Network device

Abstract

A mechanism for communicating between network devices. A network device has a processing system that controls an antenna arrangement. In a first transmit mode, the processing system controls the antenna arrangement to transmit first frames at a first power level. In a second transmit mode, the processing system controls the antenna arrangement to transmit a second frame at a second power level. The maximum data throughput rate of the second frame is greater than any first frame. The effective range of the first frame(s) transmitted at the first power level is less than or equal to the effective range of the second frame transmitted at the second power level.

Description

[0001] 2024PF80433

[0002] Network device

[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention relates to the field of mesh networks, and in particular, to network devices for use in mesh networks.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Wireless mesh networks are becoming increasingly common in a wide variety of environments, particularly in domestic and industrial environments, to facilitate the communication of data between different network devices. Wireless mesh networks typically consist of multiple interconnected devices, each defining a respective node, that are able to dynamically route data between nodes. Traditional mesh networks often utilize standard protocols, such as IEEE 802.15.4, to ensure interoperability and establish consistent communication parameters across devices.

[0007] United States patent application US 2007 / 0201393 Al discloses a method of optimizing link transmission parameters between access nodes within a mesh network. The method includes each access node within the mesh transmitting packets at N different combinations of data rates and power levels. Each receiving node that receives the data packets at one or more of the N combinations, selects a most desirable one of the received combinations. The receiving nodes indicate to the transmitting nodes the selected most desired combination for transmitting to the receiving node. As substantially periodic data traffic (such as routing beacons, voice of IP, streaming data, 802.11 beacons) are said to cause interference transmit power of such transmissions are adjusted and set to a lower power level than if the type of traffic being transmitted is data traffic that is bursty.

[0008] European patent application EP1379026 Al pertains to a dual-mode wireless transmission system operated in a wireless ad-hoc manner using a low-bit-rate, continuous wireless signaling channel for conveying a wireless status and / or control information and a high-bit-rate data channel assigned on demanded bases at the same time. In this connection, the low-bit-rate channel assists and manages the high-bit-rate data channel. Furthermore, the low-bit-rate wireless channel and the high-bit-rate data channel employ different radio transmission technologies (optimized for the specific purpose) and are operated logically in2024PF80433

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[0010] parallel. It notes that the transmission quality of the low-bit-rate channel is generally higher than that of the high-bit-rate channel, allowing control of the routing (the multi-hopping path) based on the channel quality information conveyed via the low-bit-rate channel(s).

[0011] However, as the demand for data-intensive applications grows, conventional mesh networks face limitations in terms of data throughput and efficiency. The fixed data rates and modulation schemes employed by standard protocols are unable to support the increasing bandwidth demands of modern applications. This constraint can lead to bottlenecks in data transmission between network devices, particularly when large volumes of information need to be transferred.

[0012] There is therefore an ongoing desire for an improved network device, and mesh network, that is able to transmit a larger amount of data.

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The invention is defined by the claims.

[0015] In accordance with a proposed approach, there is provided a network device comprising an antenna arrangement for transmitting and receiving frames, and a processing system configured to control the operation of the antenna arrangement. The processing system is configured to, in a first transmit mode, control the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit one or more first frames at a first power level using a first physical layer, wherein each first frame is usable by a recipient to construct routing information identifying any neighboring network devices. The processing system is also configured to, in a second transmit mode, control the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit a second frame at a second power level, wherein the second frame has a higher maximum data throughput rate than any first frame.

[0016] The second power level is greater than the first power level, the network device characterized in that: the second transmit mode uses one of: a second physical layer and a second modulation and coding scheme and the first frame transmitted in the first transmit mode uses a first modulation and coding scheme, different to the second modulation and coding scheme and the first power level is defined such that the effective range of each first frame transmitted at the first power level (i.e., in the first transmit mode), within a first environment, is less than or equal to the effective range of the second frame transmitted at the second power level (i.e., in the second transmit mode) within the first environment.

[0017] The present disclosure proposes a network device that is able to transmit at least two different types of frame to one or more other network devices within a mesh network. A first frame, or first type of frame, is usable by a recipient (i.e., receiving network device) for2024PF80433

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[0019] constructing routing information that identifies any neighboring network devices (to the recipient). A second frame, or second type of frame, may carry payload information or payload data.

[0020] The first frame(s) has a lower maximum data throughput rate than the second frame. In other words, a first frame will carry less data per unit time than a second frame (assuming both frames are successfully transmitted and received). The present disclosure recognizes that frames that carry more data per unit time are more sensitive to noise, i.e., more likely to suffer degradation in a noisy environment.

[0021] For example, it has been recognized that different modulation and coding schemes (MCS’s) result in different maximum data throughput rates for communications between two network devices. The present disclosure is particularly advantageous when employed in such circumstances, as different MCS’s will inevitably have different sensitivities to noise within the environment.

[0022] Setting the effective range of the first frames (transmitted in the first transmit mode) to be less than or equal to that of the second frames functions to reduce the risk of directly transmitting second frames to devices outside their range. In particular, by using lower-power first frames to establish routing information, the network device will identify only the closest and most reliable neighboring devices. This conservative approach ensures that any device identified as a neighbor for the first frames transmitted in the first transmit mode will likely be within the effective range for the second frames transmitted (at a higher power level) in the second transmit mode.

[0023] The proposed approach avoids the need to establish separate routing information for both first type of frame transmission and second type of frame transmission. Rather, the same routing information is usable for coordinating the transmission of both types of frame.

[0024] In the context of the present disclosure, the term "frame" refers to a packet of data or information that is wirelessly transmitted by a network device.

[0025] In some embodiments, the processing system is further configured to receive, via the antenna arrangement, one or more third frames from one or more neighboring network devices, and process the third frames to construct routing information identifying the one or more neighboring network devices.

[0026] The third frames may, for instance, correspond to or be first frames transmitted by one or more other network devices in the mesh network. This feature allows the network device to dynamically build and maintain an accurate map of its immediate network2024PF80433

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[0028] environment that are within the effective range of the second frame(s) transmitted at the second power level (i.e., in the second transmit mode).

[0029] In some embodiments, the processing system is further configured to only wirelessly transmit the second frame to one of the one or more neighboring network devices identified in the routing information. This targeted transmission approach reduces unnecessary network traffic and conserves power. By limiting high-power transmissions to known neighbors, the network device minimizes interference and improves overall network efficiency. In particular, this approach facilitates a mesh network communication strategy in which the second frame is only transmitted to a device that is likely to be within its effective range, thereby significantly reducing a risk of failed transmission of the second frame.

[0030] In some embodiments, the one or more third frames comprises at least one response to the one or more first frames. This bidirectional communication enables the network device to identify and confirm the presence and responsiveness of neighboring devices. The ability to receive responses to its transmissions allows the device to maintain up-to-date routing information.

