IP Router Sensor Data Routing Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sensor networks face challenges in efficiently transporting sensor data due to limited battery life of centimeter-sized sensor host nodes and the need for relaying data packets through wireless mesh networks, which can lead to high network traffic and reduced scalability.
Innovation Solution
Implementing IP-based knowledge routers that receive and store sensor data with metadata, generating sensor information and executing routing operations based on this data to optimize data transport and reduce network traffic through techniques like constrained routing and multi-topology routing, using existing routing protocols like OSPF and IS-IS.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensor host nodes relay data packets throughout the wireless mesh network using flooding/gossiping, then sensor data can be transported to the destination controller, but network traffic increases and scalability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
IP routers serve as intermediaries between sensor host nodes and destination controllers. The routers receive sensor data from sensors, process it, and forward it through the IP network to the destination controller, eliminating the need for sensors to directly relay data throughout the mesh network. This reduces network traffic complexity while maintaining reliable data transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical flooding/gossiping relay mechanism with IP-based routing. Instead of sensors physically relaying packets through multiple hops using simple flooding protocols, the system uses IP routers to substitute the data transport mechanism, leveraging established IP networking infrastructure for more efficient and scalable data delivery.
2Reliability
If sensor host nodes relay data packets throughout the mesh network, then data can reach the destination controller, but battery life is consumed faster
Solution Approach 1:
IP routers act as intermediaries that offload the data relay function from sensor host nodes. Sensors only need to send data to nearby routers rather than relaying through the entire network, significantly reducing the energy consumption of battery-powered sensors while ensuring data reaches the destination controller reliably.
Solution Approach 2:
The data transport function is segmented into two parts: sensor host nodes responsible for collecting and initially transmitting data, and IP routers responsible for routing and forwarding. This segmentation allows sensors to perform minimal relay operations, conserving battery life while routers handle the bulk of the data transport through the network.
3Productivity
If conventional routing protocols are used for sensor data transport, then data can be forwarded through the network, but routing operations cannot leverage sensor information for optimization
Solution Approach 1:
IP routers perform multiple functions: they route data packets through the network using conventional routing protocols, simultaneously collect and store sensor data, generate sensor information with metadata, and execute optimized routing operations based on sensor conditions. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain compatibility with existing routing infrastructure while adding sophisticated sensor-driven routing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
Routers preliminarily collect, store, and process sensor data before executing routing operations. By pre-processing sensor information and maintaining it in routing information bases, the system prepares optimized routing paths in advance, allowing routing decisions to leverage sensor insights without disrupting conventional routing protocol operations.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method comprises an Internet Protocol (IP) router receiving sensor data from at least one of a second IP router or an attached host sensor node, the sensor data distinct from link data of a network link; the IP router generating sensor information based on storing the sensor data with metadata describing reception of the sensor data by the IP router in a routing information base; and the IP router executing a routing operation based on the sensor information stored in the routing information base.