Power line carrier communication system, communication method and relay node

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention discloses a power line carrier communication system, a communication method and a relay node, the power line carrier communication system comprises at least two network equipment groups and at least one filter, and each network equipment group is provided with a corresponding relay node or a main node. A filter is arranged on a line between corresponding network equipment groups to filter signals in a preset frequency band range, and a first relay node controls a first preset number of first network equipment groups and communicates with a second preset number of second network equipment groups, so that the communication between the first network equipment groups and the second network equipment groups is realized. The embodiment of the invention can prolong the communication distance between the network devices and increase the number of the network devices in the system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of communication technology, and more particularly, to a power line carrier communication system, a communication method, and a relay node. Background Art

[0002] Power carrier is a communication method unique to power systems. Power carrier technology refers to the use of existing power lines to superimpose high-frequency communication signals on industrial frequency currents through carrier waves. This technology does not require the laying of additional communication lines and can rely on existing power lines for data transmission.

[0003] Since information interaction between different network device groups on the same power line will cause interference, in the existing power carrier communication system, only one master node can exist on a power line. In order to achieve effective communication between the master node and the slave nodes, the number of slave nodes and their distance from the master node are also limited. Therefore, there are defects such as short communication distance and small number of network devices. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, an object of the present invention is to provide a power line carrier communication system, a communication method and a relay node to extend the communication distance between network devices and increase the number of network devices in the system.

[0005] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present invention provides a power carrier communication system, the system comprising:

[0006] At least two network device groups, each having a corresponding relay node or master node, wherein the relay node or master node is used to control the network devices in the corresponding at least one network device group;

[0007] at least one filter, respectively provided on the lines between the corresponding network device groups, for filtering signals within a preset frequency band;

[0008] Among them, the at least two network device groups include a first predetermined number of first network device groups and a second predetermined number of second network device groups, the network devices in each of the first network device groups are controlled by the corresponding first relay node, and the network devices in each of the second network device groups communicate with each of the first network device groups via the relay of the first relay node.

[0009] Optionally, each of the network device groups has corresponding subcarrier sequence group information, and the first relay node includes:

[0010] a first predetermined number of main control modules, each of the main control modules corresponding to each of the first network device groups, each of the main control modules being configured to receive information reported by a network device in the corresponding first network device group, and aggregate the information to obtain a first data packet, the first data packet having subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding first network device group;

[0011] an information conversion module, configured to convert the subcarrier sequence group information of the first data packet to obtain a second data packet, and send the second data packet to the corresponding sub-control module, wherein the second data packet has the subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding second network device group;

[0012] a second predetermined number of sub-control modules, each of the sub-control modules corresponding one-to-one to each of the second network device groups, and each of the sub-control modules being used to send the received second data packet to the corresponding device in the corresponding second network device group based on the subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the second data packet.

[0013] Optionally, the sub-control module is further configured to receive a third data packet sent by the corresponding second network device group, where the third data packet has subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding second network device group;

[0014] The information conversion module is further configured to convert the subcarrier sequence group information of the third data packet to obtain a fourth data packet, and send the fourth data packet to the corresponding main control module, wherein the fourth data packet has the subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding first network device group;

[0015] The main control module is further configured to send the fourth data packet to the corresponding first network device group based on the subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the fourth data packet.

[0016] Optionally, the main control module and / or the sub-control module includes a power amplifier, which is used to adjust the transmission power to adapt to the corresponding transmission distance.

[0017] Optionally, the second predetermined number is greater than 1, and the information conversion module is further configured to:

[0018] Determining first target subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the first data packet;

[0019] Determining a target sub-control module according to the first target subcarrier sequence group information;

[0020] Convert the subcarrier sequence group information of the first data packet according to the first target subcarrier sequence group information to obtain the second data packet, where the second data packet has the first target subcarrier sequence group information, and the first target subcarrier sequence group information represents the subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding second network device group;

[0021] The second data packet is sent to the target sub-control module.

