In the era of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Industry 4.0, an immense volume of heterogeneous network devices will coexist and contend for shared network resources, in order to satisfy the very challenging IIoT applications, requiring ultra-reliable and ultra-low latency communications. Although novel key enablers, such as Network Slicing, Software Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) have already offered significant advantages towards more efficient and flexible network and resource management approaches, the particular characteristics of IIoT applications pose additional burdens, mainly due to the complex wireless environments, high number of heterogeneous network devices, sensors, user equipments (UEs), etc., which may stochastically demand and contend for the - often scarce - computing and communication resources of industrial environments. To this end, this paper introduces PRIMATE, a novel, Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven framework for the profiling of the networking behavior of such UEs, devices, users and things, which is able to operate in conjunction with already standardized or forthcoming, AI-based network resource management processes towards further gains. The novelty and potential of the proposed work lies on the fact that instead of attempting to either predict raw network metrics in a reactive manner, or predict the behavior of specific network entities/devices in an isolated manner, a big data-driven classification approach is introduced, which models the behavior of any network device/user from both a macroscopic, as well as service-specific perspective. The extended evaluation at the last part of this work shows the validity and viability of the proposed framework.

The Internet of Things will comprise billions of randomly placed devices, forming a dense and unstructured network environment with overlapping wireless topologies. In such demanding environment, the grouping of IoT devices into clusters is a promising approach for the management and the control of network resources in the context of an autonomous system. This paper proposes the SYSTAS algorithm for the distributed discovery and formation of clusters in random geometric graphs of fixed wireless nodes by exploiting local topology knowledge and without having any information about the expected number of clusters. The density of the network graph, discovered by interacting with neighboring nodes and the topological features, as well as the model of preferential attachment are used by the proposed scheme. The effectiveness of SYSTAS is evaluated in various topologies. Experimental evaluation demonstrates that SYSTAS outperforms other clustering schemes; in some occasions these solutions have comparable results with SYSTAS but they require global network view, which leads to higher signaling cost.

The design of an efficient radio access selection mechanism for 5G cellular networks is of paramount importance. Several proposals exist in the literature, but up to now the deployed systems are still using simple mechanisms mainly related to the evaluation of the RSS to make a handover decision. However, this is an inadequate solution for 5G networks. In this paper, we describe a novel multi-criteria handover scheme, we provide details on solutions for acquiring the necessary contextual information and we describe the algorithm to select the most appropriate RAT. Our solution is based on the use of fuzzy logic controllers for combining diverse inputs (such as a user's mobility, the load of the candidate base stations etc.) The efficiency of our mechanism is evaluated through appropriate simulations. The results related to throughput, delay and the number of the executed handovers clearly show the merits of our proposal when compared to a well-established LTE handover algorithm.

In future distributed systems, the appearance of mechanisms that should be able to realize robust, predictable and self-adaptive behaviour for existing networked systems can be seen as a critical enabler for further growth. If, in addition, such mechanisms are related to options for achieving cooperation of several (heterogeneous) network elements and/or domains, with the aim of reducing energy wastage and minimizing energy consumption, then the challenge becomes critical. To this aim, the present paper discusses an innovative approach, focusing upon the development of energy-aware distributed and cooperating systems for monitoring and control, centred on appropriate wireless sensor networks for the provision of radio and environmental context information. In particular, we discuss the concept of a “Self-Growing Network” that is able to efficiently incorporate autonomic and collaborative capabilities, intending to increase the level of the global network energy efficiency by using cognition-based features. Self-growing capabilities are enablers for a novel type of network flexibility. They allow optimising a heterogeneous collection of network nodes or sub-networks to be dedicated to a specific optimisation “purpose” temporarily and on-demand.

