Hybrid adaptive network

Abstract

To provide a method for managing a hybrid adaptive network (HAN) and a HAN manager for using a plurality of independent communication networks as an integrated communication system.SOLUTION: A HAN includes multiple communication networks that a user terminal can simultaneously access, enabling the user terminal to seamlessly roam across the multiple communication networks and increasing the functionality and resiliency of the user terminal by providing simultaneous access to the multiple communication networks. The communication networks operate over multiple orbital regions and across multiple frequency bands, provide independent ground infrastructure, and / or implement different network management and cyber defense, thereby providing inherent diversity and eliminating single points of failure and / or targets of attack.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 822,666, entitled "HYBRID ADAPTIVE NETWORK," filed March 22, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 772,402, entitled "HYBRID ADAPTIVE NETWORK," filed November 28, 2018, each of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present disclosure relates to the management and selection of network connections between user terminals and communication networks having different network characteristics. [Background technology]

[0003] The network connection between the user terminal and a destination network, such as the Internet, may be provided using a communications network or a transport network. The communications network may use different infrastructures (e.g., satellite networks, terrestrial networks, etc.), communication means (e.g., wireless, wired, etc.), communication protocols, etc. The user terminal may be configured to connect to the communications network to enable bidirectional communication between the user terminal and a device at the destination network or a target address on the destination network. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In a first aspect, a hybrid adaptive network (HAN) manager configured to manage and select network connections between a user terminal and a communication network is disclosed. The HAN manager includes a network interface configured to receive network communications from the user terminal and the communication network. The HAN manager also includes a data store containing computer-executable instructions. The HAN manager also includes one or more processors configured to execute the computer-executable instructions stored in the data store. The computer-executable instructions are configured to cause the HAN manager to receive a user request from the user terminal including connection criteria, transmit a service request toward compatible communication networks based on the user request, receive bid responses from each compatible communication network in response to the service request, determine a score for each compatible communication network based at least in part on parameters included in the received bid responses, and transmit a service selection toward the user terminal including the communication network with the highest score.

[0005] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the service selection further includes a ranked list of compatible communication networks, the ranked list being based on a score determined for each of the compatible communication networks. In some embodiments of the first aspect, the network interface further includes an open standard network interface configured to send control commands to the communication network. In some embodiments of the first aspect, the network interface further includes an open standard network interface configured to receive network status information from the communication network. In some embodiments of the first aspect, the communication network includes two or more communication networks operating in different frequency ranges. In some embodiments of the first aspect, the communication network includes two or more communication networks operating using different network protocols. In some embodiments of the first aspect, the communication network includes two or more communication networks operating using different waveforms. In some embodiments of the first aspect, the user request includes a minimum data rate. In some embodiments of the first aspect, the score depends at least in part on previous bid compliance. In some embodiments of the first aspect, the bid responses each include a service delivery probability.

[0006] In some embodiments, a hybrid adaptive network includes a HAN manager of the first aspect and one or more of the communication networks. In some embodiments, a hybrid adaptive network includes a HAN manager of the first aspect and one or more of the user terminals.

[0007] In a second aspect, a method for managing a hybrid adaptive network is provided, the method including receiving a user request from a user terminal, announcing a service request based on the received user request to a plurality of communication networks, receiving service bids from the plurality of communication networks in response to the announced service request, determining a winning communications network based on an analysis of the received service bids, and allocating service to the user terminal to the winning communications network.

[0008] In some embodiments of the second aspect, analyzing the received service bids includes determining a score for each of the plurality of communication networks. In further embodiments, the method further includes transmitting a fulfillment list of the plurality of communication networks to the user terminal, the fulfillment list including a ranked list of the plurality of communication networks based on the determined score for each of the plurality of communication networks.

[0009] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the method further includes receiving network performance information from the dominant communication network. In further embodiments, the method further includes determining an updated dominant communication network in response to the network performance information indicating a degradation in performance of the dominant communication network.

[0010] In some embodiments of the second aspect, allocating the service includes providing credentials that enable a connection between the user terminal, the dominant communication network, and the destination network. In some embodiments of the second aspect, the service request includes the destination network.

[0011] In a third aspect, a method for managing a hybrid adaptive network is provided, the method including: determining a score based on a network performance parameter for each of a plurality of compatible communication networks, transmitting the determined score to one or more user terminals, receiving information affecting the network performance parameter, and updating the score of the one or more affected compatible communication networks in response to the received information indicating a degradation of the network performance parameter for the one or more affected compatible communication networks.

[0012] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the received information includes weather information. In some embodiments of the third aspect, the received information includes a threat to at least one of the plurality of compatible communication networks. In some embodiments of the third aspect, the method further includes transmitting the updated score to one or more user terminals. In some embodiments of the third aspect, the degradation in network performance is predicted to occur at a later time.

[0013] For purposes of summarizing the disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features have been described herein. It is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Thus, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in a manner that achieves or optimizes an advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages that may be taught or suggested herein. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] Various embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings for purposes of illustration and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure in any way. In addition, various features of different disclosed embodiments can be combined to form additional embodiments that are part of this disclosure.

[0015] [Figure 1]1 shows a block diagram of a hybrid adaptive network (HAN) including a HAN controller or manager, multiple transport or communication networks, and multi-mode user terminals.

[0016] [Figure 2A] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary HAN including a HAN manager, multiple user terminals, multiple transport networks, and a destination network.

[0017] [Figure 2B] 2B shows the HAN of FIG. 2A, in which a user terminal is connected to a destination network via a dominant transport network.

[0018] [Figure 3] 2B illustrates another exemplary HAN that includes additional user terminals and transport networks compared to the HAN of FIG. 2A.

[0019] [Figure 4] 1 illustrates another exemplary HAN including multiple transport networks providing corresponding multiple spot beams covering multiple user terminals.

[0020] [Figure 5] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary HAN manager.

[0021] [Figure 6A] 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary HAN system illustrating how a HAN manager establishes a network connection between a user terminal and a dominant communication network based on a bidding procedure. [Figure 6B] 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary HAN system illustrating how a HAN manager establishes a network connection between a user terminal and a dominant communication network based on a bidding procedure. [Figure 6C]1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary HAN system illustrating how a HAN manager establishes a network connection between a user terminal and a dominant communication network based on a bidding procedure. [Figure 6D] 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary HAN system illustrating how a HAN manager establishes a network connection between a user terminal and a dominant communication network based on a bidding procedure. [Figure 6E] 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary HAN system illustrating how a HAN manager establishes a network connection between a user terminal and a dominant communication network based on a bidding procedure. [Figure 6F] 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary HAN system illustrating how a HAN manager establishes a network connection between a user terminal and a dominant communication network based on a bidding procedure.

[0022] [Figure 7] 1 illustrates a flowchart of an exemplary method for selecting a dominant communication network based on a user request.

[0023] [Figure 8] 8 illustrates a flowchart of an exemplary method 800 for updating communication network rankings in real time. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] The headings provided herein, if any, are for convenience only and do not necessarily affect the scope or meaning of the claimed invention. overview

[0025] A user connects to a destination network, such as the Internet, using a communication network that provides network communication between a user terminal and a target network address. The communication network may also be referred to as a component network or a transport network. The role of the communication network is to provide connectivity between the user terminal and the target or destination network. The communication network may be a satellite network, a terrestrial network, or a terrestrial wireless network, and the communication network may be a commercial communication network, a dedicated government communication network, or a combination of both.