[0031] In some embodiments, each first frame is compatible with a wireless communication protocol and the second frame is backwards compatible with the wireless communication protocol. By maintaining compatibility with a single wireless protocol, the device ensures interoperability within the network. This compatibility simplifies network management and allows for seamless integration of devices from different manufacturers and backwards compatibility with existing networks and existing network devices. Backwards compatibility may be implemented in a variety of manners, e.g. by having transmissions of any frames in the second transmit mode, use first transmit mode signaling to claim the channel. In one alternative, backwards compatibility can be achieved or by transmitting the second frames in the second transmit mode in a manner such that a device operable in the first transmit mode is able to interpret the second frame, as a first mode transmission and perform a back-off in response. This can be achieved, for instance, by when wishing to transmit a second frame, initiating transmitting a preamble, or part of the header of the second frame, in the first transmit mode to thereby inform other devices of an on-going transmission and then switch to a different transmit mode, e.g., a higher throughput - physical layer operation, akin to the mechanism used in IEEE 802.1 ln-2009.

[0032] In some embodiments, each first frame is compatible with the IEEE 802.15.4-2020 technical standard and the second frame is backwards compatible with the IEEE 802.15.4-2020 technical standard. Adherence to the IEEE 802.15.4-2020 standard provides a2024PF80433

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[0034] well-established framework for low-rate wireless personal area networks, providing reliable and efficient wireless communications. The IEEE 802.15.4 is a standard that defines the operation of a low-rate wireless personal area network (LR-WPAN). It specifies the physical layer (PHY) and media access control layer (MAC) for LR-WPANs and is maintained by the IEEE 802.15 working group. The initial standard was released in 2003 (IEEE 802.15.4-2003), more recent versions of the standard with added features were released in 2015 (IEEE 802.15.4-2015), and 2020 (IEEE 802.15.4-2020).

[0035] In some embodiments, the noise sensitivity of the second frame is greater than the noise-sensitivity of each first frame.

[0036] In some embodiments, the second frame uses a greater bandwidth than each first frame. The allocation of greater bandwidth to the second frame type facilitates higher data throughput. This feature allows the device to efficiently transmit larger amounts of data when needed, while still maintaining the ability to use lower bandwidth for routine network management tasks.

[0037] In some embodiments, the routing information is neighbor information that identifies each other network device within the effective range of the first frames, transmitted using the first transmit mode (i.e., at the first power level). In this way, the neighbor information identifies other network devices within a single communicative hop from the network device, i.e., devices through which the second frame(s) should be routed or transmitted.

[0038] In some embodiments, the one or more first frames comprises a communication for establishing or maintaining an ad hoc wireless mesh network. The ability to establish and maintain an ad hoc wireless mesh network enhances the device's flexibility in dynamic environments.

[0039] In some embodiments, the one or more first frames comprises at least one communication for establishing or maintaining a fixed wireless mesh network. Support for fixed wireless mesh networks allows the device to operate in more stable, long-term network configurations.

[0040] In some examples, the antenna arrangement comprises one or more antenna for transmitting the first frames and the second frame as respective electromagnetic waves.

[0041] In some examples, the antenna arrangement comprises an amplifier configured to amplify one or more electronic signals provided to the one or more antenna. The processing system may be configured to control the operation of the amplifier (e.g., the amplification performed by the amplifier). In particular, the processing system may be configured to control2024PF80433

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[0043] the amplification performed by the amplifier to define the power level at which each frame transmitted by the one or more antenna is transmitted. In particular, the processing system may be configured to control the amplifier to amplify an electronic signal to the one or more antenna defining the second frame to a greater power level than any electronic signal to the one or more antenna defining any first frame.

[0044] In accordance with another proposed approach, there is provided a computer-implemented method for controlling an antenna arrangement, for wireless transmitting and receiving frames, of a network device. The method comprises, in a first transmit mode, controlling the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit one or more first frames at a first power level using a first physical layer, wherein each first frame is usable by a recipient to construct routing information identifying any neighboring network devices. The method also comprises, in a second transmit mode, controlling the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit a second frame at a second power level, wherein the second frame has a higher maximum data throughput rate than any first frame and wherein the second power level is greater than the first power level. The method characterized in that: the second transmit mode uses one of a second physical layer and a second modulation and coding scheme and the first frame transmitted in the first transmit mode uses a first modulation and coding scheme, different to the second modulation and coding scheme; and the first power level is defined such that the effective range of each first frame transmitted at the first power level, within a first environment, is less than or equal to the effective range of the second frame transmitted at the second power level within the first environment.

[0045] In some embodiments, the noise sensitivity of the second frame is greater than the noise-sensitivity of each first frame.

[0046] In some embodiments, in accordance with the present invention, the network device and / or the method involves the first transmit mode using O-QPSK for the first frames and the second transmit mode using GMSK modulation for the second frame(s).

[0047] In accordance with yet another proposed approach, there is provided a computer program product comprising computer program code means which, when executed on a processing system, cause the processing system of a network device of the first embodiment to perform all of the steps of the method described above.

[0048] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiment s) described hereinafter.2024PF80433

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[0050] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] For a better understanding of the invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0052] Figure 1 illustrates a network in which embodiments may be employed; and Figure 2 illustrates a network device in which embodiments may be employed.

[0053] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0054] The invention will be described with reference to the Figures.

[0055] It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, systems and methods, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatus, systems and methods of the present invention will become better understood from the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the Figures are merely schematic and are not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used throughout the Figures to indicate the same or similar parts.

[0056] The invention provides a mechanism for communicating between network devices. A network device has a processing system that controls an antenna arrangement. In a first transmit mode, the processing system controls the antenna arrangement to transmit first frames at a first power level. In a second transmit mode, the processing system controls the antenna arrangement to transmit a second frame at a second power level. The maximum data throughput rate of the second frame is greater than any first frame. The effective range of the first frame(s) transmitted at the first power level is less than or equal to the effective range of the second frame transmitted at the second power level.

[0057] Figure 1 illustrates a mesh network 10 in which embodiments may be employed, for improved contextual understanding.

[0058] The mesh network 10 comprises a plurality of network devices 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107 communicatively connected to one another. Suitable example structures and configurations for a mesh network are well known to the skilled person. In particular, mesh networks are typically configured such that there are multiple paths for the transmission of (data) frames between network devices of the mesh network.

[0059] Preferably, the mesh network 10 is a Low-Rate Wireless Personal Area Networks (LR-WPAN), examples of which are well known to the skilled person.2024PF80433

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[0061] The mesh network 10 may take the form of an ad hoc wireless mesh network or a fixed wireless mesh network.

[0062] In an ad hoc wireless mesh network, the network devices are able to dynamically self-organize and self-configure. In particular, in an ad hoc wireless mesh network, each network device may be configured to construct and update routing information by processing frames received from other network devices. Specifically, when a network device receives a particular type of frame from a neighboring network device, it may extract information such as the sender's address and signal strength. The network device can use this data to populate or update routing information, particularly to identify neighboring devices and, optionally, potential routes of communication through the mesh network. As frames are iteratively exchanged between network devices, each node dynamically builds and refines its view of the network topology.

