Mesh Network Device Location via Step Value Distance Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In mesh networks, especially in industrial systems with numerous spatially arranged devices, users face challenges in detecting issues with non-visible network devices and locating them effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method where network devices generate and transmit messages with step values, allowing other devices to determine if the message is received for the first time, add a delta step value, calculate distance, and indicate this to the user, enabling location even if the device is not visible, with features like LED flashing for distance indication and error message handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If mesh networks have numerous spatially arranged network devices, then network coverage and connectivity are improved, but user ability to locate and detect issues with non-visible network devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces visible network devices as intermediaries that receive location requests and forward them to non-visible network devices. These intermediaries also receive location responses and relay them back, enabling users to locate devices that are not directly visible through a chain of visible intermediaries in the mesh network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where location responses containing distance information are sent back from non-visible network devices to visible ones, and finally to the user. This feedback loop enables the user to determine the location of non-visible devices based on distance metrics provided in the response messages.
2Adaptability or versatility
If network devices are arranged spatially to cover large areas, then network versatility and coverage are improved, but user visibility and direct access to all devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical system of direct visual inspection with an electronic message-passing system. Instead of requiring users to physically see or access devices, the system uses automated location requests and responses transmitted through the mesh network to provide location information electronically.
Solution Approach 2:
Visible network devices serve as mediators between users and non-visible devices. The intermediaries handle the complexity of locating distant devices by receiving requests, forwarding them through the network, and delivering location information back to users, simplifying the operation for end users.
3Area of stationary object
If message propagation steps are increased to reach distant network devices, then network coverage is improved, but message transmission time and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having visible network devices pre-identified and pre-configured as intermediaries. When a location request is initiated, these intermediaries are already in position to immediately forward the request, eliminating the need for dynamic route discovery and reducing message propagation time across the network.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for locating a network device in a mesh network includes the steps of: generating a message from a network device; storing a step value and an initial step value in the message; initializing the step value with the initial step value; sending the message to the mesh network; receiving the message is received at a further network device; and determining whether the message is classified as received for the first time. If the message is classified by the further network device as being received for the first time, the following additional steps are performed: adding a delta step value to the step value; determining a distance of the further network device from the network device from the step value changed in this way and the initial step value; and indicating the distance for locating the network device for a user at the further network device.