[0022] Optionally, the first predetermined number is greater than 1, and the information conversion module is further configured to:

[0023] Determining second target subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the third data packet;

[0024] determining a target main control module according to the second target subcarrier sequence group information;

[0025] converting the subcarrier sequence group information of the third data packet according to the second target subcarrier sequence group information to obtain the fourth data packet, where the fourth data packet includes the second target subcarrier sequence group information, where the second target subcarrier sequence group information represents the corresponding subcarrier sequence group information of the first network device group;

[0026] The fourth data packet is sent to the target main control module.

[0027] Optionally, the second network device group has a corresponding second relay node or master node, and the second network device group communicates with the first relay node via the second relay node or the master node.

[0028] Optionally, sending the received second data packet to a corresponding device in the corresponding second network device group includes:

[0029] The second data packet is sent to the second relay node or the master node, and is forwarded to the corresponding device by the second relay node or the master node.

[0030] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present invention provides a communication method, applied to a power line carrier communication system, the method comprising:

[0031] receiving and demodulating information sent by the first network device group to obtain a first data packet;

[0032] Converting the first data packet to obtain a second data packet;

[0033] modulating the second data packet and sending the modulated data packet to the second network device group;

[0034] The first network device group and the second network device group filter signals within a preset frequency band through a filter.

[0035] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present invention provides a relay node, which is provided in a power line carrier communication system, and the relay node includes:

[0036] a first predetermined number of main control modules, configured to receive and demodulate information sent by the first network device group to obtain a first data packet;

[0037] an information conversion module, configured to convert the first data packet to obtain a second data packet;

[0038] a second predetermined number of sub-control modules, configured to modulate the second data packet and send the modulated data packet to the second network device group;

[0039] The first network device group and the second network device group filter signals within a preset frequency band through a filter.

[0040] The embodiment of the present invention sets a filter on the line between the corresponding network device groups in a power carrier communication system including at least two network device groups and at least one filter to filter the signals within a preset frequency band, and controls each network device of a first predetermined number of first network device groups and the communication between the first network device group and the second network device group through a first relay node. Therefore, the embodiment of the present invention can extend the communication distance between network devices and increase the number of network devices in the system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent through the following description of the embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a power line carrier communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 2 is a flow chart of a data conversion method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 3 is a flow chart of another data conversion method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 4a is a schematic diagram of a relay node according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 4b is a schematic diagram of another relay node according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 5is a flow chart of an interactive method of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of another power line carrier communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of another power line carrier communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 8 is a flow chart of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] The present application is described below based on the following embodiments, but the present application is not limited to these embodiments. In the detailed description of the present application below, certain specific details are described in detail. Those skilled in the art can fully understand the present application without the description of these details. To avoid obscuring the essence of the present application, well-known methods, processes, procedures, components, and circuits are not described in detail.

[0052] Furthermore, persons of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the figures provided herein are for illustration purposes only and are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0053] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, words like “include”, “comprising” and the like throughout this application should be interpreted as including rather than exclusive or exhaustive; that is, as meaning “including but not limited to”.

[0054] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "first", "second", etc. are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood to indicate or imply relative importance. In addition, in the description of this application, unless otherwise specified, "plurality" means two or more.

[0055] Power line carrier communication technology modulates digital signals onto high-frequency carriers and transmits data over power lines. However, because power lines are shared media, signals between different network device groups can overlap, leading to interference between the signals. Therefore, it is difficult to operate multiple groups of network devices on the same power line. Based on this, embodiments provide a power line carrier communication system, communication method, and relay node to enable interference-free communication between multiple network device groups, thereby extending the communication distance between network devices and increasing the number of network devices in the system.

[0056] The power carrier communication system of an embodiment of the present invention includes at least two network device groups and at least one filter. Each network device group has a corresponding relay node or master node for controlling corresponding devices in the at least one network device group, and at least one filter is provided on the line between the corresponding network device groups.

[0057] The filter is used to filter signals within a preset frequency band. Optionally, the preset frequency band can be 0.7MHz (Megahertz)-12MHz, or other frequency bands set by technicians, and this embodiment does not limit this. The 0.7-12MHz frequency band is a commonly used frequency band for power carrier communication technology. By filtering the signals within this frequency band through the filter, it can ensure that the power lines at both ends of the filter can pass current normally while preventing signals from different network equipment groups from interfering with communication.

