Multi-tier exclusion zones for dynamic spectrum sharing

Reducing the size of exclusion zones (EZs) in spectrum sharing is vital for efficient utilization of fallow spectrum as well as for the economic viability of spectrum sharing itself. In this paper, we explore two approaches for reducing the size of EZs. We show that multi-tiered EZs can be used to improve spectrum utilization efficiency by implementing the concept of differential spectrum access hierarchy. Also, we provide quantitative results that show the impact of using a point-to-point mode terrain profile in calculating an EZ's contour. Such a terrain profile captures the effects of propagation losses due to area-specific topography, which are not considered by the F-curves, a common method of calculating an EZ's boundary. Our results indicate that the use of such a terrain profile results in a noticeable decrease in the size of an EZ.