Hybrid Sensor Network Protocol Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increased use of aircraft sensors leads to excessive wiring, adding cost and weight, and implementing wireless networks poses challenges such as power constraints, RF channel impairments, security issues, and physical to logical mapping problems, particularly due to interference and bandwidth limitations.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid sensor network system that includes both a wireless communication protocol network and a power line communication protocol network, with sensor nodes capable of switching between the two based on operating parameters, utilizing existing power lines to reduce wiring and interference, and featuring control modules with logic for selecting the best communication method.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of stationary object
If a wireless sensor network is used to reduce wiring, then wiring cost and weight are reduced, but power constraints and RF channel impairments occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects between wireless and power line communication modes based on real-time operating conditions. The control module monitors parameters such as power availability and channel quality, then switches communication protocols accordingly, making the system adaptable rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes communication parameters by switching between two distinct communication protocols (wireless and power line) based on varying operating conditions. This allows optimization of communication reliability according to power availability and channel characteristics.
2Ease of manufacture
If a wireless network is implemented, then wiring is reduced, but security and physical to logical mapping problems arise due to interference and bandwidth limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The control module acts as an intermediary that manages the complexity of physical to logical mapping. It monitors operating conditions and makes intelligent decisions about which communication path to use, abstracting away the complexity from the overall system.
3Reliability
If both wireless and power line networks are implemented, then communication reliability is improved through protocol switching, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is designed with multi-functionality, capable of monitoring multiple operating parameters and managing both wireless and power line communication protocols. This universal design consolidates complexity into a single management unit rather than requiring separate control mechanisms for each protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where the control module continuously monitors operating conditions (power availability, channel quality) and adjusts communication protocol selection accordingly. This closed-loop control optimizes reliability while managing complexity through intelligent decision-making.
Data Source
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AI summary
A sensor network is disclosed, and includes a first network based on a wireless communication protocol, a second network based on a power line communication protocol, and at least one sensor node in communication with one of the first network and the second network. The sensor node includes at least one sensor and a control module in communication with the at least one sensor. The control module includes control logic for selecting one of the first network and the second network based on at least one operating parameter of the sensor network.