[0063] One suitable example of an ad hoc wireless mesh network is a Zigbee mesh network in which devices may communicate using the IEEE 802.15.4 standard. Other suitable examples, including alternatives that operate using the IEEE 802.15.4 standard such as Thread ®, are well known to the skilled person. For instance, other suitable examples include the Bluetooth ® Mesh standard or Z-wave ®.

[0064] In a fixed wireless mesh network, the network devices typically have predetermined connections between one another, which offers more stability and predictability for network topology and routing. Nonetheless, there may still be a demand for each network device to define and periodically update routing information (e.g., to identify which devices are online or offline).

[0065] Figure 2 illustrates a portion of a network device 101 for improved contextual understanding.

[0066] The network device 101 comprises an antenna arrangement 210 and a processing system 220. The antenna arrangement 210 and the processing system 220 may together embody or define a PHY, which handles the desired functionality of the physical layer of the classic seven-layer OSI model, as later explained.

[0067] The antenna arrangement 210 is designed for transmitting and receiving (wireless) frames. Thus, the antenna arrangement 210 may comprise one or more antennae 211, 212 configured to convert received electrical signals into (typically radio-frequency) electromagnetic waves (i.e., frames) and vice versa. For instance, the antenna arrangement may comprise a first antenna 211 for transmitting frames and a second antenna 212 for receiving frames, although this is not essential.2024PF80433

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[0069] In the context of the present disclosure, a frame is a packet of data or information that is wirelessly transmitted by the antenna device (e.g., intended for receipt at one or more other network devices). Suitable examples of frames include data frames (e.g., for communicating payload data), control frames (e.g., for coordinating transmission of data frames), management frames (e.g., for establishing and / or maintain network connections), or any other suitable type of frames.

[0070] The skilled person will appreciate that the antenna arrangement 210 may comprise one or more further elements for aiding in the conversion of electronic signals to electromagnetic radiation (and vice versa). For instance, the antenna arrangement 210 may comprise an amplifier 215, a filter 216, a modem 217 and so on.

[0071] The amplifier 215 is configured to boost the strength of signals transmitted or received by the antenna arrangement 210. Although illustrates as a single amplifier, the skilled person will appreciate that, in practice, separate amplifiers may be employed for amplification of signals to be transmitted and signals received at the antenna(e) 211, 212.

[0072] The filter 216 is configured to selectively allow certain frequencies to pass while attenuating others, helping to reduce noise and interference.

[0073] The modem 217 is configured to modulate outgoing signals for transmission and demodulate incoming signals to extract the transmitted data.

[0074] Other suitable components for an antenna arrangement 210 will be readily apparent to the skilled person. For instance, the antenna arrangement may comprise an analogue-to-digital converter (ADC), a digital-to-analogue converter (DAC), an automatic gain control system (for adjusting the gain of received signals for consistency), a cyclic redundancy check system, a radio access control system, a buffer control system and so on.

[0075] The processing system 220 is configured to control or co-ordinate the operation of the antenna arrangement. Specifically, the processing system 220 manages the transmission and reception of frames through the antenna arrangement 210. This includes determining when to transmit frames, defining modulation schemes for transmission, processing received frames, and so on.

[0076] For the sake of illustrative clarity, possible control logic for the processing system 220 to control at least some of the components of the antenna arrangement 210 are illustrated with dashed lines.

[0077] As previously mentioned, the antenna arrangement 210 and the processing system 220 may together embody or define a PHY. As is known in the art, the PHY will handle the physical transmission and reception of frames (e.g., data) over a communication medium2024PF80433

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[0079] (here: air). The PHY is thereby able to control and define properties of the physical transmission of frames (“physical properties”), such as: modulation schemes, transmission frequencies, and other physical characteristics of the communication. In this context, a physical property is unrelated to the data content carried by the frame, rather referring to properties that affect how the frame is physically transmitted over the communication medium.

[0080] By way of example, the modulation performed by the modem 217 may be defined by the appropriate wireless communication protocol. As another example, the frequencies of transmitted frame(s) may be defined by the modulation performed by the modem 217 and / or the frequencies filtered by the filter 216. Other examples will be apparent to the skilled person.

[0081] In the state of the art, frames sent or received by a standard or conventional PHY will adhere to or be compliant with an appropriate wireless communication protocol employed by the (antenna arrangement of the) network device. A suitable wireless communication protocol is the IEEE 802.15.4 standard, although others are known such as the BLE standard or Z-wave.

[0082] The processing system 220 is also configured to store and maintain routing information. This may, for instance, be stored in a (e.g., portion of a) memory 225 of the network device 101.

[0083] As previously mentioned, the routing information is configured to identify one or more neighboring network devices (in the mesh network) to the network device 101. The routing information may also identify one or more communication routes between the network device and each other (known) network device in the mesh network. Approaches for establishing and updating routing information are widely known in the field of wireless mesh networks.

[0084] The routing information may comprise or be neighbor information that identifies each other network device within the effective range of the first frames (i.e., “each in-range network device”). It will be appreciated that each in-range network device effectively represents a device with which a first frame can be reliably communicated in a single hop. The neighbor information may, for instance, be structured as a table or database comprising a respective entry for each in-range network device. Other suitable structures for neighbor information will be readily apparent to the skilled person, e.g., a list, queue, record and so on. This neighbor information typically includes relevant details about neighboring devices to facilitate efficient communication and routing within the mesh network.2024PF80433

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[0086] By way of example, for each in-range network device, the neighbor information may identify one or more of the following: a device identifier; and / or a measure of signal strength. This facilitates decision making, by the processing system, as to which other network device future frames or data should be sent.

[0087] Other suitable properties or details for each neighboring device that may be included in the neighbor information include: communication timestamps; device capabilities (e.g., indicating whether the device supports certain communication capabilities); battery level and so on.

[0088] The routing information may also identify one or more non-neighboring network devices (in the mesh network). For instance, where the routing information comprises the neighbor information, the neighbor information may comprise one or more entries for a respective one or more other non-neighboring device of the mesh network. These entries may include information such as: a device identifier; the number of hops required to reach it; and / or the in-range network device through which communication should be routed to reach the nonneighboring device.

[0089] The present disclosure recognizes that there is a demand for increasing the rate of data throughput (i.e., increasing a data rate) of communicating payload data between different network devices in a same mesh network.

[0090] One proposed approach for facilitating this increase in data rate is to configure the network device (specifically the antenna arrangement 210 and the processing system 220) to employ a so-called high-data rate (HDR) PHY, which is able to support the communication of frames that have a higher maximum data throughput rate in the mesh network, compared to frames that are compliant with the appropriate wireless communication protocol of the standard PHY.

