Mesh Network Beamforming with NAV M-NAV Collision Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless mesh networks face inefficiencies due to network capacity limitations and collisions in data transmission, exacerbated by the need for nodes to forward packets and delays, which can 'clog' the network, especially with multiple nodes in range.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system and method using Network Allocation Vector (NAV) and Mesh Network Allocation Vector (M-NAV) information with request to send (RTS) and clear to send (CTS) messages, allowing beamformed data transmission between specific nodes while enabling other nodes to communicate during the data portion, using M-NAV information to enhance efficiency through selective beamforming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If nodes forward each other's packets in mesh networks, then network connectivity is improved, but network capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network message into two distinct portions: a broadcast portion that contains control information (RTS/CTS messages with NAV/M-NAV settings) and a beamformed data portion that contains actual data traffic. This segmentation allows different portions of the message to serve different functions simultaneously, enabling nodes to update their NAV values from the broadcast portion while the beamformed portion carries dedicated data transmissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies beamforming technology to create directional communication channels between specific node pairs, while other nodes simultaneously communicate in different spatial directions. This local quality approach allows each transmission pair to have optimized, interference-free communication paths, effectively increasing overall network capacity while maintaining connectivity.
2Reliability
If delays are introduced to minimize traffic collisions, then collision rate is reduced, but network efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having nodes update their Network Allocation Vector (NAV) and Mesh Network Allocation Vector (M-NAV) values in advance by listening to the broadcast portion of messages. This allows nodes to proactively schedule their transmissions and avoid collisions before they occur, eliminating the need for reactive delays while maintaining collision-free communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where nodes continuously monitor the broadcast portion of messages, update their NAV/M-NAV values based on received information, and adjust their transmission timing accordingly. This feedback loop enables dynamic collision avoidance without requiring fixed delays, thereby improving network efficiency while maintaining reliability.
3Reliability
If one node signals delay to all other nodes, then collision avoidance is achieved, but the network becomes clogged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beamforming to create spatially selective communication channels, allowing different node pairs to transmit simultaneously in different directions without interference. This eliminates the need for blanket delay signals across the entire network, as each beamformed transmission is isolated to its specific spatial path, preventing network-wide clogging while maintaining collision avoidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces spatial dimensionality to the network communication by using beamforming technology. Instead of treating the network as a flat, two-dimensional medium where nodes compete for time slots, the patent adds a spatial dimension that allows multiple simultaneous transmissions in different directions. This dimensional expansion enables parallel communications, preventing network saturation while avoiding collisions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces data interference and collisions, enhancing the overall efficiency of mesh networks by allowing non-participating nodes to engage in communication during beamformed data transmissions, thereby improving network performance.
Implementation Method 1
a transceiver operable for communication of messages having a broadcast portion and a beamformed portion
Data Source
AI summary
A network node is provided that includes a transceiver and a component. The transceiver is operable for communication of messages having a broadcast portion and a beamformed data portion. The broadcast portion includes an indicator. The component is operable to promote the transceiver being enabled for communication with other network nodes, in response to the message including the indicator and further in response to the message being intended for a specific network node other than the network node. The component is operable to promote the transceiver receiving the data portion of the message, in response to the message including the indicator and the message being intended for the network node.