Sensor function system and sensor device for use in such a system

Abstract

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a sensor function system configured to organize groups of sensor devices in a sensor device hierarchy. The sensor device hierarchy can include one or more sensor devices of a first tier and one or more sensor devices of a second tier. One or more sensor devices of a group of sensor devices are configured to provide measurement data to perform a sensor function. The sensor function system can be configured to determine an association of the one or more sensor devices with the first tier sensor devices and an association of the one or more sensor devices with the second tier sensor devices. The sensor function system is further configured to assign a first tier identifier to the one or more sensor devices of the first tier and communicate the first tier identifier to the one or more sensor devices if determined to be associated with the first tier sensor devices, and to assign a second tier identifier to the one or more sensor devices of the second tier and communicate the second tier identifier to the one or more sensor devices if determined to be associated with the second tier sensor devices. The present disclosure also relates to a sensor function system to obtain measurement data and a sensor device for use with such a sensor function system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to sensor functional systems and sensor devices. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a sensor functional system for organizing a group of sensor devices, a sensor functional system configured to obtain measurement data from such organized group of sensor devices, and a sensor device configured to be organized and operate in conjunction with such a sensor functional system. Background Technology

[0002] Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) consist of interconnected sensor devices that communicate wirelessly to collect data about their surroundings. These devices are typically low-power and distributed in a decentralized manner. A common example of a practical WSN deployment is one where the sensor devices are organized into clusters, with one sensor device in the cluster assigned the role of cluster head or master sensor device. The master sensor device is responsible for collecting data from the other sensor devices in the cluster and transmitting it to a base station or other network access point.

[0003] Generally, energy efficiency is desirable in wireless sensor networks. A common technique used here involves waking up the sensor devices only when sensor information (such as measurement data) from these devices is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The inventors have considered that specific organizational schemes for interrogating sensor devices in a wireless sensor network can improve the operational efficiency of such a network. Dynamic organization of a wireless sensor network can, for example, reduce overall energy and / or resource consumption during operation. In one example, the number of sensor devices interrogated to provide measurement data can be significantly reduced through appropriate organization.

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a sensor function system configured to organize a group of sensor devices in a sensor device hierarchy. The sensor device hierarchy may include at least one or more sensor devices in a first layer and one or more sensor devices in a second layer. It should be understood that the hierarchical organization may be such that the first layer ranks higher than the second layer, indicating that queries to sensor devices associated with the first layer generally precede queries to sensor devices associated with the second layer. It should also be understood that further layers of sensor devices may be defined, such as a third layer ranked below the second layer, a fourth layer ranked below the third layer, and so on. One or more sensor devices in the sensor device group are configured to provide measurement data to perform a sensor function. The sensor function may be performed internally or externally to the sensor function system.

[0006] The sensor function system can optionally be configured to determine the association of one or more sensor devices with first-layer sensor devices and the association of one or more sensor devices with second-layer sensor devices. The sensor function system is also configured to assign first-layer identifiers to one or more sensor devices in the first layer and transmit the first-layer identifiers to one or more sensor devices if determined to be associated with a first-layer sensor device, and to assign second-layer identifiers to one or more sensor devices and transmit the second-layer identifiers to one or more sensor devices if determined to be associated with a second-layer sensor device. It should be noted that assigning layer identifiers to sensor devices in the sensor function system may be sufficient for certain purposes, making the transmission of layer identifiers to the corresponding sensor device or its derivative optional.

[0007] A further aspect of this disclosure relates to a sensor function system configured to acquire measurement data for performing sensor functions, wherein the measurement data is obtained from one or more sensor devices in a group of sensor devices. The group of sensor devices is organized in a sensor device hierarchy, the hierarchy including at least one or more sensor devices in a first layer associated with a first layer identifier and one or more sensor devices in a second layer associated with a second layer identifier. It should be understood that the hierarchical organization can rank the first layer higher than the second layer, indicating that queries to sensor devices associated with the first layer generally precede queries to sensor devices associated with the second layer. When querying one or more sensor devices associated with a lower layer, it is optional for one or more sensor devices associated with a higher layer to also respond. When querying one or more sensor devices associated with a higher layer, sensor devices associated with a lower layer generally should not respond. It should also be understood that further layers of sensor devices can be defined, such as a third layer ranked below the second layer, a fourth layer ranked below the third layer, and so on.

[0008] The sensor function system is configured to transmit a measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices of the first-level sensor apparatus using a first-level identifier to obtain first measurement data. The measurement data request message may include the first-level identifier. The sensor function system can then apply sensor functions to the first measurement data to obtain sensor function results. Alternatively, the sensor functions can be performed externally to the sensor function system.

[0009] The sensor function system can also be configured to perform a contribution or confidence algorithm on the sensor function results to obtain a contribution or confidence score. This algorithm can be executed outside the sensor function system, so that the sensor function system only obtains the contribution or confidence score or its indication.

[0010] The sensor function system can also be configured to trigger or transmit a second measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices of the second-layer sensor device, using a second-layer identifier, based on a contribution or confidence score or its indication, to obtain second measurement data. The second measurement data request message may include the second-layer identifier. The sensor function system can then apply sensor functions to the second measurement data to obtain further sensor function results.

[0011] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a sensor device for use with a sensor functional system as disclosed herein, wherein the sensor device is configured to receive an allocation message including a layer identifier associated with a layer in a sensor device hierarchy defined in the sensor functional system. The sensor device may be configured to store the layer identifier in local storage of the sensor device and to respond to a request message from the sensor functional system upon detection of the layer identifier.

[0012] Another aspect of this disclosure includes sensor devices for use with sensor functional systems as disclosed herein, wherein the sensor functional system applies a sensor device hierarchy that includes at least one or more sensor devices of a first layer associated with a first layer identifier and one or more sensor devices of a second layer associated with a second layer identifier.

[0013] A sensor device is configured to obtain measurement data from measurements taken by its sensors. If the sensor device stores a first-level identifier, it is configured to respond to a measurement data request message including the first-level identifier by transmitting measurement data. Optionally, the sensor device is triggered to obtain measurement data in response to receiving the first-level identifier. If the sensor device stores a second-level identifier, it is configured to respond to a measurement data request message including the second-level identifier by transmitting measurement data, and not to respond if the measurement data request message contains the first-level identifier. Optionally, the sensor device is triggered to obtain measurement data in response to receiving the second-level identifier. The disclosed sensor function system provides a low-complexity organizational system that enables flexible hierarchical organization of sensor devices in a layered manner. For example, this hierarchy can vary depending on current conditions, such as available system resources, required functionality, and radio and other interference sources at a specific moment. This hierarchical organization allows the sensor function system to query sensor devices layer by layer until the desired sensor function result is obtained (e.g., based on contribution or confidence scores or their indications), enabling the reduction or minimization of sensor device usage and / or communication with them, and saving energy and / or resources. Sensor devices are configured to operate in conjunction with the sensor function system in this manner.

[0014] It should be understood that the ranking and associated layer identifier of a sensor device within a specific layer can be based on several factors. Typically, a higher layer (i.e., a lower layer identifier) ​​will be assigned to a sensor device that is expected to contribute better to sensor functional outcomes (e.g., in terms of reliability) compared to a sensor device in a lower layer (i.e., one with a higher layer identifier). The highest layer may be reserved for a single, optimal sensor device, hereinafter also referred to as the master sensor device.

[0015] It should also be noted that assigning and / or transmitting layer identifiers includes assigning and / or transmitting derivatives of layer identifiers associated with the layer to which the sensor device is associated, which are capable of distinguishing sensor devices at different layers in order to establish a sensor device hierarchy and / or obtain measurement data. For example, a layer identifier can be translated into one or more appropriate device addresses of the sensor device associated with a specific layer.

[0016] Transmitting a layer identifier can involve broadcasting the layer identifier in a broadcast message. Generally, once a layer identifier is assigned to a corresponding sensor device, transmitting a message that includes the layer identifier (such as a measurement data request message or a wake-up message) can involve broadcasting the layer identifier in a broadcast message. The sensor device can then detect the layer identifier in the broadcast message.

