Near-optimum detection scheme with relay selection technique for asynchronous cooperative relay networks

A new near-optimum detection scheme for asynchronous wireless relay networks is proposed to cancel the interference component at the destination node caused by timing misalignment from the relay nodes. The detection complexity at the destination node as compared with a previous sub-optimum detection scheme is reduced. Closed-loop extended orthogonal space time block coding and outer convolutive coding are utilised to maximise end-to-end performance. A relay selection technique is also proposed in this study for two dual-antenna relay nodes to enhance the system performance by selecting the best links and the smallest time delay error among the relay nodes. Simulation results confirm that the proposed near-optimum detection scheme with relay selection is very effective at removing intersymbol interference at the destination node and achieving full cooperative diversity with unity data transmission rate between the relay nodes and the destination node.