A distributed video codec control method using a cellular architecture

Abstract

This invention discloses a distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture, relating to the field of image communication technology. The method includes the following steps: negotiating based on connectivity areas between devices, electing a server, and forming a network; in the event of a network interruption, splitting the network into multiple independent subnets according to the connectivity areas, controlling devices within each subnet to renegotiate, elect a server, and form a network; and in the event of network recovery, controlling the servers in each subnet to renegotiate, elect a server, and form a network. This invention, through a cellular distributed video scheduling architecture, fully decentralizes server capabilities to terminal nodes; and through innovative design mechanisms such as automatic node negotiation, automatic cluster splitting / merging, and self-healing control in the event of network outages, it solves the system reliability challenges in scenarios with high vibration, prone to network outages, and limited space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of image communication technology, and more specifically, to a distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of image communication technology, the current application of digital video signal encoding, decoding, compression, or decompression mainly relies on a centralized architecture. However, this centralized architecture uses a single central server as the sole scheduling core. When the server crashes or goes offline, the entire system collapses, and all encoding and decoding devices lose scheduling. Furthermore, its network fault tolerance is extremely poor. After network interruptions or partial isolation, devices detached from the server become completely uncontrollable and unable to work independently and collaboratively. Additionally, the deployment and expansion of this architecture are limited by the small capacity of traditional matrix equipment, making it difficult to support large-scale deployments across carriages, ships, and regions. Therefore, a new architectural model is urgently needed to address the problems of centralized architectures. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To address the aforementioned problems, the present invention aims to provide a distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture, applicable to the field of image communication technology. This method is based on a swarm collaboration model and utilizes a swarm architecture to solve single-point failure and network outage / control issues.

[0004] To achieve the above technical objectives, this application provides a distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture, applicable to the field of image communication technology, comprising the following steps: Negotiate based on the connectivity areas between devices, elect a server, and establish a network; When the network is interrupted, the network is split into multiple independent subnets according to the connected area, and the devices in each subnet are controlled to renegotiate, elect a server, and form a network. When the network recovers, the servers controlling each subnet renegotiate, elect servers, and reconfigure the network.

[0005] Preferably, during negotiation, each device is controlled to periodically send a multicast command query_server to the multicast address to perform the negotiation.

[0006] Preferably, the device's MAC address is included in the query_server query command during negotiation.

[0007] Preferably, when electing a server, the server election is performed based on the device's MAC address.

[0008] Preferably, when electing a server, the server is selected based on the device with the smallest MAC address.

[0009] Preferably, when electing a server, a set timestamp is used as the time node, and within the time node, the device with the smallest MAC address is selected as the server.

[0010] Preferably, after the network is set up, the server is controlled to periodically send multicast commands (query_server) to the multicast address.

[0011] Preferably, during the election, devices that are not elected as servers are controlled to enter a silent listening state.

[0012] Preferably, after the network is set up, devices other than the server are controlled to send heartbeats to the server.

[0013] Preferably, in the event of a network outage, the ability of the device to maintain a heartbeat is used as the basis for determining whether the network has been interrupted.

[0014] The present invention discloses the following technical effects: This invention fully decentralizes server capabilities to terminal nodes through a cellular distributed video scheduling architecture; and solves the system reliability problem in high-vibration, easily disconnected, and space-constrained scenarios through innovative design mechanisms such as automatic node negotiation, automatic cluster splitting / merging, and network outage self-healing control. Attached Figure Description

[0015] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the method described in this invention. Detailed Implementation

[0017] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations. Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed application, but merely represents selected embodiments of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0018] like Figure 1As shown, this invention provides a distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture, applied in the field of image communication technology. Based on a swarm collaboration model, it enables all encoding and decoding devices to possess server processing capabilities, allowing for automatic negotiation and dynamic election of a master control node. It supports the splitting of large clusters into smaller clusters and the automatic merging of smaller clusters, all without manual intervention. Specifically, it includes the following: In one implementation, after all devices are online, an automatic negotiation function is executed to elect a master control node (server). All encoding, decoding, and audio acquisition / playback devices are uniformly scheduled by the master control node to collaboratively complete operations such as video acquisition, transmission, splicing, screen splitting, screen projection, and remote control.

