Communication Protocols Research Articles

Fractional Order T–S Fuzzy Chaotic Models for Secure EEG Signal via a Wireless Communication Protocol Using a Disturbance Observer and Sliding Mode Control Technique

Fractional Order T–S Fuzzy Chaotic Models for Secure EEG Signal via a Wireless Communication Protocol Using a Disturbance Observer and Sliding Mode Control Technique

Retraction Note: Synchronous restoration of video key frame loss based on digital media communication protocol

Retraction Note: Synchronous restoration of video key frame loss based on digital media communication protocol

Communications and Data Science for the Success of Vehicle-to-Grid Technologies: Current State and Future Trends

Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology has emerged as a promising solution for enhancing the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into the electric grid, offering benefits, such as distributed energy resource (DER) integration, grid stability support, and peak demand management, among others, as well as environmental advantages. This study provides a comprehensive review of V2G systems, with a specific focus on the role of the communication, as they have been identified as key enablers, as well as the challenges that V2G must face. It begins by introducing the fundamentals of V2G systems, including their architecture, operation, and a description of the benefits for different sectors. It then delves into the communication technologies and protocols in V2G systems, highlighting the key requirements in achieving reliable and efficient communication between EVs and the different agents involved. A comprehensive review of communication standards is described, as well as the main communication technologies, which are evaluated in terms of their suitability for V2G applications. Furthermore, the study discusses the challenges and environmental implications of V2G technology, emphasizing the importance of addressing strong and reliable communications to maximize its potential benefits. Finally, future research directions and potential solutions for overcoming challenges in V2G systems are outlined, offering useful insights for researchers, policymakers, and administrations as well as related industry stakeholders.

Multi-channel polarization manipulation based on graphene for encryption communication

Wave-based cryptography, at the vanguard of advancing technologies in advanced information science, is essential for establishing a diverse array of secure cryptographic platforms. The realization of these platforms hinges on the intelligent application of multiplexing techniques, seamlessly combined with appropriate metasurface technology. Nevertheless, existing multi-channel encryption technologies based on metasurfaces face challenges related to information leakage during partial channel decoding processes. In this paper, we present a reprogrammable metasurface for polarization modulation. This metasurface not only allows for the arbitrary customization of linearly polarized reflected waves but also enables real-time amplitude modulation. Here, relying on polarization amplitude control, a fully secure communication protocol is developed precisely in the terahertz (THz) spectrum to achieve real-time information encryption based on polarization modulation metasurfaces where access to information is highly restricted. The proposed metasurface employs the double random phase encryption (DRPE) algorithm for information encryption. It transmits the encrypted data through different polarization channels using two graphene nanoribbons, exclusively controlled by external biasing conditions. Various encryption scenarios have been outlined to fortify information protection against potential eavesdroppers. The simulated results show that this unique technology for hiding images by manipulating the polarization of the reflected wave provides new opportunities for various applications, including encryption, THz communications, THz secure data storage, and imaging.

Lightweight Hash-Based Authentication Protocol for Smart Grids

Smart grids integrate information and communications technology into the processes of electricity production, transportation, and consumption, thereby enabling interactions between power suppliers and consumers to increase the efficiency of the power grid. To achieve this, smart meters (SMs) are installed in households or buildings to measure electricity usage and allow power suppliers or consumers to monitor and manage it in real time. However, SMs require a secure service to address malicious attacks during memory protection and communication processes and a lightweight communication protocol suitable for devices with computational and communication constraints. This paper proposes an authentication protocol based on a one-way hash function to address these issues. This protocol includes message authentication functions to address message tampering and uses a changing encryption key for secure communication during each transmission. The security and performance analysis of this protocol shows that it can address existing attacks and provides 105,281.67% better computational efficiency than previous methods.

Investigation of an LED Strip Controller Based on a PWM Driver and a PIC Series Microcontroller

Investigation of an LED Strip Controller Based on a PWM Driver and a PIC Series Microcontroller

A Review on Design and Verification of Programmable UART with AXI

A Review on Design and Verification of Programmable UART with AXI

Flexible Deployment of Machine Learning Inference Pipelines in the Cloud–Edge–IoT Continuum

Currently, deploying machine learning workloads in the Cloud–Edge–IoT continuum is challenging due to the wide variety of available hardware platforms, stringent performance requirements, and the heterogeneity of the workloads themselves. To alleviate this, a novel, flexible approach for machine learning inference is introduced, which is suitable for deployment in diverse environments—including edge devices. The proposed solution has a modular design and is compatible with a wide range of user-defined machine learning pipelines. To improve energy efficiency and scalability, a high-performance communication protocol for inference is propounded, along with a scale-out mechanism based on a load balancer. The inference service plugs into the ASSIST-IoT reference architecture, thus taking advantage of its other components. The solution was evaluated in two scenarios closely emulating real-life use cases, with demanding workloads and requirements constituting several different deployment scenarios. The results from the evaluation show that the proposed software meets the high throughput and low latency of inference requirements of the use cases while effectively adapting to the available hardware. The code and documentation, in addition to the data used in the evaluation, were open-sourced to foster adoption of the solution.

