Communication Solutions Research Articles

60-GHz Millimeter-Wave over Visible Light Communications for Downlink Wireless Networks

Background and Objective: In this paper, we address potential solution for downlink wireless communications by integrating visible light communications (VLC) with the broadband radio frequency (RF) networks operating at 60 GHz-millimeter wave (mmWave) band. For this hybrid design, the outdoor 60 GHz-mmWave based RF link is utilized to ensure backhaul connectivity for VLC indoor system, while the VLC exploiting the lighting infrastructure that essentially used LEDs as optical source to provide low-cost and high-speed data access. Methods: The hybrid 60 GHz-mmWave/VLC system is analyzed by using 16-QAM OFDM signal, and its performance is investigated by evaluating the signal to noise ratio (SNR) and the received signal power distributions, for regular placement of LEDs and random location of receivers within the room. The impact of the transmitter-receiver parameters, and their orientations and directivities are also considered. Results: Numerical results show the efficiency of the proposed system, which can retransmit RF signals at 60 GHz-mmWave band using visible optical carriers in the indoor environment. Conclusion: The results suggest that the hybrid 60 GHz-mmWave/VLC system is able to provide reliable wireless data transmission, making it an attractive solution for downlink indoor communications.

An efficient certificateless anonymous signcryption communication scheme for vehicular adhoc network

Certificateless public key infrastructure (PKI) avoids the key escrow problem associated with identity-based PKI and has recently been widely employed in anonymous communication schemes for vehicular adhoc networks (VANETs). In existing certificateless anonymous signcryption schemes for VANETs, vulnerabilities such as potential attacks involving the substitution of pseudonyms and the forging of pseudonymous public-private key pairs exist due to the lack of “identity-key binding” and “non-linearity processing of public-private key pairs.” To address this issue, we propose an improved certificateless anonymous signcryption scheme based on elliptic curve cryptography. The scheme incorporates bilinear pairing as one of the authentication mechanisms, designs pseudonym generation algorithms and public-private key pair structures, and introduces a pseudonym verification mechanism. The correctness of the scheme is proven under the random oracle model, and its security is extensively demonstrated through detailed discussions on its confidentiality, authentication, unforgeability, anonymity, and traceability. Furthermore, the time and space complexity of the scheme are calculated. By comparing with recently published certificateless signcryption schemes, it is shown that the proposed scheme offers higher security with smaller computational and communication overheads. This certificateless vehicular network signcryption algorithm provides an efficient encryption solution for anonymous communication in vehicular networks, thereby ensuring the rapid development of secure technology for intelligent connected vehicle super terminals.

Short range optical communication with GaN‐on‐Si microLED and microPD matrices

Abstract(In)GaN microLEDs have reached a high degree of maturity due to their development in the lighting industry. Their robustness and high efficiency make them ideal candidates for high‐brightness, high‐resolution micro‐displays. Beyond display applications, microLEDs are being explored for non‐display uses, including wireless Visible Light Communication (VLC) and parallel communication via multicore fiber. This study investigates short‐range chip‐to‐chip optical communication using InGaN/GaN microLEDs and micro Photodiodes (microPDs). Leveraging processes developed for micro‐displays, we address the challenges of integrating GaN microLEDs and microPDs on ASICs. We outline the main figures of merit, including expected energy efficiency, optical coupling to multicore fibers or waveguides, and the spectral efficiency of InGaN/GaN microPDs correlated with TCAD simulation and experimental transmission results. Our study highlights the potential of GaN microLEDs and microPDs for massively parallel, energy‐efficient data transmission, paving the way for innovative short‐range and energy‐efficient optical communication solutions.