[0017] It should also be noted that in some embodiments, the sensor function system may include one or more sensor devices, such as a master sensor device as described in more detail below. Such a sensor device may both perform the task of providing measurement data for the sensor function and also query sensor devices associated with layers lower than the layer associated with it. Specific information regarding how to communicate with the master sensor device may be passed to other sensor devices, such as with or during the transmission of layer identifiers. This information may include encodings or specific addresses or intended frequency bands.

[0018] In one embodiment, a sensor function system may be configured to receive sensor information from one or more sensor devices in a group of sensor devices, wherein the sensor function system is configured to determine an association with one or more sensor devices in a first layer or one or more sensor devices in a second layer based on the sensor information. Optionally, the sensor information includes measurement data, and the sensor function system determines the contribution or confidence score of the measurement data to the sensor function to determine the association of one or more sensor devices with the first layer or the second layer (or successive layers, if needed).

[0019] In one embodiment, the sensor device can be configured to receive a sensor information request message from a sensor function system. The sensor device can also be configured to transmit sensor information to the sensor function system in response to the sensor information request message. The sensor information may include measurement data obtained by the sensors of the sensor device.

[0020] Sensor information may include sensor-specific information, such as sensor device identifier information, sensor device type information, sensor device capability information, and / or measurement data obtained from one or more sensors of the sensor device. Sensor information may be requested by the sensor function system and used by the sensor function system to establish a sensor device hierarchy. This request may include measurement instructions to instruct the sensor device which measurement data should be measured and / or provided to the sensor function system. This request can be repeated as desired, enabling flexible organization of the sensor devices, i.e., different hierarchies can be implemented based on the sensor information obtained from the sensor devices.

[0021] In one embodiment, the sensor function system can be configured to assign at least one of the first-layer sensor devices as a master sensor device. The sensor function system can be configured to communicate with other sensor devices in the sensor device group via the master sensor device, including transmitting a second-layer identifier. Optionally, the first-layer identifier corresponds to a master sensor device identifier.

[0022] In one embodiment, the sensor device can be configured to receive an assignment message including a master device identifier and store the master device identifier as a first-level identifier associated with a first level of the sensor device hierarchy.

[0023] In one embodiment, the sensor device may be configured to transmit an allocation message that includes a second-layer identifier associated with a second layer of the sensor device hierarchy, received from a sensor function system.

[0024] One or more sensor devices in the first layer are typically identified as the optimal sensor devices under the current conditions, i.e., those that contribute the most to the sensor function results or produce the most meaningful results. These embodiments enable the assignment of specific states to one or more master sensor devices within a sensor device group. Master sensor devices can be used for specific functions within a wireless sensor network, such as serving as intermediate nodes for communication between the sensor function system and one or more sensor devices in lower layers of the sensor device hierarchy.

[0025] In one embodiment, the sensor function system can be configured to instruct a master sensor device, as defined above, to transmit a wake-up message to at least one or more sensor devices at the second layer using a second-layer identifier. The wake-up message may include the second-layer identifier.

[0026] In one embodiment, the sensor device can be configured to receive a wake-up message from a sensor function system and activate the sensor device upon detecting a master device identifier in the wake-up message.

[0027] In one embodiment, a sensor device may be configured to receive instructions from a sensor function system to transmit a wake-up message to one or more sensor devices at the second layer, and to transmit the wake-up message using a second-layer identifier. The wake-up message may include the second-layer identifier.

[0028] Using wake-up messages to activate sensor devices allows them to remain in or enter low-power modes that contribute to energy efficiency. The use of layer identifiers allows only sensor devices associated with a layer identified by the layer identifier to be woken up, avoiding the need to wake up sensor devices that are not required for sensor functionality at that time. Layer identifiers can be used to track other identifiers of sensor devices associated with a layer, such as device addresses, or they can be directly carried in the wake-up message.

[0029] In one embodiment, the sensor function system is further configured to transmit a measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices of a first-layer sensor device using a first-layer identifier to obtain first measurement data. The measurement data request message may include the first-layer identifier. The sensor function system can then apply sensor functions to the first measurement data to obtain a sensor function result.

[0030] The sensor function system can also be configured to perform contribution or confidence algorithms on the sensor function results to obtain contribution or confidence scores.

[0031] The sensor function system can also be configured to send a second measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices of the second-layer sensor device using a second-layer identifier, based on the contribution or confidence score, to obtain second measurement data. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor function system can trigger one or more sensor devices associated with the first-layer sensor device to send the second measurement data request. The second measurement data request message may include the second-layer identifier. The sensor function system can then apply sensor functions to the second measurement data to obtain further sensor function results. If the contribution or confidence score is still unsatisfactory (e.g., it does not meet a set threshold), a third-layer sensor device can be activated accordingly.

[0032] This embodiment enables the sensor function system to apply the sensor device hierarchy previously obtained by assigning layer identifiers for performing sensor functions.

[0033] In one embodiment, the sensor function system may also be configured to trigger at least one first sensor device associated with the first layer as a master sensor device to transmit a second measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices associated with one or more sensor devices in the second layer, and to receive the second measurement data, for example, through the master device.

[0034] In one embodiment, the sensor device may be configured to, in response to receiving a trigger containing a master device identifier from a sensor function system, transmit a measurement data request message for one or more sensor devices associated with a second layer of the sensor device hierarchy, using a second-layer identifier. The measurement data request may include the second-layer identifier. Optionally, the sensor device may also be configured to, in response to transmitting the measurement data request message, receive measurement data from one or more sensor devices associated with the second layer and transmit the measurement data to the sensor function system.

[0035] As described above, after one or more sensor devices have been assigned to the first layer of a sensor device group, i.e., after one or more master sensor devices have been assigned, these devices can be used for specific functions within the wireless sensor network, such as acting as intermediate nodes for communication between a sensor function system and one or more sensor devices at lower layers in the sensor device hierarchy. This embodiment enables the master sensor device to transmit measurement data requests, including a second-layer identifier, to second-layer sensor devices and forward any received measurement data to the sensor function system for performing sensor functions, either within or outside the sensor function system. The master sensor device can perform the same operation on one or more sensor devices at further layers below the second layer.

[0036] In one embodiment, the sensor functionality system is implemented at least in part in a 3GPP-compliant telecommunications network, such as the core network system and / or base station of the core network of a telecommunications system.

[0037] This embodiment facilitates full or partial integration in 3GPP-compliant telecommunications networks, where existing or new systems and / or functions can be used or defined to perform at least a portion of the disclosed methods for organizing sensor device groups in a sensor device hierarchy and / or obtaining measurement data from hierarchically organized sensor device groups to perform sensing functions within or via the telecommunications network. For example, a base station or a group of base stations may include a sensor function system. Alternatively, a portion of the sensor function system may be implemented in the core network of the telecommunications network, with the base station responsible for wireless connectivity with the sensor devices.

[0038] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a sensor function system configured to organize a group of sensor devices in a sensor device hierarchy. The sensor device hierarchy may include at least one or more sensor devices in a first layer, one or more sensor devices in a second layer, and one or more sensor devices in a third layer. It should be understood that the hierarchical organization may be such that the first layer ranks higher than the second layer and the second layer ranks higher than the third layer, indicating that queries to sensor devices associated with the first layer generally precede queries to sensor devices associated with the second layer, and queries to sensor devices associated with the second layer generally precede queries to sensor devices associated with the third layer. One or more sensor devices in the sensor device group are configured to provide measurement data to perform a sensor function. The sensor function may be performed within or outside the sensor function system.

[0039] The sensor function system can be optionally configured to determine the association of one or more sensor devices with first-layer sensor devices, the association of one or more sensor devices with second-layer sensor devices, and the association of one or more sensor devices with third-layer sensor devices. The sensor function system is also configured to assign a first-layer identifier to one or more sensor devices in the first layer, and transmit the first-layer identifier to one or more sensor devices if it is determined to be associated with a first-layer sensor device. The sensor function system is also configured to assign a second-layer identifier to one or more sensor devices in the second layer, and transmit the second-layer identifier to one or more sensor devices if it is determined to be associated with a second-layer sensor device. The sensor function system is also configured to assign a third-layer identifier to one or more sensor devices in the third layer, and transmit the third-layer identifier to one or more sensor devices if it is determined to be associated with a third-layer sensor device.