[0058] Optionally, each network device group has corresponding subcarrier sequence group information. A subcarrier is a sub-band obtained by dividing the total frequency band owned by the system. Each subcarrier can independently modulate and transmit data. A subcarrier sequence group is a collection of multiple subcarriers composed according to protocol rules (such as resource allocation, modulation method, etc.). During the communication process, each network device group modulates and transmits communication data according to the corresponding subcarrier sequence group information. Therefore, each network device group uses a different subcarrier sequence group, which can enhance the anti-interference capability of the communication process and improve system capacity.

[0059] In an optional implementation, at least two network device groups may include a first predetermined number of first network device groups and a second predetermined number of second network device groups, wherein the first predetermined number and the second predetermined number are both integers greater than zero, and the first network device group has a corresponding first relay node. The first relay node is equivalent to the master node of each first network device group, and the network devices in each first network device group are controlled by the first relay node and communicate with each network device in the second network device group via the relay of the first relay node. The second network device also has a corresponding second relay node or master node for controlling each network device in the second network device group. It should be understood that the first predetermined number of first network device groups share the same first relay node, and the second predetermined number of second network device groups share the same second relay node or master node.

[0060] Furthermore, the first network device group needs to send information to the master node via the second network device group, wherein the relay node corresponding to the first network device group serves as the CCO (Central Coordinator, responsible for the access of terminal devices in this group of networks and the reception and transmission of data) of the first network device group, and serves as the STA (Station, terminal node, responsible for receiving and sending power carrier signals) of the second network device group to achieve communication and control between different network device groups. If a communication path includes network device group A, network device group B and network device group C, wherein network device group A and network device group B have corresponding relay nodes a and relay nodes b respectively, and network device group C has a corresponding master node c. In the communication process in which relay node a obtains information from each network device in network device group A and sends it directly to relay node b or sends it to relay node b via the network devices in network device group B, network device group A serves as the first network device group and network device group B serves as the second network device group. Accordingly, after relay node b obtains information about each network device in network device group B (or information about each network device in network device group A, or information about each network device in both network device group A and network device group B), it sends the information directly to master node c, or sends the information to master node c via network devices in network device group C, or sends the information to network devices in network device group C. During the communication process, network device group B serves as the first network device group and network device group C serves as the second network device group. In other optional implementations, if the relay nodes corresponding to each network device group communicate directly with the master node, the network device group with the corresponding relay node serves as the first network device group, and the network device group with the master node serves as the second network device group.

[0061] It should be understood that the relay node or master node is distinguished from the network device here only for the convenience of explanation, and it does not limit the relationship between the two. The relay node or master node corresponding to the network device group can also be classified as a network device of the network device group for description.

[0062] Figure 1: is a schematic diagram of the power carrier communication system of an embodiment of the present invention. The power carrier communication system of this embodiment includes at least two network device groups. For the convenience of description, this embodiment takes two network device groups in the power carrier communication system that do not share a relay node (or master node) with other network device groups as an example, wherein one network device group serves as the first network device group and the other network device group serves as the second network device group, that is, the above-mentioned first predetermined number and second predetermined number are both 1. It should be understood that this embodiment does not limit the number of network device groups in the power carrier communication system, nor does it limit the number of first network device groups sharing the same relay node and the number of second network device groups sharing the same relay node (or master node), which can be set according to the specific application scenario.

[0063] In this embodiment, if Figure 1 As shown, the communication system includes a first network device group 11, a second network device group 12, a filter 13 and a first relay node 14 corresponding to the first network device group 11. All devices in the system are connected through power lines, and the filter 13 is arranged on the line between the first network device group 11 and the second network device group 12. It should be understood that the second network device group 12 also has a corresponding relay node or master node (not shown in the figure). Among them, the first network device group 11 is composed of multiple network devices such as a, b, c, d (the number of network devices can be any integer greater than zero, and four network devices are used as an example in the figure, the same below), the first network device group 11 corresponds to the first relay node 14, that is, each network device it includes corresponds to the first relay node 14. Similarly, the second network device group 12 is composed of multiple network devices such as e, f, g, h.