Power Hardware-in-the-Loop Smart Inverter Testing with Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems

The increasing integration of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) inverters and inverter-based resource (IBR) systems into the power grid emphasizes the critical need for standardized procedures to ensure their reliability and effective grid support functions. This research is driven by the gap in standardized testing methodologies for smart inverters, which are pivotal for the stability and quality of power in distributed energy systems. We used a Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) laboratory setup to conduct a comprehensive analysis of smart inverters within a simulated real-world grid environment. Our approach integrates a Distributed Energy Resource Management System (DERMS) with PHIL testing to evaluate the smart inverter’s performance across various operational modes. The detailed test protocols mimic real-world grid conditions, enabling the examination of the inverter’s dynamic response to grid disturbances, control strategies, and communication protocols. The primary aim of this study is to rigorously test and validate the primary functions of smart inverters, focusing on their impact on overall grid stability and power quality management. This includes advanced features like Volt–VAR, Volt–Watt, dynamic power factor control, and the seamless integration of smart inverters into DERMSs and Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADMSs). Furthermore, we aim to bridge the current gap in standardized testing procedures, contributing to the establishment of robust standards and operating protocols for smart inverter integration into the grid.

Implementing no-signaling correlations as a service

We deal with no-signaling correlations that include Bell-type quantum nonlocality. We consider a logical implementation using a trusted central server with encrypted connections to clients. We show that in this way it is possible to implement two-party no-signaling correlations in an asynchronous manner. While from the point of view of physics our approach can be considered as the computer emulation of the results of measurements on entangled particles, from the software engineering point of view it introduces a primitive in communication protocols that can be capable of coordinating agents without revealing the details of their actions. We present an actual implementation in the form of a Web-based application programming interface (RESTful Web API). We demonstrate the use of the API via the simple implementation of the Clauser–Horne–Shimony–Holt game.

ASMTP: Anonymous secure messaging token‐based protocol assisted data security in swarm of unmanned aerial vehicles

AbstractSwarm of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) broaden the field of application in various fields like military surveillance, crop monitoring in agriculture, combat operations, etc. Unfortunately, they are becoming increasingly susceptible to security attacks, such as jamming, information leakage and spoofing, as they become more common and in more demand. So, there is a wider need for UAVs, which requires the design of strong security procedures to fend off such attacks and security dangers. Even though several studies focused on security aspects, many questions remain unanswered, particularly in the areas of secure UAV‐to‐UAV communication, support for perfect forward secrecy and non‐repudiation. In a battle situation, it is extremely important to close these gaps. The security requirements for the UAV communication protocol in a military setting were the focus of this study. In this paper, we present the issues faced by the UAV swarm, especially during military surveillance operations. To secure the communication link in UAV, a new protocol for UAV Swarm communication is proposed with anonymous secure messaging token‐based protocol (ASMTP). The proposed protocol secures UAV‐to‐base station communication and safeguards the metadata of the sender and receiver nodes. The proposed model maintains the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data in the UAV Swarm and achieves robustness. In addition, it provides a different strategy for the cybersecurity gaps in the swarm of UAVs during military surveillance and combat operations.

Automated IoT Based Power Disconnection for unpaid Subscribers

This project presents an innovative solution leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) technology to automate the process of power disconnections for unpaid subscribers in utility services. The conventional method of manually disconnecting power for non-payment is not only inefficient but also poses operational challenges and risks. Our proposed system aims to address these issues by integrating IoT devices, billing systems, and automated disconnection protocols. Key features of the system include real-time monitoring of subscriber accounts, customizable disconnection thresholds, and secure communication protocols to safeguard sensitive data. Additionally, the system offers flexibility for utility providers to implement payment reminders and grace periods, enhancing customer engagement and satisfaction. Through simulations and prototype testing, we demonstrate the efficacy and reliability of our automated IoT-based power disconnection system. Our solution not only streamlines the disconnection process but also reduces operational costs, minimizes revenue losses due to non-payment, and enhances overall efficiency in utility management.

