Linear Sensor Network Self-Discovery via Unique Identifier Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing networks of linear sensors require manual intervention for self-discovery and are not tolerant of unexpected configuration changes, making them inefficient and prone to maintenance issues.
Innovation Solution
A self-discovery method for networks of linear sensors, where each sensor and accessory has a unique identifier, allowing them to identify neighboring sensors and accessories, send local and general requests, and respond with unique identifiers and specific data items, enabling the central processing unit to reconstitute the logical topology of the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual intervention is used for network self-discovery, then the central processing unit can identify sensors in chronological order, but the network cannot perform self-discovery without user intervention and is not tolerant of configuration changes
Solution Approach 1:
Each linear sensor and accessory automatically performs self-identification by sending local requests to neighboring devices and responding to general requests from the central processing unit. The network autonomously discovers its topology without manual intervention, with each device actively participating in the discovery process through unique identifier exchange.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-establishes a discovery protocol where sensors are configured with unique identifiers and automatically initiate the discovery process by sending local requests to identify neighboring sensors. This preliminary configuration enables the central processing unit to reconstruct the network topology without requiring manual setup or intervention during operation.
2Reliability
If sensors respond in chronological order during interrogation, then the central processing unit can identify sensors sequentially, but the network cannot tolerate unexpected configuration changes during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback mechanisms where the central processing unit sends general requests to all sensors and accessories, and each device responds with its unique identifier and identified neighboring sensors. This feedback loop enables the network to detect and adapt to configuration changes in real-time, maintaining reliability while allowing operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The network discovery mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than static. Sensors can be added, removed, or repositioned during operation, and the system automatically detects these changes through the request-response protocol. The central processing unit continuously updates the network topology map, allowing the system to adapt to changing configurations without interruption.
3Length of stationary object
If linear sensors are connected in series to form a detection line, then the system can detect leaks over great lengths, but the network requires manual intervention for self-discovery and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service maintenance by allowing the central processing unit to automatically identify the location and status of each sensor and accessory in the detection line. The unique identifier protocol and topology reconstruction capability enable automated fault detection and localization, eliminating the need for manual intervention during maintenance operations and improving overall productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for self-discovery of an array of linear sensors, wherein each linear sensor has a unique identifier, the method includes: for each accessory, identifying a linear sensor situated upstream or downstream of the linear sensor; sending a local request to the identified sensor/accessory; sending a general request to the plurality of linear sensors and/or accessories in the array; receiving a response to the at least one local request by said linear sensor and/or the accessory; sending a response to the general request by said linear sensor and/or by the accessory, the response to the general request sent by the linear sensor comprising the unique identifier; and processing the response to the general request received from each linear sensor and/or from each accessory by the central processing unit allowing to reconstitute the logical topology of the network as a function of the unique identifiers received.