Bluetooth Mesh Redundant Path Discovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bluetooth mesh networking faces challenges with single-path Ad-hoc On-demand Distance Vector (AODV) methods, which are insufficient due to lossy medium-access techniques and low duty cycle of Bluetooth Low Energy radios, leading to unreliable message delivery in Bluetooth mesh networks.
Innovation Solution
Establishing multiple, redundant, and independent paths between source and destination nodes in a wireless mesh network using novel techniques that reuse existing single-path discovery messages, ensuring that only new paths are created by excluding nodes already part of the initial path, thereby increasing redundancy and reliability without increasing interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If single-path AODV method is used for path discovery in Bluetooth mesh network, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability of message delivery deteriorates due to lossy medium-access and low duty cycle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the path discovery process into multiple independent phases: first path discovery using conventional AODV, then redundant path discovery using modified AODV requests that exclude nodes already in the first path. This segmentation allows the system to maintain low complexity for basic operation while achieving high reliability through redundancy when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of path independence by modifying the AODV path request to include exclusion information about nodes already present in the first path. This parameter change ensures that redundant paths are truly independent and can provide alternative routing when the primary path fails.
2Reliability
If multiple redundant paths are established between source and destination nodes, then reliability of message delivery is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by establishing the first path using standard AODV before attempting to find redundant paths. The exclusion information from the first path is prepared in advance and incorporated into subsequent path requests, eliminating the need for complex real-time path management and reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by reusing the existing AODV path discovery mechanism and messages for finding redundant paths, rather than creating an entirely new complex path management system. The same AODV infrastructure is copied and adapted to handle multiple path discovery, maintaining simplicity while achieving reliability.
3Reliability
If path requests are transmitted frequently to discover redundant paths, then reliability is improved, but interference in the network increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by transmitting path requests at controlled intervals rather than continuously. The system waits for path discovery to complete before initiating redundant path discovery, and uses timing mechanisms to ensure path requests are sent at appropriate moments, reducing network interference while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary path discovery and establishment before initiating redundant path discovery. This preliminary action ensures that the network is stable and paths are confirmed before generating additional path requests, thereby minimizing unnecessary interference while still achieving the reliability benefits of redundancy.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for establishing redundant paths between a source node and the destination node, source node and a destination node in a wireless mesh network, said method comprising the steps of establishing, by said source node, a first path between said source node and said destination node, wherein said first path is associated with a first sequence number and comprises one or more first intermediate nodes in said wireless mesh network; determining, by said source node, to establish a second path between said source node and said destination node; transmitting, by said source node, a path request to a plurality of nodes in said wireless mesh network, wherein said path request identifies said destination node and that said requested second path is redundant to said first path; and said path request is transmitted no earlier than a predetermined duration after said first path is established; receiving, by said source node, from said destination node, a path reply that identifies said second path, wherein said second path comprises one or more second intermediate nodes, and wherein said one or more second intermediate are exclusive of said one or more first intermediate nodes. Complimentary methods and devices for establishing redundant paths in a wireless mesh network are also presented herein.