Node control unit and network service device

Abstract

The invention relates to a node control unit (100) for setting an operation mode of one or more network nodes (102) of a wireless communication network (150). It comprises a network service detection unit (104) for determining that a network service device (106) is currently available for communication with the wireless communication network and providing a corresponding service availability signal (SA) indicative thereof, and an operation mode setting unit (108) configured to receive the service availability signal (SA) and to generate and provide a first switch mode signal (SM1) to at least one network node based thereon, the first switch mode signal being indicative of an instruction to switch the operation mode from a first operation mode in which the network node acts as a node of the wireless communication network to a second operation mode in which the network node communicates with the respective external network service device, thereby enabling to particularly adapt the functionality of the network node.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a node control unit, a network node, a network service device, a wireless communication network, a method for operating the node control unit, the network node, and the network service device, and a computer program. Background Technology

[0002] US 2019 / 0028886 A1 discloses a configuration system arranged to configure a first group of wireless network devices or nodes to form a first independent wireless communication network. The configuration device is arranged to wirelessly connect to the first group of wireless network nodes and transmits first configuration parameters to the first group of wireless network nodes forming the first independent wireless communication network. The first configuration parameters are selected to be compatible with the future connected wireless network if the first group of wireless network devices and the second group of wireless network devices are positioned such that they can connect to the same network service device that will allow them to connect to the wireless network to form a future connection.

[0003] US 9167423B2 discloses a self-organizing mesh network consisting of individual devices configured to use other network devices to transmit data from one point to another. Summary of the Invention

[0004] It would be beneficial to allow for specific adjustments to the functionality of network nodes.

[0005] A first aspect of the invention comprises a node control unit for setting the operating modes of one or more network nodes in a wireless communication network. The node control unit includes a network service detection unit configured to determine that one or more network service devices currently outside the wireless communication network are available to communicate with at least one network node in the wireless communication network and thus become part of the wireless communication network, and to provide a signal indicating the corresponding service availability.

[0006] The node control unit further includes an operation mode setting unit configured to control the switching of the operation mode of at least one network node between a first operation mode of at least one network node in a wireless communication network configured as a first network configuration and a second operation mode of at least one network node in a wireless communication network configured as a second network configuration, wherein the first network configuration does not include a corresponding network service device and the second network configuration includes a corresponding network service device in the wireless communication network. The operation mode setting unit is also configured to generate and provide a corresponding first switching mode signal to at least one network node in the wireless communication network via an output interface in response to receiving a corresponding service availability signal. This first switching mode signal indicates an instruction for a given network service device to switch its operation mode from the first operation mode to the second operation mode.

[0007] Therefore, the node control unit is advantageously configured to drive the operation of one or more network nodes based on whether one or more suitable network service devices are available, and thus adapt its functions according to the available network service devices.

[0008] In the following, embodiments of the node control unit of the first aspect of the present invention will be described.

[0009] In one embodiment, different network service devices that can communicate with at least one network node and thus become part of a wireless communication network have different network “membership levels”, wherein a network service device with a lower membership level has more limited rights and / or trust (e.g., permission to use bandwidth, change routes, etc.) within the wireless communication network than a network service device with a higher membership level.

[0010] In one embodiment, a network service device is considered to have joined the wireless communication network when a bidirectional interface (i.e., a fully mature network link) is formed with at least one network node of the wireless communication network.

[0011] In a particular embodiment, the output interface of the operation mode setting unit is an internal communication interface between the node's hardware modules or software modules. In another embodiment, the output interface of the operation mode setting unit is a transmission unit for communication via a wireless communication network or another suitable communication interface.

[0012] In one embodiment, the first operating mode corresponds to the operation of at least one network node as a network node in an independent wireless communication network, i.e., a network without dedicated network service equipment, such as gateway devices, access points, bridges, hubs, controllers, smart speakers, routers (e.g., border routers) that connect two or more wireless communication networks that may have different types of wireless communication networks, or any other device used to communicate with devices outside the wireless communication network or to transmit information from and / or to devices that do not constitute part of the wireless communication network.

[0013] In an alternative embodiment, the first operating mode corresponds to the operation of at least one network node as a network node in a wireless communication network, which also includes permanent network service devices (such as, for example, permanent gateway devices) or one or more currently connected network service devices (and thus currently part of the wireless communication network). In this embodiment, in the second operating mode, at least one network node communicates with the permanent network service device and one or more network service devices configured to act as temporary network service devices for providing corresponding functions to the network. Alternatively, in another embodiment, at least one network node in the wireless communication network is configured to interrupt or suspend communication with the permanent network service device or with any other network service device currently forming part of the wireless communication network when operating in the second operating mode. Thus, a network node can operate in the first operating mode relative to a first network service device that is currently unavailable, and simultaneously operate in a corresponding second operating mode relative to one or more available network service devices.

[0014] In one embodiment, the communication protocol used for communication within the wireless communication network is the same as the communication protocol used for communication with the network service device in the second operating mode. In another embodiment, the communication protocol used for communication within the wireless communication network is different from the communication protocol used for communication with the network service device in the second operating mode.

[0015] In one embodiment, first and second operating modes are defined for a given network serving device. For example, detecting the first network serving device can trigger a given network node to operate in the second operating mode, thereby allowing a connection between a network node and the network serving device within the wireless communication network. If the second network serving device also becomes available, the network node is considered to be operating in the first operating mode relative to the second network serving device until a corresponding first switching mode signal is provided, and the network node changes its operating mode accordingly. It is worth noting that the provision of the first switching mode signal is not necessarily coupled with the change of operating mode, as it is merely an indication of an instruction to switch the operating mode of at least one network node from the first operating mode to the second operating mode, and in some cases, this indication can be rejected by the network node.

[0016] In another embodiment, the availability of a given network service device is determined by identifying one or more of a set of multiple possible functions configured to perform communication with at least one network node, resulting in one of a plurality of second operating modes associated with that network service device. Thus, the second operating mode is configured to perform the current function within the wireless communication network based on the network service device.

[0017] In certain embodiments, the operation of the node control unit is independent of the connection history of the network serving device; that is, whether the network serving device was previously connected to the wireless communication network and therefore had joined the wireless communication network in the past before disconnecting from the wireless communication network to present its current external state. Therefore, although the service availability signal received by the node control unit in these embodiments can indicate whether the network serving device intends to join or rejoin the wireless communication network for the first time, the response of the node control unit regarding the network node's operating mode setting is the same in both cases. In alternative embodiments, the operation of the node control unit depends on the connection history of the network serving device.

[0018] In a particular embodiment, a network service detection unit for determining whether a network service device is currently available to communicate with at least one network node of a wireless communication network is configured to determine whether the network service device is currently requesting to join the wireless communication network. The network service device may, for example, announce its current availability according to a predetermined communication protocol. In a particular embodiment, the node control unit is configured to use the following non-limiting examples of signals emitted by the network service device as an indication of the network service device's current availability: device announcements, many-to-one routing requests, device or service discovery commands, any communication from a device with a specific address, HW (e.g., an IEEE address), or network, the presence of a device with predetermined capabilities (e.g., interface, cluster, role, etc.), broadcasts of commands indicating the existence of a network service device, etc.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally, in another embodiment, the node control unit is configured to perform a search for available network service devices within range. In one embodiment, this is performed using the communication protocol of the wireless communication network, using non-limiting examples such as sending device or service discovery commands (e.g., in the case of Zigbee: IEEE_address_request, Nwk_address_request, match description request, etc.), routing requests, or any keep-alive mechanism. In another specific embodiment, a communication protocol different from the communication protocol used by the network node to communicate within the wireless communication network is used. As a non-limiting example, embodiments of the node control unit are configured to communicate with the network node according to the Zigbee communication protocol, and on the other hand, use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to search for available network service devices.

[0020] To enhance network security, in a preferred embodiment, the operation mode setting unit is further configured to determine service permission information indicating a network service device capable of connecting to at least one network node, such as performing gateway functions to connect one or more network nodes of a wireless communication network to network nodes of different communication networks, and the network service device being a network service device permitted to join the wireless communication network. The network service device does not necessarily have to be configured to perform gateway functions to connect the wireless communication network to another different communication network. In some embodiments, the network service device is configured to operate autonomously. The operation mode setting unit is also configured to use the determined service permission information to determine whether one or more network service devices currently available for communication with at least one network node of the wireless communication network are permitted to enter the wireless communication network, and to provide an indication of the determined permission signal. In this particular embodiment, the operation mode setting unit is also configured to provide a first switching mode signal based on the permission signal.

[0021] In some embodiments, the service allows information to indicate the connection status of a network service device to other wireless communication devices or wireless communication networks, such that the availability of the network service device depends on the current number of connected wireless communication devices or wireless communication networks. For example, if a network service device is connected to fewer than a predetermined threshold number of communication devices or wireless communication networks, the network service device is considered available.

[0022] In one embodiment, the operation mode setting unit is further configured to provide a first switching mode signal based on the current network capacity. The capacity determination unit is configured to determine the current network capacity. If, at a given moment, there is no remaining free capacity for a given function of the network service device—for example, for a peripheral gateway that wants to extract statistical occupancy data from the network for data analysis purposes—the first switching mode signal is not provided, and the network node continues to operate in the first operation mode until the network has greater capacity.

