while Phase II, between different RNs. This resource partitioning is entailed by Phase III which implements buffer-based channel dependent resource allocation. We perform simulations to illustrate reduction in packet drop probability and increment in resource utilization efficiency when BSR is incorporated in scheduling decision. Further, our simulations show that BCS provides higher degree of fairness and lower outage probability compared to opportunistic and round robin scheduler. We also investigate the impact of buffer based resource partitioning on packet drop probability.