[0019] For example, after all devices are powered on and running, they begin periodically sending multicast commands (query_server) to the multicast address, each command carrying the MAC address of its own device. When any device receives a query_server command from another device, it compares the other device's MAC address with its own. If its own MAC address is smaller, it continues sending query_server commands; if its own MAC address is larger, it stops sending. After a period of comparison, only the device with the smallest MAC address will still be sending query_server commands, while the other devices will enter a silent listening state. Once the device with the smallest MAC address has listened for a period of time and confirmed that no other device is competing with it, it will switch to the server state and start its microserver module. The other devices will then act as slave devices, sending heartbeats to the server and obeying scheduling.

[0020] For example, a MAC address represents a physical address or hardware address, which is embedded in the network card / device chip and serves as a unique identifier for a Layer 2 link.

[0021] For example, a multicast address is a special IP address used to identify a group of receivers. When a sender sends a piece of data, the network automatically forwards it to all hosts that have "joined the group", achieving efficient one-to-many distribution.

[0022] For example, silent listening state refers to the state in multicast (IGMP / MLD) scenarios where the device (switch / host) only receives and does not send, only listens to protocol messages, and does not actively participate in protocol interaction, commonly known as "eavesdropping".

[0023] For example, a microserver module is a highly integrated, low-power, compact embedded server unit.

[0024] For example, a heartbeat means periodically sending heartbeat messages to report online status, load, version, and business status; For example, obeying the schedule means not to preempt or make decisions independently, but to receive instructions entirely from the scheduling center / master control unit.

[0025] For example, the present invention is based on the design concept of a bee colony collaboration model, in which all encoding and decoding devices have server processing capabilities and can automatically negotiate and dynamically elect master control nodes.

[0026] In one implementation, when a network interruption occurs, the network is automatically split into multiple independent subnets based on connectivity areas (physical connectivity areas or wireless network connectivity areas). Devices within each subnet renegotiate and elect a subnet master node. All devices within the subnet remain coordinated and controllable to complete local video scheduling and operation.

[0027] For example, when a server goes offline or crashes, other devices, unable to maintain a heartbeat, immediately begin resending the query_server command and enter a state of competing for server privileges; then, once a new device is created as the server, the remaining devices begin sending heartbeats and obey the scheduler.

[0028] For example, when the network between two switches is disconnected, devices that are not on the same switch as the server will not receive the original server's heartbeat message and will determine that the original server is offline. Due to the loss of heartbeat connection, devices in the cluster will automatically compete for the master server's authority and then re-elect a new master server. Finally, the network where the server is located will be split into two partitions, and each partition will independently generate a working server to provide services.

[0029] For example, the present invention supports the splitting of large clusters into smaller clusters, and the local clusters maintain complete control capabilities after the network splits, without being paralyzed or failing.

[0030] In one implementation, when the interrupted network is restored, each subnet automatically detects connectivity and quickly merges into a unified large cluster; the master control node is renegotiated to restore unified scheduling across the entire system.

[0031] For example, when the network between the two switches is restored, since the two servers have been sending query_server query commands, the two servers will compare each other's MAC addresses. The server with the larger MAC address will automatically stop its microserver module. Other devices on the network where the server that stopped its microserver module is located will send heartbeats and obey the scheduling of that server after receiving the query_server query command from the server with the smaller MAC address.

[0032] For example, the present invention supports the automatic merging of small clusters without human intervention throughout the process. At the same time, the present invention also supports hundreds to thousands of video signals and can be deployed in a distributed manner across buildings, communities and cities.

[0033] Example 1: This example uses the scenario of monitoring and scheduling in high-speed train carriages. Relying on the self-organizing, network outage controllable, and heterogeneous collaborative characteristics of the cellular distributed architecture, it solves the problems of monitoring failure and scheduling loss of control caused by easy network outages between carriages and local power / network interruptions during high-speed train operation. It achieves stable operation of full-train monitoring and scheduling, and is adapted to the high-density deployment and high reliability requirements of high-speed trains.

[0034] In one embodiment of this example, the design of the high-speed train carriage monitoring and dispatching scenario covers core businesses such as in-carriage video monitoring, equipment control (such as air conditioning, lighting, and broadcasting), and abnormal alarms for high-speed trains (8-carriage or 16-carriage trains) while taking into account the characteristics of unstable links and frequent local faults during train operation.

[0035] In one embodiment of this example, the cellular distributed architecture design is based on the core design of "each device as an independent cellular unit" and combined with the layout of high-speed rail carriages to complete the equipment deployment, ensuring high density and full coverage.