[0023] For example, in one embodiment, the operation mode setting unit can access a list of permitted network services, which forms service permission information, and this list is based, for example, on corresponding security keys, security certificates, address information, configuration (including the interface or communication technology used to make the request, the capabilities of the network service device, the type of the network service device, and the available functions of the network service device), the spatial location of the network service device, etc. Requests originating from network service devices not included in the list or not meeting the criteria specified in the list (and therefore not permitted) will not be allowed to enter the wireless communication network.

[0024] In another embodiment, the functionality of a network node operating in the second operating mode depends on the type of network service device detected. For example, in one embodiment, the second operating mode of the network node differs when the wireless communication network includes network service devices with specific characteristics (e.g., a third-party gateway that does not provide all the necessary services) and when the wireless communication network includes network service devices with a different set of characteristics (e.g., a gateway provided by the provider itself with a full suite of services).

[0025] Furthermore, in certain embodiments, network service devices are represented differently on the wireless communication network depending on their capabilities. For example, a vendor’s own gateway is shown to have all of its services, while for a third-party gateway, only some services will be available (e.g., only updates and no diagnostics).

[0026] Alternatively or additionally, network service equipment in a wireless communication network is represented as an individually addressable device or virtual device on the network, or as several virtual endpoints on the network.

[0027] Furthermore, in another embodiment, the operation mode setting unit is additionally configured to monitor the number of network nodes currently operating in the second operation mode and control the maximum number of connections to the network service device based on the detected network service device. For example, a third-party network service device may only be allowed to have a maximum number of connections to the corresponding network node of the wireless communication network, such as one or two at a time.

[0028] In another embodiment, which may also include any of the features of the above embodiments, the network service detection unit is additionally configured to determine whether at least one network service device is currently connected to the wireless communication network and to provide a corresponding service connection signal indicating this. In this embodiment, the operation mode setting unit is configured to provide a second switching mode signal to at least one node of the wireless communication network via an output interface. This second switching mode signal indicates an instruction to switch the operation mode of at least one network node from a second operation mode for the given network service device to a first operation mode when the service connection signal indicates that the given network service device is not currently connected to the communication network.

[0029] In a particular embodiment, the determination that a network service device is currently not connected is performed based on predetermined criteria—such as when a predetermined number of frames sent to any known network service device (e.g., 2 / 3 of the total of the last 100 frames) are lost.

[0030] In another embodiment, the operation mode setting unit is further configured to provide a second handover mode signal after a predetermined time span from determining that no network service device is currently connected to the wireless communication network, thereby allowing a time delay between determining that no network service device is currently connected to the wireless communication network and providing the second handover mode signal. Furthermore, when a network service device is configured to provide a farewell signal indicating an anticipated or impending disconnection before leaving the wireless communication network, embodiments of the node control unit are configured to provide a corresponding second handover mode signal upon receiving a given farewell signal.

[0031] Alternatively or additionally, in another embodiment, the operation mode setting unit is configured to provide a first switching mode signal after a predetermined time span from the receipt of the service availability signal, thereby reducing the risk of unstable connection with the network service device.

[0032] Advantageously, after connecting the network service device to the wireless communication network and disconnecting it from the wireless communication network, the predetermined time span from determining the absence of the network service device and from receiving the service availability signal is selected based on the monitored network stability, and the predetermined time span takes into account the time window during which the connection between the network service device and the wireless network node is expected to be unstable.

[0033] However, in another embodiment, during the predetermined time span mentioned above, the communication of a given network node is distributed in terms of communication with other network nodes, and direct with the network service device in terms of communication between the given network node and the network service device. Therefore, a given network node can operate in both operating modes simultaneously. Alternatively or additionally, during the predetermined time span, the network node operates in the first operating mode while simultaneously enabling or disabling the use of services from the network service device.

[0034] Another embodiment of the node control unit of the first aspect of the present invention further includes: a node identification data determining unit configured to determine node identification data indicating at least one of one or more network nodes currently forming part of a wireless communication network; and a storage unit configured to store the determined node identification data. The node control unit also includes a network service device updating unit configured to provide the stored node identification data to a network service device upon receiving a predetermined activation command. In a particular embodiment, the network service device updating unit is configured to push network operation data to the network service device. In another embodiment, the network service device updating unit is configured to provide the stored network operation data upon receiving a predetermined activation command from the network service device.

[0035] In a particular embodiment, the node identification data determination unit is configured to determine node identification data relating to one or more preferred network nodes of the wireless communication network for connecting to a network service device. The one or more preferred network nodes of the wireless communication network are preferably those network nodes with characteristics best suited for communicating with the network service device. Suitable characteristics include, for example, transmission and reception characteristics associated with the network node's hardware and / or software, such as antenna parameters (e.g., frequency band, gain) or software driver version; and characteristics related to the network node's location (e.g., location within a room or building) or the corresponding environment (e.g., the presence of walls or objects near the network node), which may also affect the network node's communication capabilities. Other suitable characteristics include the currently available storage capacity in the network node (e.g., for storing updated files), and the amount and / or type of data currently stored in the network node and available for reading, collected from other network nodes in the wireless communication data network. For example, to perform network diagnostic functions, the network service device preferably communicates with the network node or those network nodes from which the most relevant information has been collected. Another suitable characteristic includes available routes to / from other network nodes, such as routing tables in Zigbee. For example, in order to perform update functions for multiple network nodes, the network service device preferably provides the update file to the network node or those network nodes that have the most favorable routing table.

[0036] For example, in one embodiment, node data includes recommendations on which network node the network service device should connect to for maximum reliability of the wireless connection (e.g., BLE connection) between the network service device and the network node, which may also be based on another communication protocol (e.g., Zigbee).

[0037] In one embodiment, the identified and stored node identification data includes a list of network nodes in a wireless communication network, including, for example, relevant network node IDs and information including application information such as network node names, location information related to the installation location of the corresponding network node (e.g., in the form of a mark or tag associated with the network node or a group of network nodes), and the specific functions of the corresponding network node (e.g., lighting or sensing functions).

[0038] In another embodiment, the node control unit additionally or alternatively includes a network operation data determination unit configured to determine network operation data indicative of communication processes between a network node and a first network service device connected to the wireless communication network. The node control unit also includes a storage unit configured to store the determined network operation data. In this particular embodiment, a network service device update unit is configured to provide at least a portion of the stored network operation data to a second network service device upon receiving a predetermined activation instruction (particularly from or from the first network service device, different from the first network service device). For example, if the second network service device is in a different network area and / or has different capabilities or functions than the first network service device, the network service device update unit is configured to filter out the stored network operation data and provide only the portion of the stored network operation data intended for the second network service device. For example, the second network service device is configured to collect temperature data. The network service device update unit thus provides the second network service device with network operation data relating to those network nodes acting as temperature sensors.

[0039] In another embodiment, the network operation data determination unit is configured to store information obtained from a first network service device and then provide that information to a second network service device. For example, information regarding conflicts and conflict mitigation strategies between the first and second network service devices can be provided to the second network service device by a node control unit. These first and second network service devices may be different models, or even from different vendors, and cannot communicate directly with each other. This sharing facilitates the arbitration of problems associated with two different network service devices that want to communicate with the same network node.

[0040] A second aspect of the invention comprises a network node including a node control unit according to any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention and a node operation unit operable in first and second operation modes. The node operation unit is configured to receive a first switching mode signal from the node control unit and operate in either the first or second operation mode according to the signal.

[0041] Therefore, the network nodes of the second aspect share the advantages of the node control unit of the first aspect of the present invention.

[0042] In the following, embodiments of the network node of the second aspect of the present invention will be described.

[0043] In one embodiment, when operating in the second operating mode, the node operation unit is configured to perform one or more of the following functions:

[0044] - Network access initialization function for at least one node in a wireless communication network;

[0045] - Node verification function is used to verify the correct connection of at least one node to the wireless communication network;

[0046] - Configuration verification function, used to verify the correct configuration of at least one node in the wireless communication network;

[0047] - Software update function, used to update the software used by at least one node of the wireless communication network;

[0048] - Firmware update function, used to update the firmware used by at least one node of the wireless communication network;

[0049] - Fine-tuning configuration function, used to adjust the operating parameters of at least one node of the wireless communication network in the first and second operating modes;

[0050] - A network node usage monitoring function is used to determine and provide node usage information indicating the cumulative operating time of at least one node in a wireless communication network over a predetermined time span.

[0051] - Network operation monitoring function, used to determine and provide network operation information indicating the communication error rate within the wireless communication network during a predetermined time span;

[0052] - Node operation test function, used to test the predetermined operation function of at least one node in a wireless communication network;

[0053] - Network cyber-security monitoring function is used to monitor traffic patterns within wireless communication networks and detect target traffic patterns that indicate the presence of fraudulent nodes based on a pre-defined fraud node detection algorithm;

[0054] - Presence sensing functionality for sensing the presence of an object within a presence sensing volume associated with a wireless communication network. This presence sensing functionality includes determining a received signal quality indicator value. Suitable signal quality indicator values ​​include the Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) of the RF signal transmitted within the wireless communication network, the number of retries required to transmit the signal to the intended network node in case of an error, the Channel State Indicator (CSI) value of the communication link of the wireless communication network, or other known signal quality indicators.