ABSTRACT Modern wireless orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) systems incorporate dynamic resource allocation (DRA), adaptive modulation and coding (AMC), and power control (PC) to exploit multiuser diversity and achieve higher system throughput. In the literature, only a few proposed algorithms deal with the contiguous DRA problem according to which a contiguous collection of resources can be allocated to each user. This paper formulates this high complexity problem, provides a suitable decision metric and a simple yet efficient solution. The proposed algorithm allocates in each step a contiguous collection of resources to the pending user that leads to the highest estimated correctly received number of bits. Simulation results show that, in this way, considerably improved performance can be achieved in terms of overall system throughput, spectral efficiency, and served traffic. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Autonomic network management systems will operate in a volatile network environment; thus they should be able to continuously adapt their decision making mechanism through learning from the behavior of the communication system. In this paper, a novel learning scheme is proposed based on the network-wide collected performance experience, targeting the enhancement of network elements' decision making engine. The algorithm employs a fuzzy logic inference engine in order to enable self-managed network elements faults or optimization opportunities identification, which is enhanced by applying data mining techniques on the accumulated observations.

Autonomic networking and cooperative communications paradigms have emerged as promising technologies that can pave the way for next generation networks. CONSERN project is focusing on cooperation and collaboration enablers, cooperative decision and control algorithms that will maximise the expected gains by utilising cooperative problem solving for improving energy efficiency in wireless networks. In this paper, cooperative and/or autonomous solutions are captured and a mapping to the envisaged technologies is made. Based on this mapping an initial analysis of the requirements for energy-efficient cooperation is presented. The cooperation deals with information exchange, actions coordination and decision making within and between different types of network nodes. Based on the requirements analysis a set of key cooperation enablers are identified and further elaborated upon.

This paper presents the functionalities involved in enabling the use of compartments in wireless access networks for achieving capacity and coverage optimization. Compartments are defined as dynamic medium-term federations of collaborating elements for intelligent organizational purposes. The work presented in the paper uses compartments as a self-management apparatus for emerging wireless access environments and proposes a compartment formation algorithm for achieving self-optimization of the coverage of access points. Facilitation of the compartment apparatus is founded in the synergy of self-management tools and the application of cognition in operations of Future Internet networks. The paper presents the details of cognition managers in access points for localized management by forming compartments and proceeds to the analysis as well as providing results in coverage optimizations of wireless networks.

In next generation systems and networks, the incorporation of mechanisms achieving robust, predictable and self-adaptive behavior with minimum cost will be a key requirement. Towards this goal we introduce the notion of the "self-growing network". The latter, in its initial deployment stage, is limited to a single dedicated purpose (energy-efficient networking, spectrum efficient communications, control and surveillance use, etc) but can evolve/grow into a multi-purpose, versatile infrastructure, that serves a broader range of applications by utilising combinations of self-x and cooperating features.

With the deployment of next generation (4G) mobile radio systems an additional radio access network is established. A variety of different Radio Access Technologies (RATs) will be operated in parallel. In this framework, the Long Term Evolution (LTE) system, specified by 3GPP, will have to co-exist with WiMAX, mobile 2G/3G networks and Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). To cope with this increasing diversity and complexity mechanisms for self-optimisation, self-organisation, self-healing, self-configuration (self-x) are essential to guarantee cost efficient and high quality network operation. Within the project E3[1] self-x functionalities for different use cases and different elements of a mobile radio access network are developed. Aim of this paper is to give and overview about the interworking of different self-x functionalities and to present three exemplary use cases.

We discuss a ldquoself-managementrdquo concept, suitable for the description of autonomic spectrum reallocation operations through dynamic resource allocation and control processes, for an effective realization of the Future Internet (FI) vision. We introduce a specific targeted methodology, in the form of the Generic Cognitive Cycle Model, including three distinct and separate processes (i.e. Monitoring, Decision Making and Execution), known as the ldquoMDErdquo model. We then present a fundamental use-case of practical interest, i.e. relevant to the dynamic spectrum re-allocation for efficient use of traffic in a modern wireless network, to avoid (or to overcome) congestion phenomena affecting network performance. The analysis is based on high autonomy of network elements to allow distributed management, fast decisions, and continuous local optimization.

