Researchers from Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada, have proposed a novel communication model that combines cognitive radio (CR) and free-space optical (FSO) technologies to enhance aerial relay networks. The team, led by Eylem Erdogan, Ibrahim Altunbas, Nihat Kabaoglu, and Halim Yanikomeroglu, aims to address critical challenges in spectrum utilisation and secure communication, particularly for military and emergency applications.
In their paper, “A Cognitive Radio Enabled RF/FSO Communication Model for Aerial Relay Networks: Possible Configurations and Opportunities,” the researchers highlight the growing interest in CR and FSO systems. These technologies offer significant advantages, including spectrum efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and secure communication, making them ideal for rapid deployment in both civil and military scenarios.
The proposed model leverages the strengths of both CR and FSO technologies. For ground-to-air communication, the researchers employ CR-enabled radio frequency (RF) communication. This approach exploits the benefits of CR, such as spectrum efficiency, multi-user connectivity, and spatial diversity, which are crucial for effective ground-to-air links. The use of CR allows for dynamic spectrum access, ensuring that the available spectrum is fully utilised while minimising interference.
For air-to-air communication, the model utilises FSO communication. The air-to-air path provides a clear line-of-sight, which is essential for FSO systems to operate effectively. FSO communication offers high data rates and secure transmission, making it suitable for relaying information between aerial platforms.
In the air-to-ground channel, the researchers propose a hybrid RF/FSO communication system. This hybrid approach ensures robustness by using RF communication as a backup for FSO communication in adverse weather conditions. The hybrid system can switch between RF and FSO based on environmental factors, ensuring reliable communication even in challenging conditions.
The proposed communication model addresses key issues in RF networks, such as spectrum mobility and underutilisation. By integrating CR and FSO technologies, the model can fully utilise the frequency spectrum, particularly in emergency situations where multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are deployed. This capability is crucial for military operations and disaster response, where rapid and reliable communication is paramount.
The research highlights the potential of the proposed model to enhance the performance of aerial relay networks. By combining the strengths of CR and FSO technologies, the model offers a robust and efficient communication solution for various applications. The findings of this study could pave the way for further advancements in aerial communication systems, particularly in the defence and security sectors.
As the defence and security landscape evolves, the need for advanced communication technologies becomes increasingly critical. The proposed model by Erdogan and her colleagues represents a significant step forward in addressing these challenges. By leveraging the unique advantages of CR and FSO technologies, the model provides a versatile and reliable communication solution for aerial relay networks. This research not only contributes to the academic community but also offers practical applications that can be implemented in real-world scenarios, enhancing the capabilities of military and emergency response operations. Read the original research paper here.