Optimal sequential transmission over broadcast channel with nested feedback

Abstract: We consider the optimal design of sequential transmission over broadcast channel with nested feedback. Nested feedback means that the channel output of the outer channel is also available at the decoder of the inner channel. We model the communication system as a decentralized team with three decision makers---the encoder and the two decoders. Structure of encoding and decoding strategies that minimize a total distortion measure over a finite horizon are determined. The results are applicable for real-time communication as well as for the information theoretic setup.