[0055] - Remote access functionality, used to allow remote access to network nodes via external devices;

[0056] - Network information provision function, used to identify and provide network information related to network nodes that are currently part of a wireless communication network;

[0057] -Location determination function, used to determine the approximate location of network service devices;

[0058] - Network node addition functionality, used to connect one or more external nodes to a wireless communication network; and

[0059] - Asset tracking function, used to track the location of one or more target devices using beacon signals provided by the target device according to a predetermined communication protocol.

[0060] Therefore, according to different embodiments of the second aspect, the network node can perform one or more of the following tasks in communication with the network service device. For example, the network node can cooperate with the network service device to perform network entry initialization functions, including one or more steps of the network entry initialization process, such as verifying correct node installation and location, network formation, network joining, network management, node and / or service discovery, or network node configuration.

[0061] When operating in the second operating mode, the node verification and configuration verification functions can also be performed in conjunction with the network service device. For example, the network service device can instruct network nodes to check the software versions of nodes in the wireless communication network and provide a report to the network service device.

[0062] In another embodiment, the operation in the second operating mode also enables software or firmware updates to be performed to ensure that the network node of the wireless communication node has been properly initialized, for example, to ensure the initial over-the-air update (OTAU) of the network node. For example, the network node may be installed and initialized after being idle for months, and therefore come with outdated software. Furthermore, a particular installation may require a specific firmware version, such as a firmware version with dedicated features that are not available in general firmware programmed in a "stock" version. For example, some features may not be included in the "stock" version but are only programmed in the field by the customer who requested this optional feature. As another example, the network node may have different characteristics depending on the environment in which it operates (e.g., a warehouse or office).

[0063] When operating in the second operating mode, the embodiment of network nodes cooperating with the network service equipment is advantageously configured to ensure that those initial updates are reliably and quickly installed. Performing such OTAUs by the installer's equipment on all or at least the relevant network nodes can be too time-consuming, as the installer is forced to spend extended periods on-site to complete the OTAU (for multiple devices and potentially many devices), which is costly and inefficient. Furthermore, specific facilities or locations may contain, for example, some third-party network nodes with unsupported functionality (e.g., third-party light sensors), performing threshold-based light level reporting instead of indicating precisely measured light levels; occupancy sensors directly sending on / off commands instead of occupancy events, etc. Identifying these differences makes it possible to provide corresponding network node fixes, as software updates and / or as changes to configuration files or the rules engine, to achieve the desired system behavior.

[0064] In specific instances of fine-tuning configuration capabilities, based on user feedback—such as user age, the type of task performed in a particular space, or the color of the space's décor / decor—network nodes, for example, that wirelessly control lighting devices, can be adjusted to adapt parameters such as light response time or default light levels. This can also be advantageously used to help end users fine-tune the system on the first day of use via remote access from the installer, thereby eliminating the need for the installer to return to the site.

[0065] In specific instances of network operation monitoring functionality, network nodes can collaborate with network service equipment to monitor network operations over a predetermined time span. For example, in the event of frequent radio link interruptions detected at a specific location, the node can notify the user of possible improvements, such as adding a router range extender, relocating an existing network node, adapting transmission power, changing the operating channel, or altering the node's communication mode. Energy usage data can also be determined over a period of time and then provided to the network service equipment during operation in a second operating mode.

[0066] Network nodes that perform network usage monitoring functions to monitor network usage over a predetermined time span can be advantageously used, for example, to help equipment vendors and / or system integrators understand the difficulties users face with default system settings, enabling improvements to default settings in subsequent installations. For instance, a vendor can store the network service device in the first room where the network node is being installed, so that changes to the application after installation can be part of the default settings in rooms later installed at the same or different locations. The vendor can store information, for example, on a per-customer or per-use-case basis in configuration files or profiles. This functionality can also be performed on other network parameters, such as routing stability, which can be determined over a predetermined time period. Aggregated occupancy data can also be determined over a period of time and then provided to the network service device during operation in a second operating mode.

[0067] The node operation testing function includes one or more tests to be performed on network nodes, such as battery backup testing, sensor coverage testing, radio coverage testing, calibration testing, etc.

[0068] Network nodes performing network cybersecurity monitoring functions are advantageously configured to, for example, detect abnormal traffic patterns in the network that can indicate fraudulent network nodes and are referred to as targeted traffic patterns. It can also be configured to detect whether third-party network service devices (such as gateway devices) have become fraudulent due to hacking; for example, an HVAC network service device suddenly requests occupancy data at a higher frequency than initially expected, a typical HVAC application considers room occupancy adjustments with a granular approach of several minutes, or a network service device requests data unrelated to its intended use. A specific, but not limiting, example is an HVAC gateway sending software updates to lighting nodes.

[0069] Embodiments of network nodes are configured to cooperate with network service devices to perform presence sensing functions for sensing the presence of objects within a presence sensing volume associated with a wireless communication network. These presence sensing functions include determining received signal strength indicator values ​​for RF signals transmitted within the wireless communication network, or determining channel state indicators for communication links within the wireless communication network. For example, the network node may perform high-granularity RF sensing, which may also include people counting functionality, increasing the network load and power consumption of the involved network node. If the network service device is not present, the network node may be configured to revert to basic functions (such as RF sensing for occupancy detection or soft security only) and terminate all activities associated with the network service device for the desired use case. In one embodiment, this is performed based on the type of network service device; for example, if it is a smartphone, the fact of its presence is used to add information about presence sensing or people counting. For example, the presence of a smartphone gateway (especially a mobile smartphone gateway) indicates the presence of someone at that location.

[0070] Alternatively, in another embodiment, high-granularity RF sensing is disabled when the network service device is present, for example, because the system can rely on other modalities for people counting (e.g., on the camera in the network sensing device), or because traffic-intensive operations are stopped or reduced to free up bandwidth for any communication required by the network sensing device.

[0071] The network node performing the network service device location determination function, used to determine the approximate location of network service devices, is configured to cooperate with other nodes in the network, for example, using trilateration with Bluetooth to detect the location of the network service devices. If the determined location is far from the expected location, an alert signal is issued, as this can indicate that a compromised device is attempting to access the communication network (e.g., from outside the building where the communication network is located).

[0072] Typically, location engines for target device asset tracking based on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or Ultra Wideband (UWB) are computationally intensive and therefore advantageously operate in conjunction with network service devices. Asset tracking refers to methods of tracking physical assets, such as target devices based on tags that broadcast their location using GPS, BLE, or RFID. These technologies can also be used for indoor tracking of people wearing tags. For indoor asset tracking, Wi-Fi has been used in combination with another technology, such as infrared (IR). Bluetooth technology has also been used and can provide higher accuracy, even though Bluetooth was not primarily developed for localization. To locate assets via Bluetooth (a fundamental requirement for asset tracking), the distance to the target device can be calculated based on signal strength using RSSI or CSI. The principles of location determination are trilateration, triangulation, and fingerprint recognition.

[0073] According to a third aspect of the invention, a wireless network service device is described. The wireless network service device is adapted to operate in one or more different wireless communication networks. The network service device is configured to switch operation between a first service operation mode and at least one second service operation mode. The first service operation mode corresponds to the network service device being currently available for communication with at least one node of a target wireless communication network to which the network service device is not currently connected. The at least one second service operation mode corresponds to the network device being currently available for communication with at least one node of a target wireless communication network to which the network service device is currently connected.

[0074] The wireless network service device includes a wireless communication unit configured to receive and / or provide wireless messages to network nodes of one or more wireless communication networks to which the wireless network service device is communicatively connected. It also includes a network connection control unit configured to: determine that at least one network node of a target wireless communication network is currently in a first operating mode as a network node of a target wireless communication network in a first network configuration that excludes the network service device from the target wireless communication network, or is in a second operating mode as a network node of a target communication network in a second network configuration that includes at least one network service device in the target wireless communication network; and to communicate wirelessly with the network nodes of the target wireless communication network currently operating in the second operating mode. Therefore, the network service device is configured to determine whether any network nodes of the target wireless communication network are operating in the second operating mode and to communicate with them, thereby effectively joining the target communication network.

[0075] In the following text, embodiments of the wireless network service device of the third aspect will be described.

[0076] In one embodiment, the network service device is configured to perform one or more of a set of multiple possible functions for communicating with at least one network node. This results in one of multiple possible second service operation modes associated with the network service device. Therefore, the second service operation mode depends on the current function that the network service device is configured to perform within the wireless communication network.

[0077] In a particular embodiment, the network service device includes a node control unit according to any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. In this particular embodiment, the network service device is configured to control the operating mode of one or more network nodes of a wireless communication network. Specifically, the network connection control unit is connected to an operating mode setting unit that provides a first switching mode signal, and the provision of the first switching mode signal is interpreted as an indication that at least one network node of the target wireless communication network is currently operating in a second operating mode.