[0091] However, there is a corresponding desire to ensure that the HDR PHY is backwards compatible with the communication protocol (or all communication protocols) employed by a standard PHY, e.g., is able to perform the functions of a PHY compliant with the appropriate wireless communication protocol. This is desired, for instance, to facilitate communications with existing network devices in the mesh network that only support standard PHY operations.

[0092] As such, a HDR PHY may be operable in at least two modes. In a first mode, the HDR PHY may be operable to transmit one or more first frames, e.g., which may be compliant with the wireless communication protocol. In a second mode, the HDR PHY may2024PF80433

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[0094] be operable to transmit one or more second frames that have a higher maximum data throughput rate than each first frame.

[0095] In the context of the present network device 210, the dual -mode HDR PHY can be realized configuring the processing system to be operable in at least a first transmit mode and a second transmit mode. In the first transmit mode, the processing system is configured to control the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit the one or more first frames. In the first transmit mode, the processing system is configured to control the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit the one or more second frames, each of which has a higher maximum data throughput rate than any first frame.

[0096] In this way, the network device is able to transmit frames at different maximum data throughput rates. Thus, the network device is able to transmit frames (including at least the first frames) at a first maximum data throughput rate and other frames (including at least the second frame) at a second, higher maximum data throughput rate.

[0097] Various approaches for achieving a higher maximum data throughput rate will be apparent to the skilled person, for instance by optionally supporting a higher (channel) symbol rate. In order to ensure backwards compatibility such second frames can make use of preambles and / or signaling in accordance with first frames / first transmission mode, so as to have devices that only support first transmission mode backoff, when a second frame transmission starts, but where additional information is provided for devices that support second frame transmission mode to switch to the second transmission mode, similar to the mechanism employed in the IEEE 802.1 ln-2009 amendment.

[0098] In some examples, a different modulation and coding scheme is used for the second frame(s) compared to the first frame(s), at least the latter of which may by compliant with the desired wireless communication protocol, such as the IEEE 802.15.4 standard.

[0099] In some implementations, the different transmit modes may be performed through control of the modem 217 by the processing system 220. For example, the processing system may configure the modem to use different modulation and coding schemes for the first and second frames. In the first transmit mode, the modem may be controlled to use a modulation scheme compliant with the standard wireless protocol. In the second transmit mode, the modem may be controlled to use a higher-order modulation scheme to achieve the higher data rate.

[0100] Alternatively, the antenna arrangement may include two separate modems - a first modem for standard protocol communications and a second modem for high data rate communications. In this case, the processing system may selectively activate the appropriate2024PF80433

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[0102] modem based on the desired transmit mode. The first modem may be used in the first transmit mode to send the first frames, while the second modem may be used in the second transmit mode to send the higher data rate second frames.

[0103] Using separate modems allows for more specialized hardware designed for each mode, potentially enabling greater performance differences between the modes. However, this approach may increase component costs, device footprint and power consumption compared to using a single configurable modem.

[0104] As another example, a different bandwidth (e.g., greater bandwidth) is used for the second frame(s) compared to the first frame(s), the latter of which may by compliant with the desired wireless communication protocol, such as the IEEE 802.15.4 standard, Bluetooth ® Mesh or Z-wave ®.

[0105] In practice, this could be implemented by configuring the antenna arrangement 210, particularly the filter 216 and modem 217, to operate over a wider frequency range for the second frames. For example, while the IEEE 802.15.4 standard typically uses channels with 5 MHz bandwidth, the second frames could utilize wider channels of 10 MHz or more.

[0106] The processing system 220 may accordingly control the antenna arrangement to switch between narrowband operation for the first frames and wideband operation for the second frames. This may involve adjusting the filter 216 to allow a wider passband and configuring the modem 217 to utilize the increased bandwidth for modulation and demodulation. Other approaches will be apparent to the skilled person, e.g., the use of separate filters / modems for the first mode and the second mode.

[0107] It has been herein recognized that one limitation of using frames able to communicate data at higher data rates is that there is an increased susceptibility to noise and interference in said frames. Consequently, there is a decrease in signal-to-noise ratio at any receiver of any transmitted frame.

[0108] For instance, it has been observed that configuring the second frame(s) to use a modulation and encoding scheme with a higher (maximum) data throughput rate, than that employed for the first frames, will result in increased sensitivity to noise.

[0109] As an example, if the second frame(s) employs a higher-order modulation schemes to achieve higher data rates, then as the modulation order increases (e.g., moving from QPSK to 16-QAM or 64-QAM), the constellation points become more closely spaced, making them more susceptible to noise and interference.

[0110] As another example, if the processing system is configured to control the antenna arrangement to employ a O-QPSK modulation scheme for the first frames and a2024PF80433

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[0112] GMSK modulation scheme for the second frame(s), the GMSK modulation scheme may provide higher data rates but may be more susceptible to noise and interference compared to O-QPSK, e.g., due to increased intersymbol interference.

[0113] As a working example, if other physical properties of a frame are the same, the use of a GMSK modulation scheme have been demonstrated as having a data rate around 8 times faster than a O-QPSK modulation scheme (e.g., 2 Mbps for GMSK frames compared to 250 kbps for O-QPSK frames - as employed in the Zigbee standard).

[0114] As another example, if the second frame is configured to have a lower spreading factor than the first frame(s), then this increasing the effective symbol rate of the second frame (compared to the first frame(s)) at the expense of reduced noise immunity.

[0115] The present disclosure recognizes that routing information built, produced or defined using the first frame(s) cannot be reliably reused for the routing or transmission of the second frame(s) when transmitted at the same power level. This is because it is possible that some of the neighbors identified in the routing information will be too far away to be able to receive the second frame(s) reliably. As such, routes built using the first frame(s) have a higher likelihood of failure when attempting to transmit the second frame(s).

[0116] The present disclosure proposes to overcome this limitation by configuring the processing system to control the antenna arrangement to transmit the second frame(s) at a higher power level than the first frames. In particular, the power level for transmitting the second frame(s) may be selected such that the effective range of the second frame(s) transmitted at this higher power level is at least equal to the effective range of the first frame(s) transmitted at the lower power level within a given environment.

[0117] This approach helps compensate for the increased noise sensitivity of the higher data rate second frames.

[0118] In the context of the present disclosure, the term "effective range" of a frame refers to the maximum distance at which a transmitted frame, transmitted at a given power level, can be reliably received and decoded by a receiving device within a given environment. As such, the effective range may represent or be defined as the distance at which a signal strength or signal-to-noise ratio of a frame associated with said effective range and when transmitted at the given power level falls below a threshold required for successful demodulation and decoding of the frame (e.g., with a failure rate lower than a predetermined threshold, e.g., 1% or 0.5%).2024PF80433

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[0120] With reference to Figure 2, the present disclosure thereby proposes a network device 101 comprising an antenna arrangement 210 for transmitting and receiving frames; and a processing system 220.

