Dynamic BLE Link Control in Wireless Sensor Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless sensor network (WSN) and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) systems lack integrated control mechanisms to efficiently manage BLE link activity and power consumption, especially in applications requiring proximity detection and emergency services, where BLE technology is often used for short-range, single-hop transmissions without mesh network connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A system that integrates WSNs with BLE networks to control BLE link activity and power management, allowing remote control of BLE-enabled nodes through a WSN-linked control application, which can activate or modify BLE link modes based on events or conditions, and adjust transmit power and antenna patterns to optimize range and energy usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If BLE links are continuously active for proximity detection and emergency services, then service reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of BLE link states, transitioning between active and low-power modes based on detected conditions. The system adjusts BLE link activity dynamically rather than maintaining a fixed state, resolving the contradiction between continuous service availability and power consumption by adapting the system's operational state to current needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic monitoring of conditions (proximity detection needs, emergency service requirements) and activates BLE links only when needed. This periodic activation pattern allows the system to maintain service reliability while significantly reducing average power consumption compared to continuous operation.
2Length of moving object
If transmit power is increased to extend BLE link range, then communication range is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different transmit power levels locally based on specific communication needs. Rather than using a fixed high power level universally, the system adjusts power transmission quality to match the actual requirements of each communication scenario, extending range only when and where necessary while conserving energy in other situations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the transmit power parameter dynamically based on detected conditions and communication requirements. By adjusting this key parameter rather than maintaining a constant high value, the system achieves extended communication range when needed while minimizing energy consumption during normal operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If WSN control mechanisms are integrated with BLE networks, then system flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a unified control system where the WSN control mechanisms serve multiple functions: managing BLE link states, monitoring environmental conditions, and coordinating communication activities. This multi-functionality approach increases system flexibility while avoiding the need for separate dedicated control systems that would increase complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges WSN control capabilities with BLE network management into an integrated control architecture. By combining these functions rather than maintaining separate systems, the patent achieves enhanced system flexibility and adaptability while actually reducing overall device complexity through consolidation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems (100) and methods (200) for operating a sensor system. The methods comprise: performing first operations by a Wireless Sensor Network (102) to (a) configure operations of WSN end nodes (104, 134-138) and (b) control Bluetooth Low Energy ("BLE") link activity within a BLE network; and performing second operations by the BLE network to (a) find people or objects (156) within a specified area and (b) provide services to users of mobile communication devices which are BLE enabled (152) and reside within the specified area