[0036] For example, for the deployment of core equipment in the carriage, each carriage is an independent "cellular partition" with one core codec device (integrating server scheduling capabilities, serving as the core cellular unit of the carriage), and 4-6 high-definition surveillance cameras (responsible for video acquisition), one control terminal (responsible for controlling and monitoring the equipment in the carriage), and one network switch (responsible for networking the equipment in the carriage).

[0037] For example, for the high-density deployment of control equipment, the control terminal of each carriage adopts an embedded design and is deployed at the crew's operating console at both ends of the carriage, supporting local monitoring and preview, equipment control (air conditioning temperature adjustment, lighting switch, broadcast control); the encoding and decoding equipment is embedded in the equipment compartment on the top of the carriage, which is small in size and suitable for the limited space of high-speed rail carriages, without the need to occupy a separate machine room.

[0038] For example, in the whole-vehicle networking design, the codec devices (cellular units) of each carriage are interconnected through the train's dedicated Ethernet link to form a whole-vehicle cellular cluster; each codec device has complete scheduling capabilities and heartbeat reporting capabilities, can independently undertake local monitoring and scheduling functions, and supports collaborative linkage with other carriage cellular units.

[0039] For example, to supplement redundant deployment, an additional backup codec device (backup cellular unit) is deployed for every 3 carriages to fill in for failures, avoid the failure of carriage monitoring / scheduling due to the failure of a single device, and further improve system reliability.

[0040] In one embodiment of this example, the core pain point of high-speed rail carriage monitoring and scheduling is "easy network outages between carriages and local power / network interruptions". The traditional centralized architecture (relying on a fixed server at the train head) will cause local carriage monitoring to fail and scheduling to fail after a network outage, while the cellular distributed architecture can be precisely adapted through its own characteristics.

[0041] For example, pain point 1 is the easy network interruption between carriages. During the high-speed operation of the high-speed train, the Ethernet link between carriages may be interrupted due to vibration, poor contact, etc., resulting in the fragmentation of the entire train cluster. Under the traditional architecture, the monitoring / scheduling of the network interruption area is completely out of control. Adaptation logic: The cellular distributed architecture supports "automatic subnet splitting". After the link is interrupted, the network interruption area automatically forms an independent cellular subnet without manual intervention, and maintains complete business capabilities locally.

[0042] For example, pain point 2 is local power supply / network interruption. When a power supply failure or local network failure occurs in a single carriage, the traditional architecture cannot collect data and control the equipment in that carriage, and may affect the scheduling of the entire train. Adaptation logic: The encoding and decoding equipment (cellular unit) of each carriage has independent operation capability. When a local power supply / network interruption occurs, it only affects that carriage (or local subnet) and does not spread to the entire train. Moreover, the core monitoring and scheduling functions in the faulty carriage can be maintained by the backup power supply (onboard emergency power supply).

[0043] In one embodiment of this program, during normal network operation, the encoding / decoding devices (cellular units) of all carriages are interconnected via the train's Ethernet link. They automatically negotiate and elect a single global master control unit (preferably the encoding / decoding device in the first carriage at the front of the train, which can be dynamically switched based on load). This enables unified monitoring and scheduling of the entire train. The global master control unit uniformly receives video signals from the monitoring cameras in each carriage, completes video stitching and transmission through the encoding / decoding devices, and allows the crew to view the entire train's monitoring feed on the control terminal in any carriage, achieving full-coverage monitoring. The global master control unit also uniformly schedules the air conditioning, lighting, and broadcasting equipment in each carriage, supporting unified adjustment (e.g., uniformly setting the air conditioning temperature) and precise local control (e.g., individually turning off the lighting in a specific carriage). Each carriage's cellular unit periodically reports its operating status (equipment load, monitoring feed integrity, network connectivity) to the global master control unit. The master control unit perceives the entire train's status in real time and automatically issues an alarm in case of anomalies (e.g., camera malfunction, network fluctuations).

[0044] In one embodiment of this example, during a network outage / partial fault state (inter-carriage network outage, partial power / network interruption), when the inter-carriage link is interrupted, or when a single / multiple carriage experiences a power / network interruption, the system automatically triggers the "subnet splitting" mechanism of the cellular distributed architecture to achieve controllable network outages and uninterrupted service: Based on physical connectivity areas, the entire train is split into multiple independent cellular subnets (e.g., carriages 1-3 form one subnet, carriages 4-8 form another subnet, or a single faulty carriage forms an independent subnet); within each independent subnet, each cellular unit (encoding / decoding device)... Automatic negotiation and election of a local master control unit to replace the original global master control's scheduling function; the monitoring cameras in each subnet normally collect video, and the encoding and decoding equipment completes local video storage and preview. The crew can view the local monitoring screen and control local equipment (such as adjusting the air conditioning in this carriage and turning off the faulty camera) through the control terminal in the subnet, realizing "no interruption in network failure and no loss of control"; in carriages with partial power supply / network interruption, the core monitoring equipment inside can maintain operation through the on-board emergency power supply, and the faulty area does not affect the normal operation of other subnets, avoiding the spread of the fault.