[0078] In one embodiment, the network connection control unit is further configured to receive, via an input interface, a connection signal indicating an instruction to connect to a target wireless communication network to which the wireless network service device is not currently connected. It is also configured to provide, via an output interface, a connection request signal to at least one node control unit according to the first aspect of the invention, the connection request signal indicating a request for acceptance in the target wireless communication network. Upon connection to the target wireless communication network, the network service device is configured to communicatively cooperate with one or more network nodes of the target communication network to operate in a second operating mode. This particular embodiment of the wireless network service device of the third aspect is advantageously configured to communicate with the node control unit of the first aspect of the invention, particularly with embodiments of the node control unit configured to determine whether one or more network service devices are currently requesting acceptance of communication with at least one network node of the wireless communication network.

[0079] In one embodiment, the input interface is connected to a wireless communication unit. In this embodiment, the connection signal is a wireless signal transmitted from one of the wireless communication networks to which the network service device is currently connected.

[0080] In another embodiment, the input interface is alternatively or additionally connected to the user interface (e.g., a button or actuator), and the connection signal is a response to the user actuating the user interface.

[0081] In a particular embodiment, the network service device is also configured to communicatively perform one or more of the following functions with one or more network nodes of the second aspect of the invention operating in a second operating mode:

[0082] - Network access initialization function for at least one node in a wireless communication network;

[0083] - Node verification function, used to verify the correct connection of at least one node to the wireless communication network according to a predetermined connection standard;

[0084] - Configuration verification function, used to verify the correct configuration of at least one node of the wireless communication network according to a predetermined configuration standard;

[0085] - Software update function, used to update the software used by at least one node of the wireless communication network;

[0086] - Firmware update function, used to update the firmware used by at least one node of the wireless communication network;

[0087] - Fine-tuning configuration function, used to adjust the operating parameters of at least one node of the wireless communication network in the first or second operating mode;

[0088] - A network node usage monitoring function is used to determine and provide node usage information indicating the cumulative operating time of at least one node in a wireless communication network over a predetermined time span.

[0089] - Network operation monitoring function, used to determine and provide network operation quantities that indicate the communication error rate within the wireless communication network during a predetermined time span;

[0090] - Node operation test function, used to test the predetermined operation function of at least one node of a wireless communication network.

[0091] - Network cyber security monitoring function is used to monitor traffic patterns within wireless communication networks and detect target traffic patterns that indicate the presence of fraudulent nodes based on a predetermined fraud node detection algorithm.

[0092] - Presence sensing functionality for sensing the presence of an object in a presence sensing volume associated with a wireless communication network, the presence sensing functionality including determining a received signal quality indicator;

[0093] - Remote access functionality, used to allow remote access to network nodes via external devices;

[0094] - Network information provision function, used to identify and provide network information related to network nodes that are currently part of a wireless communication network;

[0095] -Location determination function, used to determine the approximate location of network service devices;

[0096] - Network node addition functionality, used to connect one or more external nodes to a wireless communication network; and

[0097] - Asset tracking function, used to track the location of one or more target devices using beacon signals provided by the target device according to a predetermined communication protocol.

[0098] In various variations of the presence sensing function, the signal quality indicator includes at least one of the RSSI value of the RF signal transmitted within the wireless communication network, a channel state indicator of the communication link of the wireless communication network (e.g., the number of retries required to transmit control or payload information to the expected network node in the event of an error), or other suitable signal quality indicator.

[0099] According to the third aspect, the network service equipment can be advantageously used as a temporary gateway, for example during the installation, network access initialization and / or maintenance of a wireless communication network.

[0100] In one embodiment, a transient wireless network service device (especially a gateway device) is a dedicated box with a wireless automation interface and an interface for internet connectivity. Alternatively, a resource-rich local network service device with a user interface and pre-stored content, such as a software image for a wide range of devices, can be used as a transient network service device, but it is not connected to the internet. The network service device is temporary during some installation, network initialization, and / or maintenance operations and can be physically removed from the network at other times, for example, to limit network costs or for use in another location. For example, the network service device could be a Cradlepoint router with high-power cellular radios to ensure connectivity even in areas where smartphone reception is problematic.

[0101] In another embodiment, the functionality of the network service device is implemented via automated equipment, such as an automated device connected to a portable device (e.g., a smartphone, laptop, or tablet) via BLE. Applications on the portable device provide access to relevant functions and / or content during installation, network initialization, and / or maintenance (including, for example, OTA upgrades). Once these actions are complete, the gateway function can be disabled, for example, to prevent attacks from the internet or to reduce costs associated with internet connectivity. The function can also be deactivated by removing the portable device from the network or by physically or logically disconnecting the portable device from the wireless communication network.

[0102] For wireless communication networks configured to operate as independent networks, transient network service devices are appropriately configured to provide access to internet-based services without the high costs associated with permanent network service devices. These network service devices are internet-connected, or can operate without an internet connection (where content is downloaded and uploaded at other times or via other means).

[0103] If, for example, a ephemeral network service device on a smartphone needs to connect to a network node on a target or pending communication network via another interface (such as BLE or NFC), the network node selected for the connection will be referred to as the active proxy node.

[0104] Another possible implementation of network service devices is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or robot, such as a connected robotic vacuum cleaner similar to those available on the market. These network service devices have an interface for connecting to the external world or a building network, such as a 3G / 4G network connection, Wi-Fi connection, or a wired connection, such as via power lines or Ethernet, available for example when docking / charging, controlled by these network service devices, and reporting to the network owner. It also includes another interface that allows it to connect to a wireless communication network to install, inspect, and / or update their configurations, or perform diagnostics or OTA updates. A network service device can operate one interface at a time, for example, receiving a task via the owner interface, disconnecting, performing any tasks assigned to it in the lighting control network, and leaving the network again, and reconnecting to the owner interface and reporting the results if needed. Additionally or alternatively, the network service device allows real-time connectivity between the wireless communication network and the owner interface, for example, allowing a human operator to perform checks and take action. The network service device is adapted for use on demand, i.e., remaining disconnected from the wireless communication network until explicitly instructed to perform a specific task. It can also roam within the communication network, thereby continuously or periodically checking the health of the network.

[0105] Another implementation involves installing network service equipment on cleaning carts, coffee maintenance carts, security equipment, etc., which would enable access to all locations (i.e., all communication networks in the building) over several days.

[0106] In another embodiment, the network service device is configured to remain in the wireless communication network for a predetermined amount of time, or until a given number of predetermined functions are completed. In one embodiment, the network service device is configured to provide a farewell signal to the node control unit, the farewell signal indicating an instruction to remove transient information unrelated to the operation of the network node in the first operating mode, and, if the network service device intends to rejoin the wireless communication network at a later time, to delete information unrelated to its next rejoining, such as any bindings required for specific testing or maintenance tasks.

[0107] There are several implementations of the "limited-time gateway" concept. For example, a wireless communication network is installed using network service equipment but later operates as a stand-alone network. This approach is advantageous in several situations. For instance, where the network service equipment is expensive and / or contains valuable functionality that should not be left on-site for extended periods (due to the risk of IPR theft, for example), the gateway equipment is preferably only lent or provided by the installer for installation and system startup.

[0108] Another scenario relates to external security risks. For example, owners or users of wireless communication networks may be concerned about attacks from the internet and therefore insist that the network operate in stand-alone mode once normal operation begins after the system startup phase. However, owners may want to allow installers a brief initial period of operation in cloud-connected mode after installation or during troubleshooting using so-called ephemeral gateway devices, allowing installers to remotely troubleshoot and fine-tune the system. Furthermore, owners may be concerned that the network service equipment itself, even without an internet connection, could be stolen or hacked, exposing data about the network or its users. In another scenario, owners or users may be concerned about the added complexity of the system due to an additional controller in the form of a gateway device with potentially unlimited control; or the complexity of a combination of distributed local control (e.g., based on switch and / or sensor inputs and / or pre-programmed schedules) and unauthorized control via the gateway device; or the need to meet device operating conditions (e.g., battery life of battery-powered devices) or service level agreement or regulatory compliance (e.g., ensuring the minimum light levels required on work surfaces in an office or factory).

[0109] In a particular embodiment, the network service device of the third aspect is implemented via a dedicated smartphone or tablet and may include a dongle. The network service device is configured to act as a transient network service, which is then suitable to be returned to the installer after the initial phase.

[0110] Similarly, in the event of future problems or system modifications, the network service equipment can be provided on-site by, for example, the installer, and then placed on-site by the facility manager. The installer can then remotely diagnose the issues. Alternatively, the installer can bring the network service equipment with them during on-site service visits.

[0111] Similar functionality can be achieved through a smartphone app for facility managers, which can be remotely activated during the required periods and used for functions appropriate to the task at hand. The app can only be authorized to perform selected functions (e.g., network diagnostics, but not network reconfiguration). Alternatively, a variant of the app can be uploaded, providing only the necessary functionalities.

[0112] In these cases, it is beneficial to use public key certificates with very short lifespans and / or clearly defined permissions.