[0026] This network communication configuration suffers from many weaknesses. For example, a communication network failure results in communication failure. As another example, the network communication in this configuration has a single point of failure: the communication network. Therefore, there is a need for a robust and seamless method for re-establishing or switching communication networks in the event of a failure or performance degradation.

[0027] Accordingly, to address these and other related problems, exemplary embodiments of a hybrid adaptive network (HAN) configuration are described herein that enables multiple independent communication networks to be used as a unified communication system. The disclosed HAN includes multiple communication networks that can be accessed simultaneously by a user terminal. The disclosed HAN enables a user terminal to seamlessly roam across the multiple communication networks. By providing simultaneous access to multiple communication networks, the disclosed HAN can increase the capability and resilience of a user terminal. For example, these communication networks may span multiple orbital regions, operate across multiple frequency bands, provide independent ground infrastructure, and / or feature different network management and cyber defense implementations, thereby providing inherent diversity and eliminating single points of failure and / or targets of attack.

[0028] Connectivity between user terminals and available communication networks is managed by a HAN manager. The HAN manager can be configured to manage connections between multiple user terminals across multiple different types of communication networks. The HAN manager provides "Communications-as-a-Service (CaaS)," similar to other on-demand services provided to users, such as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS). The HAN manager can be similarly described as providing an on-demand "Network-as-a-service (NaaS)." The HAN manager may be a service that brokers on-demand access to multiple available communication networks, each with different characteristics. The HAN manager may be a cloud-based service, but is not limited to being implemented in a cloud environment.

[0029] The HAN manager is configured to manage and select connections to multiple communication networks. The HAN manager can select a dominant communication network or a ranked list of dominant communication networks for a user terminal based at least in part on user requirements, user terminal capabilities (e.g., compatibility with the communication network), knowledge of potential threats or service outages to the network, network parameters, the communication network's ability to respond to or mitigate attacks, etc. The HAN manager may determine the dominant communication network using various methods, including, but not limited to, analyzing user requirements, assessing network capabilities, considering external conditions that may affect network communications, assessing threats to the communication network, or any combination thereof.

[0030] As an example, the HAN manager may implement a bidding process as a method for determining a dominant communication network. The bidding process analyzes user requirements or connection preferences and communication network characteristics to determine a preferred or dominant communication network for connecting to a requesting user terminal. For example, the HAN manager may receive a user request from a user terminal, including a communication request, forward the service request toward multiple communication networks based on the user request, receive bids from communication networks relevant to fulfilling the user requirements, and connect the user terminal to the dominant communication network based at least in part on scoring the bids relevant to the user's requirements. Thus, the HAN manager selects one communication network over other available communication networks for a particular user based at least in part on the user requirements, network parameters, and / or network capabilities.

[0031] The disclosed systems, devices, and methods provide several advantages that result in more robust and seamless network connectivity. For example, the disclosed HAN enables multiple independent communication networks to be used as a single, i.e., unified, communication system. Furthermore, the disclosed HAN enables user terminals to seamlessly roam across multiple communication networks. As another example, the disclosed HAN also eliminates single points of failure, enhancing network communications. The disclosed HAN also provides diversity in network communications and hardens network communications against potential attacks and failures. As another example, the disclosed HAN provides a robust, scalable communication network built on open standards. Furthermore, the disclosed HAN can quickly overcome network outages or performance degradation to maintain connectivity even in competitive domains. The disclosed HAN also allows existing network assets to be easily improved and incrementally upgraded. The disclosed HAN also facilitates adaptation to new and / or evolving network communication technologies.

[0032] Other advantages of the disclosed systems, devices, and methods include allowing a user (or user terminal) to specify network connectivity criteria. The HAN manager receives the specified criteria and identifies candidate communication networks for the user. In some embodiments, the candidate communication networks are based at least in part on the capabilities of the user terminal (e.g., compatibility with the communication network). The HAN manager receives bids from the candidate communication networks for analysis to determine a preferred or preferred communication network for the user. The HAN manager automatically analyzes the bids from the candidate communication networks, evaluates the capabilities of the user terminal, and determines a prioritized and / or ranked list of preferred candidate communication networks for the user. The user then connects to the communication network based on the prioritized and / or ranked list of candidate communication networks from the HAN manager. In some embodiments, the HAN manager can continuously, intermittently, or periodically update the prioritized and / or ranked list of communication networks and send the list to the user. In certain examples, this can occur without the user having to send a new or updated request to the HAN manager.

[0033] Other advantages of the disclosed systems, devices, and methods include increasing the resilience of networks against potential adversaries or attackers. At least in part, because user terminals are spread across multiple communication networks, it may be difficult for attackers to target user terminal communications for data collection, data exploitation, or data denial. This multi-network resilience provides a deterrent to potential attackers. Furthermore, the ease with which user terminals can operate on HAN systems increases the time, effort, and cost of potential attackers.

[0034] 1 shows a block diagram of a HAN 100, which includes a HAN controller or manager 110, multiple transport or communication networks 120a-120d, and a multi-mode user terminal 130. The HAN 100 can provide a service delivery platform to users, who tune into or connect to communication networks that meet their criteria or requirements. The communication networks to which a user is connected may change over time, allowing the user terminal to experience superior performance compared to a static connection to a single communication network. The HAN manager 110 can monitor individual user requirements and the resources available through the component networks 120a-120d and assign users to communication networks that efficiently or effectively meet the user's needs at a given time. User requirements or demands, such as the need to operate in a contested environment or the need for low probability of intercept (LPI) and / or low probability of detectability (LPD) operation, or network parameters, such as maximum data rate, high speed scalability, congestion, availability, and cost per bit, or terrain, may cause the HAN manager 110 to select one communication network (or a subset of communication networks) over other communication networks for a given user terminal. Because of the nature of the hybrid network embodied in the HAN 100, the best or preferred communication network for a user terminal may change based on conditions, user needs or requests, individual use cases, terrain, economics, and / or time.

[0035] The HAN 100 includes a user terminal 130 configured to establish a network connection with each of a plurality of communication networks 120a-120d, shown using dashed lines in the figure. Furthermore, the HAN manager 110 is configured to communicate with each of the user terminals 130 and the plurality of communication networks 120a-120d, shown using solid lines in the figure. To enable connection to the plurality of communication networks 120a-120d, the user terminal 130 may include a network selector 132 compatible with a variety of different network protocols, waveforms, communication frequency bands, etc. To enable communication between the communication networks and the HAN manager 110, an open-standard network interface 112 associated with the HAN manager 110 may be implemented. The open-standard network interface 112 is configured to provide a standard means for exchanging status information and providing control commands. The communication networks 120a-120c may each include a corresponding translation agent 122a-122c that functions to translate communication protocols native to the associated communication network into communication protocols compatible with the open-standard network interface 112. In the example of FIG. 1, communication network 120d is configured to conform to open standard network interface 112 and therefore does not include a translation agent.

[0036] The HAN manager 110 or HAN controller is configured to maintain a list of a plurality of communication networks 120a-120d, including their respective communication network capabilities. The HAN manager 110 is configured to select a dominant communication network from the plurality of communication networks 120a-120d for the user terminal 130. The HAN manager 110 can determine the dominant communication network for the user terminal 130 using various methods, including, but not limited to, analysis of user requirements, analysis of network capabilities, analysis of external conditions that may affect network communications, analysis of threats to the communication network, and analysis of features and techniques for responding to and mitigating attacks.