[0045] In one embodiment of this example, when the network / power supply is restored (reconnected), after the broken links between carriages are restored and the local power supply / network faults are cleared, the system automatically triggers the "subnet merging" mechanism to quickly restore unified scheduling across the entire vehicle: the cellular units of each independent subnet automatically sense the network connectivity of the entire vehicle through periodic heartbeat detection and trigger the merging process; the local master control unit of each subnet participates in the whole network negotiation and re-elects a new global master control unit, and the original local master control units of each subnet are automatically downgraded to ordinary cellular units; after merging, the global master control unit quickly synchronizes the monitoring data and equipment status of each subnet, realizing unified preview of the whole vehicle monitoring screen and unified scheduling of equipment, without manual intervention, and the connection process does not affect the normal business of any carriage.

[0046] For example, this embodiment has no single point of failure. Failure of any equipment in the carriage or interruption of the link will not affect the operation of the overall system. Local services will continue to operate normally after the network is disconnected, which meets the "zero interruption" requirement of high-speed rail monitoring.

[0047] For example, this embodiment automatically completes the entire process from global master election, subnet splitting, subnet merging to fault replacement, without the need for manual operation by flight attendants, thus reducing operation and maintenance costs.

[0048] For example, the encoding / decoding device and control terminal of the present invention are small in size and embedded in the design, making them suitable for the limited space and high-density deployment of equipment in high-speed train carriages.

[0049] For example, the present invention supports flexible adaptation of 8-car / 16-car train formations. When adding a new car, only the corresponding encoding / decoding equipment and monitoring equipment need to be deployed, and it can be automatically added to the whole train cluster without the need to reconstruct the system.

[0050] Example 2: This example is designed for the scenario of distributed device cluster operations in the field. It uses distributed intelligent devices such as drones and robot dogs as the core networking units. Relying on the self-organizing networking, controllable network outages, and no single point of failure characteristics of the cellular distributed architecture, it solves the core pain points of strong electromagnetic interference, easy communication interruption, and easy cluster disconnection in field operations. It realizes flexible scheduling and autonomous collaboration of cluster networking, ensures uninterrupted field missions, and adapts to the practical needs of complex environments.

[0051] In one embodiment of this scenario, a cluster of intelligent devices consisting of dozens to hundreds of drones and robot dogs with different functions is deployed to address the actions of intelligent devices in different complex environments. These devices undertake core tasks such as reconnaissance, detection, and coordinated action, and respond to emergencies such as environmental electromagnetic interference, communication link interruption, and cluster disconnection.

[0052] In one implementation of this embodiment, the deployment scheme is based on the core design of the cellular distributed architecture where "each device is an independent cellular unit". It combines the mobility and concealment requirements of distributed devices in the field to complete the deployment and networking of distributed intelligent devices such as drones and robot dogs, ensuring efficient cluster collaboration and strong anti-interference capabilities.

[0053] For example, in the deployment of core equipment units, each drone and each robot dog is an independent "cellular networking unit" with built-in miniaturized embedded codec module, communication module and scheduling control module. It has complete autonomous scheduling, status reporting and collaborative action capabilities, and can independently complete basic action tasks without relying on a fixed control center.

[0054] For example, in the design of cluster networking, the device cluster adopts the "wireless self-organizing networking" mode. Each cellular action unit (drone / machine dog) is interconnected through a specific anti-interference wireless communication link to form a global cellular cluster. Each device has the ability to report heartbeats and network nodes, can perceive the status of surrounding devices in real time, automatically complete cluster networking and node replacement, and adapt to dynamic changes in the environment.

[0055] For example, regarding the deployment of control nodes, 3-5 high-performance UAVs are deployed in the cluster as "backup control nodes" (enhanced cellular units), which have stronger scheduling and anti-interference capabilities, and participate in the global master election first to ensure the stability of control nodes; portable control terminals are deployed on the ground, which can access the cluster to realize manual intervention and global monitoring (not necessary, the core relies on the self-organization of the cluster).

