Distance-Based Master Role Assignment in Wireless Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless interconnectivity networks, devices with varying native capabilities and network features face limitations in expanding connectivity due to restricted access and synchronization challenges, particularly in Neighbor Awareness Networking (NAN) environments where devices need to determine their roles as master or non-master devices for effective communication and service sharing.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication device is configured to determine its role as a master device based on an indication of distance between devices, using a transceiver and controller to receive wireless signals, calculate distance, and decide whether to act as a master within the network, enabling dynamic role assignment and efficient service discovery and synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If devices use fixed role assignment in NAN networks, then synchronization is simplified, but network adaptability and service discovery efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter used for role determination from static device capabilities to dynamic distance-based metrics. Devices calculate their distance to the master device using signal strength or time of flight measurements, and this distance parameter dynamically determines role assignment. This allows the network to adapt to changing physical conditions while providing a clear decision rule based on distance thresholds.
Solution Approach 2:
Each device independently determines its own role by measuring its distance to the master device and comparing it against threshold values. The device autonomously decides whether to act as a master or non-master device based on these measurements, without requiring complex centralized coordination or negotiation protocols.
2Productivity
If all devices attempt to act as master devices, then service discovery coverage is improved, but synchronization efficiency and network coordination deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different roles to devices based on their local physical condition (distance from master). Devices closer to the master are assigned non-master roles, while devices farther away are assigned master roles. This creates a hierarchical structure where each device's role is optimized for its specific location, enabling broader service discovery coverage while maintaining synchronization through a clear master-slave hierarchy.
Solution Approach 2:
Device roles are not fixed but dynamically adjusted based on changing distance conditions. As devices move or environmental conditions change, distance measurements are updated and roles are reassigned accordingly. This dynamic adaptation allows the network to maintain both broad service discovery coverage and reliable synchronization under varying conditions.
3Ease of operation
If distance-based role determination is implemented, then network organization and service sharing are improved, but measurement and calculation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct physical distance measurement (mechanical system) with wireless signal-based estimation. Instead of using rulers or physical sensors, devices use existing wireless communication signals to estimate distance through signal strength analysis or time of flight calculations. This substitution leverages the already-present wireless infrastructure to provide distance information without adding complex measurement hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless signals used for distance measurement serve multiple functions: they provide both communication data and ranging information. The same transceiver hardware used for data transmission is also used to measure signal strength or time of flight, eliminating the need for separate measurement devices and reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes methods and apparatus for beaconing within a wireless network based on an indication of distance. For certain example embodiments, in a wireless network in which a master device is a device configured to transmit a beacon within the wireless network, a first wireless communication device may determine, based on an indication of distance between two wireless communication devices, if the first wireless communication device is to act as a master device. For example, a wireless signal may be received. Based at least partially on the received wireless signal, an indication of distance between two wireless communication devices in a wireless network may be obtained. And based at least partially on the obtained indication of distance between the two wireless communication devices, it may be determined if a first wireless communication device is to act as a master device within the wireless network.