Quantum networks using counterfactual quantum communication

Counterfactual quantum communication is one of the most interesting facets of quantum communication, allowing two parties to communicate without any transmission of quantum or classical particles between the parties involved in the communication process. This aspect of quantum communication originates from the interaction-free measurements where the chained quantum Zeno effect plays an important role. Here, we propose a new counterfactual quantum communication protocol for transmitting an entangled state from a pair of electrons to two independent photons. Interestingly, the protocol proposed here shows that the counterfactual method can be employed to transfer information from house qubits to flying qubits. Following this, we show that the protocol finds uses in building quantum repeaters leading to a counterfactual quantum network, enabling counterfactual communication over a linear quantum network.

Probability‐guaranteed encoding–decoding‐based state estimation for delayed memristive neutral networks with event‐triggered mechanism

SummaryThis article handles the probability‐guaranteed state estimation problem for a class of nonlinear memristive neural networks (MNNs) by using an event‐triggered mechanism. Both time‐varying delays and incomplete measurements are considered in the MNNs dynamics. To mitigate the impact of limited communication bandwidth, a communication protocol is proposed that incorporates an encoding–decoding technique in addition to an event‐triggered scheme. The aim is to devise a state estimator that can estimate the states of MNNs, ensuring that the state estimation error falls within the required ellipsoidal area with a desired chance. We obtain sufficient conditions for the feasibility of the addressed problem, where the requested gains can be found iteratively by solving certain convex optimization problems. On the basis of the proposed framework, some issues are further presented to determine locally optimal estimator parameters according to different specifications. Finally, we utilize an illustrative numerical example to show the validity of our provided theoretical results.

HOME AUTOMATION SYSTEM

The project presents the development of an advanced home automation system aimed at revolutionizing residential living through smart technologies. Leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) principles, the system integrates various sensors, actuators, and communication protocols to enable remote monitoring and control of home appliances and devices. Through a user-friendly interface accessible via mobile or web platforms, homeowners can effortlessly manage their home environment, ensuring convenience, security, and energy efficiency. The project emphasizes scalability and interoperability, paving the way for future expansion and integration with emerging smart technologies. Key Words: Home Automation System, Internet of Things (IOT), Sensors, Actuators, Remote Monitoring

Security paradigms for IoT in telecom networks: Conceptual challenges and solution pathways

The concept paper explores the critical security challenges posed by the Internet of Things (IoT) in telecom networks and proposes solution pathways to address them. As IoT devices proliferate in telecom networks, they introduce new vulnerabilities and security threats that must be mitigated to ensure the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of network resources and data. The paper begins by highlighting the unique security challenges posed by IoT devices, including their large attack surface, resource constraints, and diverse communication protocols. These challenges are further exacerbated in telecom networks due to the scale and complexity of the infrastructure. To address these challenges, the paper proposes a multi-faceted approach that combines technical, organizational, and regulatory measures. Technical solutions include the use of secure communication protocols, device authentication mechanisms, and encryption techniques to protect data in transit and at rest. Organizational measures focus on improving security awareness and training among network operators and ensuring the secure development and deployment of IoT devices. Regulatory measures advocate for the implementation of standards and regulations that promote security and privacy in IoT deployments. The paper also discusses the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, including network operators, device manufacturers, and regulatory bodies, to address security challenges effectively. By working together, stakeholders can develop and implement best practices that enhance the security of IoT devices and telecom networks. In conclusion, the concept paper highlights the urgent need for robust security paradigms in IoT deployments within telecom networks. By implementing the proposed solution pathways and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, telecom networks can mitigate security risks and ensure the safe and secure deployment of IoT devices. Keywords: IoT, Telecom, Networks, Security.