[0040] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a sensor function system configured to acquire measurement data for performing sensor functions, wherein the measurement data is acquired from one or more sensor devices in a group of sensor devices. The group of sensor devices is organized in a sensor device hierarchy, which includes at least one or more sensor devices in a first layer associated with a first layer identifier, one or more sensor devices in a second layer associated with a second layer identifier, and one or more sensor devices in a third layer associated with a third layer identifier. It should be understood that the hierarchical organization can be such that the first layer ranks higher than the second layer and the second layer ranks higher than the third layer, indicating that queries to sensor devices associated with the first layer generally precede queries to sensor devices associated with the second layer, and queries to sensor devices associated with the second layer generally precede queries to sensor devices associated with the third layer. When querying one or more sensor devices associated with a lower layer, it is optional for one or more sensor devices associated with a higher layer to also respond. When querying one or more sensor devices associated with a higher layer, sensor devices associated with a lower layer generally should not respond. It should also be understood that further layers of sensor devices can be defined, such as a third layer ranked below the second layer, a fourth layer ranked below the third layer, and so on.

[0041] The sensor function system is configured to transmit a measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices of the first-level sensor apparatus using a first-level identifier to obtain first measurement data. The measurement data request message may include the first-level identifier. The sensor function system can then apply sensor functions to the first measurement data to obtain sensor function results. Alternatively, the sensor functions can be performed externally to the sensor function system.

[0042] The sensor function system can also be configured to perform contribution or confidence algorithms on the sensor function results to obtain contribution or confidence scores. These algorithms can be executed outside the sensor function system, allowing the sensor function system to obtain only the contribution or confidence scores or their indications.

[0043] The sensor function system can also be configured to trigger or transmit a second measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices of the second-level sensor device, using a second-level identifier, based on a contribution or confidence score or its indication, to obtain second measurement data. The second measurement data request message may include the second-level identifier. The sensor function system can then apply sensor functions to the second measurement data to obtain further sensor function results.

[0044] The sensor function system can also be configured to perform a contribution or confidence algorithm, or another contribution or confidence algorithm or measurement, on further sensor function results to obtain further scores. The contribution or confidence algorithm can be executed outside the sensor function system, so that the sensor function system only obtains the contribution or confidence score or its indication.

[0045] The sensor function system can also be configured to trigger or transmit a third measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices of a third-layer sensor device, using a third-layer identifier, based on further contribution or confidence scores or their indications, to obtain third measurement data. The third measurement data request message may include the third-layer identifier. The sensor function system can then apply sensor functions to the third measurement data to obtain another sensor function result.

[0046] This disclosure also relates to a method for organizing a group of sensor devices in a sensor device hierarchy, the hierarchy including at least one or more sensor devices in a first layer and one or more sensor devices in a second layer, wherein one or more sensor devices in the sensor device group are configured to provide measurement data to perform sensor functions. The method may optionally include the step of determining the association of one or more sensor devices with the first-layer sensor devices and the association of one or more sensor devices with the second-layer sensor devices. The method may further include the steps of assigning a first-layer identifier to one or more sensor devices in the first layer, and optionally, transmitting the first-layer identifier to one or more sensor devices determined to be associated with the first-layer sensor devices. The method may further include the step of assigning a second-layer identifier to one or more sensor devices in the second layer, and optionally, transmitting the second-layer identifier to one or more sensor devices determined to be associated with the second-layer sensor devices. The method can be extended to further layers of sensor devices to obtain a sensor device hierarchy with three or more layers of sensor devices.

[0047] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a computer program comprising one or more software code portions configured to perform the above-described method of organizing a group of sensor devices when run on a computer system.

[0048] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a method for obtaining measurement data for performing sensor functions, wherein the measurement data is obtained from one or more sensor devices in a group of sensor devices. The group of sensor devices is organized in a sensor device hierarchy, the hierarchy comprising at least a first layer of one or more sensor devices associated with a first layer identifier and a second layer of one or more sensor devices associated with a second layer identifier.

[0049] The method may include the following steps: transmitting a measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices of a first-layer sensor device using a first-layer identifier to obtain first measurement data, wherein the measurement data request message optionally includes the first-layer identifier. The method may also include the following steps: applying sensor functionality to the first measurement data to obtain sensor functionality results and performing a contribution or confidence algorithm on the sensor functionality results to obtain a contribution or confidence score. The method may also include the following steps: triggering or transmitting a second measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices of a second-layer sensor device using a second-layer identifier based on the contribution or confidence score to obtain second measurement data, wherein the second measurement data request message optionally includes the second-layer identifier. The method may also include the step of applying sensor functionality to the second measurement data to obtain further sensor functionality results. The method may also include an optional step of communicating with other sensor devices (including transmitting the second measurement data request message) through a master sensor device. This step may be performed in a scenario where one of the first-layer sensor devices is configured to operate as a master sensor device.

[0050] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a computer program comprising one or more software code portions configured to execute the above-described method for obtaining measurement data when run on a computer system.

[0051] This disclosure also relates to a wireless sensor network system that includes a sensor functional system as disclosed herein and a plurality of sensor devices.

[0052] The method, system, and computer program may also relate to functions performed by passive wireless communication devices and transceiver systems, as disclosed herein, such as those defined in the dependent claims.

[0053] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, some aspects of the invention can be embodied as a system, method, or computer program product. Therefore, some aspects of the invention can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects, which may generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module,” or “system.” The functionality described in this disclosure can be implemented as an algorithm executed by a computer’s processor / microprocessor. Furthermore, some aspects of the invention can take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer-readable media having, for example, computer-readable program code stored thereon.

[0054] Any combination of one or more computer-readable media can be used. A computer-readable medium can be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium. A computer-readable storage medium can be, for example, but not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, apparatuses, or devices, or any suitable combination thereof. More specific examples of computer-readable storage media may include, but are not limited to, electrical connections having one or more wires, portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fiber, portable optical disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination thereof. In the context of this invention, a computer-readable storage medium can be any tangible medium capable of containing or storing a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0055] Computer-readable signal media may include propagated data signals in which computer-readable program code is embodied, for example, embodied in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such propagated signals may take any of a variety of forms, including but not limited to electromagnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer-readable signal medium can be any computer-readable medium that is not a computer-readable storage medium and can be transmitted, propagated, or transported for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. Program code embodied on a computer-readable medium may be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired, fiber optic, cable, RF, or any suitable combination thereof. Computer program code used to perform operations of some aspects of this invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Java™, Smalltalk, C++, etc., and traditional procedural programming languages ​​such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages. The program code may be executed entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer via any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or may be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider).

[0056] Some aspects of the invention are described below with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be appreciated that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus, particularly a microprocessor or central processing unit (CPU), to produce a machine such that the instructions, executable via the processor of the computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device, create means for implementing the functions / actions specified in one or more blocks of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams.

[0057] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable medium that can instruct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus or other device to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of writing comprising instructions that implement the functions / actions specified in one or more boxes of a flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0058] Computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus or other equipment to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other equipment, thereby producing a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus, provide a process for implementing the functions / actions specified in one or more boxes of a flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0059] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each box in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or code portion comprising one or more executable instructions for implementing one or more specified logical functions. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions marked in the boxes may not appear in the order indicated in the figures. For example, two boxes shown consecutively may actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or these boxes may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each box in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, and combinations of boxes in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, may be implemented by a dedicated hardware system or a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions that performs the specified functions or actions.

[0060] In addition, a computer program for performing the methods described herein is provided, as well as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for storing the computer program.

[0061] Unless otherwise explicitly stated, elements and aspects discussed with respect to a particular embodiment or with respect to a particular embodiment may be suitably combined with elements and aspects of other embodiments. Embodiments of the invention will be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which will schematically illustrate embodiments according to the invention. It will be understood that the invention is not limited in any way to these specific embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0062] Some aspects of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a wireless sensor network system that includes sensor functional systems and multiple sensor devices. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a sensor device; Figure 3 It is a visualization of a three-layer sensor device hierarchy; Figure 4 Several steps for assigning layer identifiers to groups of sensor devices are described. Figure 5A and 5B Several steps for obtaining measurement data from sensor devices organized in a sensor device hierarchy are described; Figure 6A and 6B These are more detailed illustrations of the sensor functional system when organizing sensor devices and acquiring measurement data from the organization's sensor device group; and Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a processing system based on an embodiment of a sensor functional system and / or a second device or a part thereof. Detailed Implementation

[0063] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a wireless sensor network system 1 that includes a sensor function system 10 and multiple sensor devices 20.

