Optimal rate allocation based on cross-layer design and end-to-end congestion control in WCDMA networks

In this paper, a novel idea for rate allocation combining both vertical coupling and horizontal coupling constraints is proposed, and a unified utility function to balance two paradoxical issues: efficiency and fairness, revenue and cost is elaborated in WCDMA networks. Then, the optimal rate allocation problem is formulated as a network utility maximization (NUM) model based on cross-layer design and end-to-end congestion control, aiming at exploring the impacts of wired networks and the characteristics of radio access networks (RANs) on rate allocation. Furthermore, a distributed algorithm is derived, which can effectively match load states between RANs and wired networks, followed by a detailed illustration of the practical implementations. Numerical results demonstrate a significant performance improvement in the end-to-end throughput.