[0064] During the communication process, the filter 13 is used to filter the signals of each network device in the first network device group 11 and the second network device group 12, and the signal is demodulated, converted, and modulated through the first relay node 14 to remodulate the signal that can be recognized by the other network device group onto the filtered current, thereby completing interference-free communication between the two network device groups.

[0065] This embodiment connects multiple network device groups through relay nodes. After filters remove high-frequency signals from the power lines, the converted signals are remodulated onto corresponding carriers through the relay nodes, enabling interference-free communication between multiple network device groups. This extends the communication distance between network devices and increases the number of network devices in the system.

[0066] In an optional implementation, a first relay node corresponding to a first predetermined number of first network device groups and a second predetermined number of second network device groups includes a first predetermined number of main control modules, information conversion modules, and a second predetermined number of sub-control modules. The first predetermined number of main control modules correspond one-to-one with the first predetermined number of first network device groups, are responsible for interacting with the corresponding first network device groups, receive information reported by network devices in the corresponding first network device groups, and aggregate the information to obtain a first data packet. The second predetermined number of sub-control modules correspond one-to-one with the second predetermined number of second network device groups.

[0067] In this embodiment, each main control module is the CCO of the corresponding first network device group. Each sub-control module is the STA of the corresponding second network device group. The information conversion module is used to convert the subcarrier sequence group information of the data so that different network device groups can recognize the converted data.

[0068] Figure 2 The first relay node converts the data sent from the first network device group to the second network device group by executing the data conversion method, such as Figure 2 As shown, the data conversion method specifically includes the following steps:

[0069] In step S210, each main control module receives information reported by network devices in the corresponding first network device group, aggregates the information to obtain a first data packet, and sends the first data packet to the information conversion module. The first data packet contains subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding first network device group.

[0070] Specifically, receiving information reported by network devices in the corresponding first network device group and aggregating the information to obtain a first data packet can include: obtaining a high-frequency signal on the power line, demodulating the high-frequency signal, obtaining information reported by network devices in the corresponding first network device group, and aggregating the information to obtain a first data packet.

[0071] In step S220, after receiving the first data packet, the information conversion module converts the subcarrier sequence group information of the first data packet to obtain a second data packet, and sends the second data packet to the corresponding sub-control module, wherein the second data packet has the subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding second network device group.

[0072] Step S230: After receiving the second data packet, each sub-control module sends the received second data packet to a corresponding device in the corresponding second network device group based on the subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the second data packet.

[0073] Specifically, based on the subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the second data packet, sending the received second data packet to the corresponding device in the corresponding second network device group may include: modulating the second data packet according to the subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the second data packet, and sending it to the corresponding device in the corresponding second network device group through the power line.

[0074] Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a flow chart of another data conversion method according to an embodiment of the present invention. The first relay node converts the data sent from the second network device group to the first network device group by executing the data conversion method, such as Figure 3 As shown, the data conversion method mainly includes the following steps:

[0075] In step S310, each sub-control module receives information sent by a corresponding network device in the second network device group, obtains a third data packet, and sends the third data packet to the information conversion module, wherein the third data packet contains subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding second network device group.

[0076] Step S320: After receiving the third data packet, the information conversion module converts the subcarrier sequence group information of the third data packet to obtain a fourth data packet, and sends the fourth data packet to the corresponding main control module, wherein the fourth data packet has the subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding first network device group.

[0077] In step S330 , after receiving the fourth data packet, each main control module sends the received fourth data packet to a corresponding device in the corresponding first network device group based on the subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the fourth data packet.

[0078] This embodiment demodulates, converts, and remodulates the data sent by the two connected network device groups through a relay node, thereby realizing two-way information interaction between different network device groups, solving the problem in the prior art that only one group of network devices can exist on the same power line. As a result, the communication distance between network devices can be extended and the number of network devices in the system can be increased.

