6TiSCH Routing Parent Node Selection via Multi-Power Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing RPL routing protocol in 6TiSCH networks often determines sub-optimal routing topologies due to power-constrained devices and lossy radio links, leading to reliability issues in industrial IoT applications.
Innovation Solution
The method involves transmitting routing messages at multiple power levels to determine the likelihood of reliability for transmission paths, selecting the parent node based on the greatest likelihood of reliability, and using a Priority Routing Index to prioritize paths with fewer high-power hops, thereby forming a more reliable routing topology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If RPL routing protocol is used in 6TiSCH networks, then power consumption is reduced and network flexibility is improved, but routing reliability deteriorates due to sub-optimal topology selection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter used for parent node selection from simple hop count to a composite metric that includes link quality indicators (LQI) and signal strength measurements. This allows the routing protocol to select parents based on actual transmission reliability rather than just topological distance, resolving the contradiction between energy efficiency and routing reliability by making the selection process more intelligent without increasing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where nodes continuously measure and report link quality metrics to their parent nodes. This feedback loop allows the routing topology to adapt dynamically to changing channel conditions, ensuring that high-reliability paths are maintained while keeping power consumption low through efficient route selection.
2Reliability
If routing messages are transmitted at maximum power level, then transmission reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by transmitting routing messages at variable power levels rather than always at maximum power. Nodes adjust their transmission power based on the measured link quality and distance to the parent node, using only the necessary power level required for reliable transmission. This resolves the contradiction by avoiding excessive power consumption while maintaining sufficient transmission reliability through adaptive power control.
3Speed
If parent node selection is based on minimum hop count, then routing speed is improved, but transmission reliability deteriorates due to lossy radio links
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parent node selection criterion from minimum hop count to a composite metric that weights both hop count and link quality. The selection formula incorporates LQI measurements and signal strength indicators, allowing the protocol to prefer paths with fewer hops only when link quality is sufficient, otherwise selecting slightly longer paths with more reliable links. This resolves the contradiction by balancing routing speed and transmission reliability through multi-parameter optimization.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of selecting a parent node for routing from among a plurality of nodes in a 6TiSCH network. The method comprises; each of a two or more nodes of the plurality of nodes transmitting a routing message at each power level of a plurality of power levels, wherein the routing message comprises an indication of the reliability for a transmission path to a root node. The method further comprises, at a deciding node, receiving said routing messages from said two or more nodes, determining respective likelihoods of reliability of transmission to a root node via each of said two or more nodes based on the received messages and the indications, and selecting, as the parent node from the two or more nodes the node which has the greatest likelihood of reliability of transmission.