Analysis of Crowdsourcing Based Multiple Cellular Network: A Game Theory Approach

Multihop cellular network (MCN) is a feasible scheme to help enlarge network coverage and enhance signal strength in the way of deploying heterogeneous network (HetNet). However, it is challenging for mobile network operators (MNOs) to expedite the implementation of MCN. On the one hand, it is prohibitively expensive to deploy and manage a large-scale intermediate nodes which is essential in MCN; on the other hand, traditional intermediate nodes are usually autonomous and self-interested, which has negative effect on the transmission efficiency and reliability. To address this issue, we discuss a new paradigm of MCN based on crowdsourcing-HetNet (CHetNet). In this paradigm, MNOs recruit the third-parties (TPs) to participate in the construction and maintenances of intermediate nodes by means of rational incentive mechanism. In this article, we mainly focus on a two-hop cellular network in CHetNet. A game-theory approach is used to discuss the whole process of crowdsourcing in this two-hop cellular network and detailed proofs of Nash equilibrium and Stackelberg equilibrium is provided. It is concluded that MCN in CHetNet can help MNOs ease the pressure on the deployment of HetNet and further promote development of 5G.