[0037] As a particular example, the HAN manager 110 can be configured to perform a bidding process to determine a preferred communication network for the user terminal 130. The bidding process involves the HAN manager 110 receiving information from both the user terminal and one or more of the communication networks 120a-120d and determining a preferred or preferred communication network based at least in part on an analysis of the received information. For example, the HAN manager 110 is configured to receive a request from the user terminal 130 to connect to a destination network via an available communication network, the user request including user requirements for the connection. In response, the HAN manager 110 is configured to identify available communication networks that satisfy the received requirements. The HAN manager 110 can then solicit bids from those communication networks. The HAN manager 110 can also be configured to receive bids from those communication networks and evaluate the received bids to determine a preferred communication network or a fulfillment list of preferred communication networks. The preferred communication network is determined based on scoring the received bids, taking into account the user requirements and / or information about the communication networks stored in the HAN manager 110. The fulfillment list includes a ranked list of communication networks, the ranking based on a scoring system resulting from an analysis of the received bids. The HAN manager 110 is also configured to establish connections between the user terminals 130 and the dominant communication networks. The HAN manager 110 is configured to monitor the status of the communication networks 120a-120d.

[0038] In some embodiments, the HAN manager 110 is configured to repeat the bidding process, or at least evaluate whether another bidding process would be beneficial, when network conditions change, when user terminal conditions change, and / or when the user terminal's geography in relation to the communications network changes. By way of example, changes that may initiate another bidding process may include, but are not limited to, changes in security levels, changes in network vulnerabilities, changes in communications network performance, changes in user requirements, changes in communications network coverage for the user terminal (e.g., moving outside of a satellite network spot beam), etc. In particular embodiments, the bidding process may be resumed without being requested by the user terminal 130 and / or without receiving updated user requirements from the user terminal 130.

[0039] In some embodiments, the HAN manager 110 updates the fulfillment list and / or the preferred communication network without initiating another bidding process. In such embodiments, the HAN manager 110 may be configured to reanalyze the scoring of the communication networks based on the performance parameters of the communication networks. Based on the updated scoring analysis, a new preferred communication network or an updated fulfillment list may be sent to the user terminal 130. The HAN manager 110 may then connect the user terminal 130 to the new preferred communication network or preferred communication network.

[0040] The HAN manager 110 may also be configured to provide credentials to the destination network so that the user terminal and the destination network can each connect to the dominant communication network. In some embodiments, the HAN manager 110 is also configured to configure the network selector 132 of the user terminal 130 and / or the destination network to route traffic over the dominant communication network.

[0041] The HAN manager 110 is configured to monitor individual user requests, monitor resource availability across the communication networks 120a-120d, and assign the user terminal 130 to the communication network that most efficiently meets the user's needs at any given time. The HAN manager 110 is configured to select one communication network over another for a given user terminal based at least in part on mission parameters (e.g., the need to operate in a contested environment or the need for a specific operation), knowledge of potential threats or outages to the network (e.g., weather or intentional threats to the network that may result in outages or performance degradation), network parameters (e.g., maximum data rate, network congestion, availability, cost per bit, etc.), network capabilities, and in-network techniques for responding to and mitigating attacks. Due to the nature of hybrid adaptive networks as described above, the preferred or best network may change based on user requests, terrain, economics, time, network performance, threats to the network, etc.

[0042] The HAN manager 110 is configured to provide control and detailed situational awareness to individual user terminals for a diverse population of, for example, millions of users. The HAN manager 110 can also provide a detailed common operational picture and management capabilities for individual users regardless of the communications network currently in use.

[0043] The HAN manager 110 may be implemented using one or more processors and memories present on a general-purpose computer or across a distributed computing environment. The functions and components of the HAN manager 110 may be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof.

[0044] The HAN manager 110 may have an associated open standard network interface 112. To participate in the HAN 100, each individual communication network provides a means for receiving commands from and providing status to the HAN manager 110. The open standard network interface 112 specifies the type and structure of information that can be exchanged between the HAN manager 110 and the communication networks 120a-120d in the HAN 100. Thus, the communication networks 120a-120d can be configured to communicate natively with the HAN manager 110 via the open standard network interface 112 (e.g., communication network 120d), or can be configured to include translation agents that translate status and commands between the open standard network interface 112 and the corresponding communication network (e.g., communication networks 120a-120c with corresponding translation agents 122a-122c).

[0045] The open-standard network interface 112 allows the HAN manager 110 to control multiple communication networks 120a-120d with one or more sets of commands, and allows new communication networks to be added to the HAN 100 without modifying the HAN manager 110. Using a simple, extensible interface at the network or control layer (such as an XML schema or similar framework), communication networks that wish to participate in the HAN 100 can build a translation agent or be built to conform to the open-standard network interface 112. A translation agent is a software layer that translates the native control and status functions of a communication network into a format that conforms to the open-standard network interface 112. Software translation agents can be created quickly and inexpensively without modifying proprietary networks or their management systems. However, if a network management system is already compatible with the open-standard network interface 112, a translation agent is not necessary.

[0046] The open standard network interface 112 specifies the type and / or structure of information exchanged between the HAN manager 110 and the component networks 120a-120d in the HAN 100. The open standard network interface 112 allows the HAN manager 110 to control many different component networks with one or more command sets. The open standard network interface 112 allows new networks to be added to the HAN 100 without modifying the HAN manager 110. The open standard network interface 112 manages the connections between user terminals and available communication networks. However, in some embodiments, the HAN manager 110 does not have an associated open standard network interface.

[0047] The plurality of communication networks 120a-120d or transport networks may be any suitable networks that connect the user terminal 130 to a destination network, such as the Internet, a private network (such as the Department of Defense Information Network (DoDIN)), an entity's internal network, etc. The communication networks may be provided by satellites, satellite constellations, terrestrial networks, terrestrial wireless networks, or any combination thereof. The communication networks 120a-120d may operate using different network protocols, waveforms, frequency bands, etc. The communication networks 120a-120d may be unrelated to one another, such as being managed or owned by different entities. The communication networks 120a-120d may be commercial communication networks, government communication networks, or a combination of both. Examples of the communication networks 120a-120d include, but are not limited to, COMSAT, MILSAT, Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS), VIASAT®, terrestrial networks, terrestrial wireless networks, and / or other commercial networks. In some embodiments, each of the communication networks 120a-120d may include a network controller (not shown) with which the HAN manager 110 communicates.

[0048] Each communication network 120a-120c includes a corresponding translation agent 122a-122c that enables the communication network to communicate with the HAN manager 110 via the open standard network interface 112. Each translation agent 122a-122c may be a software layer that translates the communication network's native control and status functions into a format compatible with the open standard network interface 112. Thus, a communication network's translation agent can be created relatively quickly and inexpensively without modifying proprietary networks or their management systems. For certain communication networks, such as communication network 120d, a translation agent may not be necessary because the network controller or manager for communication network 120d is natively compatible with the open standard network interface 112.

[0049] The communication networks 120a-120d are configured to intermittently transmit status information to the HAN manager 110 via corresponding translation agents as needed and, if included, via the open standard network interface 112. The status information includes data related to network performance parameters, such as, but not limited to, data rates, interference environment, service delivery probability, prices, service outages, interruptions, service-affecting events, threat details, coverage areas, congestion or network load, overall network and user status information, etc.

[0050] In some embodiments, the HAN 100 imposes no compatibility requirements on individual communication networks. For example, there may be no waveform or radio protocol specifications, and no internal management or routing requirements. Individual communication network providers are free to build their own networks as they see fit. This approach can increase or maximize the number of communication networks that are compatible with the HAN 100. Multiple communication networks are available to the HAN 100, and new networks can be added as they emerge. This allows users to benefit from ongoing market-based competition among network providers, thereby increasing or maximizing functionality and resilience and reducing or minimizing costs.