[0121] The processing system 220 is configured to control the operation of the antenna arrangement.

[0122] In particular, the processing system is configured to, in a first transmit mode, control the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit one or more first frames at a first power level, wherein each first frame is usable by a recipient to construct routing information identifying any neighboring network devices.

[0123] The processing system 220 is also configured to, in a second transmit mode, control the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit a second frame (or second frames) at a second power level, wherein the (or each) second frame has a higher maximum data throughput rate than any first frame.

[0124] The second power level is greater than the first power level and is defined such that the effective range of each first frame transmitted at the first power level, within a first environment, is less than or equal to the effective range of the second frame transmitted at the second power level within the first environment.

[0125] Put another way, the second power level is defined such that the effective range of each first frame transmitted in the first transmit mode is less than or equal to the effective range of the second frame transmitted at the second power level within the first environment.

[0126] The skilled person will appreciate that there are a variety of mechanisms that may be employed for controlling or defining the (transmission) power level of frames.

[0127] By way of example, the processing system may adjust or define the gain of the amplifier 215 in the antenna arrangement 210 to control the power level of any transmitted frame. For the first transmit mode, the processing system may set the amplifier gain to a lower level corresponding to the first power level. When operating to the second transmit mode, the processing system may increase the amplifier gain to achieve the higher second power level.

[0128] As an example, the processing system may control a variable attenuator (not illustrated in Figure 2) in the antenna arrangement to adjust the transmission power. The attenuator may be set to a higher attenuation for the first transmit mode and a lower attenuation for the second transmit mode.

[0129] As another example, the processing system may be configured to adjust or define the output power of the modem 217 directly. Some forms of modem allow (e.g., software-based) control of their output power levels. In such scenarios, the processing system2024PF80433

[0130] 16

[0131] may configure the modem for lower output power when transmitting the first frames and higher output power for the second frame(s).

[0132] In some examples, usable in approaches that make use of separate modems for modulating and encoding the first frames and the second frame(s) respectively, the modem(s) may be configured to have different inherent output power capabilities. For instance, a first modem (for transmitting the first frame(s)) may have a lower maximum output power, while the second modem (for transmitting the second frame(s)) may be configured to have a higher output power.

[0133] Other approaches will be apparent to the appropriately skilled person.

[0134] The skilled person would be readily capable of selecting or defining suitable values for the first and second power levels to cause the effective range of each first frame (transmitted at the first power level) to be less than or equal to the effective range of the second frame (transmitted at the second power level).

[0135] By way of example, the first or second power level may be predetermined or preset. The value of the first / second power level may, for instance, be defined based on one or more regulatory requirements, technical standards and / or the capabilities of the network device (i.e., hardware limitations).

[0136] For example, the second power level may be set to the maximum allowable power level specified in relevant wireless communication standards or local regulations. This predetermined power level may serve as a reference point for determining the first power level.

[0137] For instance, if the second power level is predetermined, the first power level may be selected or defined based on this reference value. In particular, the first power level may be selected to provide an effective range (for the second frame(s) transmitted at the second power level) that is greater than or equal to the effective range for the first frames transmitted at the first power level.

[0138] The selection of the first power level may, for instance, be determined using a signal-to-noise ratio analytical technique. This may comprise estimating the SNR degradation caused by the higher data rate mechanism used for the second frames. The first power level may then be accordingly set, based on the predetermined second power level, to ensure that the second power level compensates for this SNR degradation.

[0139] One approach for defining the first power level and the second power level, is to initially set the second power level to the maximum permissible power level (e.g., in accordance with regulatory requirements, technical standards and / or the capabilities of the network device (i.e., hardware limitations). The first power level (used for transmitting the first2024PF80433

[0140] 17

[0141] frame(s) usable for link quality determination) may then be set to reflect the effective range of a second frame transmitted at the second power level.

[0142] To determine a suitable value for the first power level, different approaches may be applied.

[0143] In one example approach, a theoretical channel model may be defined for both the first transmit mode (i.e., a channel model for the transmission of the first frame(s) at the first power level) and the second transmit mode (i.e., a channel model for the transmission of the second frame at the second power level). Firstly, the channel model for the second transmit mode is used for determining the distance at which two nodes, each communicating using a second frame in the second transmit mode, would detect one another with sufficient signal strength to qualify one another as neighbor. Next, using the determined distance, the channel model for the first transmission mode is used to determine the minimum transmit power level needed by those two nodes, when placed at the determined distance, to detect one another using first frames with sufficient signal strength to qualify one another as neighbor.

[0144] Alternatively, it is possible to empirically use transmissions using the actual radio nodes as used in the end-customer installation, e.g., in a representative controlled setting. In such an approach, the first transmit power level of a device is set to a level that ensures that a link quality measurement of first frames transmitted using the first power level (i.e., in the first transmit mode), would discover at least the same neighbors (or fewer) as those discovered using a second frame transmitted in the second transmit mode. Representative here refers to a test setup, where distances between nodes (and optionally presence of partitions) should be representative of the actual installation.

[0145] As another example, the first power levels may be configured during a commissioning step in devices post-installation at the actual / end-customer installation site. Here the first power levels of the respective devices are set to a level that ensures that the link quality measurement of first frames transmitted using the first transmit mode, would result in discovery of at least the same neighbors (or fewer) as those discovered transmitting second frames using the second transmit mode.

[0146] In some examples, an additional safety margin may be taken into consideration to accommodate to changing channel conditions over time, e.g. by setting the first transmit power for the first frame used for link quality determination using the first transmission mode lower than determined using any of the above methods to ensure that routes that are established in accordance with the invention are reliable.2024PF80433

[0147] 18

[0148] Instead of adding a pre-determined margin, which might give rise to messages being relayed excessively, first transmit power levels for messages used in link quality determination could be adapted in-situ to achieve a predetermined maximum packet loss level for second frames, when the actual packet loss level for second frames would be too high, lowering the first power level for nodes where packet loss of second frames is excessive would result in more reliable routes being discovered.

[0149] As previously explained, the processing system 220 may also be configured to define and update routing information. This is usable for controlling or determining to which other network device(s) in the mesh network the second frame(s) are to be sent.

[0150] More particularly, the processing system 220 may be configured to receive, via the antenna arrangement, one or more third frames from one or more neighboring network devices (in the mesh network).

[0151] The processing system 220 may also be configured to process the third frames to construct routing information identifying the one or more neighboring network devices.

[0152] The third frames effectively correspond to first frames transmitted or emitted by other network devices. Put another way, at the network level, the first frame(s) transmitted by one network device function as third frame(s) received by another network device.