[0064] The sensor function system 10 includes a processor system 11 and a storage 12. The processor system 11 is configured to perform one or more steps of a method for hierarchically organizing the group S of sensor devices 20 and to acquire measurement data from these sensor devices 20. One or more algorithms applied for this purpose and / or received or generated data may be stored in the storage 12.

[0065] Sensor function system 10 can also execute sensor function 13 based on measurement data received from sensor device 20. Alternatively, the sensor function can be executed outside of sensor function system 10, as shown by 13'. Sensor functions 13, 13' can be virtual sensor functions, where raw measurement data obtained from sensor device 20 is used as input to generate sensor function outputs derived from the measurement data. For example, when sensor function 13 produces object presence detection (e.g., the presence of a person or animal), infrared data can be obtained from sensor device 20. Sensor functions can aggregate and process measurement data from sensor device 20 to provide indirect measurements of specific process variables or abstract conditions related to events or assets. Examples include machine status (on, off, requiring maintenance, etc.), room occupancy monitoring, etc.

[0066] Sensor function system 10 can be implemented at least partially in a 3GPP-compliant telecommunications network. Existing or new systems and / or functions can be used or defined to perform functions for organizing sensor devices 20 into groups S (Sensors) at the sensor device hierarchy. Figure 3 (An example is shown in the diagram) at least a portion of the disclosed method, and / or obtaining measurement data from a hierarchically organized group of sensor devices 20 to perform sensing functions within or via a telecommunications network. For example, a base station or group of base stations may include sensor function system 10. Alternatively, a portion of sensor function system 10 may be implemented in the core network of the telecommunications network, with the base station responsible for wireless connectivity with sensor devices 20.

[0067] Group S may include sensor devices 20 that have been determined to provide useful measurement data for sensor functions. Group S may depend on the sensor function 13 to be performed.

[0068] Sensor function system 10 can determine which sensor devices 20 groups S should participate in the sensor device hierarchy around the location E of the asset or event. Examples include technical systems such as machines, vehicles, or aircraft, but also include social or socio-technical systems such as patients or work environments to be monitored.

[0069] exist Figure 1 In the diagram, sensor devices 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, and 20F belong to sensor device group S of group 20. Technical personnel can understand that the number of sensor devices 20 in group S can be greater than... Figure 1 It is much higher than shown.

[0070] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of a sensor device 20 including a processing section 21, a storage section 22, a transceiver section 23, and one or more sensors 24 (or thus connected). The sensor device 20 is typically a low-cost, low-complexity device with limited or no onboard power. Examples of sensors include sensors used to measure one or more physical parameters, such as infrared sensors, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, light sensors, pressure sensors, motion sensors, etc.

[0071] Processing section 21 is configured to process messages wirelessly received from sensor function system 10 via transceiver section 23, and to prepare messages for transmission by sensor function system 10 via transceiver section 23. Storage section 22 stores any algorithms used to perform its functions, (processed) measurement data from sensor 24, sensor information as described further below, and / or data received from sensor function system 10. In particular, storage section 22 can be configured to store a layer identifier TI or a derivative thereof associated with layer 'i' as an indication of the layer associated with a particular sensor device 20.

[0072] More specifically, sensor device 20 may include a wake-up receiver. The wake-up receiver may include a dedicated receiver unit specifically for receiving a wake-up message, as will be described in further detail below, from sensor function system 10 or another sensor device 20. For example, the wake-up receiver may rely on an on / off keying (OOK) modulation scheme. The wake-up receiver may be embodied in… Figure 2 In the transceiver section 23.

[0073] Sensor device 20 may also include a radio communication unit, which it uses to transmit its measurement data to sensor function system 10 or another sensor device 20. This can also be used to transmit wake-up messages.

[0074] Storage section 12 may store, for example, sensor information. The sensor information may include a set of parameters describing the attributes of sensor device 20. This sensor information may primarily include one or more parameters related to energy usage—such as current battery level, total battery capacity, average or peak transmit power, etc. The sensor information may also include an identifier for the sensor device.

[0075] Sensor devices may also include sensing hardware required to collect measurement data. This hardware is in Figure 2 The sensor 24 is represented in the middle.

[0076] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 An embodiment is described that organizes 20 groups S of sensor devices into a sensor device hierarchy, wherein... Figure 3This is a visualization of a three-layer sensor device hierarchy (as an example, more or fewer layers are also envisioned), and Figure 4 Several steps are described for assigning layer identifiers to groups of sensor devices 20. In one embodiment, the number of sensor devices 20 increases from top to bottom with each layer added to the hierarchy. The organization is expected to have a rough “pyramid” structure or an inverted “pyramid” structure, where each layer contains more sensor devices 20 than the previous layer, but each of these sensor devices 20 contributes less useful data.

[0077] like Figure 3 The sensor device hierarchy shown includes a first layer with sensor device 20A, a second layer with sensor devices 20B and 20C, and a third layer with sensor devices 20D, 20E, and 20F. The sensor device hierarchy is based on sensor information SI of the sensor devices 20 in group S. The sensor information may include sensor-specific information, including sensor device identifier information, sensor device type information, sensor device capability information, and / or measurement data obtained from one or more sensors 24 of sensor device 20. Based on the sensor information, sensor device 20A is assigned a layer identifier TI (1), sensor devices 20B and 20C are assigned a layer identifier TI (2), and sensor devices 20D, 20E, and 20F are assigned a layer identifier TI (3). The sensor devices 20 can be organized such that devices in lower layers provide progressively less useful measurement data compared to sensor devices in higher layers.

[0078] The sensor device hierarchy comprises layers of sensor devices 20. Each layer may have one or more rules associated with it, which govern the conditions under which the sensor function system 10 requests measurement data from the sensor devices 20 in that layer, or the timing when the sensor devices 20 in that layer are sent a wake-up message. The rules may be associated with both sensor function factors (i.e., when the measurement contribution or confidence level is below a threshold) and sensor device factors (e.g., how much battery life remains).

[0079] Although sensor information SI can exist or be loaded into the sensor function system 10, Figure 4 In this embodiment, the sensor function system 10 receives sensor information SI from one or more sensor devices 20A-20F of the sensor device group S. As shown in step S1, this transmission can be triggered by a sensor information request message sent to the sensor device group 20A-20B. This request can be repeated as needed, providing a flexible organization of the sensor devices 20, i.e., different hierarchies can be implemented based on the sensor information obtained from the sensor devices. The layer identifiers of the current organization can be reassigned as needed.

[0080] In step S2, sensor devices 20A-20F, triggered by sensor information request message S1, transmit sensor information SI(A) from sensor device 20A, SI(B) from sensor device 20(B), SI(C) from sensor device 20C, SI(D) from sensor device 20D, SI(E) from sensor device 20E, and SI(F) from sensor device 20F. This information is received by sensor function system 10 in step S2.

[0081] In step S3, the sensor function system 10 evaluates the sensor information SI received in step S2 to determine the association of each sensor device 20 with the corresponding layer and assigns a layer identifier TI corresponding to that layer. The sensor function system 10 can contribute a score to this application to evaluate the sensor's contribution to the sensor function results.

[0082] according to Figure 3 And based on, as referenced Figure 4 The sensor information SI, sensor function system 10 can determine the association of sensor device 20A with the first layer and assign it a layer identifier TI (1), determine the association of sensor devices 20B and 20C with the second layer and assign them a layer identifier TI (2), and determine the association of sensor devices 20D, 20E and 20F with the third layer and assign them a layer identifier TI (3). It should be noted that the layer numbering is arbitrary.

[0083] It should be understood that the layer organization can be such that the first layer with layer identifier TI(1) ranks higher than the second layer with layer identifier TI(2), indicating that queries for measurement data from sensor device 20A associated with the first layer generally precede queries for sensor devices 20B and 20C associated with the second layer, as referenced Figure 5A Further details are provided. Similarly, inquiries into the sensor devices 20D, 20E, and 20F associated with the third layer will typically only occur when the measurement data from the sensor devices 20B and 20C in the second layer are deemed insufficient for proper operation of the sensor functions.

