Waseem Naqvi

A cross-layer communications substrate for tactical Information Management Systems

In this paper we introduce XLayer, a cross-layer communications substrate for tactical Information Management Systems which enable nodes on a radio network to seamlessly communicate with nodes on different heterogeneous networks. While conventional cross-layer strategies for tactical environments tend to focus on the localized optimization between neighbor layers of the communications stack, our approach focuses on the interface between middleware and the underlying communications infrastructure. The XLayer communications substrate leverages native information and services available at the tactical communications infrastructure to improve the functionally and capabilities of overlay applications and middleware. The XLayer also provides the necessary interfaces and mechanisms to enable application-driven requirements to parameterize and regulate the operation of the underlying communications infrastructure. After a brief description of the target environment and system requirements we will introduce the proposed design for the cross-layer communications substrate, highlighting specialized controllers and adaptors for communication interfaces and tactical radios. We will then introduce new cross-layer strategies for discovery, routing and transport targeted to Information Management System (IMS)-support, followed by our NS-2 simulation results, analysis, and conclusions.

An applied optimization framework for distributed air transportation environments

In a large-scale dynamic system with multiple distributed entities, each with their own set of interests, there is a need to find a globally acceptable and optimal solution state. This solution state is, by definition, efficient to all entities with respect to their own individual goals and to the system as a whole. In these dynamic environments, this solution state can be achieved by utilizing software techniques from the field of game theory in order to make optimal decisions. We present an application built upon a generalized optimization framework that can be applied to a number of domains, such as cargo or network traffic algorithms. In this research, we used a market-based approach to air traffic flow management through a modeling and simulation environment. The aim is to allow individual aircraft a certain degree of local autonomy, much like cars on a highway. Our system is able to cope in real time with failures such as node loss and adjust system parameters accordingly to optimize results based on the goals of the involved agents. We describe tradeoffs between different agent interaction frameworks with respect to their performance in market mechanism auctions. We also discuss lessons learned while implementing this application. This research has built upon our previously reported work [20, 21] on route optimizations and airspace sector design in an air traffic control network, by adding in the goals of interested entities, e.g. airlines, aircraft, and airports, maximizing the “payoff” to each player (agent). It is intended that the results of our work will be directly used in this domain. In addition, we envision our work being leveraged for other optimization tasks such as data traffic on a network, first responder / disaster relief efforts, and other tasks where rapid solving of large-scale optimization problems is essential.

Middleware for supporting content sharing in dynamic networks

This paper proposes a middleware architecture to enable seamless content sharing in highly dynamic networks, such as those involving a number of aerial unmanned autonomous vehicles (UAVs), which are characterized by constantly changing connectivity and network topology. The proposed middleware maintains up-to-date network status as well as metadata information about data objects in the network nodes, masking the content sharing applications from the network dynamics and faults. Mechanisms for node discovery, message passing and network management are developed. A strategy is also proposed for efficient replication to ensure availability of data in highly mobile environments. The middleware includes a message acknowledgement strategy that can be used on top of UDP for reliable communication in volatile wireless environments. Furthermore, the middleware supports database queries in changing networks. In the future, proposed middleware will be utilized for fault-tolerant database query processing.

Phenomenological scattering analysis of an RF Area Secure Perimeter

Surveillance of perimeters is essential, especially for critical infrastructure such as transportation hubs, power stations, chemical facilities and others. There are many approaches to perimeter surveillance, but most of these require large upfront investments. This investigation uses advanced electromagnetic modeling techniques with real human body geometries to establish the best set of detectable features using the Wireless Area Secure Perimeter (WASP) system geometry. Using the frequency, power level, network configuration, and antennas employed by WASP, predictions on limits to target recognition are presented, along with recommendations for system reconfiguration for improving target characterization.