Cognitive wireless system encompass the notion of intelligent network elements and terminals working together to utilize resources in a far more efficient way. The focus of this paper is on the introduction of cognitive functionalities to mobile terminals to enhance their resilience and to assist the optimized selection and auto-configuration of protocols. To fulfill these objectives, we introduce a framework that will facilitate reconfiguration decisions while supporting dynamic and optimal selection, download and replacement of necessary protocol functionalities. Specifically, this paper proposes the interoperation of the Software Download Management module and the Cognitive Self-Healing and -Configuration module, thereby leveraging the outcomes of our previous work. The component-based approach is argued in this paper to facilitate the optimum configuration of the protocol stack to a given environment, based on cognitive orientation schemes. Moreover, we demonstrate that the delay in realizing dynamic replacement of targeted functional components introduces minimum performance overhead to the system.

The vast proliferation in the continuously changing telecommunications environment of Next-Generation-Networks (NGNs) poses strict requirements for the dynamic adaptation of mobile devices according to the user needs, system resources and Radio Access Technology (RAT) availability. The reconfiguration concept emerges as a paradigm that offers an effective solution to this problem. On the other hand, the operation of mobile devices offering cognitive functionalities is characterized by a significant number of parameters, many of which are contradictive and cannot be simultaneously optimized, thus constituting reconfiguration a multi-objective optimization problem. This work proposes a solution to the problem, addressing efficient decision making mechanisms to avoid the ping-pong effect of multiple reconfigurations and exploiting fuzzy logic reasoning approach for terminal reconfiguration decision, focusing on resource management and protocol configuration.

The future area of communication systems is considered as a representative example of a complex adaptive organization, where several elements, with various computational capabilities and network resources, are interconnected. This evolution renders imperative the need for adaptable and scalable systems that operate in unpredictable environments, having self-management features and the ability to handle complexity. The scope of this paper is to describe a coherent architectural framework in order to support adaptive and cognitive behavior of future communication systems, forming synergies from the most microscopic up to the most macroscopic level. Cognitive mechanisms embedded at all scales of a communication system will enable its autonomous hypostasis, facilitating also its self-organization. The synergetic architecture is modeled using autonomic element, dynamical hierarchies, and self-similarity concepts.

Beyond 3G wireless systems will be vested with dynamic reconfiguration capabilities capable of adapting their protocol stacks during runtime to optimize spectrum utilization and, thus, better meet the ever-changing service demands. For protocol stack reconfiguration to become a practical capability, a language for modeling, expressing and circulating data essential to reconfigurable protocol stacks is necessary. We present a generic object-oriented information model for describing the feasible combinctions of protocol layers into protocol stacks. The model supports the derivation of an associated ontology specified in standard W3C semantic languages (OWL). We introduce a novel algorithm for discovering all the feasible protocol layer combinations that render valid protocol stacks, thus facilitating the selection of suitable ones. We assess the performance of a prototypical implementation of our algorithm used to discover feasible protocol stack combinations for the GPRS, UMTS and IMS access standards. Finally, we present our conclusions and provide directions for future work.

In the framework of the LIAISON (location bAsed services for the enhancement of wOrking enviroNment) IP project the existing legendary charging functionality is complemented with new features fulfilling the emerging charging requirements for an integrated environment providing mobile workers with location-based services. In that scope, LIAISON introduces the LIAISON customised billing module (namely the LCBM), an integrated customised billing module, which collects the charging information from each, potentially different, business domain, calculates the charges that are due to each involved business entity and shares the respective revenues. The LCBM covers the emerging requirements of an integrated environment enabling LIAISON solution to provide mobile workers with advanced location-based services. It receives charging information from heterogeneous environments through open application programming interfaces (APIs), applies the appropriate pricing policy based on the user or/and service profile and calculates the apportioning revenues between the actors.

