Physical Layer Design Issues in Cooperative and Relay Communications

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Broadband wireless technologies such as smart phones, tablets, 3G/4G networks are perpetually changing the landscape of the communications and entertainment industries and greatly enrich our life. According to figures compiled by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), wireless revenues in 2009 leapt to $16.9 billion from $16 billion the year before, or by 5.3 per cent. The revenue of the overall telecommunication industry, on the other hand, only grew by a modest 1.8 per cent over the same period. It is evident that the wireless sector presents the greatest opportunities for growth. Traditionally, Canada has a vibrant wireless industry and in fact some Canadian wireless companies are major players at the international level. To maintain and increase the competitiveness of our wireless industry, Canada needs the cutting edge research in the fast evolving field of networked anywhere and anytime high data rate wireless services. This project is in the general area of Cooperative Communications - a wireless communication technology that promises better network coverage, higher data rate, and better signal quality. The concept can be used in future generation cellular networks, as well as in inter-vehicular communication networks, and wireless sensor networks. The focus of the project is on the physical layer aspect of cooperative communications. In particular, we will investigate the signal design and processing issues that enable a cooperative communication network to transmit data accurately and efficiently under adverse conditions such as non-linear distortion, rapid signal fading, multi-path, and interference. Our ultimate goals are (1) to create technical knowledge that is of relevance to the Canadian wireless industry, and (2) to train highly qualified personnel ready for employment and create growth in the industry.