Resource Allocation and Massive Access Control using Relay Assisted Machine-Type Communication in LTE Networks

In machine-type communication (MTC) over LTE cellular network, resource allocation problem becomes a challenging issue as MTC devices compete with LTE users for the same radio resources. Compared to the LTE users, MTC devices generate more uplink traffic requests and signalling which results in congestion arises in uplink transmission when a large number of devices send connection requests simultaneously. In this paper, we consider the resource allocation problem for MTC over LTE networks in which LTE users, MTC devices, and relay nodes co-exist. Firstly, we derive an analytical model which detects overload condition in the base station (eNB) and estimates available resources for MTC devices. We propose a relay-assisted radio resource allocation (R3A) scheme for MTC devices which utilize dynamic access class barring method in overload situations when the number of resource blocks are less than the MTC devices. In the case when the number of MTC devices is less than the available resources than we use relay nodes to maximize the throughput of MTC system. Numerical results demonstrate the significance of proposed R3A method. The results are evaluated in terms of access success probability, access drop percentage, and MTC channel capacity.