A Secure and Decentralized Using Blockchain and Ring‐Based Cryptosystem

ABSTRACTThe advancement of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITSs) and the Internet of Vehicles (IoVs) introduces significant security challenges, particularly in ensuring secure communication between vehicles and vehicles (V2V), vehicles and Road Side Units (V2RSU). These vulnerabilities could potentially compromise the integrity of vehicular networks, making robust security measures essential. This paper aims to develop a secure communication framework for IoV environments that addresses these security concerns by enhancing authentication and encryption processes. The proposed approach combines the Ring‐Based Degree Truncated Polynomial Cryptosystem (RNTPC) with a Blockchain framework incorporating an enhanced proof‐of‐authentication (BEPoAuth) consensus algorithm. The approach is initiated from the registration phase and managed by a Trusted Authority (TA), ensuring secure vehicle and RSU registration. Authentication is carried out in two ways: V2V authentication through vehicle signatures and V2RSU authentication via batch verification of cluster members. Group keys are generated using RNTPC for secure communication, and blockchain technology is integrated to secure transactions within the IoV environment. The proposed methodology is evaluated using various performance metrics, demonstrating a 15%–20% improvement in throughput compared to existing techniques such as Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance (PBFT), Secure and Highly Efficient Blockchain PBFT Consensus Algorithm (SG‐PBFT), credit‐based PBFT consensus algorithm (CPBFT) and Geographic‐PBFT (G‐PBFT). The system also exhibited minimal computational and communication latency while enhancing V2V and V2RSU communication efficiency. The RNTPC‐BEPoAuth framework offers a robust and secure solution for IoV communications, significantly outperforming existing methods in terms of throughput and efficiency. This approach provides a reliable foundation for secure ITSs, addressing critical security concerns in vehicular networks.

Communication barriers to optimal access to emergency rooms according to deaf and hard-of-hearing patients and health care workers: A mixed-methods study.

This study aimed to identify communication barriers between health care workers (HCWs) and deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) patients. Both perspectives are offered to provide a comprehensive understanding. Two consecutive studies were conducted from 2018 to 2021. Study 1 comprised mixed methods, employing a cross-sectional survey (n = 288) and in-depth interviews (n = 9) with DHH participants, utilizing accessible tools including sign language. Study 2 involved a cross-sectional survey of health care emergency workers without hearing loss (N = 391). The perceived self-efficacy of DHH patients, and not their hearing loss, was linked with their ability to communicate independently with HCWs. No significant differences in successful communication with these providers were found vis-à-vis mode of communication utilized (sign language, writing, interpreter, etc.). In the qualitative findings, DHH patients noted two urgent care barriers: HCWs' communication unfamiliarity and patients' communication accessibility issues. Quantitative findings indicated a main barrier: difficulties in communicating with HCWs in general (57%) and specifically in the emergency room (ER; 65%). Only 28.8% reported being able to independently communicate with ER staff. Health care providers were not familiar with effective communication strategies when treating these patients. Respondents indicating that communication was not a barrier to care were mainly administrative staff (54.55%), compared to nurses (32.74%) and physicians (22.58%). Communication solutions are needed to improve access to health services, especially in emergencies. Providing medical staff training on effective communication strategies with these patients could simplify interactions and reduce the reliance on hearing family members, potentially improving medical care. Implementing a communication policy for frontline staff, along with the use of visual aids, is crucial. Health care professionals may not realize that small changes can greatly improve communication with DHH patients.

Machine learning for predictive AAC: Improving speech and gesture-based communication systems

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems play a crucial role in supporting individuals with severe communication disabilities by providing accessible means of expression and engagement. However, many conventional AAC devices rely on manual input or basic predictive functions, which can limit communication efficiency and responsiveness. The application of machine learning (ML) to AAC offers new opportunities to enhance these systems, enabling them to provide faster, more accurate, and contextually relevant communication assistance. Advances in ML, particularly in predictive text, speech recognition, and gesture interpretation, allow AAC systems to adapt more intuitively to user needs, predicting intent based on usage patterns and multimodal data, such as voice and gestures. Current research highlights the potential of ML to address key gaps in AAC technology by creating more responsive, personalized systems that align with individual user behaviours. This study proposes a novel ML framework designed to integrate these capabilities, promising improvements in communication speed, user autonomy, and accuracy. By addressing the challenges and limitations of traditional AAC devices, this research aims to advance accessible communication solutions that empower users and improve quality of life.

