Edge Module Coordination for Wideband Anti-Jam Modems
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of wideband anti-jam modems (WAMs) into existing Navy networks for satellite communication links is inefficient, as existing systems lack a method to effectively coordinate and distribute IP packets between multiple WAMs, leading to suboptimal communication and bandwidth utilization.
Innovation Solution
A method and program product that coordinate WAMs by determining the optimal WAM for packet transmission based on reachability and load balancing, using edge modules to encapsulate and forward IP packets across multiple WAMs, and implementing a ZOOM protocol for efficient communication over satellite links.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple WAMs are integrated into Navy networks for satellite communication, then communication capacity and reliability are improved, but system complexity and coordination difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces edge modules as intermediary devices between WAMs and the core network. These edge modules handle packet encapsulation, decapsulation, and routing decisions, thereby isolating the complexity of coordinating multiple WAMs from the core network while maintaining reliable communication. The edge modules act as mediators that translate between different network protocols and WAM-specific requirements.
2Productivity
If IP packets are distributed across multiple WAMs, then bandwidth utilization is improved, but packet routing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into distinct functional components: edge modules responsible for packet handling and WAM coordination, routers for core routing, and WAMs for satellite communication. This segmentation allows each component to focus on specific tasks, improving bandwidth utilization across multiple WAMs while reducing overall routing complexity through clear division of responsibilities.
Solution Approach 2:
Edge modules serve as intermediaries that simplify packet routing by handling encapsulation and WAM selection. They receive IP packets from routers, determine the appropriate WAM based on destination and load conditions, encapsulate packets in ZOOM protocol format, and forward them to the selected WAM. This intermediary layer abstracts the complexity of multi-WAM routing from the core network infrastructure.
3Productivity
If edge modules coordinate packet forwarding between multiple WAMs, then communication efficiency is improved, but processing overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The edge modules implement partial processing by only performing necessary encapsulation and routing operations for packets destined through satellite links. Packets that can be handled by traditional network routes bypass the WAM coordination process entirely. This partial action approach improves communication efficiency for satellite traffic while minimizing unnecessary processing overhead for other traffic types.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments for a method of coordinating wideband anti-jam modems (WAMs) are provided. The method includes receiving an IP packet at a first edge module from a router, wherein the router is configured with the first edge module as a default route. It is determined whether to send the information corresponding to the IP packet via a first WAM corresponding to the first edge module or via a second WAM corresponding to a second edge module. If the information is to be sent via the first WAM, information corresponding to the IP packet is forwarded to the first WAM. If the information is to be sent via the second WAM, the IP packet is encapsulated in a transfer packet for the second edge module corresponding to the second WAM and the transfer packet is sent to the router for forwarding to the second edge module corresponding to the second WAM.