[0153] Accordingly, each third frame may share the same physical properties as the first frames, including a transmission power level. Put another way, the effective range of each third frame transmitted at the first power level (in the first environment) may match or be identical / near-identical to each first frame transmitted at the first power level. For the reason, when the network device 101 receives these third frames, it can assume that the sending device is within the same effective range as its own first frames (transmitted at the first power level) would reach. This assumption allows for accurate and reciprocal neighbor identification across the network.

[0154] The third frames thereby serve a similar purpose to the first frames transmitted by the network device 101 itself. Specifically, the third frames are used by the processing system 220 to construct and update routing information (i.e., about any neighboring network devices and / or the overall network topology of the mesh network).

[0155] When received by the antenna arrangement 210, the third frames are demodulated and decoded (e.g., by the modem 217), preferably using the reverse of the processes applied to modulate and encode the first frames. The processing system 220 may then extract relevant network information from these third frames, such as the sender's network address, signal strength, and potentially other metadata about the transmitting device.2024PF80433

[0156] 19

[0157] The extracted information may then be processed to establish or update the routing information. In particular, this extracted information allows the processing system to identify neighboring devices to the network device that are within the effective range of the first frame(s) transmitted at the first power level. By aggregating data from multiple received third frames over time, the processing system 220 can build a comprehensive view of the local network topology and potential communication routes through the mesh network.

[0158] The proposed approach avoids the need to construct separate instances of routing information (e.g., separate routing tables) for the transmittal of frames of different maximum data throughput rates. Rather, the same routing information is usable for transmitting frames at different maximum throughput rates.

[0159] This proposed approach reduces memory requirements (e.g., reduced RAM & non-volatile memory) requirements for a network device, by avoiding any need to store multiple instances of routing information. The proposed approach also provides a consistent network topology for transmittal of frames of different maximum data throughput rates, which increases an ease of commissioning and administering the overall network.

[0160] It has been previously explained how the processing system of the proposed network device is configured to control the transmission of first frames and the second frame.

[0161] In some examples, each first frame comprises a control frame or a management frame.

[0162] A term "control frame" is a frame that contains information used for managing and coordinating communications within the wireless network, rather than carrying payload data. Control frames may include, but are not limited to, frames for network discovery, link quality assessment, or synchronization.

[0163] A "management frame" is a frame used for establishing and maintaining network connections. Management frames may include, but are not limited to, beacon frames, association request / response frames, or authentication frames.

[0164] For instance, each first frame may be a periodic frame transmitted by a network device for maintaining the mesh network, such as a link status message. As is known in the art, a "link status message" is a periodic communication sent by a network device to maintain and update information about its existence and / or connections within a mesh network.

[0165] As an example, in a typical Zigbee network, link status messages may be issued every 16 seconds. Other types of network may have different time intervals between the periodic transmission of the link status message.2024PF80433

[0166] 20

[0167] In some examples, the processing system of the network device may be configured to configure and transmit all link status messages in the form of first frames. Thus, the processing system may be configured to function in the first transmit mode when controlling the transmission of each link status message.

[0168] As is well known, the link status message(s) may be broadcast by the network device. Thus, the processing system may be configured to, for each link status message, broadcast a first frame carrying the link status message.

[0169] Accordingly, in some examples, the processing system is configured to control the antenna arrangement to periodically transmit (e.g., broadcast) a first frame carrying a link status message. The link status message may carry information about the transmitting network device, e.g., a device identifier, data about the sending device's current state and so on.

[0170] The use of link status messages as first frames allows the network device to maintain up-to-date routing information (e.g., based on responses to these periodic messages), which routing information is indicative of network devices that will be within the effective range of any second frame transmitted at the second power level by the network device. In particular, if all network devices in the mesh network are configured to transmit first frames, then routing information can be updated appropriately.

[0171] In some examples, each second frame is a data frame. A data frame carries payload data for communicating (desired) information from one network device to another. The payload data may, for instance, be information that is not required for establishing or maintaining the mesh network.

[0172] As illustrated in Figure 2, the network device 200 may comprise one or more further processing devices 231, 232, 233, 234 that generate information or data to be sent to another network device in the mesh network as payload data.

[0173] The processing system may be configured to receive the payload data from the one or more further processing devices and control the transmission of the payload data generated by these processing devices via the antenna arrangement using one or more first frames and / or second frames.

[0174] In some examples, the processing system 220 is configured to control the antenna arrangement to transmit all payload data using second frames. Thus, the processing system may be configured to operate in the second transmit mode when controlling the transmission of payload data produced by one or more further processing devices.

[0175] In other examples, the processing system may be configured to make a decision on whether to transmit the payload data to a target network device using one or more first2024PF80433

[0176] 21

[0177] frames or one or more second frames. The decision may be made based on the size of the payload data, the capabilities of the other target network device and so on.

[0178] By way of examples, larger payloads may benefit more from the higher data throughput rate of second frames, allowing for faster transmission of substantial amounts of data. Conversely, smaller payloads might be efficiently handled by first frames, especially if the overhead of the processing system to switch from a first transmit mode to a second transmit mode outweighs the benefits for a small data packet.

[0179] The capabilities of the target network device also play a significant role in this decision. Some network devices may not be equipped to receive or process second frames, either due to hardware limitations or software configurations. In such cases, the processing system would need to default to use first frames for compatibility. The routing information stored by the processing system may indicate whether or not a target network device is able to receive and / or process the second frames.

[0180] For the sake of contextual understanding, a number of suitable examples of further processing devices able to generate payload data is hereafter provided. The following examples are non-exhaustive.

[0181] A first example of a further processing device is a sensor module configured to collect environmental data such as temperature, humidity, or air quality. The environmental data may form payload data for transmittal to another network device.

[0182] A second example of a further processing device is a camera and / or image processing unit, which captures and (optionally) processes image / video data. This further processing device may generate compressed image or video data that forms payload data for transmittal to another network device.

[0183] A third example of a further processing device is a data storage unit. The data storage unit may store data for transmittal to a target network device (e.g., for streaming audio, video or image content to the target network device).

[0184] A fourth example of a further processing device is a data retrieval unit. The data retrieval unit may be connected to a database or data storage device and retrieve payload data therefrom. For instance, the data retrieval unit may connect to a data storage device over the internet for retrieving payload data (e.g., streaming payload data) for transmittal to a target network device.

[0185] In each of these cases, the processing system of the network device may receive the generated payload data from the further processing device and prepare it for transmission using the first and / or second frames, as previously outlined.2024PF80433

[0186] 22

[0187] In some examples, the processing system is further operable in a third transmit mode.

[0188] When operating in the third transmit mode, the processing system is configured to control the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit one or more fourth frames at a third power level, greater than the first power level, but at the same maximum data throughput rate as each first frame(s). The third power level may, for instance, be the same as the second power level.

[0189] The fourth frame(s) may be used to transmit payload data. Use of the fourth frame(s) to transmit payload data, compared to the first frames, increases the likelihood of successful transmission of data.