In-Depth Development of a Versatile Rumen Bolus Sensor for Dairy Cattle.

Precision agriculture and the increasing automation efforts in animal husbandry requires continuous and complex monitoring of the animals. Rumen bolus sensors, which are cutting-edge pieces of technology and a rapidly developing research field, present an exceptional opportunity for monitoring the health status, physiological parameters, and estrus of the animals. The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of the development process of a new sensor development. We address the issues of conceptual design, an overview of applicable sensor modalities, mechanical design, power supply design, applicable hardware solutions, applicable communication solutions and finally the sensor detection algorithms proved in field tests. In conclusion, we present a summary of the current opportunities in the field and provide an analysis of the foreseeable trends.

Split ring resonators and composite FR4 substrate for analysis and design of tri-band monopole antenna

This paper presents the design, optimization, and analysis of a tri-band monopole antenna tailored for wireless communication, constructed with a composite FR4 substrate and incorporating split ring resonators (SRRs). The antenna is fabricated on a 19-mm-wide, 31-mm-long FR4 substrate featuring a ground structure integrated with SRRs. Through parameter analysis and optimization, the antenna achieves resonance at 2.3, 4.8, and 7 GHz, catering to diverse wireless communication standards. The use of composite FR4 material ensures enhanced performance. Post-fabrication measurements reveal that the antenna's s11, gain, directivity, and E-plane and H-plane patterns are consistent with simulations. Its compact size, stable radiation patterns, dual-band functionality, excellent impedance matching, and wide bandwidth make it ideal for the industrial, scientific, and medical sectors, as well as other wireless communication applications. This study marks a significant step forward in multi-band antenna technology using composite materials, offering promising solutions for future wireless communication needs.

Strategic Communication and Socio-Ecological Imperatives for Re-Marketing the Nigerian Brand

The thrust of this paper is to examine select factors within the social and ecological realms that are attributed to the image crises of Nigeria and to proffer sustainable strategic communication solutions to re-marketing the nation as a brand. The de-marketing process of the brand Nigeria is a function of some obvious factors like corruption, bribery, ethnicity, communal and ethno-religious clashes. Consequently, almost everything ‘Nigerian’, whether human beings or products, is questioned or received with greater comparative scepticism, especially within the international community. Nigeria is no doubt in dire need of a corporate reformation and a review of the nation’s socio-ecological posture and experience will offer a headway for the re-marketing of the brand. This paper adopts the analytical methods for the review of strategic communication and the Socio-Ecological Model, using selected scenarios in Nigeria as units of analysis. Findings reveal that Nigeria’s albatross as an unattractive brand is the moral decadence of her citizens occasioned by a lack of adequate information of citizens, absence of motivation and ability to act, and the inherent norms that the people live with. This has thwarted the nation’s (re)branding management efforts. This paper recommends that the Federal government of Nigeria should re-orient her citizens from the now youngest generation and re-order her communication architecture to communicate a renewed Nigerian brand that will help the nation’s image to be attractive for a convincing patronage within the international market.

Implementation of AES-256 Algorithm for Encryption on Chatting Platforms

This research aims to design and build a web-based corporate chat media using prototype methodology and AES (Advanced et al.) algorithm for data encryption. The platform has been developed with MERN technology (MongoDB et al.), which allows the application to be dynamic and responsive. Prototype methodology is used for iterative development based on user feedback, ensuring the application meets user needs. The AES algorithm is applied to maintain the confidentiality and security of each message sent and received. The results show that the application effectively provides efficient and secure communication for the company, with an intuitive and easy-to-use interface. Implementing MERN technology provides flexibility in the development and maintenance of the application, making it the right solution for corporate communication needs.