[0051] The user terminal 130 is a multimode user terminal configured to operate in multiple frequency bands (e.g., C, X, Ku, Ka, UHF, Mil-Ka, etc.) and support multiple network protocols and waveforms (e.g., VIASAT®, Enhanced Bandwidth Efficient Modem (EBEM), Protected Tactical Waveform (PTW), Digital Video Broadcasting - Second generation (DVB-S2), terrestrial and terrestrial radio, etc.). Accordingly, the multimode user terminal 130 is configured to operate using different communication networks that offer different capabilities in efficiency, performance, resilience, etc. Furthermore, the multimode user terminal 130 is configured to use the communication networks 120a-120d in its native format and to be able to use the entire protocol set of a particular communication network. The user terminal 130 is configured to quickly switch from one operating band and / or protocol to another. In some embodiments, the user terminal 130 is configured to automatically switch between operating bands and / or protocols without human intervention. Therefore, the user terminal 130 can provide seamless access to the communication networks 120a to 120d of the HAN 100.

[0052] The user terminal 130 may be configured to switch between communication networks if the communication network to which it is connected fails or suffers from performance degradation. In such cases, the user terminal 130 may be configured to automatically switch to the next communication network on its fulfillment list, or may receive a new dominant network from the HAN manager 110 and switch to that communication network. In some embodiments, the user terminal 130 is configured to intermittently receive an updated fulfillment list or an updated dominant communication network from the HAN manager 110 without initiating a bidding process via a user request.

[0053] The user terminal 130 may be customer-provided equipment that includes these capabilities. The network selector 132 provides the ability to switch between different communication networks 120a-120d, each with corresponding differences in frequency bands, network protocols, waveforms, etc. This makes the user terminal 130 flexible and interoperable. In some embodiments, a software-defined user terminal may be used. A software-defined terminal may be able to switch between different networks and maintain interoperability, all as an incremental upgrade to the terminal base. A subset of user terminals may be upgraded while maintaining compatibility with existing terminals in the installed base. This allows for small, incremental upgrades of user terminals rather than upgrading all user terminals, avoiding a major overhaul of the installed base. Exemplary Hybrid Adaptive Network

[0054] FIG. 2A shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary HAN 200 including a HAN manager 210, multiple user terminals 230a, 230b, multiple transport networks 220a-220d, and a destination network 240. The HAN manager 210 is similar to the HAN manager 110 described herein with reference to FIG. 1. Although not shown, the HAN manager 210 may interface with the transport networks 220a-220d using an open standard network interface, as described herein with reference to FIG. 1. The user terminals 230a, 230b are each similar to the multi-mode user terminal 130 described herein with reference to FIG. 1. Although not shown, the user terminals 230a, 230b each include a network selector that enables connection to the various transport networks 220a-220d. The transport networks 220a-220d share characteristics with the communication networks 120a-120d described herein with reference to FIG. 1. Although not shown, one or more of transport networks 220a-220d may include translation agents similar to the translation agents described herein with reference to FIG. 1. Transport networks 220a-220d are shown as satellite networks, and each of these transport networks may include one or more satellites to form the transport network. Transport networks 220c-220d include terrestrial networks. However, it should be understood that each of transport networks 220a-220d may include satellite components, terrestrial components, or a combination of both.

[0055] The HAN manager 210 is configured to control each of the transport networks 220a-220d, the user terminals 230a-230b, and the destination network 240, as indicated by solid lines in the figure. This allows the HAN manager 210 to send and receive status information to and from the transport networks 220a-220d, control the connections between the transport networks 220a-220d and the user terminals 230a-230b, and control the connections between the transport networks 220a-220d and the destination network 240. As an example, the HAN manager 210 can issue commands to the user terminals 230a-230b to create a list of preferred transport networks, including prioritization of fulfillment networks (e.g., when to switch to a different transport network), direct the selection of a particular transport network, and so on. As another example, the HAN manager 210 can issue control commands to the transport networks 220a-220d, specifying network service requirements (e.g., performance or network effectiveness). Although not shown, the transport networks 220a-220d include network controllers with which the HAN manager 210 communicates.

[0056] Network connectivity is illustrated using dashed lines between transport networks 220a-220d, user terminals 230a-230b, and destination network 240. This indicates that each user terminal 230a-230b can connect to each transport network 220a-220d. Similarly, destination network 240 can connect to each transport network 220a-220d. While a single destination network is shown, it should be understood that multiple destination networks may exist. Due at least in part to the existence of multiple paths between user terminals 230a-230b and HAN manager 210 through transport networks 220a-220d, communication between HAN manager 210 and a particular user terminal can be established even if a transport network fails due to a fault or attack. This allows HAN manager 210 to update the preferred or predominant transport network or fulfillment list on the user terminal, even in the event of a transport network failure. This enhances the resilience of HAN 200 to network failures. Even in the absence of a network failure, the user terminal 230a, 230b can proactively switch transport networks when network conditions change significantly. The significance of the change can be determined by the user terminal and / or the HAN manager 210. Examples of changes that may prompt a switch to a new transport network include, but are not limited to, link impairment information (e.g., low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR)), inability to achieve the forward or return link data rates required to support user requirements, identification of a threat or outage (e.g., network congestion) that may result in a failure or degradation of the provided service, performance degradation due to weather or other interference (intentional or unintentional), increased network congestion, or movement of the user terminal to a different performance coverage area.The user terminal 230a, 230b can change transport networks by receiving an updated preferred transport network from the HAN manager 210 or by moving to the next transport network on a previously received fulfillment list. In some embodiments, the user terminal 230a, 230b can automatically switch transport networks without human intervention.

[0057] The destination network 240 may include any suitable destination, such as the Internet, a private network (Department of Defense Information Network), an access network, a terminal, a "meet-me point," or other such destination. The HAN manager 210 does not need to know the route between the destination network 240 and the user terminals 230a, 230b, as this is handled by components of the transport networks 220a-220d, the user terminals 230a, 230b, and / or the destination network 240.

[0058] 2B illustrates an example of a user terminal 230a connecting to a destination network 240 via a transport network 220b. The user terminal 230a issues a connection request 260 to the HAN manager 210, which then determines a dominant transport network and establishes a connection between the user terminal 230a, the transport network 220b, and the destination network 240. The request 260 may include user requirements and / or preferences. The HAN manager 210 identifies available and compatible transport networks that can meet the user requirements. After soliciting bids from compatible transport networks, the HAN manager 210 determines which bid is prioritized for the user terminal 230a. The HAN manager 210 provides credentials to the destination network 240 and the user terminal 230a, which enable the destination network 240 and the user terminal 230a, respectively, to connect to the dominant transport network 220b. Establishing this connection may include configuring the network selector of the destination network 240 and the user terminal 230a to route the data 270 over the dominant transport network 220b. Thus, the user terminal 230a may send the network data 270 to the destination network 240 using the transport network 220b. If a different transport network is subsequently determined to be the dominant network, the route may be changed by the HAN manager 210 to go through this different dominant transport network.

[0059] Figure 3 shows another exemplary HAN 300 that includes additional user terminals 330a-330d and transport networks 320a, 320b compared to the HAN 200 of Figure 2A. The user terminals 330a-330d may be similar to the user terminals 130 described herein with reference to Figure 1. The transport network 320a is a fixed or mobile transport network that is not controlled by the HAN manager 210. The user terminals 330a, 330b are connected to the destination network 240 via the transport network 320a. The transport network 320b is controlled by the HAN manager 210 and is connected to the destination network 240. The user terminals 330c, 330d are connected to the destination network 240 via the transport network 320b.

