Anchor Cluster Joining in UWB IoT Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an effective method to allocate optimal anchor roles and clusters within ultra-wide band (UWB) communication systems for improved service provision in IoT environments.
Innovation Solution
A method for operating a first anchor device in a stand-alone state, involving scanning for a configuration inform message, performing ranging with a second anchor device, determining the cluster to join, and transmitting a cluster join request message, with the option to change to a global initiator state if the message is not received.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an anchor device operates in stand-alone state and scans for configuration inform messages, then it can join optimal clusters for improved service provision, but it increases the time and energy consumption for scanning and ranging operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary scanning for configuration inform messages and pre-calculates ranging opportunities before actual cluster joining is needed. Anchors scan for CIM messages and identify potential clusters in advance, storing this information for later use when service provision is required, thereby reducing the time needed at the moment of actual cluster joining
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor device dynamically adjusts its operation mode between stand-alone state and cluster member state based on real-time conditions. The device can transition between scanning for CIM messages, performing ranging operations, and joining clusters, optimizing the timing and frequency of these operations based on current network conditions and service requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If anchor devices perform ranging operations to determine cluster membership, then optimal cluster allocation is achieved, but the complexity of the communication protocol and device operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cluster joining process is segmented into distinct phases: scanning for configuration inform messages, performing ranging operations, determining cluster membership, and sending join requests. Each phase is handled by specific protocol elements and message types (CIM, ranging messages, CJRM), reducing the overall complexity by breaking down the complex process into manageable, standardized steps
Solution Approach 2:
Configuration inform messages serve as intermediary elements that carry cluster information and facilitate the joining process. These CIM messages act as mediators between the stand-alone anchor device and the target cluster, providing structured information about available clusters and enabling automated decision-making without requiring complex direct negotiations between devices
3Adaptability or versatility
If anchor devices frequently scan for configuration inform messages, then they can dynamically join optimal clusters, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous scanning, anchor devices perform periodic scanning for configuration inform messages at predetermined intervals. This periodic action allows the device to remain in low-power states between scans while still maintaining the ability to discover and join optimal clusters when conditions change, significantly reducing average energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor device autonomously decides when to scan for CIM messages and when to join clusters based on its own state and received information, without requiring continuous external triggering. The device can enter sleep modes and wake up at predetermined times to perform scans, making self-service decisions about energy allocation between scanning and other operations
Data Source
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AI summary
An operation method of a first anchor device in a stand-alone (SA) state, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, may comprise the operations of: checking whether a configuration inform message (CIM) is received according to a scan result for a preset time (Tscan); performing ranging with a second anchor device having transmitted the CIM, if the CIM is received according to the scan result; determining a cluster to be joined by the first anchor device, according to the ranging result; and transmitting a cluster join request message (CJRM) to an initiator anchor of the cluster.