Network sum-rate maximization for network-coded clustered uplink NOMA networks with SWIPT-enabled relays

This paper considers network sum-rate maximization for network-coded clustered uplink non-orthogonal multiple-access (NOMA) networks with simultaneous wireless information and power transfer (SWIPT)-enabled relays. Specifically, the aim is to perform joint power allocation, power-splitting, and relay selection (J-PA-PS-RS), subject to quality-of-service (QoS) requirements. The formulated problem is excessively computationally-intensive, as it is a non-convex optimization problem. To efficiently solve it, it is split into two sub-problems: (1) joint power allocation and power-splitting per relay, and (2) relay selection. Particularly, a solution procedure is proposed, where the joint user and relay power allocation, and power-splitting per relay sub-problem is solved via a low-complexity iterative three-layer algorithm, and then followed by optimal relay selection. Simulation results have revealed that the proposed solution procedure can efficiently be used to maximize the network sum-rate, achieve near-optimal solutions, and outperform other benchmark schemes, while satisfying QoS constraints.