Mission Aware Topology Control (MAToC) for Airborne Network

Real time topology management for the dynamic Airborne Network can result in lower interference, higher network capacity and fault-tolerance capability UtopiaCompression Corporation (UC) proposes a deliberative/reactive topology management solution that uses the knowledge of airborne network deployment mission and airborne node mobility. In addition to the advantages cited earlier, UC presents an architecture that promises low real-time computation overhead, graceful performance degradation, adaptive to traffic loading and resistance to jamming. The proposed Mission Aware Topology Control (MAToC) interacts with routing, link, MAC and physical layers for overall efficiency. MAToC uses computationally efficient convex optimization libraries for real-time operation. MAToC features a unique iterative power and channel optimization methodology that maximizes the worst case Signal to Interference Ratio (SINR) in the airborne network thus maximizing overall network capacity. Reactive MAToC is capable of repairing broken links in real-time. UC team has also designed an ad hoc flight plan exchange protocol that use omni-directional antennas. BENEFIT: UCs topology management technology will greatly benefit the Air Force by providing dynamic networking among MANET and terrestrial domains. Network topology management technology, such as that proposed by UC, will enable improved situational awareness to incident commanders and other relevant actors by allowing free flowing of information and intelligence such as navigational data, targets, and strike results among both manned and unmanned aircraft within both MANET and terrestrial domains. Consequently, the proposed technology will greatly increase the effectiveness of incident control and strike efforts, including improved time-to-response margins and accuracy by increasing the distribution and delivery of pertinent mission information and enable a seamless tactical network environment.  There is substantial need for UCs proposed technology in the commercial markets. Not only does the Air Force have a current need for the technology, shared by other military and intelligence divisions within the government, the technology proposed by UC also enables critical communication capabilities needed by agencies such as the FAA, NASA and others to meet their missions. UCs topology management technology would be a key enabler to efficient and effective airborne internet system deployment. The power and channel assignment algorithms can be used for commercial urban mesh networks. The proposed technology will benefit military and civilian avionics systems, enable automation platform expansions and enable commercial broadband internet applications, particularly airborne internet systems. All of these anticipated applications present attractive market opportunities for UCs technology.