Mesh Network Data Transmission with File Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Dynamic evolution of wireless peer-to-peer mesh networks leads to instability, causing devices to become unavailable, which complicates the retrieval of large data files from external sources, as links between nodes and servers can be disrupted.
Innovation Solution
A method for transmitting data in a mesh network where a device obtains and stores parts of a file from external or internal sources, using a tree structure to manage connections and a cost function to determine the best source for file parts, ensuring availability even when external sources are inaccessible.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data is retrieved from external sources in a dynamic mesh network, then data can be obtained, but network instability causes links to be cut off and devices to become unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having devices obtain and store file parts and metadata from external sources before network disconnections occur. Devices proactively download and cache data while connections are stable, ensuring data availability when network conditions deteriorate. This is evident in the method where devices obtain file parts from external sources and store them locally for future retrieval.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses intermediary elements by introducing metadata as an intermediate layer between the external data source and the mesh network devices. The metadata contains information about file parts and their locations, allowing devices to retrieve data through intermediate steps rather than direct connections to external sources. This intermediary metadata structure enables data retrieval even when direct external connections are unavailable.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the network structure is dynamic and devices move, then network adaptability is improved, but link stability deteriorates and connections are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embraces dynamics by allowing the mesh network structure to be flexible and adaptive to device movements while maintaining data availability. The system dynamically adjusts to changing network conditions by enabling devices to obtain data from multiple potential sources including external sources and other mesh devices. The metadata structure dynamically records current data locations, allowing the network to adapt to topological changes while maintaining reliable data access.
3Reliability
If file parts are stored in multiple devices, then data availability is improved, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing files into multiple parts and distributing these parts across different devices in the mesh network. Each device stores specific file parts rather than complete files, improving data availability and reducing individual device storage requirements. The metadata structure segments information about file parts, their locations, and checksums, making the distributed storage system manageable despite its complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback mechanisms through metadata that contains checksums and verification information about stored file parts. When devices retrieve or verify data, they use this feedback information to ensure data integrity. The metadata structure provides feedback about data availability and location, enabling devices to make informed decisions about data retrieval without increasing operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of transmitting data in a mesh network of communication devices is described, the method being implemented by a given device of the mesh network provided with a processor. The method comprises: obtaining first data identifying a file, said file being obtainable in the form of a plurality of parts; obtaining second data identifying the parts; storing second data and file parts for transmission in the event of a request from another device in the mesh network; receiving a request from a device directly connected to the given device, said request identifying a searched element, and sending a positive response to the device whose request has been received if the searched element is one of the second data and the at least one file part stored by said given device. Another object is a communication device implementing the method.