Building Smart Device Connectivity via Distributed Bridging Routers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing smart metering systems struggle to connect smart devices in multiple dwelling units (MDUs) due to physical distance, building materials, and interference issues, making it difficult to establish individual home area networks and ensure reliable communication with the wide area network.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising bridging devices connected via wireless links to router devices, utilizing broadband networks such as power line communication, and a gateway device for access to the wide area network, allowing for the creation of virtual home area networks and central management of smart devices, even when they are not within the same physical range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual home area networks are set up for every dwelling in MDUs, then smart devices can communicate within each dwelling, but physical distance and building materials prevent reliable connection to the wide area network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediate devices (bridging devices and router devices) that act as mediators between smart devices in individual dwellings and the wide area network. These intermediary devices are strategically positioned in common areas or on different floors to extend the network reach, allowing smart devices to communicate reliably despite physical distance and building material interference.
2Ease of operation
If a communication hub is placed within each dwelling, then smart devices can be connected locally, but building structure and interference prevent stable wide area network access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network infrastructure into multiple distributed router devices positioned in different locations (common areas, stairwells, or on different floors) rather than relying on a single communication hub per dwelling. This segmentation allows the network to overcome building interference by providing multiple potential connection paths and reducing the impact of localized interference zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the network deployment from a two-dimensional plan within individual dwellings to a three-dimensional distribution throughout the building volume, utilizing vertical spaces (stairwells, elevators, atriums) and common areas across multiple floors. This dimensional expansion allows router devices to be positioned in locations that transcend the interference patterns of individual dwelling units.
3Reliability
If router devices are distributed throughout the building, then wide area network access is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs router devices with multi-functionality, combining wireless access point, network router, and bridge functions into single units. These universal devices can operate in multiple modes (standalone, mesh network, or hierarchical configuration) and serve multiple purposes including local wireless access, inter-floor communication, and WAN gateway functions, thereby reducing the need for multiple specialized devices and simplifying overall system complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
According to the invention, a system for connecting smart devices in a building is proposed which comprises at least two bridging devices, each arranged in relative proximity of at least one of at least two smart devices arranged at different locations within the building, wherein the at least two bridging devices are connected to the smart devices via a wireless connection and to at least one router device.