[0084] To notify sensor devices 20A-20F of the established sensor device hierarchy, sensor function system 10 can notify sensor devices 20A-20F of their corresponding layer identifiers (or equivalent information). This is in Figure 4The following is illustrated in a separate message, jointly indicated by step S4: sensor device 20A receives layer identifier TI(i) to indicate its association with the first layer; sensor devices 20B and 20C receive layer identifier TI(i) to indicate their association with the second layer; and sensor devices 20D, 20E, and 20F receive layer identifier TI(i) to indicate their association with the third layer. Sensor devices 20A-20F store the layer identifier TI(i) in a manner similar to... Figure 2 In the storage section 22 shown. Alternative methods have been envisioned for providing sensor devices 20 with their respective layer identifiers (or equivalent information), including pre-storing layer identifiers, such as initial layer identifiers or using broadcast messages.

[0085] The device can obtain an initial layer identifier before deployment, or it can indicate that the device does not yet have a generic or default layer with a dedicated layer identifier.

[0086] The sensor function system 10 can be configured to assign at least one of the sensor devices 20 in the first layer as the master sensor device. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the example, sensor device 20A can be assigned as the master sensor device. Sensor function system 10 can communicate with other sensor devices 20B-20F in sensor device group S via the master sensor device 20A, for example, to transmit the second-level identifier TI2 and the third-level identifier TI3. ​​Optionally, the first-level identifier TI1 corresponds to the master sensor device identifier PDI.

[0087] When establishing a sensor device hierarchy, you can first use the default master sensor device ( Figure 4 (Not shown in the image). In this case, the transmission between the sensor function system 10 and the sensor device 20 can be performed via the main sensor device until another main sensor device is selected.

[0088] Sensor device 20A can be configured to receive an allocation message including a master device identifier (PDI) and store the master device identifier as a first-layer identifier associated with a first layer of the sensor device hierarchy. In one embodiment, sensor device 20A can be configured to transmit an allocation message including a second-layer identifier (TI2) and a third-layer identifier (TI3) associated with a second and a third layer of the sensor device hierarchy, received from sensor device system 10.

[0089] Typically, one or more sensor devices 20A in the first layer can be identified as the optimal sensor device under the current conditions; that is, sensor device 20A can be determined to contribute the most to the sensor function results. Such one or more devices can be assigned a special state to one or more master sensor devices within sensor device group S. The master sensor device can be used for specific functions within the wireless sensor network 1, such as acting as an intermediate node for communication between sensor function system 10 and one or more sensor devices 20B-20F in lower layers of the sensor device hierarchy. The master device may also be the most useful for the sensor function, i.e., contributing the most to high-contribution or confidence-based sensor function results. Specific information about how to communicate with the master sensor device can be passed to other sensor devices, for example, when transmitting the layer identifier in step S4 above, or along with the transmission of the layer identifier. This information may include encoding, a specific address, or a desired frequency band.

[0090] It should be understood that, in one embodiment, group S may have only one master sensor device. It should also be understood that, in one embodiment, the master sensor device of one group of sensor devices 20 may also be the master sensor device of another group S' (not shown) of sensor devices 20.

[0091] As described above, sensor device 20 can be a low-cost, low-complexity device. Such a sensor device can default to a sleep mode and be woken up to perform one or more operations. Using a wake-up message to activate sensor device 20 allows the sensor device to remain in or enter a low-power mode, which contributes to energy efficiency.

[0092] Figure 4 One or more messages can be used to wake up sensor devices 20, such as sensor devices 20A-20F of group S. A sensor information request message from sensor function system 10 in step S1 can wake up sensor devices 20A-20F to trigger them to return sensor information SI, as shown in step S2. Similarly, the transmission of layer identifier TI in step S4 can wake up sensor devices 20A-20F to store the appropriate layer identifier TI in storage section 22.

[0093] If sensor device 20A is a master sensor device, then sensor device 20A can transmit wake-up messages (one or more).

[0094] Figure 5A Several steps for operating the sensor functional system 10 and sensor device 20 using the established sensor device hierarchy are shown, as indicated by the assignment of layer identifiers TI(1), TI(2), and TI(3), respectively. It is possible that the hierarchy has already been used... Figure 4 The embodiments establish a sensor device hierarchy based on sensor information SI.

[0095] In step S10, the sensor function system 10 can determine that measurement data is necessary for sensor functions 13, 13'. To this end, the sensor function system can evaluate the sensor device hierarchy to find one or more sensor devices 20 associated with a first layer in the hierarchy that has a layer identifier TI(1).

[0096] In step S11, the sensor function system 10 uses a first-layer identifier TI (1) to transmit a measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices 20 of the first-layer sensor devices to obtain first measurement data. The measurement data request message may include the first-layer identifier TI (1), such as... Figure 5A As shown in the image.

[0097] Sensor device 20A recognizes the measurement data request message based on the first-level identifier and thus activates its operation, as indicated by the black dots. The measurement data request message can also be used as a wake-up message for sensor device 20A.

[0098] Sensor devices 20B-20E do not respond because these devices do not find their layer identifier TI in the message, and therefore conserve energy by not participating in measurement data collection at this stage.

[0099] In step S12, the sensor device 20A associated with the first layer responds to the measurement data request message by transmitting its measurement data. The measurement data includes data obtained from one or more sensors 24. The sensor function system 10 receives the measurement data from the sensor device 20A associated with the first layer. The sensor function system 10 can then apply sensor function 13 to the first measurement data to obtain a sensor function result. The sensor function system 10 is configured to perform a contribution or confidence algorithm on the sensor function result to obtain a contribution or confidence score. This evaluation is performed in step S13.

[0100] If the contribution or confidence score is satisfactory in step S13 (e.g., the contribution or confidence score meets one or more contribution or confidence criteria), then the sensor function system 10 does not need to obtain further measurement data, and thus saves energy by not activating other sensor devices in group S.

[0101] However, the sensor function system 10 may find in step S13 that more measurement data is needed to obtain satisfactory sensor function results.

[0102] Therefore, in Figure 5A In step S14, the sensor function system 10 uses the second-layer identifier TI (2) to transmit a second measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices 20B, 20C of the second-layer sensor device to obtain the second measurement data. For example... Figure 5A As shown, the second measurement data request message may include a second-level identifier.

[0103] Sensor devices 20B and 20C recognize the second measurement data request message based on the second-layer identifier TI(2) and thus activate their operation, as indicated by the black dots for sensor devices 20B and 20C. The second measurement data request message can also be used as a wake-up message for sensor devices 20B and 20C.

[0104] Sensor devices 20D-20E do not respond because they do not find their layer identifier TI (3) in the message, and therefore save energy by not participating in measurement data collection at this stage.

[0105] In step S15, the sensor devices 20B and 20C associated with the second layer respond to the second measurement data request message by transmitting their measurement data. The measurement data includes data obtained from one or more sensors 24. The sensor function system 10 receives the measurement data from the sensor devices 20B and 20C associated with the second layer. The sensor function system 10 can then apply sensor function 13 to the second measurement data to obtain a sensor function result. The sensor function system 10 is configured to perform a contribution or confidence algorithm on the sensor function result to obtain a contribution or confidence score. This evaluation is performed in step S16.

[0106] If the contribution or confidence score is satisfactory in step S16 (e.g., the contribution or confidence score meets one or more contribution or confidence criteria), then the sensor function system 10 does not need to obtain further measurement data, and therefore saves energy by not activating other sensor devices in group S. This in Figure 5A As shown in the figure. However, if the contribution or confidence score is unsatisfactory, the layer identifier TI (3) can be used to query the sensor device 20D-20E associated with the third layer.

[0107] As previously described, the wireless sensor network system 1 may include one or more master sensor devices 20, which have been assigned special states, such as intermediate node states. Figure 5B In this context, sensor device 20A is the master sensor device that has been assigned a Master Device Identifier (PDI).

[0108] Steps S10-S13 and Figure 5A The first-level identifier TI(1) is the same as the master device identifier PDI.

[0109] In step S14', the sensor function system 10 transmits a second measurement data request message to the main sensor device 20, including, for example, a main device identifier (PDI), to address the message to the main sensor device 20A. The message also includes a second layer identifier (TI) (2) to obtain the second measurement data.

