IoT Client Node Grouping via MQTT Broker Assignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing MQTT-based IoT systems face delays and increased complexity in real-time grouping of client nodes due to reliance on topic-based structures, which limits real-time service provision and flexibility in managing large numbers of interconnected terminals.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic logical grouping system using client node identifiers independent of subscription topics, implemented through a manager unit, MQTT brokerage unit, load processing unit, dashboard control unit, and monitoring unit, allowing for efficient management and real-time grouping of client nodes and transmission of group-specific messages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If topic-based grouping is used in MQTT environment, then client nodes can be organized into groups, but the process requires adding subscription topics which incurs delays and increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the grouping function from the topic subscription mechanism. Instead of requiring nodes to subscribe to new topics for grouping, the server maintains separate group information independently. This segmentation allows grouping operations to occur without affecting the topic subscription process, eliminating the delays associated with topic addition while preserving grouping flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary group management mechanism that mediates between nodes and topics. The server maintains group information as an intermediate layer, allowing nodes to be organized into groups without directly modifying topic subscriptions. This intermediary structure enables rapid grouping operations while maintaining the existing topic-based message routing.
2Quantity of substance
If topic-based grouping is used with large numbers of client nodes, then nodes can be organized, but the topic structure requires multiple layers which drastically increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the node organization function from the topic hierarchy. Instead of creating complex multi-layer topic structures to accommodate large numbers of nodes, the system maintains a separate group management structure at the server level. This segmentation allows the topic structure to remain simple while the group structure handles the complexity of organizing large numbers of nodes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds another dimension to node organization by introducing group membership as a separate organizational layer independent of the topic hierarchy. Instead of organizing nodes solely through topic subscriptions (one dimension), nodes can now be organized through group memberships (second dimension), allowing efficient management of large numbers of nodes without deepening the topic structure.
3Device complexity
If only node ID is available for differentiating clients, then client identification is simple, but it is not possible to check information regarding the environments of the client nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges node identification with environment information into a unified node information structure. Instead of maintaining only simple node IDs, the system combines the ID with environment characteristics (such as device type, location, capabilities) into a comprehensive node information record. This merging allows the system to maintain simple identification while simultaneously preserving detailed environment information for informed grouping decisions.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to technology that allows a logical grouping of client nodes using client identifiers in an Internet of things environment. An apparatus for grouping client nodes according to an embodiment of the invention can include: a manager unit configured that receives a connection request from a client node and assigns a particular MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) broker to the client node in response to the connection request; an MQTT brokerage unit that includes at least one or more MQTT brokers and receives from the client node the identifier information and subscribed topic information of the client node by way of the particular MQTT from among the at least one or more MQTT brokers; and a load processing unit that stores the received identifier information and the topic information in a database to newly connect the client node.