A machine learning approach for package size estimation using UHF RFID interrogation signature

AbstractThis paper introduces a new approach for performing package classification and sizing using Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) systems. This technique is applicable when packages are labeled with or contain multiple RFID-tagged items. During the interrogation of the tags, received signal strength (RSS) statistics and other information, such as the frame count or the reading time, are collected by the reader and used to predict the package type from a set of candidate classes using an Artificial Neural Network (ANN). The primary challenge lies in acquiring sufficient training data for a target scenario to ensure reliable predictions. To address this, a two-phase training process based on transfer learning is adopted. Initially, a base model is developed using synthetic data generated from a detailed RFID simulator, designed to suit diverse scenarios, establish detailed link budgets, and comprehensively simulate the communication protocols. This model is then refined using a small dataset collected experimentally in the actual scenario. This method was validated in a real testbed with four different package types. The base model was trained using 1000 synthetic samples per package type (4000 in total), whereas the refined model was trained with a dataset consisting of only 25 real interrogation traces (samples) per package type (100 in total). The experimental samples were obtained using a software-defined radio unit, the Ettus B210 Universal Software Radio Peripheral (USRP) platform. This experiment achieved an accuracy of over 92%. In summary, this approach introduces a new feature to existing RFID setups, demonstrating potential for advanced package handling and cost optimization in the logistics sector.

Efficient and reliable post-quantum authentication

In this paper we propose a new lightweight authentication protocol which is efficient, reliable and, properly instantiated, suitable for the post-quantum world. It is a two-level protocol, which supports unbounded message transmission. It can be useful in several settings, from the standard sender-receiver setting, to unreliable multicast and broadcast communication in networks with resource-constrained devices. The key ideas underlying our design are mainly three: the hash-chaining method, some techniques used in MAC-based authentication protocols for multicast communication, and the use of the Guy Fawkes signatures. To our knowledge, our protocol is the first one that solves the unbounded number of message transmission issue in unreliable settings. It does not lose efficiency and introduces only a constant-size overhead in message transmission, compared to solutions assuming a bounded number of message transmissions. We rigorously model the adversarial setting and show that our protocol satisfies the definition, leveraging on standard assumptions. Apart from the technical contribution, along the line, we also point out the relevance of ideas and techniques developed in the past in the area of efficient authentication, in order to provide new authentication schemes, ready for the post-quantum world.

Realization of Authenticated One-Pass Key Establishment on RISC-V Micro-Controller for IoT Applications

Internet-of-things networks consist of multiple sensor devices spread over a wide area. In order to protect the data from unauthorized access and tampering, it is essential to ensure secure communication between the sensor devices and the central server. This security measure aims to guarantee authenticity, confidentiality, and data integrity. Unlike traditional computing systems, sensor node devices are often limited regarding memory and computing power. Lightweight communication protocols, such as LoRaWAN, were introduced to overcome these limitations. However, despite the lightweight feature, the protocol is vulnerable to different types of attacks. This proposal presents a highly secure key establishment protocol that combines two cryptography schemes: Elliptic Curve Qu–Vanstone and signcryption key encapsulation. The protocol provides a method to establish a secure channel that inherits the security properties of the two schemes. Also, it allows for fast rekeying with only one exchange message, significantly reducing the handshake complexity in low-bandwidth communication. In addition, the selected schemes complement each other and share the same mathematical operations in elliptic curve cryptography. Moreover, with the rise of a community-friendly platform like RISC-V, we implemented the protocol on a RISC-V system to evaluate its overheads regarding the cycle count and execution time.

Understanding referral of patients with cancer in rural Ethiopia: a qualitative study

BackgroundCancer incidence is increasing in Ethiopia mainly due to increased life expectancy, while oncological capacities remain limited. Strong referral linkages between different levels of the healthcare system are key to provide timely access to cancer care. In this qualitative study, we assessed limitations and potential of cancer patient referral in the rural Southwest of Ethiopia.MethodsWe held four focus group discussions (FGD) with health professionals at one primary and three secondary hospitals and conducted eight in-depth interviews (IDI) with the hospitals´ medical executives and local health bureau representatives. Data was analysed inductively using thematic analysis and emerging themes were categorized within the revised concept of access by Penchansky and Saurman.ResultsThe inevitable referral of patients with cancer in the rural Southwest of Ethiopia is characterized by the absence of clear communication protocols and the lack of formal referral linkages. The newly implemented hub-system has improved emergency referrals and could be expanded to non-emergency referrals, sensitive to the needs of advanced oncological care. Liaison officers can pave the way but need to be trained and equipped adequately. Referred patients struggle with inadequate transportation systems, the lack of accommodation close to specialized facilities as well as the inability to navigate at those sites due to language barriers, illiteracy, and stigmatization. Few Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) help but cannot compensate the limited governmental support. The shortage of medications at public hospitals leads to patients being directed to costly private pharmacies. In the light of those challenges, cancer remains to be perceived as a “death sentence” within the rural communities.ConclusionsStandardized referral linkages and a multi-faceted support network throughout the cancer care continuum are necessary to make oncology care accessible to Ethiopia´s large rural population.