[0056] For example, as a supplement to anti-interference deployment, the communication modules of each cellular action unit support frequency hopping and encrypted transmission to reduce the impact of electromagnetic interference on the communication link; at the same time, an emergency communication module is configured so that when the main communication link is interrupted, it can automatically switch to the backup link to improve the cluster's anti-interference and anti-interruption capabilities.

[0057] In one embodiment of this example, the core pain point of intelligent device swarm (drone / robot dog) operations is "electromagnetic interference, easy communication interruption, and easy swarm disconnection". Traditional centralized control architecture (relying on a single control center) will cause the swarm to lose control and the operation task to stop after communication is interrupted. In contrast, the cellular distributed architecture can accurately adapt to environmental requirements through its own core characteristics.

[0058] For example, pain point 1 is strong electromagnetic interference and easy communication interruption. In the environment, enemy electromagnetic interference can cause unstable or even interrupted cluster communication links. In the traditional architecture, once the control center and the action unit lose communication, the entire cluster will fall into a state of disorder. Adaptation logic: The cellular distributed architecture has no fixed control center. Each action unit is an independent cellular unit. After the communication is interrupted, the local units that have not been disconnected can automatically split into independent subnets and autonomously complete local control and coordination without relying on global communication.

[0059] For example, pain point 2 is that the cluster is prone to disconnection. During the operation, some drones / robots may become disconnected from the cluster due to terrain obstruction, electromagnetic interference, equipment failure, etc. Under the traditional architecture, disconnected units cannot act autonomously or return to the cluster, resulting in a waste of operational resources. Adaptation logic: Each cellular action unit has the ability to self-organize a network. The disconnected unit can autonomously find nearby connectable units to form a small subnet. At the same time, it continuously monitors the communication across the entire area. After the communication is restored, it can automatically return to the cluster to avoid the disconnection of operational resources.

[0060] In one implementation of this embodiment, under normal communication conditions (full-domain connectivity), all drones and robot dogs forming a cellular cluster are interconnected through an anti-interference wireless communication link. They automatically form a network and elect a full-domain master control unit (preferably selecting a high-performance backup control node drone) to achieve unified cluster control and coordinated action.

[0061] For example, for unified control and scheduling, the overall control unit receives instructions from the ground control terminal (or autonomously follows a preset action plan), assigns action tasks to each cellular action unit (such as UAVs being responsible for aerial reconnaissance and robot dogs being responsible for ground detection), and synchronizes action status and target information in real time to ensure efficient cluster collaboration.

[0062] For example, for real-time status monitoring, each cellular action unit (drone / robot dog) periodically reports its own status (battery level, location, task execution status, communication signal strength) to the global master controller. The master controller perceives the integrity of the cluster in real time and automatically triggers alarms and adjusts task allocation when disconnection or failure occurs.

[0063] For example, in collaborative operations, each action unit acts in concert according to the master control command. For instance, after a drone detects a target, it transmits the target information to a nearby robot dog in real time. The robot dog responds quickly to complete the detection or action, achieving seamless "air-ground collaboration".

[0064] In one embodiment of this example, when communication is interrupted / cluster disconnected (electromagnetic interference, link interruption), when strong electromagnetic interference occurs in the environment, communication links are interrupted, or some action units are disconnected from the cluster, the system automatically triggers the "subnet splitting" mechanism of the cellular distributed architecture to achieve local autonomous control and uninterrupted action tasks.

[0065] For example, for automatic subnet splitting, the entire cluster is split into multiple independent "action group subnets" based on communication connectivity (e.g., 3-5 drones / robot dogs form a group subnet to ensure that the number of action units is suitable for small action tasks).

[0066] For example, in the election of a local master controller, within each action group subnet, each cellular action unit automatically forms a network and elects a local master controller (preferably a drone or robot dog in good condition with strong mission capabilities) to replace the control function of the original global master controller.

[0067] For example, for local independent operations, each action group subnet can autonomously execute preset action tasks, such as reconnaissance, detection, and target tracking. The local master controller coordinates the task allocation of action units within the subnet to ensure that local operations are not interrupted. A disconnected individual action unit can autonomously enter a "silent detection" state to continuously detect surrounding communications while completing basic reconnaissance tasks, thus avoiding the waste of action resources.

[0068] For example, to ensure anti-interference, encrypted frequency hopping communication is used within the subnet to reduce the impact of local electromagnetic interference, ensure stable communication within the subnet, and achieve "no interruption of combat when the network is cut off, and no loss of control when disconnected".