[0060] The destination network 240 may itself be connected to other networks 320a, 320b and user terminals 330a-330d, where the HAN manager connects the user terminal 230a to the destination network 240 via the transport network 220b, but the final destination of the network data 370 is the user terminal 330a, which is connected to the destination network 240 via the transport network 320a.

[0061] FIG. 4 illustrates another exemplary HAN 400 including multiple transport networks 420a-420f providing corresponding multiple spot beams 424 covering a number of user terminals (not shown). The HAN 400 also includes a satellite gateway 426 that connects a destination network 440 to each of the transport networks 420a-420f via a network selector 442. The transport networks 420a-420f are similar to the communication networks 120a-120d and transport networks 220a-220d described herein with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2A. While the transport networks 420a-420f are shown as individual satellites, it should be understood that each transport network 420a-420f may include one or more satellites and one or more terrestrial components to form the transport network. The transport networks 420a-420f may use different network communication protocols and / or waveforms and may use different frequency ranges. The network selector 442 is similar to the network selectors described herein in that it allows the destination network 440 to connect to multiple different transport networks 420a-420f, even if the transport networks use different frequency ranges, network protocols and / or waveforms.

[0062] Although not shown for clarity, it should be understood that HAN 400 includes a HAN manager similar to the HAN managers described herein with reference to Figures 1, 2A, 2B, 3, 5, and 6A-6F. The HAN manager of HAN 400 is configured to control transport networks 420a-420f, user terminals, and destination network 440. The HAN manager handles the bidding process disclosed herein and also determines preferred or predominant transport networks and / or determines fulfillment lists for individual user terminals. This may occur with or without an accompanying user request, as described herein. The HAN manager also establishes connections between individual user terminals, the predominant transport network, and the destination network 440.

[0063] The spot beams 424 provided by the various transport networks 420a-420f overlap and cover multiple user terminals. Thus, an individual user terminal can be covered by multiple spot beams. This allows an individual user terminal to connect to a preferred transport network using the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. For example, a user terminal can send a request to a HAN manager (not shown) to connect to a destination network 440. The HAN manager can determine which transport networks cover the user terminal and solicit bids from those available transport networks. The HAN manager can then connect the user terminal to the destination network via the preferred transport network based on an analysis of the received bids. This allows the user terminal to switch between available transport networks to improve network performance and / or avoid network failures or performance degradation. Similarly, a mobile user terminal may move between spot beams 424, and the HAN manager can provide a preferred transport network (or an updated fulfillment list) when the user terminal enters and / or leaves the spot beams of one or more new transport networks.

[0064] By way of example, and not limitation, transport network 420a may be a geosynchronous orbit (GEO) Ku-band network, transport network 420b may be an advanced extremely high frequency (AEHF) network, transport network 420c may be a WGS / Skynet network, transport network 420d may be a GEO Ka-band network, transport network 420e may be a medium earth orbit (MEO) Ka-band network, and transport network 420f may be a low earth orbit (LEO) Ku / Ka-band. Thus, spot beam 424 may be provided by a combination of government networks, commercial networks, GEO satellites, MEO satellites, LEO satellites, terrestrial networks, and / or terrestrial wireless networks. Exemplary HAN Manager

[0065] Figure 5 shows a block diagram of an exemplary HAN manager 510. The HAN manager 510 is configured to manage network connections between user terminals, communication networks, and destination networks using a bidding and scoring system. The HAN manager 510 is similar to the HAN managers 110, 210, 410, 610 described herein with reference to Figures 1, 2A, 2B, 3, 4, and 6A-6F and may be implemented in the described HAN systems. The HAN manager 510 may manage connections to transport networks using any method, such as the exemplary methods 700 and 800 described herein with reference to Figures 7 and 8, respectively.

[0066] The HAN manager 510 may include hardware, software, and / or firmware components for managing network connections, communicating with user terminals and communication networks, monitoring communication network status, and scoring communication network bids. The HAN manager 510 is configured to receive connection requests from user terminals via the communication network, request bids from the communication network based on the received requests, receive the requested bids, analyze and score the received bids, transmit a dominant communication network or a fulfilling list of communication networks to the requesting user terminal, and establish a connection between the user terminal and the dominant communication network. The HAN manager 510 is also configured to monitor network status and update the dominant transport network or fulfilling list in response to changes in the communication network, new user requests, and / or external factors that may affect network performance. The HAN manager 510 includes a data store 511, one or more processors 513, one or more network interfaces 515, a network management module 514, a bidding module 516, and a scoring module 518. The components of the HAN manager 510 can communicate with each other, with external systems, and with other components of the network using a communication bus 519. The HAN manager 510 can be implemented using one or more computing devices. For example, the HAN manager 510 can be implemented using a single computing device, multiple computing devices, a distributed computing environment, or can be located within a virtual device residing on a public or private computing cloud. In a distributed computing environment, one or more computing devices can provide the modules 514, 516, 518 and be configured to provide the described functionality.

[0067] The HAN manager 510 includes a network management module 514. The network management module 514 is configured to manage and establish network connections between user terminals and component networks. The network management module 514 is configured to send control commands to the user terminals and the communication networks to assist in establishing connections between these components. These commands may be sent to the communication networks and / or user terminals using an open standard network interface, such as those described herein with reference to FIG. 1 in connection with network interface 515.

[0068] The network management module 514 is also configured to receive network status information from associated component networks. In some embodiments, the network management module 514 can monitor the status information and determine whether to initiate a reanalysis of service bids to update the dominant communication network and / or update the fulfillment list of one or more user terminals. In response to determining that an update is appropriate, the network management module 514 communicates with the scoring module 518 to update the analysis of the service bids. In particular embodiments, the network management module 514 forwards the associated status information to the scoring module 518, enabling the scoring module 518 to intermittently, periodically, or continuously update the scores of the communication networks. In such embodiments, a triggering event or condition does not need to occur for the scoring module 518 to update the scores of the communication networks. Thus, the network management module 514, in conjunction with the scoring module 518, can prioritize available networks and provide fallback options to user terminals in the event of network degradation or failure. This can occur intermittently or continuously, and updates regarding available communication networks (eg, preferred networks or fulfillment lists) can be pushed to the user terminal.

[0069] The HAN manager 510 includes a bidding module 516. The bidding module 516 is configured to receive connection requests from user terminals. The user requests include user criteria, requirements, and / or settings related to network connections to available communication networks. The bidding module 516 formulates requests for service bids from available communication networks based on each connection request received from the user terminal. The bidding module 516 also receives service bids from the communication networks. The bidding module 516 organizes and stores the bid information in the data store 511 and makes the bid information accessible to the network management module 514 and the scoring module 518. In some embodiments, the bidding module 516 is configured to determine available communication networks that are compatible with the connection or user request. In certain embodiments, the connection request includes information regarding network compatibility. In various embodiments, the HAN manager 510 is configured to determine communication networks that are compatible with the connection request.

[0070] The HAN manager 510 includes a scoring module 518. The scoring module 518 analyzes network information and knowledge of potential threats or service outages to the communication network to determine a score for each communication network. The scoring module 518 uses one or more algorithms to determine the score for each communication network. The score may be based at least in part on user criteria included in connection requests from user terminals and network service information included in service bids from the communication networks. In some embodiments, the scoring module 518 may determine the score based at least in part on network status information. The information included in the service request, the information included in the service bid, and the network status may be combined using weighting factors to determine the score. The scoring module 518 may also consider the communication network's ability (and in-network technologies) to respond to and mitigate attacks. For example, if user requirements include resilience of the communication network in the presence of a jammer, the scoring module 518 may be configured to evaluate the inherent characteristics of each communication network to determine a network with attributes suitable for maintaining connectivity if a jammer attempts to disrupt the communication network.

