Abstract: Nodes in a mesh network are configured to access centralized Internet Protocol (IP) services whenever the Internet infrastructure is accessible and then dynamically switch to providing the IP services locally in the mesh network when the Internet infrastructure is not accessible and operate through collaborative cooperation. In one embodiment, a Reported Node Time Server (RNTS) is elected when the mesh network is disconnected. In another embodiment, a Mesh Network Name Cache (MNNC) protocol pre-provisions each mesh node with the names and addresses of all other mesh nodes. In another embodiment, a Mesh Address Allocation Protocol (MAAP) provides DHCP services for DHCP clients in the mesh network.

Abstract: A network processing device calculates variable link metrics and then prioritizes selection of network links for sending packets according to the calculated variable link metrics. The variable link metrics can include a link capacity index that represents a combination of platform and interface capabilities for nodes on opposite ends of the network links. The link metrics can also include an expected retransmission value that indicates the percentage of packets that may have to be transmitted over different links.

Abstract: The Dynamic Efficient Encapsulated Multicasting (DEEM) scheme described in this invention improves multicast packet transmissions in mobile mesh networks. An Efficient Encapsulation Criteria (EEC) is used by the DEEM that takes into account different hop-by-hop wireless interface communication conditions. In another embodiment, a Dynamic Efficient Tunnel Multicast (DETF) scheme reduces the number of multicast packet transmissions sent over VPN tunnels. In yet another embodiment, a multicast debugging tool uses Multicast Tracer Packets (MTP) to identify different classes of multicast traffic.

Abstract: Nodes in a mesh network are configured to access centralized Internet Protocol (IP) services whenever the Internet infrastructure is accessible and then dynamically switch to providing the IP services locally in the mesh network when the Internet infrastructure is not accessible and operate through collaborative cooperation. In one embodiment, a Reported Node Time Server (RNTS) is elected when the mesh network is disconnected. In another embodiment, a Mesh Network Name Cache (MNNC) protocol pre-provisions each mesh node with the names and addresses of all other mesh nodes. In another embodiment, a Mesh Address Allocation Protocol (MAAP) provides DHCP services for DHCP clients in the mesh network.

Abstract: A network processing device calculates variable link metrics and then prioritizes selection of network links for sending packets according to the calculated variable link metrics. The variable link metrics can include a link capacity index that represents a combination of platform and interface capabilities for nodes on opposite ends of the network links. The link metrics can also include an expected retransmission value that indicates the percentage of packets that may have to be transmitted over different links.

Abstract: Abstract of the Disclosure An Enhanced Multicast Forwarding Cache (eMFC) supports multicast transmissions in mobile mesh networks. The enhanced MFC is designed to support mesh node mobility, quality of service, and security requirements that are particular to mesh networks. To achieve these goals, the enhanced MFC draws from a global state maintained by a unicast routing protocol, multicast aware applications, and distributed services. The eMFC distributes this derived global state through the use of an eMFC-specific multicast packet header. Information contained within the eMFC header is also used to collect and derive multicast traffic statistics at each mesh node. To maintain backwards compatibility, multicast traffic without the eMFC-specific header is also honored by the MFC. Mobile mesh network specific interfaces, such as radio interfaces, as well as conventional interface types are supported. Security is maintained through the use of authentication and encryption techniques.

Abstract: An Enhanced Multicast Forwarding Cache (eMFC) supports multicast transmissions in mobile mesh networks. The enhanced MFC is designed to support mesh node mobility, quality of service, and security requirements that are particular to mesh networks. To achieve these goals, the enhanced MFC draws from a global state maintained by a unicast routing protocol, multicast aware applications, and distributed services. The eMFC distributes this derived global state through the use of an eMFC-specific multicast packet header. Information contained within the eMFC header is also used to collect and derive multicast traffic statistics at each mesh node. To maintain backwards compatibility, multicast traffic without the eMFC-specific header is also honored by the MFC. Mobile mesh network specific interfaces, such as radio interfaces, as well as conventional interface types are supported. Security is maintained through the use of authentication and encryption techniques.

Abstract: In cutting tools employing disposable inserts an indexing shoulder is generally provided on the body of the tool. When exposed to excessive force the shoulder may be damaged and the tool difficult to repair. This invention proposes a replaceable seat which is indexed to the tool, and wherein the seat is provided with an shoulder against which the insert is indexed. In the preferred embodiment the insert is provided with a transverse channel in its seating surface and the seal with a mating land. The arrangement provides for forward and reverse indexing of the insert, and is of particular utility in positive rake and tracer cutting tools.