Layered IoT Network Architecture for Single-Point Failure Resilience
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional IoT networks suffer from a single-point-of-failure due to a single master node, which can disrupt network monitoring and control, necessitating a decentralized solution to ensure reliability and scalability.
Innovation Solution
A layered network architecture utilizing blockchain transactions, where multiple master IoT nodes control subsets of intermediate nodes and end devices, enabling decentralized communication and control, with backup nodes taking over in case of failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single master node is used to control IoT networks, then the control structure is simple and easy to manage, but the system reliability deteriorates due to single-point-of-failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single master node into multiple master nodes (first master node, second master node, etc.), each controlling different subsets of intermediate nodes and end devices. This segmentation eliminates the single-point-of-failure while distributing control responsibilities across multiple nodes, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each master node is assigned specific control responsibilities for particular subsets of intermediate nodes and end devices, creating localized control zones. This allows each master node to operate independently within its designated scope, improving overall network reliability while maintaining manageable control structures through specialized local control.
2Reliability
If multiple master nodes are deployed to eliminate single-point-of-failure, then network reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into distinct control zones with dedicated master nodes, where each master node manages specific intermediate nodes and end devices. This segmentation allows parallel operation of multiple master nodes with well-defined boundaries, improving reliability while preventing complexity from becoming unmanageable through clear division of responsibilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hierarchical dimension to the network architecture, organizing master nodes, intermediate nodes, and end devices into distinct layers. This dimensional organization allows multiple master nodes to operate at the same hierarchical level while maintaining clear control relationships, thereby scaling reliability without proportionally increasing control complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a decentralized layered network architecture is implemented, then reliability and scalability improve, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the IoT network into distinct layers (master node layer, intermediate node layer, end device layer) with clear functional boundaries. Each layer operates semi-independently, allowing the system to scale by adding nodes at any layer without fundamentally changing the overall architecture, thus improving scalability while managing complexity through layered organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a three-dimensional hierarchical architecture spanning master nodes, intermediate nodes, and end devices. This dimensional structure allows the system to scale vertically (adding layers) and horizontally (adding nodes within layers) while maintaining consistent control patterns, thereby enhancing adaptability and scalability without linearly increasing architectural complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system comprising a layered network, wherein the layered network comprises a plurality of LN nodes arranged in an ordered set of layers, the ordered set of layers comprising, in order, a core layer comprising a plurality of master nodes each connected to one or more blockchain nodes of a blockchain network, one or more intermediate layers comprising a respective set of intermediate nodes, and a device layer comprising a set of end devices, wherein: each master node is configured to control a respective subset of intermediate nodes; a first master node is configured to control a first subset of intermediate nodes; a second master node is configured to control a second subset of intermediate nodes; and each intermediate node is configured to control a respective subset of end devices.