Software for Mobile Data-Communication Networks

Sunday, December 01 2002 Mobile Router is operating system code residing in a network router allowing the router to provide mobile-ipv4 functionality for any attached nodes. Mobile Router enables the entire network to roam. It is no longer necessary for every node in the network to run mobile Internet Protocol (IP) software because Mobile Router provides this function. In addition, Mobile Router eliminates the need to reconfigure a router as it moves from one network to another network, even across network domains. For example, Mobile Router enables communication with aircraft via the lnternet and/or intranets. Information as weather data, air-traffic control messages, voice communications, and images could be transmitted to aircraft easily and inexpensively by use of Internet protocols. As another example, data-communication nodes running Mobile Router could be incorporated into ambulances to provide real-time data communications with hospitals and medical experts. Commercial applications could include the provision of mobile Internet connections for cargo and cruise ships, tour buses, passenger aircraft, and automobiles.

This program was written by Kent Lueng and the Cisco Systems mobile networking Internetworking Operating Systems (IOS) team. Daniel Shell of Cisco Systems and William D. lvancic and the advanced networking research team at Glenn Research Center performed the early field trials and tested, fielded, and provided much needed feedback for the development of features and functions needed for mobile networking. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free on-line at www.nasatech.com/tsp under the Software category.

Inquiries concerning rights for the commercial use of this invention should be addressed to NASA Glenn Research Center, Commercial Technology Office, Attn: Steve Fedor, Mail Stop 4—8, 21000 Brookpark Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44135. Refer to LEW-17322.