[0113] In a particular embodiment, the network service device is a high-performance building management system (BMS) integration gateway with a BACnet interface suitable for efficiently installing or updating wireless communication networks. The high-performance BACnet gateway can be used to retrieve building data (including, for example, layout data of buildings with room names) from an HVAC gateway to accelerate the setup of lighting systems as part of the wireless communication network. The high-performance BACnet gateway can be used for integration between different building vertical layouts, such as lighting, HVAC, security, and safety, according to explicit user requirements.

[0114] After installation, the gateway device is configured to remain in the network, but with reduced functionality. For example, after the installation tasks on day one are completed, the gateway device is configured to enter a "monitoring" mode, in which it only monitors activity within the network and, for example, reports anomalies to the installer and / or facility administrator, while otherwise remaining silent. This reduces the communication costs of uplink gateway communication and also reduces the complexity of control services within the system.

[0115] Alternatively, embodiments of the network service device are configured to remain in the network, but with its uplink completely disconnected; only network-restricted functions, such as complex controls, are performed. Disconnecting the network service device from the internet allows for limiting perceived attack threats from the internet. However, the network service device can then be activated, for example, as a pilot for some enhanced features. This allows users to experience the behaviors they consider enabling before making a final decision, within a limited timeframe. The ability to quickly and effortlessly (and possibly even remotely) enable it can be a primary enabler for services in wireless communication networks, especially in lighting networks. Enabling enhanced features via a gateway (e.g., storing the application logic associated with that feature in the cloud) can help protect related IPR and / or trade secrets, as the code enabling the feature does not need to be pushed into the network or even the gateway.

[0116] Different embodiments of network service devices have different methods for when, how, or to what extent to remove the corresponding network service device from the wireless communication network.

[0117] In one embodiment, the network service device is configured to automatically disconnect once the OTAU has completed, even when the gateway remains local.

[0118] In another embodiment, the network service device is configured to automatically disconnect at a predetermined time point after installation is complete and the wireless communication network is operating satisfactorily.

[0119] Additionally or alternatively, in another embodiment of the network service device, if a power outage is detected—for example, if a user, installer, or facility administrator physically disconnects the network service device—the network service device is configured to remain disconnected for a predetermined amount of time, so that it cannot be reconnected and thus prevents unauthorized use.

[0120] In another embodiment, the network service device is configured to be disabled after a given time span, but is also configured to be used as a lifeline upon request (e.g., in the event of a problem), activated via remote activation or by some proprietary code that can be given to the facility manager by the installer's help desk. Alternatively, the network service device includes a user interface that can be activated or actuated by the user to initiate remote maintenance, i.e., requesting access to or permission to join the wireless communication network.

[0121] In another embodiment, after the initial period, the network service device is configured to communicate with an external server but does not upload anything unless instructed by local intervention from the facility administrator, for example, by adding a specific code sent by the installer to the building owner or pressing a button on the device. Therefore, a particular embodiment of the network service device may only report anomalous network behavior, indicating, for example, security vulnerabilities, network overload issues, or device error states. Furthermore, preferably, OTA security updates require action from the user or owner to achieve the actual update, such as pressing a physical button on the gateway or using an access code as described above.

[0122] In another example, a standalone wireless communication network is first installed by a professional installer using a network service device as a ephemeral gateway. Subsequently, the end user requests troubleshooting from the installer. Because the wireless communication network already has a ephemeral gateway installed, the troubleshooting network service device can be mailed, for example, to the end user who installed it themselves, thus avoiding expensive shipping costs. The troubleshooting network service device is configured with knowledge of the network parameters because the system has been set up as a ephemeral gateway, and therefore the network parameters are available. Therefore, it can be added to the network without any re-entry initialization or reconfiguration. In a specific instance of a Zigbee-based wireless communication network, this requires storing the IEEE address used for the gateway, assuming it is also the trust center (the short address for Zigbee coordinators and trust centers is always 0x0000), the corresponding network key, and typically the EPID (Extended PAN) of the Zigbee coordinator's IEEE address. Using these parameters, the wireless communication network should be discoverable via active scanning, and the PAN-id, as well as channel and network key updates, can be derived; alternatively, these parameters can also be stored. In one embodiment, when a network service device discovers the existence of a network it is searching for, it is configured to explicitly contact one or more network nodes, for example, by establishing a BLE connection to a Zigbee-BLE proxy network node. In a particular embodiment of the node control unit, detecting the establishment of such a connection from a network node to the gateway is a way of determining whether one or more network service devices are currently available to communicate with one or more network nodes of a wireless communication network.

[0123] In another specific example, in wireless communication networks (such as, for example, hue lighting systems), new-generation network service devices are occasionally introduced. Consequently, many legacy users must upgrade their older network service devices to the new version. The older network service devices are configured, according to a third-party network service device, to act as temporary gateways within the same network as the new network service device, but have limited privileges when upgrading to the new network service device. Furthermore, some compatibility features of the new network service device can be assigned to the older network service device, which can also be configured to perform maintenance functions (such as monitoring network health) and / or assist with debugging.

[0124] The fourth aspect of the invention comprises a wireless communication network including: at least one node control unit according to the first aspect of the invention; two or more network nodes including an operation unit configured to receive a first switching mode from the node control unit and operate therein in a first operating mode or a second operating mode; and at least one wireless network service device according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0125] Therefore, the wireless communication network shares the advantages of the node control unit of the first aspect of the present invention and the network service device of the third aspect.

[0126] In the following text, embodiments of the wireless communication network of the fourth aspect will be described.

[0127] In one embodiment, one or more network nodes include a corresponding node control unit.

[0128] In another embodiment, the wireless communication network further includes a network control device configured to provide at least one network service device with security certificate data indicating permission to join the target wireless communication network. In this particular embodiment, the network service device is configured to use the received security certificate data to provide a connection request signal.

[0129] According to the fifth aspect, a method for operating a node control unit is proposed, the node control unit being used to set the operating mode of one or more network nodes in a wireless communication network. The method includes:

[0130] - Determine that one or more network service devices currently outside the wireless communication network are currently available to communicate with at least one network node of the wireless communication network and provide a signal indicating their service availability;

[0131] - In response to receiving a service availability signal;

[0132] - Generate and provide a first switching mode signal, the first switching mode signal indicating an instruction to switch the operating mode of at least one network node from a first operating mode of at least one network node in a wireless communication network configured as a first network configuration to a second operating mode of at least one network node in a wireless communication network configured as a second network configuration, the first network configuration excluding network service devices, the second network configuration including at least one network service device.

[0133] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, a method for operating a network node is described. The method includes:

[0134] - A method for performing the fifth aspect of the present invention;

[0135] - Receive the first switching mode signal;

[0136] - Operate network nodes in either the first or second operating mode according to the first switching mode signal.

[0137] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for operating a wireless network service device to operate in one or more different wireless communication networks. The network service device is configured to switch between a first service operation mode and a second service operation mode, the first service operation mode corresponding to the network service device being currently available for communication with at least one node of a target wireless communication network to which the network service device is not currently connected, and the second service operation mode corresponding to the network service device being currently available for communication with at least one node of a target wireless communication network to which the network service device is currently connected. The method includes:

[0138] - Determine that at least one network node of the target wireless communication network is currently in a first operating mode as a network node of the target wireless communication network in a first network configuration that excludes network service devices from the target wireless communication network, or is in a second operating mode as a network node of the target communication network in a second network configuration, including at least one network service device in the target wireless communication network; and

[0139] - To communicate wirelessly with any network node currently in the second operating mode.

[0140] In one embodiment, the method additionally includes receiving a connection signal indicating an instruction to connect to a target wireless communication network to which the wireless network service device is not currently connected. It also includes providing, via an output interface, a connection request signal indicating an acceptance request in the target wireless communication network. Upon connecting to the target wireless communication network, the method includes communicatively cooperating with one or more network nodes of the target communication network to operate in a second operating mode.

[0141] In one embodiment, the wireless network service device is configured to adapt its operation based on the type of network node it connects to. For example, in one embodiment, the wireless network service device is configured to display all services and provide full functionality when connected via a vendor-owned network node, but only display basic services when connected to a third-party network node.

[0142] According to an eighth aspect of the invention, a computer program is provided that includes instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods of either the sixth or seventh aspect.

[0143] It should be understood that the node control unit of claim 1, the network node of claim 6, the network service device of claim 8, the wireless communication network of claim 10, the corresponding methods for operating the node control unit, the network node and the network service device of claims 12 to 14, and the computer program of claim 15 have similar and / or identical preferred embodiments, particularly as defined in the dependent claims.

[0144] It should be understood that the preferred embodiments of the present invention may also be any combination of the dependent claims or the foregoing embodiments with their respective independent claims.

[0145] These and other aspects of the invention will become clear and explained with reference to the embodiments described below. Attached Figure Description

[0146] In the following figures:

[0147] Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of an embodiment node control unit and a transient network service device that can be used for connection in a wireless communication network is shown.

[0148] Figure 2 A schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a wireless communication network and network service equipment is shown.

[0149] Figure 3 A schematic block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a wireless network service device communicating with two different wireless communication networks is shown.

