Positioning-based framework for secondary spectrum usage

In this paper, we introduce a framework encompassing the creation and the exploitation of secondary spectrum usage opportunities. The paper develops a complete positioning-based framework to assess the feasibility of supporting secondary communications on frequencies which are released by primary spectrum management methodologies. In particular, the paper analyzes four possible combinations, depending on known/unknown positions of primary/secondary transceivers. Afterwards, the paper focuses on a specific applicability case, where the dynamic spectrum management mechanism of a WCDMA-based network operator aims at releasing certain frequencies in a large area when possible and thus facilitating secondary exploitation of the released spectrum. Moreover, some practical examples are introduced to show the different procedures when secondary networks with infrastructure are sharing the same frequency with a mobile network. In this context, results have been obtained to assess the practical usability of the released spectrum under different conditions as well as the efficiency of different dynamic spectrum management methodologies.