Communication Device Relay Chain for Remote Network Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Remote or inaccessible areas lack reliable network coverage, and during natural disasters, communication infrastructure is often disrupted, necessitating improved connectivity for urgent communication.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing communication devices as network nodes to form a relay chain for information delivery, with each device assigned a network score based on reliability and effectiveness, using WPAN technology like Bluetooth LE or Wi-Fi Aware, to prioritize and manage data transmission and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional network infrastructure is used, then communication service can be provided at lower cost, but network coverage is unreliable or non-existent in remote areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network infrastructure into distributed communication devices (smartphones, tablets, computers) that function as independent relay nodes. Each device maintains local information buffers and can relay data independently, transforming a centralized infrastructure-dependent system into a distributed mesh network that covers remote areas without requiring extensive physical infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces communication devices as intermediary relay nodes between the server and end users in remote areas. These intermediaries buffer and forward information packets, enabling communication in areas where direct server connectivity is unavailable. The relay chain of intermediaries extends network coverage beyond the server's direct reach.
2Reliability
If communication infrastructure is deployed in remote areas, then network coverage can be improved, but the cost and complexity of deployment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing multi-functional communication devices serve dual purposes: as user endpoints and as network relay infrastructure. These devices can simultaneously communicate with the server when connected and relay information to other devices when disconnected, eliminating the need for dedicated infrastructure in remote areas and reducing deployment complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables communication devices to autonomously function as relay nodes without requiring manual configuration or dedicated infrastructure. Devices automatically buffer incoming information packets and relay them to other devices in the network, with the server managing the relay chain dynamically based on connection status and network scores.
3Reliability
If relay chain is used for information delivery, then information can be delivered in areas with no network coverage, but the time for information relay increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-buffering information packets at relay nodes before they are needed. When a device connects to the server, it proactively retrieves and buffers information packets that may be needed for future relay to devices in remote areas, reducing the time required when relay is actually needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the network score mechanism, where the server continuously monitors and updates the reliability scores of relay nodes based on their performance. This feedback allows the server to dynamically optimize the relay chain by selecting higher-scoring nodes, thereby minimizing relay time while maintaining delivery reliability.
4Reliability
If multiple communication devices are used as relay nodes, then information relay reliability improves, but the complexity of managing the relay chain increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the server as a central intermediary that manages the relay chain complexity. The server maintains the network score database, selects appropriate relay nodes based on scores, and coordinates information flow between devices. This central coordination eliminates the need for distributed devices to independently manage complex relay logic, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability through multiple relay nodes.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for relaying information comprising a plurality of communication devices, each communication device having means to transmit, receive and store relay information; a server operable to receive relay information and synchronize relay information when a connection between each communication device and the server is established; wherein at least one communication device is operable to broadcast relay information for asynchronous exchange of relay information when another communication device is within vicinity of at least one communication device.