[0150] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method for operating a node control unit is shown.

[0151] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method for operating a network node is shown, and

[0152] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method for operating a wireless network service device is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0153] Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of a node control unit 100 in a wireless communication network 150 and an external temporary network service device 106 available for connection is shown. The node control unit 100 is suitably configured to set the operating modes of one or more network nodes 102 or 106 of the wireless communication network 150. At least one network node is configured to operate in a first operating mode OM1, which corresponds to the operation of the at least one network node as a network node of the wireless communication network 150 excluding the network service device 106; and to operate in a second operating mode OM2, which corresponds to the operation of the at least one network node communicating with the network service device 106, i.e., wherein the network service device 106 is part of the wireless communication network.

[0154] The node control unit 100 includes a network service detection unit 104 configured to: determine whether one or more network service devices 106, which are not currently part of the wireless communication network, are currently available to access the wireless communication network, i.e., whether they are available to communicate with at least one network node of the wireless communication network; and provide a service availability signal SA indicating their availability. The node control unit also includes an operation mode setting unit 108 configured to control the switching of the operation mode of at least one network node 102 between the first and second operation modes discussed above. For this purpose, the operation mode setting unit 108 is configured to receive the service availability signal SA, and when the service availability signal indicates that at least one network service device is currently available to access the wireless communication network 150, provide a first switching mode signal SM1 to at least one network node of the wireless communication network 150 via the output interface 110 and according to the service availability signal SA. The first switching mode signal SM1 indicates an instruction to switch the operation mode of at least one network node 102 from the first operation mode to the second operation mode. Specifically, in this node control unit, the operation mode setting unit is configured to determine whether the network service device 106 providing the request signal is a network service device permitted to access the wireless communication network, and to provide a permission signal indicating this. The operation mode setting unit 108 is also configured to provide a first switching mode signal based on the permission signal, that is, only if the available network service device is a permitted network service device according to predetermined security standards, or having predetermined capability standards, or having predetermined performance standards, etc.

[0155] The wireless communication network 150 can be a standalone network, or it can include a permanent network service device 103, which is used by the network nodes to operate in a first operating mode. Therefore, the permanent network service device (e.g., a permanent gateway device) is part of the wireless communication network and is not a network service device as network service device 106.

[0156] Figure 2 A schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a wireless communication network 250 and a network service device 106 is shown. The following discussion will primarily concern... Figure 1 The wireless communication network 150 differs from those features. In the wireless communication network 250, network node 120 includes references Figure 1The described node control unit 100 also includes a node operation unit 112 operable in first and second operation modes. The node operation unit is configured to receive a first switching mode signal SM1 from the node control unit 100 (specifically from the output interface 110 of the operation mode setting unit 108) and operate in either the first or second operation mode accordingly. Specifically, when operating in the second operation mode, the network node 120 is configured to perform one or more of the following functions:

[0157] - Network access initialization function for at least one node in a wireless communication network;

[0158] - Node verification function is used to verify the correct connection of at least one node to the wireless communication network;

[0159] - Configuration verification function, used to verify the correct configuration of at least one node of the wireless communication network according to a predetermined configuration standard;

[0160] - Software update function, used to update the software used by at least one node of the wireless communication network;

[0161] - Firmware update function, used to update the firmware used by at least one node of the wireless communication network;

[0162] - Fine-tuning configuration function, used to adjust the operating parameters of at least one node of the wireless communication network in the first and second operating modes;

[0163] - A network node usage monitoring function is used to determine and provide node usage information indicating the cumulative operating time of at least one node in a wireless communication network over a predetermined time span.

[0164] - Network operation monitoring function, used to determine and provide network operation information indicating the communication error rate within the wireless communication network during a predetermined time span;

[0165] - Node operation test function, used to test the predetermined operation function of at least one node of a wireless communication network.

[0166] - Network cyber security monitoring function is used to monitor traffic patterns within wireless communication networks and detect target traffic patterns that indicate the presence of fraudulent nodes based on a predetermined fraud node detection algorithm.

[0167] - Presence sensing functionality for sensing the presence of an object in a presence sensing volume associated with a wireless communication network. This presence sensing functionality includes determining received signal quality indicator values, such as the RSSI value of an RF signal transmitted within the wireless communication network or a channel state indicator of a communication link of the wireless communication network.

[0168] - Remote access functionality, used to allow remote access to network nodes via external devices;

[0169] - Network information provision function, used to identify and provide network information related to network nodes that are currently part of a wireless communication network;

[0170] - Location determination function, used to determine the approximate location of network service devices; and

[0171] - Network node addition function, used to connect one or more external nodes to a wireless communication network.

[0172] The above provides detailed examples of these functions.

[0173] In another exemplary wireless communication network (not shown), there is more than one network node—and in another example, all network nodes—including a corresponding node control unit.

[0174] Figure 3 A schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a wireless network service device 300 communicating with two different wireless communication networks 350 and 360 is shown. In this particular example, the wireless communication network 360 is the Internet, which the wireless network service device 300 connects to via, for example, a WiFi or 3G / 4G or 5G router. The wireless network service device 300 includes a wireless communication unit, such as a transceiver unit 302, configured to receive and provide wireless messages from network nodes 304 and 306, which belong to one or more wireless communication networks to which the wireless network service device is communicatively connected. The wireless network service device 300 also includes a network connection control unit 308, which is configured to determine that at least one network node of the target wireless communication network is currently in a first operating mode as a network node of the target wireless communication network in a first network configuration that excludes the network service device from the target wireless communication network, or is in a second operating mode as a network node of the target communication network in a second network configuration that includes at least one network service device in the target wireless communication network; and to wirelessly communicate with one or more network nodes of the target communication network currently operating in the second operating mode.

[0175] exist Figure 3In the exemplary network service device 300, the network connection unit 308 is configured to receive a connection signal CS via an input interface 310, which indicates an instruction to connect to a target wireless communication network 350 to which the wireless network service device is not currently connected. In the network service device 300, the connection signal is a wireless signal transmitted from the network 360 and received via the wireless communication unit. In an alternative network service device (not shown), the input interface is a user interface, such as a button, a touchscreen, or an actuator that is actuated or operated by the user to provide the connection signal (in this particular instance, the connection signal is an electrical signal generated internally within the network service device).

[0176] The network connectivity control unit is also configured to provide a connection request signal CR to at least one node control unit 100 of the target wireless communication network 350 via an output interface 312. The connection request signal CR indicates a request for acceptance within the target wireless communication network. (Refer to the above...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The node control unit interprets the received connection request signal as an indication that the network service device 300 is currently available for access to the wireless communication network 350. Preferably, the node control unit also checks whether the wireless device 300 is trustworthy and should be allowed access to the wireless communication network 350. Preferably, this is accomplished by means of a network control device 306, which is configured to provide the network service device 300 with security certificate data relating to the target wireless communication data 350. The network service device is then configured to use the received security certificate data to provide the connection request signal.

[0177] Upon receiving a first mode switching signal, the network node switches its operating mode from the first operating mode to a second operating mode, for example, to perform any or more of the functions described above. The network service device 300, when connected to a target wireless communication network, is configured to communicatively cooperate with one or more network nodes of the target communication network for operating one or more network nodes in a second operation.

[0178] In addition to the control node unit 100, the wireless communication network 350 also includes a network node 304. Optionally, the wireless communication network may include an additional network service device 305, or a permanent network service device, or a second temporary wireless network service device, similar to the wireless network service device, which also currently supports the operation of the wireless communication network 350.

[0179] Suitable wireless communication networks include, but are not limited to, lighting networks, which include lighting nodes and sensors that can be controlled via suitable wireless communication protocols, such as, but not limited to, Zigbee, BLE, or WiFi.

[0180] The use of peripheral network service equipment is particularly well-suited for integrating lighting systems with, for example, voice control. Currently, providing lighting systems with voice control is a typical strategy for building infrastructure owners. However, while some office users do want voice control, others dislike its presence in their offices due to concerns such as privacy. This will necessitate the temporary removal of voice assistant speakers from offices based on tenant / user requirements and, consequently, the lighting network's needs. In flexible workspaces, this may even occur on a daily basis. All lighting equipment can cease all activities related to use cases requiring a gateway, such as reporting occupancy or energy consumption data once the voice assistant has left the network.

[0181] The combination of node control units and suitable network service devices reduces the complexity of temporarily enhancing connected systems with gateways for initial installation, allowing for the use of temporary network service devices on demand for purposes such as reconfiguring or updating the system or temporarily connecting multiple subsystems / extending existing lighting systems without requiring a complete system reconfiguration.

[0182] For example, the product lifecycles of voice assistants and wireless lights are often very different. While lights are configured to remain on the ceiling for over 10 years (typically until they break), voice assistants are consumer electronics that users may replace with new devices after a maximum of 5 years. Therefore, it is important that users have the freedom to remove or replace the voice assistant device during the lifespan of the office lighting or hue DLC (Direct Lighting Control) installation without affecting the core lighting functionality of the hue DLC.

