Aircraft Relay Network Authentication for Communication Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft communication systems face high costs and reliability issues due to the need for multiple ground stations and the expense of HF and satellite systems, with existing methods lacking control over data transmission and being prone to interference.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing aircraft as relays within a network to transmit messages securely and efficiently, authenticating network member aircraft to ensure reliable data delivery, and using navigation data to select optimal relay paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If VHF ground stations are used for aircraft communication, then communication reliability is improved within range, but the number of ground stations required increases and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses intermediate aircraft as relay nodes to forward communication signals between the source aircraft and ground stations. Instead of requiring direct line-of-sight communication between every aircraft and ground station, the system introduces aircraft relays that extend the communication range and reduce the number of ground stations needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional ground-based station network to a three-dimensional aerial relay network. By utilizing aircraft at various altitudes and positions in the airspace as relays, the system creates a volumetric communication network that reduces ground infrastructure requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If HF and satellite communication systems are used, then communication range is extended to areas without VHF ground stations, but operational costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses existing aircraft that are already in flight and equipped with communication equipment as relay nodes. Rather than deploying dedicated satellite infrastructure or HF ground stations, the system leverages the aircraft themselves to provide communication services, eliminating the need for expensive dedicated infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes aircraft serve multiple functions: their primary transportation role plus a secondary communication relay role. This multi-functionality allows the same aircraft fleet to provide both transport and communication services, eliminating the need for separate satellite or HF infrastructure.
3Loss of energy
If aircraft relay network is implemented, then operational costs are reduced and data control is enhanced, but system complexity and authentication requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs authentication of relay aircraft before they are authorized to participate in the relay network. By pre-authenticating and pre-configuring relay aircraft with appropriate credentials and permissions, the system reduces real-time processing complexity while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements monitoring and management systems that track relay aircraft positions, authentication status, and message forwarding performance. This feedback mechanism allows the system to dynamically adjust relay selections and maintain optimal performance while managing complexity through centralized control.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of processing a message in a relay network comprises determining if a destination node is within range; if the destination node is not in range, identifying one or more network member aircraft within range; selecting one of the one or more network member aircraft within range; authenticating membership of the selected network member aircraft if membership of the selected network member aircraft has not been previously authenticated; and transmitting the message to the selected network member aircraft in order to relay the message to the destination node at least in part via the selected network member aircraft.