[0110] The main sensor device 20A receives a second measurement data request and is triggered to forward the request in step S20 to sensor devices 20B and 20C associated with the second-level identifier TI(2). This request may, for example, include the second-level identifier TI(2), such as... Figure 5B As shown in the diagram. Sensor devices 20B and 20C recognize the second measurement data request message based on the second-layer identifier TI (2) and thus activate their operation, as indicated by the black dots for sensor devices 20B and 20C. The second measurement data request message from the main sensor device 20A can also be used as a wake-up message for sensor devices 20B and 20C.

[0111] Sensor devices 20D-20E do not respond because they do not find their layer identifier TI (3) in the messages from the main sensor device 20A, and thus save energy by not participating in measurement data collection at this stage.

[0112] In step S21, sensor devices 20B and 20C associated with the second layer respond to the second measurement data request message by transmitting their measurement data. The measurement data includes data obtained from one or more sensors 24. The master sensor device 20A receives the measurement data from sensor devices 20B and 20C associated with the second layer. Sensor devices 20B and 20C may have previously obtained information to communicate with the master sensor device 20A, for example, when the layer identifier TI(2) was assigned. This information may include encoding or a specific address or expected frequency band.

[0113] The main sensor device 20A can process measurement data from the second-layer sensor device and transmit messages containing aggregated measurement data to the sensor function system 10, such as... Figure 5B As shown in step S15'. The main sensor device 20A can also simply forward the message received from step S21. In both cases, the main sensor device 20A can also retransmit its own measurement data, either as part of a separate message or as an aggregation with other measurement data.

[0114] Step S16 corresponds to Figure 5A Step S16 in the process.

[0115] Figure 6A and 6BA more detailed schematic diagram of the sensor function system 10 is shown, which is used to organize sensor devices 20 in a sensor device hierarchy to obtain measurement data from the organized group of sensor devices 20. Communication between the sensor function system 10 and the master sensor device 20 (PRI), and between the master sensor device 20 (PRI) and other sensor devices 20 in the group S, is shown in... Figure 6A and 6B The arrows between the corresponding boxes indicate this.

[0116] The sensor device hierarchy comprises layers of sensor devices 20. Each layer may have one or more rules associated with it, which govern the conditions under which the master sensor device requests measurement data from the sensor devices in that layer, or the timing when a sensor device in that layer is sent a wake-up message. Rules may be associated with both sensor functional factors (e.g., when the measurement contribution or confidence level is below a threshold) and sensor device factors (e.g., how much battery life remains).

[0117] Figure 6A and 6B The wireless sensor network system 1 can use network access points, such as base stations on 3GPP-compliant telecommunications networks (e.g., gNBs on 5G networks). The base station can connect sensor devices to a wider network. The base station has a radio interface to the wireless sensor device 20, as well as access to the core network of the managed sensor function system 10. An example of a base station interface BS is shown in... Figure 6A and 6B The middle is represented by a horizontal dashed line.

[0118] The base station can play a role in the operation of the sensor function system 10. For example, the base station may contain a list of identifiers of the main sensor device 20 of one or more sensor device hierarchies of sensor device group S.

[0119] exist Figure 6A and 6B In one embodiment, the sensor function system 10 includes a processor 11, which includes an orchestration module 14 (e.g., a software code portion) that orchestrates and orchestrates sensing tasks processed by the sensor function 13 via a sensor device hierarchy in the network of sensor devices 20.

[0120] Sensor function 13 may include multiple sensor functions. Each sensor function may be specific to a particular variable related to an asset or event. For example, a “machine status” sensor function, where the possible values ​​of the sensor function result are “healthy system”, “degraded system”, and “failed system”.

[0121] Each sensor function may have an associated identifier and an associated master device indicated by a Master Device Identifier (PDI). Initially, a new sensor function may not have an assigned master device and therefore no associated PDI. Alternatively, a new sensor function may be associated with a sensor device 20 known to provide relevant measurement data, and this may be the default master sensor device.

[0122] Sensor function 13 may include a data fusion function or model, referred to herein as aggregator 15, which transforms measurement data from the queried sensor device 20 into sensor function results. Aggregator 15 may include many types of data aggregators, such as fuzzy logic models, neural networks, support vector machines (SVMs), etc.

[0123] Sensor function 13 may also include a classifier 16, which operates on the sensor function results to output a prediction or classification. Classifier 16 may include a machine learning model. Classifier 16 also produces a contribution or confidence score, indicating the contribution or confidence level of the classifier in the sensor function results. The contribution or confidence level may be affected by the quality of the measurement data obtained from sensor device 20. A predefined threshold can be set for the measurement contribution or confidence level; any sensor function results below this threshold are considered unreliable.

[0124] The sensor function system 10 can also be configured to provide any instructions to the sensor device 20 when a measurement is performed. For example, a measurement can be performed over a specific time duration, or, if available, settings such as frequency or gain can be provided to the sensor device 20.

[0125] The sensor function system 10 can also be configured to run a contribution score allocation algorithm 17 in the processor 11. This algorithm is configured to calculate a score, i.e., a contribution score, and assign it to a given sensor device 20. The score indicates how much the measurement data from a particular sensor device 20 contributes to the measurement contribution or increase in confidence level of a given sensor function result.

[0126] The sensor function system 10 can also be configured to run a sensor device layer allocation algorithm that assigns sensor devices 20 to specific layers of the sensor device hierarchy based on their contribution scores and / or sensor attributes.

[0127] The orchestration module 14 can receive requests for sensing tasks and relay the tasks to the appropriate master sensor device via a base station. The orchestration module 14 can also be responsible for creating new sensor function activation groups and / or sensor device hierarchies, or recalculating layer positions in the sensor device hierarchy.

[0128] Figure 6AThis is an illustrative embodiment of sensor function system 10 during the process of establishing a sensor device hierarchy.

[0129] The orchestration module 14 can initiate the establishment of a sensor device hierarchy for a new sensor function 13 executed by or via the sensor function system 10. This can be triggered when the new sensor function 13 is stored in the sensor function system 10 or when the sensor function system 10 is notified of this. Such triggering may also stem from the fact that the measurement contribution or confidence metric of the sensor function 13 falls below a certain minimum threshold. Another embodiment involves periodic triggering to re-establish the sensor device hierarchy.

[0130] Selecting an initial master sensor device. If sensor function 13 already has a master sensor device ID assigned to it, that ID can be used. If sensor function 13 is new and / or does not have a default master sensor device ID assigned to it, an initial master sensor device can be selected based on known sensor device attributes to minimize energy consumption. In this case, a new master sensor device ID can be generated. Alternatively, the initial master sensor device can be selected randomly. Figure 6A and 6B In this context, the main sensor device is represented by reference numeral 20 (PRI).

[0131] The orchestration module 14 of the sensor function system 10 can send a new hierarchy establishment message to the main sensor device via the base station. The base station can first send a wake-up message to the main sensor device (if it is in sleep mode).

[0132] The master sensor device 20 (PRI) can then send a general data request message to all sensor devices 20 in the wireless sensor network to request sensor information, such as measurement data possibly based on the measurement instructions in the request, and current sensor attributes. The master sensor device may first send a general wake-up message to sensor device 20 (if it is in sleep mode).

[0133] Sensor device 20 returns measurement data and sensor device attributes to the main sensor device, which then transmits them back to the orchestration module 14 via the base station. The main sensor device can also store sensor device attributes locally.

[0134] Then, the process of assigning sensor device 20 to sensor device group S and sensor device hierarchy can begin.

[0135] First, the impact of individual measurement data on the contribution or confidence level of the overall measurement can be determined by... Figure 6AThe contribution score allocation algorithm 17 is determined. The general process may include an aggregator 15 and a classifier 16 stack running iteratively on a subset of the total measurement dataset, so that a contribution score can be determined for each sensor device 20.

[0136] There are likely many ways to perform this step. One approach involves an ablation method where an aggregator 15 and classifier 16 stack are initially run on the total measurement dataset (i.e., data from all sensor devices 20), and measurement contributions or confidence scores are saved. Next, a measurement dataset is removed from the total set, and the aggregator 15 and classifier 16 stack are then run on the remaining set. Measurement contributions or confidence scores are saved again, and the differences in measurement contributions or confidence scores resulting from data removal are also saved as contribution scores. This difference in measurement contributions or confidence scores is considered representative of the relative importance of the removed measurement data to sensor function 13, and therefore representative of the relative importance of the associated sensor devices 20 to sensor function 13. This can be repeated until all measurement datasets have been removed. The measurement datasets can then be ranked based on contribution scores. Measurement data associated with the highest contribution score is the most important, while measurement data with the lowest contribution score is the least important. Sensor devices 20 associated with negligible contribution scores (i.e., below a certain threshold) can be flagged for complete removal from the hierarchy.