[0069] In one embodiment of this example, after the communication is restored (interference is eliminated and the link is connected), when the environmental electromagnetic interference is eliminated, the interrupted communication link is restored, or the disconnected action unit reconnects to the cluster, the system automatically triggers the "subnet merging" mechanism to quickly restore unified control across the entire domain and achieve coordinated action.

[0070] For example, connectivity awareness is implemented, and the local master controller and disconnected action units of each action group subnet automatically sense the overall communication connectivity through periodic heartbeat detection, triggering the regrouping process.

[0071] For example, a global master controller re-election is performed, with each subnet's local master controller participating in the global network configuration. Based on the status of each unit and the task execution, a new global master controller unit is re-elected, and the original subnet's local master controllers are automatically downgraded to ordinary action units and accepted global control.

[0072] For example, after merging, the global control unit quickly synchronizes the action status, target information, and task execution progress of each subnet, re-coordinates and allocates action tasks, and disconnected units quickly return to the cluster, seamlessly connecting with the original action process without manual intervention, ensuring the continuous advancement of action tasks.

[0073] For example, this embodiment relies on the self-organizing and subnet splitting characteristics of the cellular distributed architecture to effectively deal with environmental electromagnetic interference and communication interruption problems. After the network is disconnected, local action groups can act independently, which meets the core requirement of "uninterrupted" action in complex environments.

[0074] For example, this embodiment has no fixed control center. If any action unit fails or becomes disconnected, it will not affect the overall cluster operation. Other units can automatically fill in, improving the reliability of cluster operations.

[0075] For example, this embodiment supports the dynamic addition and removal of action units, and the cluster can automatically adjust the subnet size and task allocation according to the environmental situation to adapt to complex and ever-changing environments.

[0076] For example, this embodiment requires no manual intervention throughout the entire process. From global master control election, subnet splitting, subnet merging to task coordination, everything is completed automatically, reducing the pressure on ground control and improving the speed of action response.

[0077] Example 3: This example is designed for maritime operations such as ship patrols and oceanographic research. It takes a single ship or an entire research fleet as the main deployment entity. Relying on the self-organizing negotiation, network outage controllability, and no single point of dependence characteristics of the cellular distributed architecture, it solves the core pain points of no public network coverage at sea, unstable inter-ship communication affected by the marine environment, and high cost of satellite communication. It achieves stable operation of fleet equipment collaboration and operation management, and adapts to the complex needs of ocean voyages and maritime scientific research.

[0078] In this first embodiment, the oceanographic research vessel fleet (3-10 research vessels), the maritime patrol vessel fleet, and the offshore operation vessel fleet cover core businesses such as onboard equipment management (navigation, communication, scientific research instruments), inter-ship collaborative operations (data sharing, task coordination), and maritime emergency response, addressing practical problems such as the lack of public network at sea, communication interruptions between ships due to wind, waves / ocean currents, and the high cost of satellite communication.

[0079] In this first embodiment, based on the core design of the cellular distributed architecture where "each device is an independent cellular unit", and combined with the enclosed space of the ship, the equipment integration requirements, and the communication characteristics of fleet collaboration, the equipment deployment and networking inside and between ships are completed, taking into account both stability and economy.

[0080] For example, for deployment within a single ship, each ship serves as a core "cellular mother unit," with one core scheduling gateway (integrating negotiation and scheduling capabilities of a cellular distributed architecture) deployed inside the ship. It also connects to navigation equipment, scientific research instruments (hydrological, meteorological, and geological exploration equipment), communication equipment, monitoring equipment, shipboard control terminals, etc. All onboard equipment serves as independent "sub-cellular units," possessing status reporting and command execution capabilities, forming a cellular subnet within the single ship.

[0081] For example, for the fleet networking design, the entire fleet adopts the mode of "inter-ship wireless self-organizing network + satellite communication backup". The core scheduling gateway (cellular mother unit) of each ship is interconnected through shipborne dedicated wireless communication equipment to form a fleet-wide cellular cluster; satellite communication is only used as an emergency backup in extreme cases (rather than the main communication method), which greatly reduces the cost of satellite communication and is only activated when inter-ship wireless communication is completely interrupted and emergency coordination is required.

[0082] For example, for core equipment adaptation, all shipborne cellular units (dispatch gateways, scientific research instruments, and communication equipment) adopt salt spray resistance, vibration resistance, and wide temperature range design to adapt to the harsh marine environment of high humidity, high salinity, and large waves; the equipment inside the ship adopts embedded deployment, saving ship space, while having independent operation capability, without relying on inter-ship communication or the public network.

