Multi-tier Wireless Mesh Network with Secure Discovery Protocol
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless home networks face limitations in range and efficiency due to reliance on infrastructure modes and lack of seamless integration of proprietary devices, especially in supporting high-bandwidth applications like HD video streaming, and are vulnerable to interference and rogue network activity.
Innovation Solution
A multi-tier wireless home mesh network using a secure network discovery protocol that classifies devices into decentralized ad hoc networks with multiple sub-networks (tiers) based on performance capabilities, enabling seamless interconnection and data forwarding, with a hierarchical architecture and secure authentication mechanisms to mitigate interference and ensure compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If infrastructure mode with access points is used, then network coverage and connectivity are improved, but network efficiency and range are limited due to traffic saturation at the access point
Solution Approach 1:
The network is segmented into multiple access points that can independently handle traffic, preventing saturation at a single point. Each AP serves a specific region, and traffic can be distributed across multiple segments, improving overall network efficiency while maintaining wide coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
Wireless devices act as intermediaries to forward traffic between access points and other devices. This mesh capability allows traffic to route through multiple hops rather than all traffic converging at a single AP, reducing bottlenecks and improving network efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If all wireless links use the same frequency as access points, then infrastructure mode operation is simplified, but severe interference occurs resulting in low efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
Different frequency channels are assigned to different parts of the network based on local interference conditions. Access points and mesh devices can operate on different frequencies in different locations, allowing simultaneous transmissions without severe interference while maintaining operational simplicity through automatic frequency selection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If proprietary devices are integrated into the network, then device functionality and performance are improved, but network compatibility and seamless interconnection are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The network protocol is designed to be universal, allowing proprietary devices with different functionalities to interconnect through a common mesh network interface. Devices can maintain their proprietary features while communicating through standardized mesh protocols, ensuring both functionality and compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The mesh network protocol acts as an intermediary layer that translates between proprietary device interfaces and the universal network communication standards. This allows proprietary devices to be integrated seamlessly without requiring changes to their core functionality or compromising network compatibility.
4Extent of automation
If ad hoc mode is used for peer-to-peer communication, then infrastructure dependency is reduced, but network range and reconfiguration capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the advantages of both infrastructure mode and ad hoc mode by implementing mesh capability in access points. This allows the network to operate independently of centralized control (ad hoc benefit) while maintaining the infrastructure benefits of coordinated frequency management and routing for extended range.
5Area of stationary object
If mesh network hopping is used to extend range, then network coverage is improved, but network security and authentication complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Authentication and security credentials are established in advance before mesh hopping occurs. Devices perform mutual authentication and exchange security keys before beginning multi-hop communication, preventing security vulnerabilities while enabling extended range through mesh capability.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for a multi-tier wireless home mesh network is described. The method may include formation of an infrastructure-less wireless home mesh networking environment comprising a collection of nodes that operate as a decentralized, ad hoc wireless network with multiple sub-networks or tiers that, are responsible for different functions within the network. Each node of the multi-tier network is configured to forward data to other nodes and is assigned to a particular tier based on the node's performance capabilities. A further embodiment includes identification of a wireless home mesh network. Once identified, one or more proprietary messages may be exchanged in a secure manner to establish connections with a home electronics device as either a mobile node or a stationary node of the home network. A home electronics device may wirelessly communicate to route data within one or more nodes of the wireless home mesh network. Other embodiments are described and claimed.