Mesh Network Multicast Control via Distribution Node
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In mesh networks, multicast messages are limited to direct-range nodes, making it difficult to actuate network devices beyond a single hop, resulting in incomplete activation and increased network traffic due to the need for routed singlecast messages, which can cause delays.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a source node to transmit a multicast message to nearby devices and an encapsulated multicast message to a distribution node, which then routes it to distant devices, allowing simultaneous activation while minimizing network traffic through aggregated acknowledgments and potential singlecast retries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multicast messages are used to activate network devices, then devices within single-hop range can be activated simultaneously, but devices beyond single-hop range cannot be reached
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediate nodes (routers) that receive multicast messages and forward them to distant devices. These intermediaries extend the multicast message's reach beyond the source node's direct transmission range, enabling coverage of devices multiple hops away while maintaining the efficiency of multicast communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the network into multiple hops, where each node can act as a potential distributor of multicast messages. By dividing the transmission path into sequential segments (source -> intermediate node -> destination), the system can reach distant devices without requiring the source to transmit directly to all targets.
2Reliability
If routed singlecast messages are used to reach distant network devices, then all devices can be activated, but network traffic increases significantly and delays occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple singlecast transmission paths into a single multicast message that is replicated by intermediate nodes. Instead of sending separate messages from the source to each distant device, one multicast message is sent to intermediaries that then distribute it to their respective destinations, reducing total traffic volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the transmission dimension from point-to-point (singlecast) to point-to-multipoint (multicast). By transmitting in the multicast dimension where one message can serve multiple destinations through intermediate nodes, the system reduces the quantity of messages needed compared to traditional singlecast routing.
3Reliability
If routed singlecast messages are used to reach distant network devices, then all devices can be activated, but perceivable delays occur in switching on remote lights
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-establishing multicast group memberships and configuring intermediate nodes in advance. When activation is needed, the pre-configured multicast infrastructure can immediately forward messages without requiring real-time routing decisions, reducing activation delay.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous multicast message flow through the network by having intermediate nodes continuously forward messages to distant devices. This continuous action eliminates gaps and delays that would occur with stop-and-wait singlecast protocols, enabling simultaneous activation perception.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for transmitting packets to a plurality of network devices that cannot be accessed via a single hop. The system includes a source, which issues a multicast message to those network devices in close proximity, and also transmits an encapsulated multicast message to a distribution node. This encapsulated multicast message may be routed using traditional routing protocols. The distribution node then transmits the multicast message to those network devices within close proximity. The distribution node may also have the ability to transmit singlecast messages to those network devices, if necessary, to perform retries.