[0083] For example, for localized data deployment, each ship is equipped with a local storage module, and the ship's scientific research data, equipment operation data, and monitoring data are all stored locally to avoid relying on public network transmission. At the same time, it supports data synchronization after inter-ship communication is restored, ensuring that scientific research data is not lost or omitted.

[0084] In this first embodiment, the core pain point of ship / research vessel fleet operations at sea is "no public network at sea, unstable inter-ship communication, and high cost of satellite communication". Traditional centralized architecture (relying on a single ship command center or satellite communication) will cause operations to stop and costs to get out of control after communication is interrupted, while cellular distributed architecture is precisely adapted to the maritime scenario through its own core characteristics.

[0085] For example, pain point 1 is that there is no public network at sea and no public network coverage on the ground during ocean voyages, making it impossible to achieve traditional data transmission and equipment management that rely on the public network; adaptation logic: the cellular distributed architecture does not rely on the public network. The equipment inside the ship forms an independent cellular subnet, which can autonomously complete local equipment management, data collection and storage. Inter-ship collaboration is achieved through a dedicated wireless self-organizing network, without relying on external networks.

[0086] For example, the second pain point is the instability of inter-ship communication. Factors such as sea waves, ocean currents, and distance can cause frequent interruptions and signal fluctuations in inter-ship wireless communication links. Under the traditional architecture, inter-ship collaboration relies entirely on stable communication, and collaborative operations cannot be carried out after an interruption. Adaptation logic: After communication is interrupted, each ship automatically splits into an independent cellular subnet. The internal equipment of a single ship can operate normally and operations can continue without interruption. After communication is restored, the subnets are automatically merged without manual intervention.

[0087] For example, pain point 3 is the high cost of satellite communication. Traditional fleet coordination relies on satellite communication to transmit data and issue commands. Satellite communication bandwidth is limited and the cost is high, making it difficult to afford for long-term ocean operations. Adaptation logic: The cellular distributed architecture is based on ship-to-ship wireless self-organizing network, with satellite communication only used as an emergency backup. This greatly reduces the frequency of satellite communication use, lowers operating costs, and ensures emergency coordination capabilities in extreme situations.

[0088] In this first embodiment, under normal communication conditions (ship-to-ship connectivity), all ships (cellular mother units) of the entire fleet are interconnected through the shipborne wireless ad hoc network, and automatically negotiate and elect a global master control unit (preferably the core scheduling gateway of the flagship ship or the main research vessel), so as to achieve unified coordination and operation control of the fleet.

[0089] For example, for fleet coordinated scheduling, the global master control unit coordinates and allocates scientific research tasks (such as each ship being responsible for hydrological exploration and geological sampling in different sea areas), synchronizes the fleet's navigation status and operation progress, and realizes collaborative operations between ships; each ship's sub-cellular units (scientific research instruments, navigation equipment) report their status to the ship's core scheduling gateway in real time, and then the gateway summarizes the data to the global master control unit to realize unified monitoring of fleet equipment.

[0090] For example, for data sharing, ships can achieve real-time sharing of scientific research data and equipment operation data through wireless self-organizing networks, without relying on satellite communication. This reduces costs while ensuring that each ship can keep abreast of the operational situation and improves scientific research efficiency.

[0091] For example, in terms of emergency coordination, the overall control system can receive emergency alarms from each ship in real time (such as equipment failure or sea area anomalies), quickly issue emergency response instructions, coordinate fleet resources to carry out response, and improve the safety of maritime operations.

[0092] In this first embodiment, when inter-ship communication is interrupted (link interruption, signal loss), if the sea waves are too large, the ships are too far apart, or environmental interference causes the inter-ship wireless communication to be interrupted, the system automatically triggers the "subnet splitting" mechanism of the cellular distributed architecture to achieve independent operation of a single ship without interruption of operations.

[0093] For example, in the case of automatic subnet splitting, if a ship is unable to connect to the global master control due to communication interruption, it will automatically split into an independent cellular subnet. The core scheduling gateway (cellular mother unit) of a single ship will automatically be upgraded to a local master control and take over all scheduling functions of the ship.

[0094] For example, for a single ship operating independently, all sub-cellular units (navigation, scientific research instruments, and monitoring equipment) inside the ship are working normally. The local master controller coordinates the ship's scientific research tasks and equipment management, scientific research data is stored locally, navigation equipment guides navigation normally, and monitoring equipment monitors the status inside and around the ship in real time, achieving "no stop when the network is cut off and no interruption of operations".

