Network Node Sustainable Rate Computation for Broadcast Traffic

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mobile ad-hoc networks face challenges in minimizing packet loss and delay, particularly in military applications, due to the lack of effective congestion control mechanisms and adaptive data transmission rates that align with varying network topologies and traffic levels.

Innovation Solution

A network node computes a sustainable data transmission rate by determining link capacities and the number of nodes sharing those capacities, comparing rates to identify the lowest value, and adjusting operations accordingly, enabling dynamic adaptation to network conditions with minimal overhead.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If network nodes transmit data at high rates to meet military application requirements, then productivity is improved, but packet loss and delay increase due to congestion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission rateVSAvoidpacket loss and delay
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic data rate adjustment by continuously monitoring network conditions (packet loss, delay, throughput) and adapting the transmission rate accordingly. The system transitions from static to dynamic rate control, allowing the network to optimize performance in real-time based on current congestion levels and link conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms where network nodes monitor transmission performance metrics (packet loss rate, delay, throughput) and use this information to adjust their data transmission rates. The feedback loop enables continuous optimization by comparing actual performance against targets and modifying transmission behavior to achieve desired outcomes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If network nodes implement congestion control mechanisms to reduce packet loss, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional control overhead

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepacket loss reductionVSAvoidcongestion control mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes key operational parameters (data transmission rate, target throughput, packet loss rate thresholds) dynamically based on network conditions rather than using fixed values. This allows the system to adapt to varying congestion levels and link qualities without requiring complex control algorithms, simplifying the overall mechanism while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables network nodes to autonomously adjust their transmission rates based on locally observed performance metrics without requiring centralized control or complex coordination with other nodes. Each node independently monitors its own transmission outcomes and self-adjusts parameters, reducing overall system complexity while achieving reliable packet delivery.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If network nodes use fixed data transmission rates as advised by the network, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability to varying network conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission rate configurationVSAvoidadaptation to network conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the static data rate configuration into a dynamic parameter that automatically adjusts based on real-time network conditions. Instead of relying on fixed rates advised by the network, nodes continuously monitor performance metrics and adapt their transmission rates, maintaining ease of operation while achieving superior adaptability to changing network topologies and traffic patterns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3742686B1Computing a sustainable rate for broadcast traffic in a network
Publication Date: 2023.05.10 L3HARRIS GLOBAL COMMUNICATIONS INC
  • EP3742686B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3742686B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3742686B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Systems and methods for operating a network. The methods comprise: determining, by a first network node, a capacity of each communications link of a plurality of communications links on which the first network node is able to receive data from second network nodes; determining, by the first network node, a total number of network nodes that share the capacity of each said communications link of the plurality of communications links; computing, by the first network node, first data transmission rates for the plurality of communications links using the capacities and the total numbers of network nodes, respectively; comparing, by the first network node, the first data transmission rates to each other to determine which data transmission rate has a lowest value; and/or performing communication operations by the first network node in accordance with the data transmission rate determined to have the lowest value of the first data transmission rates.