Efficient relaying strategy selection and signal combining using error estimation codes

In this paper, we use recently developed error estimation coding (EEC) to devise an efficient relaying framework for a multi-relay network. EEC utilizes an added redundancy to form an estimate of the bit-error rate (BER) of data received over a noisy channel. Utilizing the BER estimate, we propose a relaying selection strategy that uses the BER estimate at any given relay to switch between Amplify-Forward (AF) and Detect-Forward (DF) cooperation. In addition, we propose a signal combining rule at the destination that weighs different copies of the same data using the corresponding BER estimates. For performance evaluations, we implement the proposed scheme on a USRP-based platform, and test its performance by conducting experiments in an indoor office environment. Our results validate the efficacy of the proposed strategy; the proposed scheme significantly outperforms standard equal gain combining-based AF and DF cooperation.