[0079] In one optional implementation, the main control module and / or sub-control module includes a power amplifier for adjusting transmit power to suit the corresponding transmission distance. Specifically, the same transmit power can be set for all packets, ensuring that this transmit power meets the requirements for the longest transmission distance within the corresponding network device group. Alternatively, the transmit power can be adjusted based on the distance from the relay node to the target network device, identifying the target network device for the packet, to reduce device power consumption. This embodiment can thus compensate for energy losses caused by long-distance transmission and improve the reliability of the communication system.

[0080] Figure 4aFIG is a schematic diagram of a relay node according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4a As shown, this embodiment uses the example of both the first predetermined number and the second predetermined number being 1. The relay node includes a main control module 41, an information conversion module 42, and a sub-control module 43. The main control module 41 is connected to the network devices of the first network device group, and the sub-control module 43 is connected to the network devices of the second network device group or their corresponding relay nodes or master nodes. The relay node implements communication between the first network device group and the second network device group by executing the above-described data conversion method.

[0081] Specifically, each network device in the first network device group can be, for example, an electricity meter. Each meter modulates its electricity usage data onto the power line and transmits it to the relay node. The main control module 41 receives and demodulates the electricity usage data, aggregates the received electricity usage data, obtains a first data packet, and forwards it to the information conversion module 42. The information conversion module 42 converts the subcarrier sequence group information in the first data packet to obtain a second data packet, which it transmits to the sub-control module 43. Based on the subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the second data packet, the sub-control module 43 remodulates the received second data packet onto the power line and transmits it to the corresponding network device in the second network device group. Thus, this embodiment implements remote carbon copying of electricity meters.

[0082] Figure 4b FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of another relay node according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4b As shown, this embodiment uses the example that both the first predetermined number and the second predetermined number are 2, and the relay node includes a first main control module 44, a second main control module 45, an information conversion module 46, a first sub-control module 47, and a second sub-control module 48. The first main control module 44 is connected to the network devices of the first network device group A, the second main control module 45 is connected to the network devices of the first network device group B, the first sub-control module 47 is connected to the network devices of the second network device group C or their corresponding relay nodes or master nodes, and the second sub-control module 48 is connected to the network devices of the second network device group D or their corresponding relay nodes or master nodes.

[0083] In another optional implementation, the relay node may further include a relay module, disposed between the network device and each main control module and / or sub-control module. Each main control module and / or sub-control module is connected to the network device of the corresponding network device group via the relay module. The relay module is configured to receive and demodulate information sent by the network device and forward it to the corresponding main control module and / or sub-control module, as well as receive information sent by each main control module and / or sub-control module, modulate it onto the power line, and forward it to the corresponding network device. In this case, each main control module and / or sub-control module is no longer responsible for information modulation and demodulation.

[0084] Optionally, the subcarrier sequence group information may include a subcarrier sequence group number. Each main control module and sub-control module, acting as the CCO or STA of the corresponding network device group, also has a corresponding subcarrier sequence group number. Matching the subcarrier sequence group information, i.e., matching the subcarrier sequence group numbers therein, allows only network devices with the same subcarrier sequence group number to communicate.

[0085] Information sent to the second network device group must carry not only the subcarrier sequence group information used for information transmission but also target subcarrier sequence group information. The target subcarrier sequence group information represents the subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding second network device group, enabling the information conversion module to determine the corresponding sub-control module based on the target subcarrier sequence group information and perform conversion. Optionally, the target subcarrier sequence group information may include only the corresponding subcarrier sequence group number, with the information conversion module obtaining specific subcarrier sequence group information based on the number for conversion to reduce the amount of transmitted data. Alternatively, the target subcarrier sequence group information may include specific subcarrier sequence group information.

[0086] Specifically, the first main control module 44 receives information sent by the first network device group A, aggregates the information to obtain a first data packet, and sends it to the information conversion module 46. In another optional implementation, the transit module may also receive and demodulate the information sent by the first network device group A, determine the corresponding subcarrier sequence group information therefrom, match the corresponding main control module, i.e., the first main control module 44, based on the subcarrier sequence group information, and send the received information to the first main control module 44.

