Ad Hoc Node Role Switching for Self-Healing Wireless Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ad hoc wireless networks face challenges in self-healing and efficient resource management due to static node configurations that do not adapt to changing network conditions, leading to inefficiencies and increased power consumption.
Innovation Solution
Network nodes equipped with a configuration module that can dynamically switch between intermediate and leaf node functions based on communication detection, allowing for automatic reconfiguration to maintain network connectivity and reduce power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If nodes maintain fixed intermediate or leaf functions in ad hoc networks, then network structure stability is improved, but network self-healing capability deteriorates when intermediate nodes become non-operational
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic node function switching where nodes can transition between intermediate node and leaf node functions based on operational conditions. When an intermediate node becomes non-operational, neighboring nodes dynamically reconfigure to assume intermediate node functions, enabling the network to adapt its structure in response to failures while maintaining connectivity.
2Reliability
If nodes continuously monitor and switch functions to enable self-healing, then network reliability is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic monitoring of intermediate node operational status rather than continuous monitoring. Nodes switch from intermediate to leaf function when monitoring detects non-operational status over a predetermined time period, and can switch back to intermediate function when conditions permit. This periodic approach maintains self-healing capability while reducing complexity and power consumption compared to continuous monitoring.
Data Source
AI summary
A network includes at least one node to communicate with at least one other node via a wireless network protocol. The node includes a network configuration module to periodically switch a current node function of the node between an intermediate node function and a leaf node function. The switch of the current node function enables automatic reconfiguration of the wireless network based on detected communications between the at least one node and at least one intermediate node or at least one leaf node via the wireless network protocol.