[0183] Currently, if the voice assistant used as a perimeter gateway device is replaced, especially if the replacement perimeter network service device comes from a different vendor, past learning is lost. A beneficial node control unit is appropriately configured to store certain information acquired from the original perimeter network service device and share that information with the replacement device. For example, network nodes (e.g., DLC lights) can share recommendations about which lights the perimeter gateway should connect to in the DLC device to achieve maximum reliability of the BLE connection between the perimeter gateway and the Zigbee lights. Furthermore, information regarding conflicts and conflict mitigation strategies between the first and second perimeter network service devices—which can remain stationary in place—can also be provided to the new perimeter gateway by the node control unit. This sharing is advantageous because network service devices typically do not interact to arbitrate issues associated with two perimeter gateways wanting to control the same lights.

[0184] Other network control nodes are additionally or alternatively configured to share a list of devices present on the network with the connected ephemeral gateway, the list having associated Zigbee IDs and information (including application information such as light names, room / groups, and dedicated functions).

[0185] A scenario exists where a family's living room features a voice-controlled device and a first Hue DLC lighting system. A second Hue DLC system is installed in an adjacent bedroom, but for privacy reasons, there is no voice control device in the adjacent bedroom. The second Hue DLC system may consist of a wall switch and two lights, and the end user has never used their smartphone app to control the lighting after the initial setup. The Hue app is fully aware that two independent Hue DLC systems exist in the same room and that only the first Hue DLC system can be reached from the cloud via the voice control device. If the lights in the bedroom require a security-critical firmware update, the Hue system can request assistance from the voice control device in the living room. In this case, the voice control device can simultaneously act as a perimeter gateway for both the first and second Hue DLC lighting networks. The first and second DLC networks act as completely independent networks, preferably with different security keys and / or channels. In this scenario, while the voice control device is upgrading the firmware of the second DLC network, it can still maintain voice control of the first Hue DLC lights, at least with low latency.

[0186] If running two networks in parallel proves infeasible, the voice control device, acting as a network service device, is advantageously configured to temporarily join the bedroom network, perform an OTAU, and then return to the original network. Since the OTAU may take some time, it can be run at night or during the day when no one is present.

[0187] Lighting devices in an independent network may behave differently regardless of the presence of network-serving devices (such as voice assistants). For example, if a network-serving device is present, the lights may perform high-granularity RF sensing (including people counting), which increases the network load and power consumption of the lighting devices. If a perimeter gateway is not present, the lighting devices may revert to basic functions (e.g., RF sensing used only for occupancy detection or standalone soft security) and cease (or reduce) all activities related to use cases requiring a gateway (e.g., people counting or energy consumption data) once the voice assistant has left the network, as there will be no consumer for any such rich data collected. The lighting devices may switch modes immediately after the voice assistant has left the network, or continue for a period of time if the perimeter gateway (e.g., a NEST security camera) returns or gradually reduces its efforts.

[0188] When installing a standalone system without a permanent gateway, a peripheral network service device (e.g., in the form of a smartphone or laptop) is appropriately permitted to perform certain well-defined actions (e.g., reconfiguration, diagnostics, administration, SW upgrades) when connected to the network. In some cases, the identity (configuration, address) of the peripheral gateway is known, for example, when the gateway is a dedicated box or, for example, a gateway robot / drone or a dedicated phone for the facility manager, it is only occasionally brought into the network, for example, to change network configuration, check network / device health, collect usage data, or provide OTA upgrades. The network service device can be single-purpose, i.e., the facility manager connects to it, and it can only perform OTAUs, with no lighting control or re-entry initialization possible. When used by an authorized installer, the same network service device can allow re-entry initialization and reading granular usage data.

[0189] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method 400 for operating a node control unit to set the operating mode of one or more network nodes in a wireless communication network is shown. The method includes, in step 402, determining that one or more network service devices currently outside the wireless communication network are currently available to communicate with at least one network node of the wireless communication network, and providing a service availability signal indicating their availability. The method further includes, in step 404, receiving the service availability signal, and, in response, in step 406, generating and providing a first switching mode signal indicating an instruction to switch the operating mode of at least one network node from a first operating mode of at least one network node in a wireless communication network configured as a first network configuration to a second operating mode of at least one network node in a wireless communication network configured as a second network configuration, the first network configuration excluding network service devices, and the second network configuration including at least one network service device.

[0190] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method 500 for operating a network node is shown. The method for operating a network node includes performing a reference... Figure 4 The method 400 is described. The method further includes, in step 502, receiving a first switching mode signal, and in step 504, operating the network node in a first operating mode or a second operating mode according to the first switching mode signal.

[0191] Figure 6A flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method 600 for operating a wireless network service device to operate in one or more different wireless communication networks is shown. The method includes, in step 602, determining that at least one network node of a target wireless communication network is currently in a first operating mode as a network node of a target wireless communication network with a first network configuration that excludes the network service device from the target wireless communication network, or in a second operating mode as a network node of a target wireless communication network with a second network configuration that includes at least one network service device in the target wireless communication network; and in step 604, wirelessly communicating with the at least one network node currently in the second operating mode.

[0192] In summary, the present invention relates to a node control unit for setting the operating modes of one or more network nodes in a wireless communication network. It includes: a network service detection unit for determining whether a network service device is currently available for communication with the wireless communication network and providing a service availability signal indicating its availability; and an operating mode setting unit configured to receive the service availability signal and, based thereon, generate and provide a first switching mode signal to at least one network node, the first switching mode signal indicating an instruction to switch the operating mode from a first operating mode to a second operating mode, in which the network node acts as a node in the wireless communication network, and in the second operating mode, the network node communicates with the network service device, thereby enabling specific adjustments to the functionality of the network node.

[0193] By studying the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments in practicing the claimed invention.

[0194] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality.

[0195] A single unit or device can perform the functions of several items listed in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are referenced in mutually different dependent claims does not imply that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0196] Computer programs can be stored / distributed on suitable media, such as optical storage media or solid-state media, provided together with or as part of other hardware; but they can also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems.

[0197] Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A node control unit (100) located in a wireless communication network (150), the node control unit being configured to set an operation mode of one or more network nodes (102) of the wireless communication network (150), the node control unit comprising: - a network service detection unit (104) configured to determine a current availability of one or more network service devices (106) currently outside the wireless communication network for communication with at least one network node of the network nodes of the wireless communication network and thus becoming part of the wireless communication network and to provide a respective service availability signal indicative thereof; - an operation mode setting unit (108) configured to control a switching of the operation mode of at least one network node of the network nodes of the wireless communication network between: - a first operation mode (OM1) of the at least one network node of the network nodes of the wireless communication network as a first network configuration excluding respective network service devices from the wireless communication network, and - a second operation mode (OM2) of the at least one network node of the network nodes of the wireless communication network as a second network configuration including respective network service devices in the wireless communication network; wherein the one or more network service devices (106) are configured to perform a commissioning function of at least one network node of the wireless communication network in communication with one or more network nodes (102) operating in the second operation mode; wherein - the operation mode setting unit (108) is further configured to, in response to receiving a respective service availability signal, generate and provide a corresponding first switch mode signal to at least one of the one or more network nodes of the wireless communication network via an output interface (110), the first switch mode signal being indicative of an instruction to switch the operation mode of the at least one network node from the first operation mode to the second operation mode with respect to a given network service device.

2. The node control unit of claim 1, wherein, the operation mode setting unit is further configured to: - determine service admission information indicative of one or more network service devices being able to connect to the at least one network node of the wireless communication network and being admitted to join the wireless communication network; - use the service admission information to determine whether one or more network service devices currently available for communication with the at least one network node of the network nodes of the wireless communication network are admitted network service devices to the wireless communication network and to provide an admission signal indicative thereof; and - provide the first switch mode signal in dependence on the admission signal.

3. The node control unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: - the network service detection unit is configured to determine whether at least one of the network service devices is currently connected to the wireless communication network and to provide a respective service connection signal indicative thereof; and wherein - the operation mode setting unit is further configured to, in response to receiving a respective service connection signal, generate and provide a corresponding second switch mode signal to at least one of the one or more network nodes of the wireless communication network via the output interface, the second switch mode signal being indicative of an instruction to switch the operation mode of the at least one network node from the first operation mode to the second operation mode with respect to a given network service device. - the operation mode setting unit is configured to provide, via the output interface, a second switch mode signal to at least one of the network nodes of the wireless communication network when the respective service connection signal indicates that the network service device is not currently connected to the wireless communication network, the second switch mode signal indicating an instruction to switch the operation mode of the at least one network node from a second operation mode (OM2) to a first operation mode (OM1).

4. The node control unit according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: - a node identification data determining unit configured to determine node identification data indicative of at least one of the network nodes currently forming part of the wireless communication network; - a storage unit configured to store the determined node identification data; and - a network service device updating unit configured to provide the stored node identification data to a network service device upon reception of a predetermined enabling instruction.

5. The node control unit according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: - a network operation data determining unit configured to determine network operation data indicative of a communication process between a network node and a first network service device connected to the wireless communication network; - a storage unit configured to store the determined network operation data; and - a network service device updating unit configured to provide the stored network operation data to a second network service device different from the first network service device upon reception of a predetermined enabling instruction.

