Flexible Matrix FEC for Dynamic Wireless Data Rates

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional Forward Error Correction (FEC) techniques are inadequate for handling dynamic input data rates in satellite communication systems, leading to inefficiencies and increased errors due to varying data transmission rates.

Innovation Solution

A flexible matrix-based FEC method that dynamically adjusts to varying data rates by forming rows based on arrival times of data blocks, computing random and burst parity blocks using XOR operations, and transmitting these blocks over a wireless channel to correct errors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional FEC techniques are used, then error correction is provided, but the system cannot adapt to dynamic input data rates leading to inefficiencies and increased errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to dynamic data ratesVSAvoiderror correction effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic FEC system where the flexible matrix continuously adapts its structure to varying data rates. Data blocks are organized into rows based on their arrival times, and the matrix dynamically adjusts the number of rows and columns as data arrives or is lost. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to maintain optimal error correction performance across different data rate conditions, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes key parameters of the FEC structure based on real-time conditions. The flexible matrix modifies its dimensions (number of rows and columns), the timing of parity block computations, and the organization of data blocks according to actual data arrival patterns. These parameter changes enable the system to adapt to dynamic data rates while maintaining reliable error correction, as the structure optimizes itself for current operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If data blocks are organized in fixed structure, then processing is simplified, but the system cannot handle varying data arrival times efficiently

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata processing efficiencyVSAvoidflexible matrix structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments data blocks into discrete units that are organized into a flexible matrix structure. Each data block is treated as an independent element that can be positioned in the matrix based on its arrival time. This segmentation allows the system to process data in manageable units while maintaining flexibility in the overall structure, improving productivity without excessive complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The flexible matrix serves multiple functions: it organizes data blocks by arrival time, determines when parity blocks should be computed, handles variable data rates, and provides the framework for both random and burst error correction. This multi-functionality improves processing efficiency by consolidating multiple tasks into a single flexible structure, while the systematic approach keeps complexity manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If parity blocks are computed frequently, then error correction capability is enhanced, but transmission overhead and processing time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror correction capabilityVSAvoidprocessing and transmission time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary organization of data blocks into the flexible matrix structure based on arrival times before parity computation. This preliminary action allows the system to determine the optimal timing for parity block computation in advance, ensuring that parity blocks are generated at the most efficient moments. This approach enhances error correction capability while minimizing processing and transmission time by avoiding unnecessary intermediate computations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The flexible matrix system employs periodic computation of parity blocks based on the accumulation of data blocks in the matrix. Rather than computing parity continuously or at fixed intervals, the system computes parity periodically when sufficient data blocks have accumulated or when specific conditions are met. This periodic action optimizes the balance between error correction capability and processing time, ensuring reliable correction without excessive overhead.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS12489559B2Forward error correction with flexible matrix for dynamic input data rate
Publication Date: 2025.12.02 KRATOS INTEGRAL HOLDINGS LLC
  • US12489559B2 patent drawing
  • US12489559B2 patent drawing
  • US12489559B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Described herein are systems, methods, and other techniques for performing forward error correction in a communication system. A set of data blocks to be transmitted over a wireless channel are received. Rows of a flexible matrix are formed using the set of data blocks based on arrival times of the set of data blocks, each of the rows corresponding to a different time window. A set of random parity blocks are computed by performing row-wise parity operations on the flexible matrix. A set of burst parity blocks are computed by performing column-wise parity operations on the flexible matrix in accordance with a burst parity computation scheme. The set of data blocks, the set of random parity blocks, and the set of burst parity blocks are transmitted over the wireless channel to a receiver.