[0190] In some examples, the processing system may be configured to make a decision on whether to transmit the payload data to a target network device using one or more first frames, one or more second frames or one or more fourth frames. The decision may be made based on the size of the payload data, the capabilities of the other target network device and so on.

[0191] In other variants, the processing system may be configured to make a decision on whether to transmit the payload data to a target network device using one or more second frames or one or more fourth frames (i.e., and not one or more first frames). The decision may be made based on the size of the payload data, the capabilities of the other target network device and so on.

[0192] In some examples, the processing system may be configured to, if no third frames are received or identified, transmit one or more fifth frames at a fourth power level, greater than the first power level (e.g., equal to the second power level). The fifth frame may have the same maximum data throughput rate as any first frame.

[0193] The fourth power level may, for instance, be a maximum allowable power level for transmission of frames. This maximum allowable power level may correspond to a maximum possible level of transmission of a frames due to the capabilities of the network device (e.g., hardware limitations) or be defined based on one or more regulatory requirements and / or technical standards.

[0194] In particular, the fifth frame(s) may share the same physical properties as the first frames, apart from the transmission power level which is greater than that of the first frame(s).2024PF80433

[0195] 23

[0196] The fifth frame may include a request for any network device receiving the fifth frame to communicate with the transmitting network device using at least the fourth power level power and at the lower maximum throughput data rate (of the first frame).

[0197] This approach allows the network device to attempt communication using frames that have a greater effective range when transmitted at the fourth power level (than the first frame(s) when transmitted at the first power level) if employing the previously proposed approach results in the device being cut off from the mesh network. The use of the fourth power level for transmitting the fifth frames increases the likelihood of reaching distant devices, while the use of the maximum data throughput rate (of the first frame) reduces a risk of the frame being lost or dropped.

[0198] In some examples, the processing system 220 may be configured to respond to any sixth frame received from any other network device, via the antenna arrangement.

[0199] The processing system 220 may be configured to process the frames to construct routing information identifying the one or more neighboring network devices that transmitted the sixth frame(s). The sixth third frames effectively correspond to any fifth frames transmitted or emitted by other network devices. Put another way, at the network level, the fifth frame(s) transmitted by one network device function as sixth frame(s) received by another network device.

[0200] Accordingly, each sixth frame may share the same physical properties as the fifth frames, including a transmission power level. Put another way, the effective range of each sixth frame transmitted at the fourth power level (in the first environment) may match or be identical / near-identical to each fifth frame. For the reason, when the network device 101 receives these sixth frames, it can assume that the sending device is within the same effective range as its own fifth frames transmitted at the fourth power level would reach.

[0201] The processing system may adjust the routing information based on the information in any received sixth frame. For instance, if the sixth frame includes a request to communicate at a higher power level, the processing system may configure routing information to indicate that subsequent frames for the transmitter of the sixth frame(s) are to be transmitted at the higher power level.

[0202] In particular, the processing system may update its routing information based on the received sixth frame. The successful receipt of a sixth frame from another device may indicate that this device is within communication range of fifth frames transmitted at the fourth power level, even if it was not previously detected using first frames transmitted at the (lower) first power level. The processing system may add this device to its list of neighboring devices2024PF80433

[0203] 24

[0204] in the routing information, with an identifier indicating that the processing system is only to communicate with this device using frames at the third power level or the fourth power level.

[0205] In some examples, after receiving and processing a sixth frame from another network device, the processing system may configure future transmissions of payload data to that device to take place using fourth frames at the third power level. This may be indicated in the routing information. Thus, the processing system may be configured to operate in the third transmit mode when transmitting any payload data to that network device. This approach facilitates communication with a distant device that was only discovered through the higher-power fifth frame exchange procedure.

[0206] As previously indicated, when operating in the third transmit mode to transmit fourth frames to the sender of a sixth frame, the processing system may control the antenna arrangement to use the third power level, which is greater than the first power level used for first frames. This higher power level may help ensure reliable communication over the longer distance to the newly discovered device.

[0207] The fourth frames transmitted in this scenario may carry payload data generated by the further processing devices of the network device, such as sensor data, image / video data, or other types of information. By using the third transmit mode, the processing system can leverage the increased power level to maintain communication reliability, while still using the same maximum data throughput rate as the first frames.

[0208] The components of the network device 101 may be communicatively connected to one another by a bus or similar.

[0209] In addition to the previously described components, a network device 101 may include one or more other components to support its operation and enhance its functionality.

[0210] For instance, the network device 101 may comprise an input / output (VO) interface 241 to facilitate communication with other external devices, systems, or networks. This interface may support various communication protocols and standards, allowing the network device to interact with a wide range of other devices and systems. The I / O interface may include ports for wired connections (e.g., Ethernet, USB, serial) and / or a user interface for manual interaction with an operator or user.

[0211] The network device 101 may comprise a clock and / or clock management system 242, e.g., to provide accurate timing and synchronization for various operations. The clock or clock management system 242 may, for instance, include a crystal oscillator or other timekeeping mechanism to generate a stable clock signal for coordinating the operation of other components of the network device (such as the processing system 220). The clock management2024PF80433

[0212] 25

[0213] system may also include features such as frequency scaling, phase-locked loops (PLLs), and clock distribution networks to ensure that different components of the network device operate with the appropriate timing.

[0214] The network device 101 may comprise a timer system 243 for managing or coordinating time-sensitive operations and scheduling within the network device. This system may include one or more hardware timers or software-based timing mechanisms. Timers may be used for various purposes, such as scheduling periodic tasks, implementing timeouts for network operations, or measuring intervals between events.

[0215] The network device 101 may comprise a power management unit 244 for supplying power to the other components of the network device. The power management unit 244 may, for instance, also handle tasks such as voltage regulation and power distribution across the network device.

[0216] The above examples are non-exhaustive, and the skilled person would readily appreciate how a network device 101 may comprise one or more other components and / or that some components may be omitted.

[0217] There is also herein proposed a mesh network comprises a plurality of herein proposed network devices. The relationship between the frame(s) transmitted by each network device and frame(s) received by each network device have been previously disclosed. For instance, first frames transmitted by one network device in the network correspond to third frames received by another network device.

[0218] In particular, an example mesh network is illustrated by Figure 1. The mesh network 100 may be adapted such that one or more of the network devices comprises the herein proposed network device, e.g., each network device comprises a respective herein proposed network device.

[0219] In the proposed mesh network, each network device may generate and maintain routing information that identifies neighboring devices falling within the effective range of its second frame(s) transmitted at the second power level. This approach ensures that the routing information accurately reflects the network topology for high-throughput communications.

[0220] In particular, as each network device transmits first frames at the first power level, each neighboring network device to a transmitting network device will receive (as third frames) the transmitted first frames. Since the first power level is set such that the effective range of first frames transmitted at the first power level (and therefore the third frames) is less than or equal to that of second frames (transmitted at the second power level), any network device receiving a third frame is highly likely to be within range of second frames at the second2024PF80433

[0221] 26

[0222] power level. As such, constructing routing information using the third frames facilitates identification of network devices within the effective range of the second frames.