6. A network node (120) comprising: - a node control unit (100) according to any of the preceding claims; - a node operation unit (112) operable in a first and a second operation mode, the node operation unit being configured to receive a first switch mode signal from the node control unit and to operate in the first operation mode or in the at least one second operation mode with respect to a respective available network service device in accordance therewith; wherein the node operation unit (112) is configured to perform a commissioning function of at least one network node of the wireless communication network when operating in the second operation mode.

7. The network node according to claim 6, wherein the node operation unit is configured to perform one or more of the following functions when operating in the second operation mode: - a node verification function for verifying a correct connection of the at least one network node to the wireless communication network in accordance with predetermined connection criteria; - a configuration verification function for verifying a correct configuration of the at least one network node of the wireless communication network in accordance with predetermined configuration criteria; - a software update function for updating software used by the at least one network node of the wireless communication network; - a firmware update function for updating firmware used by the at least one network node of the wireless communication network; - a fine-tuning configuration function for adjusting operation parameters of the at least one network node of the wireless communication network in the first or second operation mode; ​ ​ - a network node usage monitoring function for determining and providing an amount of node usage information indicative of a cumulative operation time and consumed network bandwidth of at least one network node of the wireless communication network during a predetermined time span; - a network operation monitoring function for determining and providing an amount of network operation information indicative of a communication error rate within the wireless communication network during a predetermined time span; - a node operation testing function for testing a predetermined operation function of at least one network node of the wireless communication network; - a network cyber-security monitoring function for monitoring traffic patterns within the wireless communication network and detecting target traffic patterns indicative of a presence of a fraudulent node according to a predetermined fraudulent node detection algorithm; - a presence sensing function for sensing a presence of an object in a presence sensing volume associated with the wireless communication network, the presence sensing function comprising determining a received signal quality indicator value; - a remote access function for allowing a remote access to the network node by an external device; - a network information providing function for determining and providing network information related to network nodes currently forming part of a wireless communication network; - a location determining function for determining an approximate location of a network service device; - a network node adding function for connecting one or more external nodes to the wireless communication network; and - an asset tracking function for tracking a location of one or more target devices using a beacon signal provided by the target devices according to a predetermined communication protocol; - an indoor positioning service function using the beacon signal provided by the target devices.

8. A wireless network service device for operating in one or more different wireless communication networks, wherein the wireless network service device is configured to switch operation between: - a first service operation mode corresponding to the wireless network service device currently not being connected to a target wireless communication network, but being available for communicating with at least one network node of a target wireless communication network, and - at least one second service operation mode corresponding to the wireless network service device currently being connected to a target wireless communication network, and being available for communicating with at least one network node of the target wireless communication network; the wireless network service device comprising: - a wireless communication unit (302) configured to receive wireless messages from and / or provide wireless messages to network nodes (304, 306) belonging to one or more wireless communication networks to which the wireless network service device is communicatively connected; - a network node usage monitoring function for determining and providing an amount of node usage information indicative of a cumulative operation time and consumed network bandwidth of at least one network node of the wireless communication network during a predetermined time span; - a network operation monitoring function for determining and providing an amount of network operation information indicative of a communication error rate within the wireless communication network during a predetermined time span; - a node operation testing function for testing a predetermined operation function of at least one network node of the wireless communication network; - a network cyber-security monitoring function for monitoring traffic patterns within the wireless communication network and detecting target traffic patterns indicative of a presence of a fraudulent node according to a predetermined fraudulent node detection algorithm; - a presence sensing function for sensing a presence of an object in a presence sensing volume associated with the wireless communication network, the presence sensing function comprising determining a received signal quality indicator value; - a remote access function for allowing a remote access to the network node by an external device; - a network information providing function for determining and providing network information related to network nodes currently forming part of a wireless communication network; - a location determining function for determining an approximate location of a network service device; - a network node adding function for connecting one or more external nodes to the wireless communication network; and - an asset tracking function for tracking a location of one or more target devices using a beacon signal provided by the target devices according to a predetermined communication protocol; - an indoor positioning service function using the beacon signal provided by the target devices. - a network connection control unit (308) configured to determine that at least one network node of a target wireless communication network is currently in a first operation mode (OM1) as a network node of the target wireless communication network configured in a first network configuration excluding the wireless network service device from the target wireless communication network or in at least one second operation mode (OM2) as a network node of the target wireless communication network configured in a second network configuration including at least one wireless network service device in the target wireless communication network, and - to wirelessly communicate within the target wireless communication network with any network node currently in the second operation mode; wherein the wireless network service device is further configured to perform a commissioning function of at least one network node of the wireless communication network in communication with one or more network nodes according to claim 6 or 7 operating in the second operation mode.

9. The wireless network service device according to claim 8, further configured to perform one or more of the following functions in communication with one or more network nodes according to claim 6 or 7 operating in the second operation mode: - a node validation function for validating a correct connection of the at least one network node to the wireless communication network according to predetermined connection criteria; - a configuration validation function for validating a correct configuration of the at least one network node of the wireless communication network according to predetermined configuration criteria; - a software update function for updating software used by the at least one network node of the wireless communication network; - a firmware update function for updating firmware used by the at least one network node of the wireless communication network; - a fine-tuning configuration function for adjusting operation parameters of the at least one network node of the wireless communication network in the first or second operation mode; - a network node usage monitoring function for determining and providing an amount of node usage information indicative of a cumulative operation time of the at least one network node of the wireless communication network during a predetermined time span; - a network operation monitoring function for determining and providing an amount of network operation information indicative of a communication error rate within the wireless communication network during a predetermined time span; - a node operation test function for testing predetermined operation functions of the at least one network node of the wireless communication network; - a network cyber-security monitoring function for monitoring traffic patterns within the wireless communication network and detecting target traffic patterns indicative of a presence of a fraudulent node according to predetermined fraudulent node detection algorithms; - a presence sensing function for sensing a presence of an object in a presence sensing volume associated with the wireless communication network, the presence sensing function comprising determining a received signal quality indicator value; - a remote access function for allowing remote access to the network node by an external device; - a network information providing function for determining and providing network information related to network nodes currently forming part of the wireless communication network; - a location determination function for determining an approximate location of the wireless network service device; - a network node addition function for connecting one or more external nodes to the wireless communication network; and - an asset tracking function for tracking the location of one or more target devices using a beacon signal provided by the target devices according to a predetermined communication protocol; - an indoor positioning service function using the beacon signal provided by the target devices.

10. A wireless communication network (350) comprising: - at least one node control unit (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5; - one or more network nodes (304) comprising an operating unit configured to receive the first switch mode from the node control unit and operate in a first operating mode or a second operating mode according thereto; and - at least one wireless network service device (300) according to claim 8 or 9.

11. The wireless communication network according to claim 10, further comprising: - a network control device (306) configured to provide the at least one wireless network service device with security credential data indicative of a permission to join the wireless communication network; and wherein - the wireless network service device is configured to use the received security credential data for providing a connection request signal.

12. A method (400) for operating a node control unit, the node control unit being located in a wireless communication network and being configured to set an operating mode of one or more network nodes of the wireless communication network, the method comprising: - determining that one or more network service devices currently external to the wireless communication network are currently available for communication with at least one network node of the network nodes of the wireless communication network and providing a service availability signal indicative thereof; - in response to receiving the service availability signal; - generating and providing a first switch mode signal indicative of an instruction to switch the operating mode of the at least one network node from a first operating mode of the at least one network node of the network nodes of the wireless communication network as a first network configuration to a second operating mode of the at least one network node of the network nodes of the wireless communication network as a second network configuration, the first network configuration excluding network service devices, the second network configuration including at least one network service device; wherein the one or more network service devices (106) are configured to perform a commissioning function of the at least one network node of the wireless communication network in communication with the one or more network nodes (102) operating in the second operating mode.

13. A method (500) for operating a network node, comprising: - performing the method (400) of claim 12; - receiving the first switch mode signal; - operating the network node in the first operating mode or the second operating mode according to the first switch mode signal.

14. A method (600) for operating a wireless network service device to operate in one or more different wireless communication networks, the method comprising the wireless network service device being configured to switch operation between a first service operation mode and a second service operation mode, the first service operation mode corresponding to the wireless network service device being currently available for communication with at least one network node of a target wireless communication network to which the wireless network service device is not currently connected, the second service operation mode corresponding to the wireless network service device being currently available for communication with at least one network node of a target wireless communication network to which the wireless network service device is currently connected, the method comprising: - determining that at least one network node of the target wireless communication network is currently in a first operation mode (OM1) as a network node of the target wireless communication network configured as a first network configuration excluding wireless network service devices from the target wireless communication network or in a second operation mode (OM2) as a network node of the target communication network configured as a second network configuration including at least one wireless network service device in the target wireless communication network; and - performing wireless communication with at least one network node currently in the second operation mode, wherein the wireless network service device (106) is configured to perform a commissioning function of at least one network node of the wireless communication network in the communication with the at least one network node (102) operating in the second operation mode.

15. A computer program product comprising a computer program which, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to carry out the method of any one of claims 12 to 14. ​

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