DMPC-based control solution for mobile robots platoon based on ZigBee communication

The integration of mobile robots into various applications, operating collaboratively in groups known as platoons, presents challenges in communication, control, and synchronization. This paper introduces a control solution for mobile robot platoons based on a DMPC algorithm and the ZigBee protocol for V2V communication. This communication standard was selected for its low power consumption, cost-effectiveness, and reliable data transmission over short distances. Furthermore, a testbed and methodology for the experimental evaluation of the proposed control solution were developed. The results demonstrate the efficacy and feasibility of the proposed control and communication solutions.

Non-coherent short-packet communications: Novel z-domain user multiplexing

In the evolution of fifth generation (5G) and beyond wireless communication systems, non-coherent (NC) short packet communication (SPC) is crucial for achieving ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC). Frame design, latency, and reliability are some of the challenges associated with short-packet communication. Recently, to address these challenges, a novel modulation scheme known as modulation on conjugate-reciprocal zeros (MOCZ) has been proposed. MOCZ modulates information on conjugate reciprocal zeros in the z-domain, thereby eliminating the need for channel estimation and providing a robust solution for NC communication. However, in multi-user MOCZ (MU-MOCZ) scheme, adding guard intervals to each short packet to mitigate channel impact remains an issue, as it increases the transmission time and consequently reduces efficiency. To address the aforementioned problem, this paper introduces a novel frame design approach called z-domain user multiplexing MOCZ (ZDUM-MOCZ or ZDM-MOCZ). Unlike traditional time division multiplexing (TDM), which serves users consecutively in the time domain, this method multiplexes users in the z-domain. In this approach, each user is allocated a specific set of zeros in the z-domain, which collectively form a unique sequence in the time domain. The findings illustrate the potential for reduced latency in downlink transmission, highlighting the benefits of this novel methodology over conventional MU-MOCZ method. The proposed ZDUM-MOCZ scheme not only addresses the existing issues in the frame design of the MU-MOCZ scheme but also facilitates more efficient and reliable short packet communication in 5G and beyond wireless systems.

Night time Surveillance in Communication Using YOLOv3

Nighttime surveillance presents significant challenges due to low visibility, varying lighting conditions, and interference from artificial light sources. Hence, this study proposed an effective object detection framework using the YOLOv3 model to enhance real-time monitoring in night surveillance applications, specifically within communication and security systems. YOLOv3's architecture, with its multi-scale detection and use of predefined anchor boxes, enables robust detection of objects under low-light environments and amidst light interference from vehicles and streetlights. The proposed system is tested on a night surveillance dataset, where it demonstrates high precision and speed in identifying objects, making it suitable for real-time applications. With Mean Average Precision (mAP) 87.9%, YOLOv3 effectively balances detection accuracy with inference time, ensuring minimal latency in live surveillance feeds. The results indicate that YOLOv3 outperforms traditional models such as Faster RCNN, particularly in detecting small objects under poor illumination. This approach offers a reliable solution for enhancing communication and security systems in nighttime surveillance scenarios.

A High-Gain, High-Efficiency Transparent and Flexible Antenna for Vehicular Communication

A high-gain high-efficiency flexible and transparent film antenna in millimeter-wave is proposed in this paper. Comb structure which can be regarded as developed from the grid array structure is employed to mitigate the loss of the feeding network caused by the lossy metal mesh. The gain of the antenna has low sensitivity to the sheet resistance, which is promising in developing large-scale and high-performance transparent antenna. A large-scale ([Formula: see text]@28[Formula: see text]GHz) antenna is designed and fabricated using transparent metal mesh film with sheet resistance of 0.1[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]/sq and a thin PET film substrate. Bending measurement shows the antenna has excellent mechanical flexibility. A peak gain of 15.92[Formula: see text]dBi, radiation efficiency of 65.1%, optical transparency of 84% and 1,000-times bending are obtained. To the best of our knowledge, it is the highest gain and radiation efficiency flexible-transparent antenna reported thus far, which provides a glass-integrated antenna solution for vehicular communication.