[0071] In some embodiments, the score may be updated continuously or intermittently, and the results of the updates may be transmitted to the user terminal. In particular embodiments, the score update may be triggered by a particular event or condition. For example, the score update may be triggered by receiving a new service request or an update of user criteria from the user terminal. As another example, the score update may be triggered by an external condition, such as a threat to the communications network and / or weather information. As another example, the score update may be triggered by a change in network performance (e.g., caused by network congestion). As another example, the score update may be triggered by a change in the location of the user terminal and / or the communications network. As another example, the score update may be triggered due to reaching a time limit. The time limit may be set by the user terminal, the communications network, or the HAN manager 510.

[0072] The scoring module 518 enables constant updates of established connections in the associated HAN. The scoring module 518 can be configured to update the scoring in real time. In this way, the HAN manager 510 can consistently and promptly push recommendations to user terminals to ensure sufficient or improved network performance for users. The scoring module 518 enables the HAN manager 510 to analyze threats to the communications network, which may be immediate and potentially adverse impacts caused by weather information, network congestion, etc., thereby observing the broader state of the communications network and taking predictive or preventative action to prevent or mitigate network degradation or failure for users. The scoring module 518 provides quantitative information based on user connection requirements, communications network performance, communications network capabilities, and / or communications network service bids, enabling real-time adaptation based on changing conditions. These changing conditions may include, for example, terrain (e.g., a user is on an airplane), data requirements (e.g., high data throughput requirements vs. low data throughput requirements), threats to the network (e.g., denial of service attacks, network congestion, severe weather, etc.), etc. These quantitative assessments can be used to change communication networks before service outages occur. In some embodiments, the scoring module 518 provides predictive models that can be configured to predict congestion, determine whether other communication networks are congested, and move user terminals to new communication networks before the user experience is adversely affected.

[0073] The HAN manager 510 includes a network interface 515 configured to connect to any compatible communication network. The network interface 515 may configure the HAN manager 510 to be communication network independent, thereby allowing the HAN manager to connect to any user terminal capable of communicating with a compatible communication network. An open-standard network interface, as described herein with reference to FIG. 1, may be part of the network interface 515. As described herein, the open-standard network interface is configured to receive network status information from the communication network and to send control commands to the communication network and user terminals. The status information may be sent to the network management module 514 for further processing and analysis, as described herein. Similarly, the network management module 514 may send control commands to the user terminals and communication networks via the network interface 515 and associated open-standard network interfaces, if included.

[0074] The HAN manager 510 includes one or more processors 513 configured to control the operation of modules 514, 516, 518 and data store 511. The one or more processors 513 implement and use software modules, hardware components, and / or firmware elements configured to manage connections to the transport network through a bidding process. The one or more processors 513 may include any suitable computer processor, application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other suitable microprocessor. The one or more processors 513 may include other computing components configured to interface with the various modules and data store of the HAN manager 510.

[0075] The HAN manager 510 includes a data store 511 configured to store configuration data, user requirements, network status, network characteristics and capabilities, control commands, databases, algorithms, executable instructions (e.g., instructions to one or more processors 513), etc. The data store 511 may be any suitable data storage device or combination of devices, such as, but not limited to, random access memory, read-only memory, solid state disk, hard drive, flash drive, bubble memory, etc.

[0076] The HAN manager 510 may be implemented in a variety of contexts. For example, the HAN manager 510 may be implemented to provide network connectivity to transportation facilities (e.g., commercial flights, trains, buses, ships, etc.), to provide wireless network connectivity to customers at facilities (e.g., gas stations, coffee shops, stadiums, etc.), etc. As another example, the HAN manager 510 may be used to provide network connectivity to organizations with user terminals that are distributed in remote environments and / or that are mobile. This may occur in a military context at a forward base, or in a civilian context for a news network that desires network access at a remote news generating location. The HAN manager 510 enables the analysis and ranking of multiple communication networks to determine the communication network that best serves the user terminal. Exemplary HAN Management Procedures

[0077] Figures 6A-6F show block diagrams of an exemplary HAN system 600 illustrating how a HAN manager 610 establishes a network connection between a user terminal 630 and a dominant communication network based on a bidding procedure. Figure 6A shows a HAN 600 that includes a HAN manager 610 that is similar to the HAN manager described herein with reference to Figures 1-5. The HAN 600 also includes a user terminal 630 that is similar to the user terminal described herein with reference to Figures 1-3. The HAN 600 also includes communication networks 620a-620c that are similar to the networks described herein with reference to Figures 1-4.

[0078] 6B shows a user terminal 630 sending a user request 652 for service to the HAN manager 610. The user request 652 may include various requirements and preferences. For example, the user request 652 may include a data rate (e.g., forward link (FL), return link (RL)), interference environment (e.g., no problem or contention), user terminal location (e.g., latitude and longitude), user terminal type (e.g., fixed or mobile), mobile terminal type (land, sea, air, or space), terminal RF parameters (EIRP, G / T, etc.), and terminal network compatibility. An exemplary user request is as follows: data rate (10 Mbps FL, 2 Mbps RL), interference (contention), terminal location (33.13 N, 117.28 W), terminal type (mobile), mobile terminal type (air), terminal parameters (55 dBW, 14.2 dB / K), and network compatibility (Network A, Network B).

[0079] 6C shows the HAN manager 610 announcing a service request 654 to the communications networks 620a-620c. In particular embodiments, the service request 652 may include a service bid and / or parameters specified in the format of the service bid. The HAN manager 610 formulates the service request 654 based on the user request 652.

[0080] In some embodiments, the service request 654 may be sent to a compatible network specified in the user request 652. In the example of Figure 6C, the user request 652 may indicate that the user terminal 630 is not compatible with network C 620c, and as a result, the HAN manager 610 should not send the service request 654 to network C 620c.

[0081] In some embodiments, the HAN manager 610 does not announce the service request 654 to incompatible networks. Instead, upon receiving the user request 652, the HAN manager 610 first determines which available communication networks are compatible with the service request 654, and then announces the service request 654 only to the compatible networks. In the example of Figure 6C, the HAN manager 610 may determine that network C 620c is not compatible with the service request 654 and, as a result, does not announce the service request 654 to network C 620c.

[0082] In certain embodiments, the HAN manager 610 announces the service request 654 to all available communication networks 620a-620c. In such embodiments, non-compatible communication networks either do not respond to the service request 654 or provide a response that the HAN manager 610 determines does not meet the criteria of the service request 654.

[0083] FIG. 6D shows the HAN manager 610 receiving bid responses 656a, 656b from compatible communication networks 620a, 620b. By way of example, the bid format may include a data rate (e.g., FL, RL), interference environment (e.g., no issues or contention), service delivery probability (0-100%), and / or price ($ / bit, $ / min, $ / bps, etc.). An exemplary bid response 656a from network A 620a is as follows: data rate (8Mbps FL, 2Mbps RL), interference (contention), service delivery probability (95%), and price ($10 / Mbit). An exemplary bid response 656b from network B 620b is as follows: data rate (12Mbps FL, 4Mbps RL), interference (contention), service delivery probability (98%), and price ($50 / Mbit). In this example, network C is not compatible and therefore is not eligible to bid.

