Link Metric Algorithm for Wireless Mesh Network Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current frequency hopping radio frequency (RF) mesh networks in industrial monitoring and control systems face inefficiencies in message routing, as existing path metrics often prioritize shorter paths over longer paths with better performance, potentially leading to re-transmissions due to marginal links, and lack the ability to accurately assess communication paths of varying and equal lengths.
Innovation Solution
A link metric algorithm that evaluates individual links by measuring signal strength and traffic levels, allowing for a comparison of paths with different and equal numbers of hops, to select the best performing path for message routing, regardless of path length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If existing path metrics prioritize shorter paths, then routing speed is improved, but message delivery reliability deteriorates due to marginal links causing re-transmissions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the routing metric parameters from simple hop count to a composite metric that includes link quality indicators (signal strength, bit error rate, traffic load). This allows the routing algorithm to select paths based on actual link performance rather than just path length, resolving the contradiction between speed and reliability by making the metric reflect both considerations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical counting mechanism (hop count) with a measurement-based system that evaluates actual link conditions. Instead of mechanically counting hops, the system measures signal strength, error rates, and traffic levels to determine path quality, substituting a simple counting mechanism with a more sophisticated evaluation system.
2Device complexity
If path selection is based on hop count only, then routing complexity is reduced, but ability to assess communication paths of varying lengths deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the path assessment into individual link evaluations. Instead of assessing the entire path as a single unit based on hop count, it breaks down the assessment into individual link qualities (signal strength, error rate, traffic load) and combines them to evaluate the overall path. This allows accurate comparison of paths with different numbers of hops.
3Loss of time
If shorter paths are selected, then transmission time is reduced, but network performance deteriorates due to re-transmissions from marginal links
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where link quality metrics (signal strength, bit error rate, traffic load) are continuously monitored and used to adjust routing decisions. This feedback loop ensures that paths are selected based on current network conditions, preventing selection of marginal links that would cause re-transmissions and improve overall network productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
Link metrics for communication paths in multi-hop wireless mesh networks of industrial radio device are determined based on signal strength and traffic level performance of each link in the communication paths. A path metric is determined from the link metrics and path metrics are compared and utilized for optimal routing of messages through the network.