A novel method for reducing the effect of doppler frequency shift in high-speed railway mobile communication using machine learning

Currently, high-speed railway systems are rapidly expanding worldwide, necessitating reliable and efficient mobile communication solutions. However, the Doppler frequency shift caused by the high speeds of trains presents significant challenges to communication systems, particularly those using OFDM in LTE. This paper presents a novel for Doppler frequency compensation in high-speed railway communication based on the results of estimating the train's velocity using machine learning algorithms. By leveraging advanced algorithm such as neural networks, our method dynamically predicts and compensates for Doppler shifts in real-time. In this proposed novel, the Doppler frequency value is calculated based on the actual train’s velocity and the scenario of a high-speed railway, then the Doppler frequency is used to compensate the carrier frequency offset (CFO) directly at the Access Point (AP) device on the train. We conduct simulations to evaluate the effectiveness of our proposed solution in a high-speed railway scenario. The results demonstrate a marked improvement in communication reliability and data integrity, highlighting the potential of machine learning to enhance the performance of mobile communication systems in high-speed railways. The results of the proposed model are evaluated based on the system’s bit error rate BER after the CFO compensation decreases and the ratio of average energy per bit (Eb) to noise power density (N0) (Eb/N0) increases. This shows that the proposed solution works effectively and reduces the system’s bit errors while improving the communication performance. This study opens new avenues for integrating intelligent systems in transportation networks, ensuring seamless connectivity, and improving passenger experience

WP6.12 - What the bleep? Have we finally found a solution to the bleep system?: Exploring the efficacy of a WhatsApp-style messaging system as an alternative to traditional bleeps in the healthcare setting

Abstract Aims Traditionally, bleeps have been integral to the role of a doctor. A pre-pandemic study estimated that more than 10% of the world’s bleeps are currently being used by the NHS. However, in response to the 2021 directive by the health secretary to phase out bleeps within NHS England, new approaches to communication in healthcare are being implemented. One of these is Alertive, a WhatsApp-style messaging system. This study utilises a quality improvement approach to determine the efficacy of Alertive in conveying messages as a replacement for bleeps, and to investigate the reasons behind its perceived poor uptake. Methods A ten-day evaluation of the uptake of 15 distinct Alertive roles within the surgical department, accompanied by a satisfaction survey circulated among departmental juniors. Results The survey findings revealed a prevailing consensus among users endorsing the efficacy and superiority of Alertive as a concept over the previous bleep system. However, user-reported constraints related to functionality and application logistics. These have been identified as sources of frustration and thereby impeding the broader utilisation and efficacy of Alertive. Conclusion Effective multi-disciplinary communication is imperative in a hospital setting. While Alertive presents a potential alternative to traditional bleeps, challenges such as poor role uptake and communication appropriateness persist and represent significant barriers to full integration and staff satisfaction. Role uptake is variable with some surgical teams having better compliance than others. While users report that the concept of Alertive is beneficial, no single communication system has been identified as being superior, emphasising the ongoing need for solutions in healthcare communication.

Advanced error correction method for quantum key distribution in IoT systems

The secure distribution of keys is essential to ensuring the privacy and integrity of data in Internet of Things (IoT) systems. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) protocols, such as BB84, use principles from quantum mechanics to establish secure communication channels. However, errors that occur during the transmission of qubits can compromise the reliability of the shared key. This paper presents a new method for error correction that integrates Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) into the BB84 protocol for QKD in IoT systems. By harnessing the exceptional pattern recognition capabilities of CNNs, our approach learns hierarchical representations from preprocessed quantum channel data to effectively identify and correct errors. Extensive simulations demonstrate the high performance of our CNN-based method in reducing the Quantum Bit Error Rate (QBER). This contribution significantly enhances the security and reliability of key distribution, offering a promising solution for robust quantum communication in IoT environments.