The technological race of boosting legacy and developing new air-interfaces, recent advancement of core network architectures, and evolution from software-defined and cognitive radio to reconfigurable systems put new complexions on the definition of "next-generation". This contribution envisages Next-Generation Mobile Networks as the class of multi-radio cognitive systems capable of absorbing the heterogeneity of wireless access, with advanced reconfiguration capabilities moved from edges to the core. Inline with 3GPP IMS rationale and ETSI TISPAN design extensions, a unified subsystem for offering reconfiguration services is proposed, adopting a multiplane and layer-based approach with clear separation of control and management concerns. The paper presents the signalling between the terminal and network elements in the course of an exemplary staged reconfiguration process, and discusses design and deployment advantages when introducing the so-called Reconfiguration Support Subsystem in Beyond 3G portfolios.

Reconfigurability is considered the collection of software and cognitive radio technologies that aim to differentiate user perception in volatile radio conditions while optimizing the use of network resources. The realization of equipment reconfiguration through software download and the efficient utilisation of spectrum require coordinated distribution of functionality among the user, control, and management planes. This contribution presents the end-to-end architecture of future adaptive communication systems based on the Reconfiguration Management Plane model, which includes intelligence for policy-based context-aware decision making, negotiation control, software download, and dynamic spectrum management. The paper presents the RMP functional model, describes the dependencies and associations of the constituent context management module, and delineates the end-to-end quality of service negotiation information flow when introducing dynamic spectrum access in user-to-user communication scenarios.

This contribution presents key functionalities and design approaches of a distributed system architecture as it is studied in the framework of the European E2R II project. An emphasis is laid on policy based self-governance, distributed reconfiguration concepts and corresponding cognitive support functionalities; this support is necessary to assure context awareness in the equipment in order to facilitate (enable) distributed decision making. The idea is to distribute decision making functionalities among network and user equipment elements in order to (i) limit the required calculation complexity on the network and user side for the determination of the optimum resource selection strategy, (ii) increase the reactivity of the equipment to any context change minimizing the required amount of human interaction and (iii) minimize the signaling overhead by broadcasting generic policy rules applicable to all users instead of targeting a user-by-user based reconfiguration approach. A simple use case illustrates how Game Theoretic tools can be used in order to derive suitable policies and how to perform decisions.

The continuous proliferation in modern communication technologies towards a pervasive composite environment prescribes a profound shift in telecommunication management and poses new challenges, in terms of proposing key solutions for the management and support of legacy as well as emerging systems. Driven by these advances, a direct requirement lies in providing an advanced configuration system that will embrace the demands for optimal and adaptive configuration and reconfiguration of the underlying layers. This objective can be achieved by upgrading the capabilities of mobile equipment with the introduction of a configuration system that incorporates advanced features such as policy-based decision making mechanisms and protocol layer adaptation and reconfiguration procedures. This contribution exploits protocol reconfiguration schemes for policy-based equipment management as addressed in the E2R environment.

Over the last two decades, the advent of the Internet coupled with the diverse philosophy of networks, formed the basis for a pervasive computing environment. In the latter, the current trend is defined by the concept of autonomic computing and communications, which lies in the introduction of automated functions that enhance the intelligence of existing computing and communication systems. This concept forms a new paradigm of systems with selfware capabilities that will automatically adapt their behavior in relation to the configuration of the drastically changing environment and user preferences. In this context, this paper presents a generic architecture for the design and deployment of self-managing and self-configuring capabilities. In addition, it exploits the dynamic binding and replacement of components with autonomic capabilities. The feasibility aspects of the proposed framework are validated by means of a prototype that demonstrates the operation of plug and play solutions for an adaptable component-based protocol. Performance issues are also discussed

Present paper focuses on context awareness in service provisioning and proposes a framework that enables efficient management of contextual profiles. Furthermore, a more flexible and innovative model for user profiling is introduced. The innovation is based on the enrichment of common user profiling architectures to include location and other contextual attributes, so that enhanced adaptability and personalization can be achieved. For each context instance an associated user profile instance is created and hence, service provisioning is adapted to the user profile instance that better apply to the current context. The generic model, the structure and the content of that context-sensitive user profile, along with some related implementation issues, are discussed

