Auction-based Adaptive Resource Allocation Optimization in Dense and Heterogeneous IoT Networks

Efficient and reliable resource allocation within densely-deployed massive IoT networks remains a key challenge due to resource constraints among low size, weight and power (SWaP) IoT devices and within the network and limitations of conventional centralized methods under incomplete information. We propose a novel auction-based framework for adaptive resource allocation, combining space-time-frequency spreading (STFS) techniques with Bayesian Game approaches. We introduce novel modified Simultaneous Ascending Auction (mSAA) mechanism tailored to densely-deployed and low-complexity IoT networks, enabling distributed computation and reduced power consumption. By incorporating Bayesian game-based bidding strategies and optimizing dispersion matrices for signal transmission, the proposed approach ensures enhanced channel throughput and energy efficiency. Comparative analysis against traditional auction types, including First-Price and Second-Price Sealed-Bid Auctions, as well as the Vickrey–Clarke–Groves (VCG) mechanism, demonstrates the superiority of mSAA in terms of surplus maximization, revenue efficiency, and robustness in risk-prone bidding environments. Simulation results validate the model’s adaptability to heterogeneous IoT nodes and its potential for dense deployment across different environments and verticals.