Fuzzy Logic-Based Load Balancing Algorithm in Heterogeneous Networks

The promising emergence of heterogeneous networks (HetNets) composed of Long-Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A) macro cells and fifth-generation (5G) small cells is envisioned as a paradigm shift in modern wireless communications due to their capability of operating in millimeter-wave (mmWave) bands. However, there are significant variabilities between these two different cell types in terms of the transmission power levels, system capacity, coverage areas and deployment densities. Also, the random distribution of users in different directions of movement causes an uneven distribution of traffic load between cells. In this study, we suggest a fuzzy logic-based algorithm for adjusting the handover (HO) margin (HOM) in HetNets by leveraging cell load and radio channel quality. In addition, a two-step model of target cell determination is presented that takes into account the load level of the cells and the reference signal received power (RSRP). The performance of the suggested algorithm is compared with selected existing load balancing algorithms. The simulation findings depict that the suggested algorithm improves load balancing, increases throughput and reduces call dropping ratio (CDR).