Autonomic Logistics Tactical Logistics Data Communcation Network

The IEEE 802.15.4 standard specifies a low rate, spread spectrum, wireless sensor networking technology. Many commercial vendors have begun to develop low cost RF transceivers based on this standard, due to its robust, mesh networking capability. Building on this foundation, the ZigBee industry alliance has been working towards dynamic, self-organizing, scalable mesh networking algorithms based on the 802.15.4 transceivers. Leveraging this rapidly emerging commercial technology, Oberon proposes to investigate the use of 802.15.4 standard compliant components to develop autonomic logistics nodes that have the capability for robust, self-organizing, dynamic, scalable communications in a tactical environment. As shall be discussed, the 802.15.4 technology basis is far better suited than 802.11 (Wi-Fi) or 802.16 (Wi-Max) networking technology due to its intrinsic, standards based meshing capability, native low duty cycle synchronization, and superior RF propagation properties. However, opportunities abound to improve an open architecture for node synchronization, node discovery, self-organization, and in-transit visibility of supporting logistics to a central operations vehicle. Oberon proposes to collaborate with researchers from Penn State University’s Department of Supply Chain and Information Systems/ Marine Corps Logistics Education Program to codify specific requirements for the autonomic logistics system, which can leverage advances in commercially based, advanced 802.15.4 transceiver technology.