[0087] After receiving the first data packet, information conversion module 46 determines the first target subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the first data packet, determines the target sub-control module based on the first target subcarrier sequence group information, converts the subcarrier sequence group information of the first data packet based on the first target subcarrier sequence group information to obtain a second data packet, and sends the second data packet to the target sub-control module. The target sub-control module is determined from first sub-control module 47 and second sub-control module 48. Both the target sub-control module and the second data packet contain the first target subcarrier sequence group information. The first target subcarrier sequence group information represents the subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding second network device group (e.g., second network device group C).

[0088] After receiving the second data packet, the target sub-control module modulates the second data packet based on the first target sub-carrier sequence group information and sends the modulated data packet to the corresponding network device.

[0089] Similarly, when the relay node receives the third data packet sent by the second network device group C, the specific communication process is similar to the above. The first sub-control module 47 receives the information sent by the second network device group C, obtains the third data packet, and sends it to the information conversion module 46. In another optional implementation, the relay module can also receive and demodulate the information sent by the second network device group C, obtain the third data packet, determine the corresponding subcarrier sequence group information from it, match the corresponding first sub-control module 47 based on the subcarrier sequence group information, and forward the third data packet to the information conversion module 46 via the first sub-control module 47.

[0090] After receiving the third data packet, information conversion module 46 determines the second target subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the third data packet, determines the target main control module based on the second target subcarrier sequence group information, converts the subcarrier sequence group information of the third data packet based on the second target subcarrier sequence group information, obtains a fourth data packet, and sends the fourth data packet to the target main control module. The target main control module is determined from first main control module 44 and second main control module 45. Both the target main control module and the fourth data packet contain the second target subcarrier sequence group information. The second target subcarrier sequence group information represents the subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding first network device group.

[0091] After receiving the fourth data packet, the target main control module modulates the fourth data packet based on the second target subcarrier sequence group information and sends the modulated data packet to the corresponding network device.

[0092] This embodiment determines the corresponding main control module and sub-control module by judging the subcarrier sequence group information of the received data, thereby converting and transmitting data in a communication system with multiple first network device groups and second network device groups, further extending the communication distance between network devices and increasing the number of network devices in the system.

[0093] It should be understood that the description of the information sent by the above network device group is only used for convenience of explanation, and actually should be the information sent by the network devices of the network device group.

[0094] In a tree-like network topology or similar structure, STAs cannot communicate directly with each other and must communicate through the CCO of their respective network device groups. Therefore, in an optional implementation, the second network device group communicates with the first relay node via a second relay node or a master node, thereby enabling communication between the second network device group and the first network device group. Specifically, the aforementioned sending of the received second data packet to the corresponding device in the corresponding second network device group may include: sending the second data packet to the second relay node or the master node, and having the second relay node or the master node forward the second data packet to the corresponding device.

[0095] Figure 5 FIG. 1 is a flow chart of an interactive method of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 As shown, network device 51 belongs to the first network device group, and network device 53 belongs to the second network device group. The two communicate through the first relay node. Specifically, network device 53 can be a relay node or master node corresponding to the second network device group, or it can be an STA of the second network device group. In an optional implementation, the interaction method of the communication system specifically includes the following steps:

[0096] In step S510 , the network device 53 sends control information to the first relay node 52 , where the control information is used to instruct corresponding devices of the first network device group to execute a preset instruction.

[0097] In step S520 , the first relay node 52 converts the control information so that the network device 51 can recognize the control information.

[0098] Step S530 : The first relay node 52 forwards the converted control information to the network device 51 .

[0099] Step S540: After receiving the control information, the network device 51 executes the instructions in the control information.

[0100] In step S550 , after executing the instruction, the network device 51 generates a confirmation character and sends it to the first relay node 52 .

[0101] In step S560 , the first relay node 52 converts the confirmation character so that the network device 53 can recognize the confirmation character.

[0102] In step S570, the first relay node 52 forwards the converted confirmation character to the network device 53. After receiving the confirmation character, the network device 53 ends the current communication.

