Spread ALOHA- Broadband Connection-Free Data Networks

The technical objective of this project is the preliminary design of a small, low power, low cost packet radio wireless inventory (WI) transmitter which can be affixed to or embedded in individual inventory items or groups of smaller, less expensive items to provide tracking and inventory capabilities well beyond those now available. Two key features should be present in any comprehensive solution proposed for the wireless inventory problem. First, the transmitters must be small and inexpensive so they can be used for large numbers of items. Second, the transmitters should be able to transmit low power packets over a common multiple access communication channel capable of supporting extremely large numbers of transmitters. We plan to use a variation of the new Spread ALOHA protocol to provide a multople access capability which satisifies both these constraints. The wireless inventory network will provide high packet throughput for tens of millions of packet transmitters into a single hub station. The transmitters can be attached or embedded into inventory, supplies and equipment for both tracking and for inventory control. The WI network designed in Phase I of this SBIR project will be built in Phase II of the project. Anticipated Benefits: The wireless inventory network described in this proposal can be used for the continuing procurement, distribution, storage and replacement of material required for the maintenance of military readiness. It can increase the efficiency and effectiveness of logistical operations for the digital battlefield. Similar systems can make it practical to operate large scale wireless inventory networks for the automobile industry.