[0084] 6E shows the HAN manager 610 sending a service selection 658 to the user terminal 630. The service selection 658 can be the communication network with the highest score based on an analysis of the bid responses 656a, 656b. The service selection 658 can be a fulfilling list of communication networks ordered by score based on an analysis of the bid responses 656a, 656b. The analysis of the bid responses can include assigning a score or ranking value to the bid responses 656a, 656b. The process of assigning a score or rank can include variable weighting of parameters of the bid responses 656a, 656b.

[0085] In some embodiments, the scoring criteria may include an evaluation of interference performance (e.g., a number from 1 to 10) based on standoff distance (km) and frequency agility (MHz). The scoring criteria may also include an evaluation of waveform performance (e.g., a number from 1 to 10) based on spreading factor (e.g., a number) and hopping rate (e.g., time delay). The scoring criteria may also include a cybersecurity score (e.g., a number from 1 to 10) and may also include a score of prior bid compatibility (e.g., a number from 1 to 10).

[0086] 6F shows the HAN manager 610 sending a service assignment 659 to the dominant communication network 620a. The HAN manager 610 may also send the service assignment 659 to the user terminal 630. In some embodiments, the service assignment 659 includes credentials that enable a connection between the user terminal 630, the communication network 620a, and a destination network (not shown).

[0087] 7 illustrates a flowchart of an exemplary method 700 for selecting a dominant communication network based on a user request. Method 700 may be performed by any of the HAN managers described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-6F. For ease of explanation, method 700 is described as being performed by a HAN manager. This should not be understood as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Rather, any step or portion of method 700 may be performed by any component or combination of components of the systems described herein.

[0088] At block 705, the HAN manager receives a user request for service from a user terminal. This is similar to the user request described with reference to FIG. 6B. In some embodiments, the user request may include a destination network, such as the destination networks described herein with reference to FIGS. 2A-4. The user request may be sent whenever the user terminal desires to connect to a communications network and / or whenever the performance requirements of the user terminal change. In some embodiments, method 700 resumes each time a user request is received from the user terminal.

[0089] At block 710, the HAN manager announces a service request formulated from the user request to communication networks in the hybrid adaptive network. This is similar to the service request described with reference to FIG. 6C. Available communication networks may change dynamically. In some examples, method 700 may return to block 710 in response to a change in network availability. In some embodiments, the HAN manager does not send the service request to an incompatible network. In such embodiments, the incompatible communication network may be identified in the user request and / or the HAN manager may determine a communication network that is not compatible with the service request.

[0090] At block 715, the HAN manager receives service bids from compatible communication networks. This is similar to the service bids described with reference to FIG. 6D. In some embodiments, service bids may be sent to the HAN manager without the HAN manager requesting bids in response to changes in the corresponding communication networks. For example, if performance or price changes, the HAN manager may request updated service bids, or the affected communication networks may send updated service bids without first receiving a request from the HAN manager. If updated service bids are received, method 700 may resume at block 715.

[0091] At block 720, the HAN manager selects a dominant communication network based on the determined scores of the service bids. In some embodiments, the HAN manager creates a fulfillment list including a ranked list of compatible communication networks based on the determined scores of the service bids. Scoring the received service bids may include determining weighted scores of parameters included in the service bids, which is similar to the selection described with reference to FIG. 6E. The service selection (e.g., dominant communication network and / or fulfillment list) may be transmitted to the requesting user terminal.

[0092] In some embodiments, the HAN manager repeats method 700, beginning at block 720, when there is a change in network performance of one or more of the compatible communication networks. In particular examples, the HAN manager monitors the status of the communication networks to determine if there is a change in network performance or other relevant network parameters. Accordingly, in response to such changes, the HAN manager recalculates the score or rank for each compatible communication network. If there is a change in score, in the dominant communication network and / or in order of the fulfillment list, the HAN manager can send updated service selections to affected or associated user terminals.

[0093] At block 725, the HAN manager allocates the service to the communication network with the winning bid. This is similar to the allocation described with reference to Figure 6F. The HAN manager can be configured to notify the user terminal of the winning network as well as the winning network. The network connection can be established through a translation agent, as described herein, allowing the user to connect to and communicate with each compatible communication network using the same interface.

[0094] Method 700, as described herein, represents a bidding process used to establish an initial connection with a communications network and may be repeated based on changing conditions or criteria. For example, method 700 may be initiated at any suitable step of the method upon the occurrence of some triggering event or condition. Examples of triggering events include, but are not limited to, a change in the state of the communications network, a change in the state of the user terminal, or a change in the state of a threat to the communications network (e.g., natural threats such as weather, non-natural threats such as equipment failure, or intentional threats such as denial of service attacks). In some embodiments, the user terminal is configured to update the HAN manager with link performance of the communications network to which it is connected. If the link performance changes, an update to the service selection may be triggered (e.g., method 700 resumes at a suitable step of the method). This may be desirable, for example, when a service level agreement (SLA) exists with a user and it is beneficial to maintain at least a minimum level of service to meet the SLA (which may benefit from a switching communications network).

[0095] Another triggering event may be the expiration of a bid. In some embodiments, a service bid may have a validity period. As long as the service bid is still valid, the user terminal may use the communication network. A service bid may have a validity period, for example, but not limited to, several hours, days, weeks, months, etc. After a bid expires, method 700 may be repeated by beginning with a suitable step, such as requesting a new service bid at block 710 or determining a new score for the bids that are still valid at block 720.

[0096] Other triggering events may include a user terminal requesting a re-bid, the HAN manager determining that the prevailing communication network no longer meets the user requirements, the HAN manager determining that network characteristics have changed, etc.

[0097] 8 illustrates a flowchart of an exemplary method 800 for updating communication network rankings in real time. Method 800 may be performed by any of the HAN managers described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-6F. For ease of explanation, method 800 is described as being performed by a HAN manager. This should not be understood as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Rather, any step or portion of method 800 may be performed by any component or combination of components of the systems described herein.

[0098] The HAN manager determines a score for the compatible communication networks at block 805. The score or ranking may be determined based on user criteria, user requirements, service bids, network performance, etc., as described herein.

[0099] In block 810, the HAN manager transmits the scores to associated user terminals. Associated user terminals may include user terminals that are compatible with the communication network whose score or ranking has changed. This allows the user terminal to change the communication network in which the preferred communication network resides. The HAN manager transmits or pushes the updated scores or rankings to the user terminals without the user terminal necessarily requesting the updated information. This is advantageous because it allows the user terminal to connect to a preferred communication network without first requesting an update to the communication network's scoring or ranking.

[0100] At block 815, the HAN manager receives information related to the performance of the communications network. This information includes parameters directly related to network performance (e.g., information contained in service bids) because they are provided by the communications network itself. This information also includes data related to external factors that may affect the weather, sensitive information regarding threats to the network, etc. The information received by the HAN manager at this block is adaptive over time and may include any suitable factors that affect network performance.

[0101] At block 820, the HAN manager determines whether the trigger criteria has occurred, and in response to determining that the trigger criteria has occurred, returns to block 805 to update the analysis of the communications network. The trigger criteria may include any of the criteria described herein, such as, but not limited to, a change in network performance, a change in user requirements, an external threat to the network, a higher-level option becoming available, etc.

[0102] Method 800 can be used as a predictive model. For example, method 800 can be used to predict network congestion and determine if other networks are congested. In response, a HAN manager can move user terminals before the user experience is adversely affected.

