Next Hop Selection for Moveable Communication Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing packet routing solutions fail to determine optimal routing of packets in networks that use moveable communication devices, such as UAVs, leading to inefficient data transmission.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for selecting a next hop for a data packet by determining a volume between a first communication device and a destination node, identifying moveable communication devices within this volume, and choosing one as the next hop based on current and predicted positions, velocities, and link quality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If existing packet routing solutions are used in networks with moveable communication devices, then the routing can be established, but the data transmission efficiency is poor and latency is high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission efficiencyVSAvoidlatency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by determining the three-dimensional volume between the source and destination nodes before routing data packets. This volume determination is done in advance to identify suitable moveable communication devices that can serve as next hops, enabling proactive routing decisions rather than reactive ones, thus reducing latency and improving transmission efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the routing parameter from traditional two-dimensional flat routing to three-dimensional volume-based routing. By considering the spatial volume between nodes and selecting moveable devices within this volume based on their positions, velocities, and link qualities, the system optimizes transmission paths dynamically, thereby improving productivity and reducing time loss

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If moveable communication devices are used for routing, then routing flexibility is improved, but determining optimal next hops becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverouting flexibilityVSAvoidnext hop selection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies local quality by evaluating moveable communication devices based on their specific local characteristics within the three-dimensional volume. Each device is assessed according to its position, velocity, and link quality metrics, allowing the selection of the most suitable next hop for each specific routing scenario. This localized evaluation approach maintains routing flexibility while managing complexity through focused, context-specific assessments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS12309681B2Selecting a next hop for a data packet
Publication Date: 2025.05.20 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US12309681B2 patent drawing
  • US12309681B2 patent drawing
  • US12309681B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and apparatus are provided for selecting a next hop for a data packet. In one aspect, a method in a first node of selecting a next hop for a data packet includes determining a volume that is at least partially located between a first communication device and a destination node of the data packet, determining at least one moveable communication device located within the volume, and selecting one of the at least one moveable communication device as a next hop for the data packet after the first communication device.