Cluster-based distributed topology management in Cognitive Radio Ad Hoc networks

Cognitive Radio (CR) is a revolution in wireless communication and enables flexible spectrum assess. This paper addresses the topology management problem in cognitive radio Ad Hoc networks (CRAHNs). Distributed multihop architecture, mobility of CR users, spectrum availability variance in different time and location are some of the key distinguish challenges for spectrum access in CRAHNs. Cluster structure is an efficient way to organize CRs and coordinate their spectrum sharing. Based on the analysis of CRAHNs environment, we propose a local control channel topology management scheme (LCCTM) in this paper. The scheme considers both the cluster size and stability of the structure and provides a desirable balance between them by the assignment of backup heads and control channels. Extensive simulation results demonstrate the efficient and reliability of the scheme.