Nested codes with multiple interpretations

This paper proposes a new approach to channel code design for wireless network applications. The resulting nested codes can be decoded at different effective rates by different receivers-rates that depend on the prior knowledge possessed by each receiver; we say these codes have multiple interpretations. We have identified several applications in wireless networks where this property is useful. Specific nested code constructions as well as efficient soft and hard decision decoding algorithms are described. The concept of a nested code with multiple interpretations provides flexibility in the design of error protection schemes for multi-terminal wireless networks.