[0103] Additionally, method 800 can continually update the scoring or ranking of the communication network. These updates can be triggered in real time. This allows the HAN manager to constantly or consistently push recommendations to user terminals. Method 800 enables the HAN manager to acknowledge and respond to potential threats. Threats may arise, for example, in response to analysis of weather information, network congestion, confidential information regarding potential attacks on the network, etc. Method 800 enables the HAN manager to analyze network performance as a whole, including external factors that may not be considered by other similar systems. While method 800 can be triggered by an updated request from the user terminal, this is not required, at least in part because the HAN manager is consistently updating the scoring and ranking of the communication network. Terminology and Additional Embodiments

[0104] Described herein are systems, devices, and methods for managing connections to transport or communication networks based on a bidding and scoring process. As used herein, the terms "transport network," "communication network," and "component network" are used interchangeably. These terms include, but are not limited to, communication networks that provide network connectivity between user terminals and destination networks, as described herein. These networks may include satellite networks, terrestrial networks, terrestrial wireless networks, or any combination thereof.

[0105] The present disclosure describes various features, no single one of which is solely responsible for the benefits described herein. It will be understood that various features described herein can be combined, modified, or omitted, as would be apparent to one skilled in the art. Other combinations and subcombinations beyond those specifically described herein will be apparent to one skilled in the art and are intended to form part of this disclosure. Various methods have been described herein in terms of various flowchart steps and / or stages. It will be understood that in many cases, certain steps and / or stages may be combined such that multiple steps and / or stages shown in a flowchart may be performed as a single step and / or stage. Also, certain steps and / or stages may be divided into additional subcomponents that are performed separately. In some cases, the order of steps and / or stages may be rearranged, and certain steps and / or stages may be omitted entirely. It will also be understood that the methods described herein can be modified such that additional steps and / or stages to those shown and described herein may also be performed.

[0106] Some aspects of the systems and methods described herein may be advantageously implemented using, for example, computer software, hardware, firmware, or any combination of computer software, hardware, and firmware. Computer software may include computer-executable code stored on a computer-readable medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium) that, when executed, performs the functions described herein. In some embodiments, the computer-executable code is executed by one or more general-purpose computer processors. Those skilled in the art will appreciate, in light of this disclosure, that any feature or function that can be performed using software running on a general-purpose computer may also be implemented using a different combination of hardware, software, or firmware. For example, such modules may be implemented entirely in hardware using a combination of integrated circuits. Alternatively, or additionally, such features or functions may be performed, in whole or in part, not by a general-purpose computer, but using a special-purpose computer designed to perform the specific functions described herein.

[0107] Multiple distributed computing devices may be substituted for any one computing device described herein, and in such distributed embodiments, the functionality of one computing device is distributed (e.g., over a network) such that some functions are performed on each of the distributed computing devices.

[0108] Some embodiments may be described with reference to equations, algorithms, and / or flowchart diagrams. These methods may be implemented using computer program instructions executable on one or more computers. These methods may also be implemented as a computer program product, either separately or as a component of a device or system. In this regard, each equation, algorithm, block, or flowchart step, and combinations thereof, may be implemented by hardware, firmware, and / or software that includes one or more computer program instructions embodied in computer-readable program code logic. It will be understood that any such computer program instructions may be loaded into one or more computers, including, but not limited to, general-purpose or special-purpose computers, or other programmable processing devices, to form a machine, such that the computer program instructions executing on the computer or other programmable processing device perform the functions specified in the equations, algorithms, and / or flowchart diagrams. It will also be understood that each equation, algorithm, and / or flowchart diagram block, and combinations thereof, may be executed by a special-purpose hardware-based computer system that executes particular functions or steps, or a combination of dedicated hardware and computer-readable program code logic.

[0109] Additionally, computer program instructions, such as those embodied in computer-readable program code logic, that can instruct one or more computers or other programmable processing devices to function in a particular manner may also be stored in a computer-readable memory (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium), such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory perform the functions specified in the flowchart blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loaded into one or more computers or other programmable computing devices and cause the one or more computers or other programmable computing devices to perform a series of operating steps, resulting in a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions executing on the computers or other programmable processing devices result in formulas, algorithms, and / or steps for performing the functions specified in the flowchart blocks.

[0110] Some or all of the methods and tasks described herein may be performed by a computer system and may be fully automated. In some cases, a computer system may include multiple separate computers or computing devices (e.g., physical servers, workstations, storage arrays, etc.) that communicate and interoperate over a network to perform the described functions. Each such computing device typically includes a processor (or multiple processors) that executes program instructions or modules stored in memory or other non-transitory computer-readable storage media or devices. While various functions disclosed herein may be embodied in such program instructions, some or all of the disclosed functions may alternatively be performed in application-specific circuitry (e.g., ASICs or FPGAs) of the computer system. When a computer system includes multiple computing devices, these devices may, but need not, be co-located. The results of the disclosed methods and tasks may be persistently stored by converting physical storage devices, such as solid-state memory chips and / or magnetic disks, to a different state.

[0111] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, throughout this specification and claims, the words "comprise," "comprising," and the like should be construed in an inclusive sense, i.e., "including, but not limited to," rather than an exclusive or exhaustive sense. The word "coupled," as generally used herein, refers to two or more elements, which may be directly connected or connected by one or more intermediate elements. In addition, the words "herein," "above," "below," and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where the context permits, words in the above Detailed Description using the singular or plural may also include the plural or singular, respectively. The word "or," when referring to a list of two or more items, includes all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list. The word "exemplary" is used exclusively herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0112] The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the examples shown herein. Various modifications to the examples described in this disclosure may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other examples without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. The teachings of the present invention provided herein may be applied to other methods and systems, and are not limited to the methods and systems described above, but elements and acts of the various embodiments described above may be combined to provide further embodiments. Thus, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms, and further, various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form of the methods and systems described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. The appended claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as are within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. 1. A method for managing a hybrid adaptive network, comprising: determining a score for each of a plurality of compatible communication networks based on network performance parameters; transmitting the determined scores to one or more user devices; receiving information affecting said network performance parameters; updating the scores of the affected one or more compatible communication networks in response to the received information indicating a degradation of the network performance parameters of the affected one or more compatible communication networks.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the received information includes weather information.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the received information includes a threat to at least one of the plurality of compatible communication networks.

4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising transmitting the updated scores to the one or more user terminals.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the degradation in network performance is predicted to occur at a later time.

6. 1. A HAN (Hybrid Adaptive Network) manager configured to manage a network connection between a user terminal and a communication network, said HAN manager comprising: a network interface configured to receive network communications from the user terminal and the communications network; a data store containing computer-executable instructions; one or more processors configured to execute the computer-executable instructions stored in the data store; The computer-executable instructions may be configured to instruct the HAN manager to: determining a score for each of a plurality of compatible communication networks based on network performance parameters; transmitting the determined scores to one or more user terminals; receiving information affecting said network performance parameters; a HAN manager that, in response to the received information indicating a degradation in the network performance parameter of the affected one or more compatible communication networks, causes the score of the affected one or more compatible communication networks to be updated.

7. The HAN manager of claim 6 , wherein the network interface further comprises an open standard network interface configured to send control commands to the communication network.

8. The HAN manager of claim 6 , wherein the network interface further comprises an open standard network interface configured to receive network status information from the communication network.

9. The HAN manager of claim 6 , wherein the communication network comprises two or more communication networks operating in different frequency ranges.

10. The HAN manager of claim 6 , wherein the communication network comprises two or more communication networks that operate using different network protocols.

11. The HAN manager of claim 6 , wherein the communication network comprises two or more communication networks that operate using different waveforms.

12. The HAN manager of claim 6 , wherein the user requirements include a minimum data rate.

13. The HAN manager of claim 6 , wherein the score depends at least in part on previous bid compliance.

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