Central Coordinator Selection and Handover in Centralized Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centralized networks face challenges in managing failures and optimizing operations, particularly in determining the best-equipped station for network management and ensuring seamless handover and backup processes.
Innovation Solution
The method involves a central coordinator (CCO) that initiates a handover process, transmits beacons with scheduling and allocation information, and uses a backup CCO to take over if the primary CCO fails, with a system for selecting a new CCO based on a topology table and rules of precedence, ensuring continuous network operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a centralized network uses a single CCO to manage network activities, then network management efficiency is improved, but network reliability deteriorates due to single point of failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-designating backup CCO candidates and establishing handover protocols before failures occur. The system maintains a list of potential backup CCOs and pre-configures handover procedures, so that when the primary CCO fails, the network can immediately transition to a backup without delay or chaos.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by creating a buffer layer of backup CCOs that are ready to absorb the impact of primary CCO failure. This cushioning mechanism ensures that the network management function continues uninterrupted, protecting the network from the harmful effect of single point of failure.
2Reliability
If the network implements backup CCO mechanisms and handover procedures, then network reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the CCO function into primary CCO and backup CCO roles, with further division into different levels of backup candidates. This segmentation allows the complex reliability mechanism to be broken down into manageable, modular components that can be independently configured and maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary elements such as handover messages, beacon signals, and topology tables that mediate between the primary CCO and backup CCOs. These intermediaries simplify the complexity by providing standardized communication protocols and data structures that automate the handover process.
3Ease of operation
If the network performs automated CCO selection based on topology tables and precedence rules, then ease of operation is improved, but loss of time occurs during the selection process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing topology tables and precedence rules that define the selection criteria for backup CCOs. These selection mechanisms are configured in advance, so when handover is needed, the system can automatically select the appropriate backup CCO without requiring complex real-time decision-making.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the network to automatically perform CCO selection and handover without external intervention. The topology tables and precedence rules allow the system to autonomously determine the best backup CCO candidate and execute the handover process, reducing both operational complexity and selection time.
Data Source
AI summary
The embodiments of the present invention provide methods, systems, and devices for improving network management in a centralized network, which typically includes a central coordinator (CCO) that manages and schedules activities within the network. The embodiments of the invention provide a manner of selecting a CCO, including a backup CCO, best suited to manage the network based on a set of rules. Furthermore, the embodiments provide a manner of transferring the current CCO functions to a new CCO, e.g., via message exchanges. Moreover, a process of a backup CCO assuming the function of an unavailable CCO is also described.