Cross-layer self-healing for mobile ad-hoc networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-healing protocols for mobile ad-hoc wireless networks are ineffective due to their wired network origins and the high cost and impracticality of redundant hardware solutions, failing to handle dynamic topology changes and unreachable data packet destinations effectively.
Innovation Solution
Implementing cross-layer self-healing techniques that store and utilize network data from one layer to modify another, using a management module to adjust transmission power and reroute data packets through a table of interchangeable nodes, maintaining layered networking benefits while improving response time and reducing overhead.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If redundant hardware systems are used for self-healing, then reliability is improved, but cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of network nodes through the interchangeable node table, allowing any node to substitute for another. This software-based copying replaces the need for expensive redundant hardware, achieving high availability without physical duplication of equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables autonomous self-healing by automatically detecting node failures and rerouting traffic through the interchangeable node table without human intervention. The management module autonomously manages the replacement process, eliminating the need for manual configuration or external control.
2Ease of manufacture
If wired network protocols are used for self-healing, then implementation is simplified, but adaptability to wireless dynamics is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic topology adaptation by continuously updating the interchangeable node table to reflect current network conditions. The system adapts to mobile nodes, link failures, and topology changes in real-time, maintaining effectiveness in dynamic wireless environments unlike static wired protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The interchangeable node table serves multiple functions: it stores node replacement information, enables automatic rerouting, and adapts to various network conditions. This multi-functional approach simplifies implementation while providing robust adaptability to wireless network dynamics.
3Loss of time
If cross-layer self-healing is implemented, then response time is improved, but layer interaction complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The management module acts as an intermediary between different protocol layers, coordinating self-healing operations without requiring direct complex interactions between layers. It centralizes the complexity management while enabling fast cross-layer response through standardized interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method and apparatus for improved self-healing in a mobile ad-hoc wireless network in which network communication functions are divided into a plurality of functional layers. The system utilizes cross-layer self-healing techniques. Network data from at least one of the functional layers is stored, for example in a storage unit of the network node. The stored network data is then used to modify the functioning of at least one of the other layers. In one embodiment, a management module manages the storage and use of the network data. In particular embodiments, the stored network data relates to successful transmission rates and/or clear channel rates, and this stored data is used to adjust the transmission power of the network node. In another embodiment, the stored data may be used to generate a table of interchangeable network nodes, which may then be used to reroute a data packet to a network node other than an originally specified destination node. In yet another embodiment, the stored data may be used to generate a list of recent neighbor nodes, which data may be used to reroute data packets to intermediate network nodes.