[0103] Figure 6 FIG is a schematic diagram of another power carrier communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an optional implementation, as Figure 6As shown, the power carrier communication system may include a first network device group 61, a second network device group 62, and a third network device group 63. The first network device group 61 is connected to the master node corresponding to the third network device group 63 through its corresponding filter 64 and the first relay node 65, and the second network device group 62 is connected to the master node corresponding to the third network device group 63 through its corresponding filter 64 and the second relay node 66. The third network device group 63 communicates with the first relay node 65 and the second relay node 66 through its corresponding master node, thereby controlling each network device in the first network device group 61 and the second network device group 62. Thus, this embodiment can individually control the corresponding device in its corresponding network device group through each relay node without affecting other network device groups, and at the same time control all network devices in the system through the master node.

[0104] Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of another power carrier communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an optional implementation, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown, the power line carrier communication system may include a first network device group 71, a second network device group 72, and a third network device group 73. The first network device group 71 and the second network device group 72 are connected via a filter 74 and a first relay node 75. The second network device group 72 and the third network device group 73 are connected via a filter 74 and a second relay node 76. The third network device group 73 is connected to subsequent network device groups via a filter 74 and a third relay node 77. Thus, in this embodiment, each relay node can relay each network device group, enabling long-distance communication.

[0105] This embodiment connects multiple network device groups through relay nodes. After filters remove high-frequency signals from the power lines, the converted signals are remodulated onto corresponding carriers through the relay nodes, enabling interference-free communication between multiple network device groups. This extends the communication distance between network devices and increases the number of network devices in the system.

[0106] Figure 8 This is a flow chart of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, an embodiment of the present invention also provides a communication method, which is applied to a power carrier communication system. The power carrier communication system includes a first network device group, a second network device group, and a filter. The first network device group and the second network device group filter signals within a preset frequency band through the filter. Figure 8 As shown, the communication method specifically includes the following steps:

[0107] Step S810: Receive and demodulate information sent by the first network device group to obtain a first data packet.

[0108] Step S820: convert the first data packet to obtain a second data packet.

[0109] Step S830: modulate the second data packet and send it to the second network device group.

[0110] This embodiment uses a filter to remove high-frequency signals from the power line, then demodulates, converts, and modulates the original signal before re-transmitting it onto the power line. This enables interference-free communication between multiple network device groups. This embodiment can extend the communication distance between network devices and increase the number of network devices in the system.

[0111] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments of the present application may be provided as methods, devices (equipment), or computer program products. Therefore, the present application may take the form of a complete hardware embodiment, a complete software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware. Furthermore, the present application may take the form of a computer program product implemented on one or more computer-readable storage media (including but not limited to magnetic disk storage, CD-ROM, optical storage, etc.) containing computer-usable program code.

[0112] The present application is described with reference to flowcharts of methods, apparatuses (devices), and computer program products according to embodiments of the present application. It should be understood that each process in the flowcharts can be implemented by computer program instructions.

[0113] These computer program instructions may be stored in a computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to operate in a specific manner, so that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture comprising an instruction device that implements the process Figure 1 A function specified in a process or multiple processes.

[0114] These computer program instructions can also be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, an embedded processor, or other programmable data processing device to produce a machine, so that the instructions executed by the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing device produce the instructions for implementing the process Figure 1 A device that specifies functions in a process or multiple processes.

[0115] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a non-volatile storage medium for storing a computer-readable program, wherein the computer-readable program is used to enable a computer to execute part or all of the above method embodiments.

[0116] That is, those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the steps in the above-mentioned embodiments can be implemented by specifying relevant hardware through a program, which is stored in a storage medium and includes a number of instructions for causing a device (which may be a single-chip microcomputer, chip, etc.) or a processor to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the embodiments of the present application. The aforementioned storage medium includes: a USB flash drive, a mobile hard disk, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk, etc., various media that can store program code.

[0117] The foregoing is merely a preferred embodiment of the present application and is not intended to limit the present application. Persons skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and variations are possible. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present application are intended to be within the scope of protection of the present application.

