LoRaWAN Mesh Gateway Network for Forest Fire Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
LoRaWAN networks are limited in range due to their star network architecture, especially in areas without mobile network coverage, and existing range extension methods using mesh networks are not compatible with standard LoRaWAN devices, while existing forest fire detection systems are costly, power-intensive, and ineffective at early detection.
Innovation Solution
Implement a LoRaWAN mesh gateway network with mesh functionality in gateways, allowing multi-hop communication between gateways while maintaining compatibility with standard LoRaWAN devices, and use sensor units to detect forest fire gases and wind direction for precise location and spread analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If mesh functionality is implemented in LoRaWAN gateways to extend range and coverage, then the network range and area coverage are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh gateway is divided into multiple functional modules: a LoRaWAN module for receiving terminal device messages, an IP protocol module for routing to the network server, and a mesh networking module for multi-hop communication. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function independently, managing complexity through modular design while enabling extended network range through cooperative mesh operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The gateway is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a transparent bridge for standard LoRaWAN communication, a mesh node for extended range communication, and a router for IP protocol traffic. This multi-functionality allows a single gateway device to provide both traditional LoRaWAN services and mesh networking capabilities without requiring separate dedicated devices for each function.
2Area of stationary object
If mesh networking is implemented to extend LoRaWAN range in areas without internet access, then the area coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh gateway acts as an intermediary node between terminal devices and the network server. In areas without direct internet access, the gateway receives messages from terminal devices via LoRaWAN, processes them through IP protocol, and forwards them to the network server through multi-hop mesh communication. This intermediary function enables extended area coverage by allowing messages to relay through multiple gateways, while the standardized intermediary interface manages complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standard LoRaWAN transparent bridge operation is used, then device compatibility is maintained, but network range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The gateway merges two previously separate functions into a single device: the standard LoRaWAN transparent bridge operation and the mesh networking capability. By combining these functions, the system maintains device compatibility through standard LoRaWAN communication while simultaneously extending network range through mesh multi-hop communication, allowing terminal devices to operate with either standard or extended range gateways.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a LoRaWAN mesh gateway network having a network server, a plurality of first gateways, a second gateway and a plurality of terminal devices, wherein a terminal device comprises a sensor unit, a logic unit, a communication unit and a timekeeper, wherein the logic unit is intended for this purpose and suitable for evaluating the signals recorded by the sensor unit and the time measured by the timekeeper, as well as to a method for locating a forest fire.