An Energy Efficient Transmission Mechanism based on Optimal Relay Distance for Underwater Acoustic Sensor Networks

Abstract Due to the limited resources and energy of communication in underwater acoustic sensor network (UASN), there are many challenges in designing energy-efficient and reliable media access control (MAC) protocols for UASN. This paper proposes an energy-efficient media access control (MAC) protocol with dynamic transmission range control (TRC), referred to as TRA-MAC. The protocol provides an adaptive, multi-hop and energy-saving solution for underwater sensor network communication. The protocol dynamically adjusts the transmission power of the node according to the distance between the source node and the destination node, and has the ability to adapt to network conditions. Simulation results show that compared with Slotted Aloha, the proposed adaptive relay node selection mechanism increases the energy efficiency by 43.07%, the network throughput by 46.6%, and the end-to-end delay is greatly reduced. Compared with Slotted FAMA, it has more significant advantages.

Chaos-based audio encryption: Efficacy of 2D and 3D hyperchaotic systems

Secure communication in the digital age is necessary; securing audio data becomes very critical since this is normally transmitted across susceptible networks. Traditional approaches to encryption, like Advanced Encryption Standard and Rivest–Shamir–Adleman, are pretty solid but mostly too computationally intensive for real-time audio applications. This paper presents a new audio encryption scheme using chaotic systems, characterized by high sensitivity to initial conditions, pseudo-randomness, and determinism. These properties make chaotic systems ideal for generating keys for cryptographic purposes. Indeed, complex keys that would be nearly impossible to reverse-engineer without exact initial parameters can be obtained with them. This methodology first digitizes the audio signal and subsequently encrypts each sample according to chaotic sequences from multiple systems, like 2D Memristive Hyperchaotic Maps and 3D Hyperchaotic Quadratic Maps. The encryption processes enormously increase the randomness of the encrypted audio and blind the original data, demonstrating the strength of the chaotic systems in securing audio information.Simulation of this encryption approach confirms its effectuality in providing strong security for audio data while maintaining efficiency, thus being suitable for real-time applications. The developed encryption schemes show high resistance to differential attacks, while the quality of the encrypted audio remains acceptable after transformation. This result can demonstrate chaotic systems’ potential to provide a secure and efficient solution for audio communications, which has broad applications in telecommunications, military communications, and confidential conferencing systems. This work, described in the paper, thus satisfies the growing demand for robust security in digital communications and opens up avenues of future research toward chaotic parameter optimization and an extension to other forms of data, enhancing the security features in all types of digital communication channels.

Research on extremely low frequency electromagnetic wave model and simulation in wellbore communication

Over recent years, as digitalization and intelligence in oil wellbore have increased, so have the stricter requirements for wireless communication technology in terms of distance, accuracy, and portability. As a result, it’s necessary to rely on more advanced and efficient wireless communication technologies to meet the industry’s needs. However, traditional communication technologies such as cables and optical fibers have inherent shortcomings in construction, data interpretation, and cost. ELF electromagnetic waves are an ideal solution for communication in complex wellbore conditions due to long-distance communication and strong penetration capabilities, making it a highly effective option. Based on the theory of network splitting, this paper establishes a polygonal multiple-delays uncertainty coupled complex network model of ELF electromagnetic waves propagating through the casing in layered media and designs a controller, including expressions for the intensity of the magnetic and electric fields in different directions, and the propagation and distribution characteristics in different media. We determined that the optimal transmitting frequency of ELF electromagnetic waves under general conditions is 12.7 Hz. Based on field experiments, we verified that ELF electromagnetic waves can enable wireless wellbore communication within 1500 m without relays. We also analyzed the impact of casing thread deformation on ELF electromagnetic wave propagation due to high-temperature and high-pressure environments. We used simulation experiments to solve the distribution relationship between the electric and magnetic fields of the solenoids through casing and strata, as well as the coupling coefficients between the transmitting and receiving solenoids, and explore how different transmitting frequencies affect the efficiency of signal propagation. Both theories and experiments have verified the correctness of the model, and have also demonstrated the reliability and continuity of using ELF electromagnetic waves to achieve wireless wellbore communication, which provides a theoretical basis and feasibility for subsequent engineering applications.