Claims

1. A power carrier communication system, characterized in that: The system comprises: At least two network device groups, each having a corresponding relay node or master node, wherein the relay node or master node is used to control the network devices in the corresponding at least one network device group; at least one filter, respectively provided on the lines between the corresponding network device groups, for filtering signals within a preset frequency band; Among them, the at least two network device groups include a first predetermined number of first network device groups and a second predetermined number of second network device groups, the network devices in each of the first network device groups are controlled by the corresponding first relay node, and the network devices in each of the second network device groups communicate with each of the first network device groups via the relay of the first relay node.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the network device groups has corresponding subcarrier sequence group information, and the first relay node includes: a first predetermined number of main control modules, each of the main control modules corresponding to each of the first network device groups, each of the main control modules being configured to receive information reported by a network device in the corresponding first network device group, and aggregate the information to obtain a first data packet, the first data packet having subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding first network device group; an information conversion module, configured to convert the subcarrier sequence group information of the first data packet to obtain a second data packet, and send the second data packet to the corresponding sub-control module, wherein the second data packet has the subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding second network device group; a second predetermined number of sub-control modules, each of the sub-control modules corresponding one-to-one to each of the second network device groups, and each of the sub-control modules being used to send the received second data packet to the corresponding device in the corresponding second network device group based on the subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the second data packet.

3. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that The sub-control module is further configured to receive a third data packet sent by the corresponding second network device group, wherein the third data packet has subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding second network device group; The information conversion module is further configured to convert the subcarrier sequence group information of the third data packet to obtain a fourth data packet, and send the fourth data packet to the corresponding main control module, wherein the fourth data packet has the subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding first network device group; The main control module is further configured to send the fourth data packet to the corresponding first network device group based on the subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the fourth data packet.

4. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The main control module and / or the sub-control module includes a power amplifier for adjusting the transmission power to adapt to the corresponding transmission distance.

5. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The second predetermined number is greater than 1, and the information conversion module is further configured to: Determining first target subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the first data packet; Determining a target sub-control module according to the first target subcarrier sequence group information; Convert the subcarrier sequence group information of the first data packet according to the first target subcarrier sequence group information to obtain the second data packet, where the second data packet has the first target subcarrier sequence group information, and the first target subcarrier sequence group information represents the subcarrier sequence group information of the corresponding second network device group; The second data packet is sent to the target sub-control module.

6. The system according to claim 3, wherein: The first predetermined number is greater than 1, and the information conversion module is further configured to: Determining second target subcarrier sequence group information corresponding to the third data packet; determining a target main control module according to the second target subcarrier sequence group information; converting the subcarrier sequence group information of the third data packet according to the second target subcarrier sequence group information to obtain the fourth data packet, where the fourth data packet includes the second target subcarrier sequence group information, where the second target subcarrier sequence group information represents the corresponding subcarrier sequence group information of the first network device group; The fourth data packet is sent to the target main control module.

7. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The second network device group has a corresponding second relay node or master node, and the second network device group communicates with the first relay node via the second relay node or the master node.

8. The system according to claim 7, characterized in that The sending of the received second data packet to a corresponding device in the corresponding second network device group includes: The second data packet is sent to the second relay node or the master node, and is forwarded to the corresponding device by the second relay node or the master node.

9. A communication method, applied to a power line carrier communication system, characterized in that: The method comprises: receiving and demodulating information sent by the first network device group to obtain a first data packet; Converting the first data packet to obtain a second data packet; modulating the second data packet and sending the modulated data packet to the second network device group; The first network device group and the second network device group filter signals within a preset frequency band through a filter.

10. A relay node, provided in a power line carrier communication system, characterized in that: The relay node includes: a first predetermined number of main control modules, configured to receive and demodulate information sent by the first network device group to obtain a first data packet; an information conversion module, configured to convert the first data packet to obtain a second data packet; a second predetermined number of sub-control modules, configured to modulate the second data packet and send the modulated data packet to the second network device group; The first network device group and the second network device group filter signals within a preset frequency band through a filter.

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