Self powered son device network

Abstract

A network includes a plurality of wirelessly interconnected self-organizing network (SON) devices for relaying signals in a self-organizing network and a field device for originating output signals. The sensor is configured to transmit the output signals to at least one of the SON devices, and the SON devices do not originate signals but only relay signals originated externally. At least one of the SON devices is self-powered by harvesting energy from an adjacent energy source.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to signal transmission systems, and more particularly, to networks having a self-powered device for relaying signals.[0002]Self-organizing networks are wireless signal transmission networks that enable single-hop and multi-hop transmission of signals between points in the network. The term “motes” denotes relays that are capable of wirelessly receiving and transmitting signals in the self-organizing network. Motes and similar devices can be communicably linked to sensors and other types of signal generating and receiving components. These self-organizing networks enable flexible transmission of signals, and can be used in process facilities and other plant settings to relay data between desired locations. This data can be collected by one or more sensors and transmitted via the network to one or more data collection and / or data processing locations.[0003]Networks of motes or similar devices provide numerous advantages wi...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0029]It should be recognized that the present invention provides numerous advantages and benefits, which have particular value to the process control and measurement industry. The use of self-powered SON devices according to the present invention can greatly reduce the amount of labor required to install and maintain a self-organizing network, which can directly reduce the set-up and operational cost of such a network. This is advantageous during set-up of a new facility, as well as for providing a communications network for an existing facility. Moreover, self-powered SON devices can utilize waste energy or other types of readily available energy sources, which makes the system energy efficient.

Problems solved by technology

However, providing a power supply to such network devices can still be difficult.

In locations where hard wiring is difficult, network devices generally cannot be connected to an electrical grid in a conventional manner.

Even where conventional electrical grid connection can be made, the wiring required to make such a connection is labor-intensive and may be undesirably costly.

Moreover, on-board energy storage in the form of batteries, fuels, etc. provides only a finite energy supply, and the replacement of batteries and the replenishment of fuels, etc. is inconvenient.

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