[0095] For example, during a communication outage, there is no need to activate satellite communication; operations can be completed solely through an independent subnet within the ship, significantly reducing satellite communication costs. Meanwhile, each ship continuously monitors inter-ship communication signals, waiting for communication to be restored.

[0096] In this first embodiment, after communication is restored (link connected, signal stable), when the marine environment improves and the distance between ships is reduced, and inter-ship wireless communication is restored, the system automatically triggers the "subnet merging" mechanism to quickly restore unified fleet coordination and achieve seamless operation.

[0097] For example, by performing connectivity awareness, the core scheduling gateway (local master controller) of each ship automatically senses the inter-ship communication connectivity through periodic heartbeat detection, triggering the merging process without manual operation.

[0098] For example, a global master controller re-election is performed, with each ship's local master controller participating in the network-wide negotiation. Based on the operational progress and equipment status of each ship, a new global master controller unit is re-elected, and the original ship's local master controller is automatically downgraded to a cellular mother unit and accepted global master controller scheduling.

[0099] For example, by performing data and task integration, after merging, each ship automatically synchronizes the scientific research data and equipment operation data stored locally, and the overall master control re-coordinates and allocates fleet operation tasks, connecting the operation progress during the interruption period, ensuring the continuous progress of the entire scientific research and patrol mission, without the need for manual data supplementation or task adjustment.

[0100] For example, this embodiment does not rely on the public terrestrial network. Instead, it relies on the independent subnet inside the ship and the wireless self-organizing network between ships to achieve autonomous operation at sea, completely solving the pain point of no public network at sea.

[0101] For example, this embodiment uses an inter-ship wireless ad hoc network as the main method and satellite communication as a backup, which greatly reduces the cost of satellite communication. At the same time, a single ship can operate independently after communication is interrupted, avoiding operation stoppage.

[0102] For example, this embodiment has no single point of failure. A failure of the core equipment of any ship will only affect the local operation of the ship and will not affect the entire fleet. Moreover, the internal equipment of a single ship can autonomously fill in the gaps, thereby improving the stability of maritime operations.

[0103] For example, all cellular units in this embodiment have anti-salt spray, anti-vibration, and wide temperature characteristics, which are suitable for harsh marine environments. At the same time, the embedded deployment saves ship space and adapts to the high-density deployment requirements of ship equipment.

[0104] It should be understood that although the steps in the flowcharts of this application's embodiments are shown sequentially according to the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless explicitly stated herein, there is no strict order restriction on the execution of these steps, and they can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least some of the steps in the figures may include multiple sub-steps or multiple stages. These sub-steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times, and their execution order is not necessarily sequential, but can be performed alternately or in turn with other steps or at least a portion of the sub-steps or stages of other steps.

[0105] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Therefore, if these modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this invention and their equivalents, this invention also intends to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A distributed video encoding / decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Negotiate based on the connectivity areas between devices, elect a server, and establish a network; When the network is interrupted, the network is split into multiple independent subnets according to the connected area, and the devices in each subnet are controlled to renegotiate, elect a server, and form a network. When the network recovers, the servers controlling each subnet renegotiate, elect servers, and reconfigure the network.

2. The distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture according to claim 1, characterized in that: During negotiation, each device is controlled to periodically send multicast commands (query_server) to the multicast address to perform the negotiation.

3. The distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture according to claim 2, characterized in that: When performing negotiation, the device's MAC address is included in the query_server query command.

4. The distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture according to claim 1, characterized in that: When electing a server, the server is elected based on the device's MAC address.

5. The distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture according to claim 4, characterized in that: When electing a server, the server is selected based on the device with the smallest MAC address.

6. The distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture according to claim 1, characterized in that: When electing a server, the set timestamp is used as the time node, and within the time node, the device with the smallest MAC address is selected as the server.

7. The distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture according to claim 1, characterized in that: After the network is established, the server is controlled to periodically send multicast commands (query_server) to the multicast address.

8. The distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture according to claim 1, characterized in that: During the election, control devices that are not elected as servers and put them into a silent listening state.

9. The distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture according to claim 1, characterized in that: After the network is set up, control devices other than the server to send heartbeats to the server.

10. The distributed video encoding and decoding control method utilizing a cellular architecture according to claim 1, characterized in that: When a network is interrupted, the ability of a device to maintain a heartbeat is used as the basis for determining whether the network is interrupted.

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