[0137] The remaining sensor devices 20 can then be assigned to layers of the sensor device hierarchy based on their contribution scores. The most influential sensor device can be assigned as the primary sensor device 20 (PRI) (Layer 1) and assigned a primary sensor device ID, PDI. This may or may not be the same sensor device 20 that was the primary sensor device at the start of the process. The remaining sensor devices 20 can be assigned to layers 2, 3, 4, etc., for example, based on which percentage of their contribution scores they fall into. They are assigned appropriate layer identifiers, TI. If a new primary sensor device has been selected, the new primary sensor device ID, PDI is associated with sensor function 13 and stored for this purpose.

[0138] Then, various messages can be sent from sensor function system 10, for example from orchestration module 14, via base station to the master sensor device. If a new master sensor device has been selected, the previous master sensor device can be notified, for example, via a master sensor device removal message, that it is no longer the master sensor device for sensor function 13. Similarly, if a new master sensor device has been selected, it can be notified via a master sensor device announcement message.

[0139] The master sensor device announcement message may also contain information about the sensor device hierarchy, such as the sensor device identifiers and associated layer identifiers for all sensor devices 20 in group S. This information may also include the layer rules described above.

[0140] Various messages can be sent from a potentially newly selected master sensor device 20 (PRI) to sensor device 20. For example, a sensor device hierarchy announcement message can be sent to each sensor device 20 in group S. This message includes a master sensor device identifier (PDI) and a layer identifier (TI), so that each sensor device 20 in group S is notified of the layer it is associated with in the sensor device hierarchy.

[0141] Any sensor device 20 can use a local lookup table to determine what the associated wake-up message will be received at the wake-up receiver. Message notifications can be removed from any sensor device 20 that was previously part of a group but is no longer.

[0142] Figure 6B This is an illustrative embodiment of the sensor function system 10 in the process of acquiring measurement data to perform sensor function 13.

[0143] The orchestration module 14 can receive a request to activate sensor function 13 using a sensor function identifier. This can be used to track the master sensor device identifier (PDI). The orchestration module 14 can then send a measurement data request message to the master sensor device via a base station. The base station can first send a wake-up message to the master sensor device 20 (PRI) if it is in sleep mode.

[0144] like Figure 6B As shown, the master sensor device 20 (PRI) associated with layer 1 receives a measurement data request message and can then begin collecting measurement data according to the instructions in the measurement data request message. The master sensor device 20 (PRI) can then return the measurement data to the orchestration module 14 via a base station. The measurement data is processed by sensor function 13 (aggregator 15 and then classifier 16) to return sensor function results and measurement contribution or confidence level. The measurement contribution or confidence level is evaluated and compared with a preset contribution or confidence level threshold.

[0145] If the measured contribution or confidence level is higher than the contribution or confidence level threshold, the sensor function result is returned to the requesting originator. In this case, the orchestration module 14 can send an acknowledgment message to the master sensor device via the base station to confirm the measurement success. Alternatively, no message may be sent, and the master sensor device may return to sleep after a timeout.

[0146] If the measured contribution or confidence level is lower than the contribution or confidence level threshold, the orchestration module 14 can return a low contribution or confidence level message to the master sensor device via the base station. Based on the measured contribution or confidence level and the contribution or confidence level threshold, as well as the locally stored sensor device attributes and layer rules, the master sensor device 20 can determine which layers in the sensor device hierarchy to wake up and request measurement data from them.

[0147] The master sensor device 20 (PRI) transmits a specific measurement data request message, for example, having a specific master sensor device ID and a layer identifier TI (2), causing the appropriate sensor device 20 associated with that layer identifier to begin returning and / or recording measurement data. The master sensor device may first transmit a wake-up message to the master sensor device (if it is in sleep mode).

[0148] Sensor device 20 transmits measurement data, possibly along with current sensor device attributes, to the main sensor device. The main sensor device can then return the measurement data to the orchestration module 14 via the base station.

[0149] The above steps can be repeated until a measurement contribution or confidence level exceeding the contribution or confidence threshold is generated, or until sensor devices at all layers of the sensor device hierarchy have reported measurement data. The sensor function results can then be returned to the requesting originator.

[0150] The disclosed embodiments enable a novel and inventive method for organizing data retrieval from wireless sensor networks to perform sensor functions, optimizing the balance between reducing sensor energy consumption and ensuring sensor measurement quality. This results in a reduction in the total resource usage (both energy and communication) within the wireless sensor network for performing sensor function tasks, and also reduces the energy consumption of individual wireless sensors. The quality of sensor function results can be ensured by using measurement contribution or confidence metrics (one or more), regardless of which sensor devices contribute measurement data. A dynamic sensor device hierarchy mitigates the impact of any transient changes in the environment that might affect which sensor in the network is most important at a given time.

[0151] Figure 7 A block diagram is depicted illustrating an exemplary processing system according to a disclosed embodiment, such as a portion of a sensor function system 10 or sensor device 20 as described above for use in a random number generation system 1. Figure 7As shown, the processing system 70 may include at least one processor 71 coupled to the memory element 72 via a system bus 73. Thus, the processing system can store program code within the memory element 72. Furthermore, the processor 71 can execute program code accessed from the memory element 72 via the system bus 73. In one aspect, the processing system may be implemented as a computer system suitable for storing and / or executing program code. However, it should be understood that the processing system 70 may be implemented in the form of any system including a processor and memory capable of performing the functions described herein.

[0152] Memory element 72 may include one or more physical memory devices, such as local memory 74 and one or more mass storage devices 75. Local memory may refer to random access memory or one or more other non-persistent memory devices typically used during the actual execution of the program code. Mass storage devices may be implemented as hard disk drives or other persistent data storage devices. Processing system 70 may also include one or more cache memories (not shown) that provide temporary storage for at least some program code to reduce the number of times program code must be retrieved from mass storage device 75 during execution.

[0153] The input / output (I / O) devices, depicted as input device 76 and output device 77, may optionally be coupled to the processing system. Examples of input devices may include, but are not limited to, a spatial access keyboard, a pointing device such as a mouse, etc. Examples of output devices may include, but are not limited to, a monitor or display, a speaker, etc. Input and / or output devices may be coupled to the processing system directly or through an intermediate I / O controller.

[0154] In this embodiment, the input and output devices can be implemented as combined input / output devices (in... Figure 7 (Seen in the diagram with dashed lines surrounding input device 76 and output device 77). An example of such a combined device is a touch-sensitive display, sometimes also called a “touchscreen display” or simply a “touchscreen” that can be provided with the UE. In such an embodiment, input to the device can be provided by moving a physical object, such as a human stylus or finger, on or near the touchscreen display.

[0155] Network adapter 78 may also be coupled to the processing system to enable it to be coupled to other systems, computer systems, remote network devices, and / or remote storage devices via an intermediate private or public network. The network adapter may include a data receiver for receiving data transmitted to the processing system 70 from the systems, devices, and / or networks, and a data transmitter for transmitting data from the processing system 70 to the systems, devices, and / or networks. Modems, cable modems, and Ethernet cards are examples of different types of network adapters that can be used with the processing system 70.

[0156] like Figure 7 As shown, memory element 72 can store application 79. In various embodiments, application 79 can be stored in local memory 74, one or more mass storage devices 75, or stored separately from local memory and mass storage devices. It should be understood that processing system 70 can further execute an operating system (…). Figure 7 (Not shown in the image), the operating system can facilitate the execution of application 79. Application 79, implemented as executable program code, can be executed by processing system 70, such as processor 71. In response to executing the application, processing system 70 can be configured to perform one or more operational or method steps described herein.

[0157] In one aspect of the invention, as disclosed herein, a base station selection support system and / or one or more components of a user equipment used with such a base station selection support system may represent the processing system 70 described herein.