[0223] Proposed embodiments make use of a processing system. The processing system can be implemented in numerous ways, with software and / or hardware, to perform the various functions required. A processor is one example of a processing system which employs one or more microprocessors that may be programmed using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the required functions. A processing system may however be implemented with or without employing a processor, and also may be implemented as a combination of dedicated hardware to perform some functions and a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry) to perform other functions.

[0224] Examples of processing system components that may be employed in various embodiments of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, conventional microprocessors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs).

[0225] In various implementations, a processor or processing system 220 may be associated with a memory 225, i.e., one or more storage media, such as volatile and non-volatile computer memory such as RAM, PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM. The storage media may be encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more processors and / or processing systems, perform the required functions. Various storage media may be fixed within a processor or processing system or may be transportable, such that the one or more programs stored thereon can be loaded into a processor or processing system.

[0226] There is also herein proposed a computer-implemented method for controlling an antenna arrangement, for wireless transmitting and receiving frames, of a network device. The computer-implemented method is configured to perform the functionality of any herein proposed processing system.

[0227] Thus, the computer-implemented method comprises, in a first transmit mode, controlling the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit one or more first frames at a first power level, wherein each first frame is usable by a recipient to construct routing information identifying any neighboring network devices.

[0228] The computer-implemented method also comprises, in a second transmit mode, controlling the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit a second frame at a second power level, wherein the second frame has a higher maximum data throughput rate than any first frame.2024PF80433

[0229] 27

[0230] The second power level is greater than the first power level and is defined such that the effective range of each first frame transmitted at the first power level, within a first environment, is less than or equal to the effective range of the second frame transmitted at the second power level within the first environment.

[0231] The computer-implemented method may be adapted to further comprise one or more steps for carrying out the functionality of any herein disclosed processing system. The skilled person would be readily capable of adapting the computer-implemented method accordingly.

[0232] It will be understood that disclosed methods are preferably computer-implemented methods. As such, there is also proposed the concept of a computer program comprising code means for implementing any described method when said program is run on a processing system, such as a computer. Thus, different portions, lines or blocks of code of a computer program according to an embodiment may be executed by a processing system or computer to perform any herein described method.

[0233] There is also proposed a non-transitory storage medium that stores or carries a computer program or computer code that, when executed by a processing system, causes the processing system to carry out any herein described method.

[0234] In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block diagram(s) or flow chart(s) may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved.

[0235] Variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure and the appended claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0236] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. If the term "adapted to" is used in the claims or description, it is noted the term "adapted to" is intended to be equivalent to the term "configured to". If the term "arrangement" is used in the claims or description, it is noted the term "arrangement" is intended to be equivalent to the term "system", and vice versa.

[0237] A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. If a computer program is discussed above, it may be stored / distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state medium supplied together2024PF80433

[0238] 28

[0239] with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems.

[0240] Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

2024PF8043329CLAIMS:

1. A network device (101, 200) comprising:an antenna arrangement (210) for transmitting and receiving frames;a processing system (220) configured to control the operation of the antenna arrangement, wherein the processing system is configured to:in a first transmit mode, control the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit one or more first frames at a first power level using a first physical layer, wherein each first frame is usable by a recipient (102,103,104) to construct routing information identifying any neighboring network devices;in a second transmit mode, control the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit a second frame at a second power level, wherein the second frame has a higher maximum data throughput rate than any first frame; wherein the second power level is greater than the first power level,the network device characterized in that:the second transmit mode uses one of:a second physical layer anda second modulation and coding scheme and the first frame transmitted in the first transmit mode uses a first modulation and coding scheme, different to the second modulation and coding scheme; andthe first power level is defined such that the effective range of each first frame transmitted at the first power level, within a first environment, is less than or equal to the effective range of the second frame transmitted at the second power level within the first environment.

2. The network device (101) of claim 1, wherein the processing system (220) is further configured to:receive, via the antenna arrangement (210), one or more third frames from one or more neighboring network devices (102,103,104); andprocess the third frames to construct routing information identifying the one or more neighboring network devices (102,103,104).2024PF80433303. The network device (101) of claim 2, wherein the processing system (220) is further configured to only wirelessly transmit the second frame to one of the one or more neighboring network devices (102,103,104) identified in the routing information.

4. The network device (101) of claim 2 or 3, wherein the one or more third frames comprises at least one response to the one or more first frames.

5. The network device (101) of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein each first frame is compatible with a wireless communication protocol and the second frame is backwards compatible with the wireless communication protocol.

6. The network device (101) of claim 5, wherein: each first frame is compatible with the IEEE 802.15.4-2020 technical standard and the second frame is backwards compatible with the IEEE 802.15.4-2020 technical standard.

7. The network device (101) of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the noise sensitivity of the second frame is greater than the noise-sensitivity of each first frame.

8. The network device (101) of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second frame uses a greater bandwidth than each first frame.

9. The network device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the routing information is neighbor information that identifies each other network device within the effective range of the first frames transmitted in the first transmit mode.

10. The network device (101) of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the one or more first frames comprises a communication for establishing or maintaining an ad hoc wireless mesh network.

11. The network device (101) of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the one or more first frames comprises at least one communication for establishing or maintaining a fixed wireless mesh network.2024PF804333112. A computer-implemented method for controlling an antenna arrangement (210), for wireless transmitting and receiving frames, of a network device, the computer-implemented method comprising:in a first transmit mode, controlling the antenna arrangement (210) to wirelessly transmit one or more first frames at a first power level using a first physical layer, wherein each first frame is usable by a recipient (102, 103, 104) to construct routing information identifying any neighboring network devices;in a second transmit mode, controlling the antenna arrangement to wirelessly transmit a second frame at a second power level, wherein the second frame has a higher maximum data throughput rate than any first frame; andwherein the second power level is greater than the first power level, the method characterized in that the second transmit mode uses one of:a second physical layer anda second modulation and coding scheme and the first frame transmitted in the first transmit mode uses a first modulation and coding scheme, different to the second modulation and coding scheme; andthe first power level is defined such that the effective range of each first frame transmitted at the first power level, within a first environment, is less than or equal to the effective range of the second frame transmitted at the second power level within the first environment.

13. The computer-implemented method of claim 12, wherein the noise sensitivity of the second frame is greater than the noise-sensitivity of each first frame.

14. The computer-implemented method of claim 13, wherein the first transmit mode uses O-QPSK for the first frame and the second transmit mode uses GMSK modulation for the second frame.

15. A computer program product comprising computer program code means which, when executed on a processing system (220) of a network device (101,200) of claim 1, cause the processing system to perform all of the steps of the method according to any one of claims 12 to 14.

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