LDMP-FEC: A Real-Time Low-Latency Scheduling Algorithm for Video Transmission in Heterogeneous Networks

Abstract

With the rapid development of mobile networks and devices, real-time video transmission has become increasingly important worldwide. Constrained by the bandwidth limitations of single networks, extensive research has shifted towards video transmission in multi-network environments. However, differences in bandwidth and latency in heterogeneous networks (such as LTE and Wi-Fi) lead to high latency and packet loss issues, severely affecting video quality and user experience. This paper proposes a Forward Error Correction (FEC)-based Low-Delay Multipath Scheduling algorithm (LDMP-FEC). This algorithm combines the Gilbert model with a continuous Markov chain to adaptively adjust FEC redundancy, thereby enhancing data integrity. Through the FEC Recovery Priority Scheduling (FEC-RPS) algorithm, it dynamically optimizes the transmission order of data packets, reducing the number of out-of-order packets (OFO-packets) and end-to-end latency. Experimental results show that LDMP-FEC significantly reduces the number of out-of-order packets in heterogeneous network environments, improving performance by 50% compared to the round-robin and MinRtt algorithms, while maintaining end-to-end latency within 150 ms. Under various packet loss conditions, LDMP-FEC sustains a playable frame rate (PFR) above 90% and a Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) exceeding 35 dB, providing an efficient and reliable solution for real-time video and other low-latency applications.