[0158] Various embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as a program product for use with a computer system, wherein one or more programs of the program product define the functionality of the embodiments (including the methods described herein). In one embodiment, one or more programs may be contained on a variety of non-transitory computer-readable storage media, wherein the expression "non-transitory computer-readable storage media" as used herein includes all computer-readable media, with the sole exception of transient propagation signals. In another embodiment, one or more programs may be contained on a variety of transient computer-readable storage media. Illustrative computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to: (i) non-writable storage media on which information is permanently stored (e.g., read-only storage devices within a computer, such as CD-ROM discs readable by a CD-ROM drive, ROM chips, or any type of solid-state non-volatile semiconductor memory); and (ii) writable storage media on which variable information is stored (e.g., flash memory, floppy disks or hard disk drives in a disk drive, or any type of solid-state random access semiconductor memory). The computer program may run on the processor 71 described herein.

[0159] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used in this specification specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0160] All means or steps plus functional elements in the following claims are intended to include any structure, material, action, and equivalent for performing the function in conjunction with other claimed elements of the specific claim. The description of embodiments of the invention is presented for illustrative purposes and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to implementations of the disclosed forms. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. The embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles of the invention and some practical applications, and to enable others skilled in the art to understand the invention with respect to various embodiments having various modifications as suited to the particular intended use.

Claims

1. A sensor function system configured to organize sensor device groups in a sensor device hierarchy, the sensor device hierarchy including at least one or more sensor devices in a first layer and one or more sensor devices in a second layer, wherein one or more sensor devices in the sensor device group are configured to provide measurement data to perform a sensor function, wherein the sensor function system is configured to: Determine the association between one or more sensor devices and the first layer sensor devices, and the association between one or more sensor devices and the second layer sensor devices; Assign a first-layer identifier to one or more sensor devices of the first layer, and transmit the first-layer identifier to one or more sensor devices identified as being associated with the first-layer sensor devices; as well as The second-layer identifier is assigned to one or more sensor devices of the second layer, and the second-layer identifier is transmitted to one or more sensor devices that are identified as being associated with the second-layer sensor devices.

2. The sensor functional system according to claim 1, wherein, The sensor function system is configured to receive sensor information from one or more sensor devices in the sensor device group, wherein the sensor function system is configured to determine an association with one or more sensor devices in the first layer or one or more sensor devices in the second layer based on the sensor information, wherein optionally, the sensor information includes measurement data, and the sensor function system determines the contribution or confidence score of the measurement data to the sensor function to determine the association of the one or more sensor devices with the first layer or the second layer.

3. The sensor functional system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The sensor function system is configured to assign at least one of the sensor devices of the first layer as a master sensor device, and wherein the sensor function system is configured to communicate with other sensor devices in the sensor device group through the master sensor device, including transmitting a second layer identifier, wherein optionally, the first layer identifier corresponds to a master sensor device identifier.

4. The sensor functional system according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein, The sensor functional system is configured to be at least one of the following: The wake-up message is transmitted to at least one or more sensor devices of one or more sensor devices of the first layer using the first layer identifier, wherein the wake-up message optionally includes the first layer identifier; The master sensor device of claim 3 is instructed to use the second layer identifier to transmit a wake-up message to at least one or more sensor devices in the second layer, wherein the wake-up message optionally includes the second layer identifier.

5. The sensor functional system according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein, The sensor functional system is configured to: The first layer identifier is used to transmit a measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices of the first layer sensor device to obtain first measurement data, wherein the measurement data request message optionally includes the first layer identifier; The sensor function is applied to the first measurement data to obtain the sensor function result; Perform a contribution or confidence algorithm on the sensor function results to obtain a contribution or confidence score; Depending on the contribution or confidence score, a second measurement data request message is transmitted to one or more sensor devices of the second-layer sensor device using the second-layer identifier to obtain second measurement data, or one or more sensor devices associated with the first-layer sensor device are triggered to transmit a second measurement data request, wherein the second measurement data request message optionally includes the second-layer identifier; and The sensor function is applied to the second measurement data to obtain further sensor function results.

6. The sensor functional system according to claim 5, wherein, The sensor function system is configured to trigger at least one first sensor device associated with the first layer as a master sensor device, so that, optionally through the master device, the second measurement data request message is transmitted to one or more sensor devices associated with one or more sensor devices in the second layer, and the second measurement data is received.

7. The sensor functional system according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein, The sensor functionality system is implemented at least in part in a 3GPP-compliant telecommunications network, for example, in a base station and / or core network system of the core network of the telecommunications system.

8. A sensor function system configured to acquire measurement data for performing a sensor function, wherein the measurement data is acquired from one or more sensor devices in a group of sensor devices, wherein the group of sensor devices is organized in a sensor device hierarchy, the sensor device hierarchy including at least one or more sensor devices in a first layer associated with a first layer identifier and one or more sensor devices in a second layer associated with a second layer identifier, the sensor function system being configured to: The first layer identifier is used to transmit a measurement data request message to one or more sensor devices of the first layer sensor device to obtain first measurement data, wherein the measurement data request message optionally includes the first layer identifier; The sensor function is applied to the first measurement data to obtain the sensor function result; Perform a contribution or confidence algorithm on the sensor function results to obtain a contribution or confidence score; Depending on the contribution or confidence score, a second measurement data request message is triggered or transmitted to one or more sensor devices of the second layer sensor device using the second layer identifier to obtain second measurement data, wherein the second measurement data request message optionally includes the second layer identifier; as well as The sensor function is applied to the second measurement data to obtain further sensor function results. Optionally, at least one sensor device in the first layer is configured to operate as a master sensor device, and the sensor function system is configured to communicate with other sensor devices in the sensor device group through the master sensor device, including transmitting the second measurement data request message.

9. The sensor functional system according to claim 8, wherein, The sensor functional system is also configured as defined in one or more of claims 1-7.

10. A sensor device for use with a sensor functional system according to one or more of claims 1-7, wherein, The sensor device is configured to: Receive an allocation message, the allocation message including a layer identifier associated with a layer in the sensor device hierarchy; The layer identifier is stored in the local storage of the sensor device; as well as Upon detecting the layer identifier, a request message from the sensor function system is responded to.

11. The sensor device according to claim 10, wherein, The sensor device is configured to: Receive sensor information request messages from the sensor functional system; and In response to the sensor information request message, sensor information is transmitted to the sensor function system, wherein optionally, the sensor information includes measurement data obtained by the sensor of the sensor device.

12. The sensor device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The sensor device is configured to be at least one of the following: Receive an allocation message including a master device identifier, and store the master device identifier as a first-level identifier associated with the first level of the sensor device hierarchy; and Transmit an allocation message received from the sensor device system, the allocation message including a second-layer identifier associated with a second layer of the sensor device hierarchy.

13. The sensor device according to claim 12, wherein, The sensor device is configured to be at least one of the following: The sensor device is activated when the master device identifier is detected in the wake-up message received from the sensor function system. as well as The system receives instructions from the sensor function system to transmit a wake-up message to one or more sensor devices in the second layer, and transmits the wake-up message using a second-layer identifier, wherein the wake-up message optionally includes the second-layer identifier.

14. The sensor device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, The sensor device is configured to: In response to a trigger from the sensor function system including a master device identifier, a measurement data request message is transmitted using the second layer identifier for one or more sensor devices associated with the second layer of the sensor device hierarchy, wherein the measurement data request message optionally includes the second layer identifier, and optionally, In response to the transmission of the measurement data request message, measurement data is received from one or more sensor devices associated with the second layer, and The measurement data is transmitted to the sensor function system.

15. A sensor device for use with a sensor functional system according to claim 8, wherein the sensor functional system applies a sensor device hierarchy, the sensor device hierarchy comprising at least one or more sensor devices of a first layer associated with a first layer identifier and one or more sensor devices of a second layer associated with a second layer identifier, wherein the sensor devices are configured to: Measurement data is obtained from measurements taken by the sensors of the sensor device; If the sensor device stores the first layer identifier, it responds to the measurement data request message including the first layer identifier by transmitting the measurement data; If the sensor device stores the second layer identifier, it responds to a measurement data request message including the second layer identifier by transmitting the measurement data; and if the measurement data request message contains the first layer identifier, it does not respond. Optionally, the sensor device is triggered to obtain the measurement data in response to receiving the first layer identifier and the second layer identifier, respectively.

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