The Architectural Refinement of {\mu}D3TN: Toward a Software-Defined DTN Protocol Stack

TL;DR

This paper details the architectural evolution of uD3TN into a flexible, modular, and platform-independent DTN protocol stack supporting multiple protocol versions, with practical enhancements and comparisons to existing systems.

Contribution

It introduces a refined, adaptable architecture for uD3TN, including new interfaces, protocol support, and practical features, advancing DTN protocol implementations.

Findings

Achieved platform independence and multi-version support

Developed abstract interfaces and new protocols like AAPv2

Enhanced performance and flexibility through field-tested improvements

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the uD3TN project's development, detailing its transformation into a flexible and modular software implementation of the Delay-/Disruption-Tolerant Networking (DTN) Bundle Protocol. Originating from uPCN, designed for microcontrollers, uD3TN has undergone significant architectural refinement to increase flexibility, compatibility, and performance across various DTN applications. Key developments include achieving platform independence, supporting multiple Bundle Protocol versions concurrently, introducing abstract Convergence Layer Adapter (CLA) interfaces, and developing the so called Application Agent Protocol (AAP) for interaction with the application layer. Additional enhancements, informed by field tests, include Bundle-in-Bundle Encapsulation and exploring a port to the Rust programming language, indicating the project's ongoing adaptation to practical needs. The paper also introduces the Generic Bundle Forwarding Interface and AAPv2, showcasing the latest innovations in the project. Moreover, it provides a comparison of uD3TN's architecture with the Interplanetary Overlay Network (ION) protocol stack, highlighting some general architectural principles at the foundation of DTN protocol implementations.