The development, delivery and management of mobile services are the subject of many research activities in both the academia and industry. The ultimate goal of these efforts is a dynamic environment that enables the delivery of situation-aware, personalized multimedia services over heterogeneous, ubiquitous infrastructures, commonly termed as systems beyond 3rd generation (3G). Reconfigurability and adaptability are key aspects of the mobile systems beyond 3G. Reconfigurable mobile systems and networks introduce additional requirements and complexity. Using the existing network control plane is inadequate for the realization of the reconfigurability process. Introducing a reconfiguration management plane is very important for the deployment of network/system wide reconfigurability. We intend to discuss the basic functionality of RMP and respective interrelations.

Future mobile communication systems beyond 3rd generation (3G) are expected to signal the transition from inflexible, vertical infrastructures to reconfigurable, horizontally integrated networks that incorporates a vast, ubiquitous space of devices and radio technologies and will be able to deliver to end-users a previously unimaginable range of valuable services. A fundamental characteristic for systems and services that operate in such a pervasive, heterogeneous environment is context-awareness that enables dynamic adaptation according to rapidly changing situational parameters. Challenging technical issues, however, need to be solved on the route to realization of this feature, including the optimal representation, placement, replication and management of the corresponding context information. This paper discusses some of these problems and introduces data management schemes that facilitate the seamless incorporation of re-usable situation-awareness functionality into a middleware platform for beyond 3G service delivery and management.

The last decade of the 20/sup th/ century has been witness to remarkable technological developments in the area of wireless communication technologies. Following the commercial deployment-and subsequent worldwide success-of 2/sup nd/ generation mobile telecommunication systems, such as GSM, standardization bodies, industry partners and regulatory fora from around the globe joined forces in producing the standards for 3/sup rd/ generation mobile telecommunication systems. In parallel, the academic research community has been gradually shifting its focus in defining the scope of 4/sup th/ generation systems. The present paper highlights fundamental concepts and presents key market developments in 4/sup th/ generation mobile communication environments. It outlines their major high level requirements and identifies the fundamental building blocks of 4/sup th/ generation system architectures in terms of technological solution sets. Finally, it proposes a set of priorities for the 4/sup th/ generation research agenda.

The forthcoming era of 3rd generation (3G) mobile communications is heralded to change the wireless telecommunication experience dramatically. User expectations are raised to a significantly higher level, towards the demand for terminal-, network- and location-aware provision of ubiquitous, personalized multimedia services. Under this perspective, the need for adaptability of services and systems to largely diverse contexts is clearly identified. Generic, dynamically extensible adaptation mechanisms that are independent of the subject and criteria of adaptation can be a significant step towards this direction. In the present paper, we introduce a mechanism aiming to fulfill these requirements. The proposed adaptation system has been designed, implemented and successfully integrated and tested in a distributed software platform for provision of value added services to 3G mobile users.

In the framework of the design of a flexible service provision platform for 3G systems and beyond, an integrated system for enabling advanced Charging, accounting and billing has been introduced. The CAB system is adaptive to VAS charging requirements and network/business environment concepts. Part of the system has been developed in the frame of IST-MOBIVAS project.

The evolution of 3/sup rd/ generation mobile systems introduces a new era in advanced multimedia service provision to mobile users. The concepts of service adaptability, downloadability and network reconfigurability based on terminal and user profiles and capabilities are aspects to be considered in the context of future mobile systems and networks enabling new approaches in service provision. A generic architecture and functionality is presented for third party service registration, discovery, management and adaptable provision to mobile users.

The provision of location-based services is expected to have essential impact in the competition among 3G network operators. To support the realization of this functionality the standard UMTS infrastructure will probably need to be supplemented with additional intelligent components. Furthermore, flexible location-based charging mechanisms have to be designed and deployed to allow subscribers to be charged with different rates, depending on their location and profiles. In this paper a proposed platform for location-aware service provision is introduced and the interactions among its constituent components for applying an efficient location-based charging scheme are discussed in detail.