Inter-Cluster Data Transmission in Neighbor Aware Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication technologies lack an effective method for transmitting data between different clusters in a neighbor aware network (NAN) mesh, as conventional methods only allow multi-hop communication within the same cluster, not enabling data transmission across clusters.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for establishing a mesh data path by updating the channel active period for NAN devices across different clusters using a discovery beacon, allowing for inter-cluster data transmission through a cluster proxy role and service discovery frames, and enabling unicasting or multicasting of data considering mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multi-hop communication is used within the same cluster, then devices can communicate locally, but data transmission between different clusters is not enabled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cluster proxy device as an intermediary between different clusters. The cluster proxy receives data from devices in its home cluster, translates or forwards it to the target cluster, and manages the inter-cluster communication path. This mediator approach enables communication between clusters without requiring every device to have complex direct inter-cluster interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the NAN network into multiple clusters with designated cluster proxy devices. Each cluster operates semi-independently with its own devices and proxy, allowing local multi-hop communication to remain simple while inter-cluster communication is handled through the segmented proxy structure. This segmentation enables scalability and reduces overall system complexity.
2Productivity
If channel active period is extended for service discovery, then more services can be discovered, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic service discovery where devices wake up at scheduled intervals to exchange discovery frames and then return to sleep mode. Instead of maintaining continuous active channels, devices perform discovery operations periodically at defined intervals, reducing power consumption while still enabling service discovery functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes channel active periods and discovery windows in advance through synchronization protocols. Devices know beforehand when they should be active for service discovery, allowing them to plan their power consumption accordingly and remain in low-power states during non-discovery periods.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for transmitting and receiving data between a first cluster and a second cluster by a first device of the first cluster, the first device, and a second device are provided. The method includes notifying a second device of the second cluster of a presence of the first device through a discovery beacon, transmitting information about a service that the first device provides to the second device, receiving a data path setup request from the second device that updates a channel active period to be equal to a channel active period of the first device based on the discovery beacon, and transmitting a data path setup response to the second device in response to the data path setup request, wherein a data path is established between the first device and the second device and is used to transmit or receive data to/from the second device.