Mesh Network Channel Selection for Building Automation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Wireless communication networks face limitations in building automation due to structural barriers and noise interference, while wired networks are costly and inflexible.

Innovation Solution

A mesh network system that dynamically selects communication channels based on signal detection and uses innovative routing algorithms to ensure reliable communication, minimizing noise and distortion, and allowing for flexible and expandable network configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If wireless communication networks are used for building automation, then installation flexibility and expandability are improved, but structural barriers and noise interference reduce transmission reliability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation flexibilityVSAvoidtransmission reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic channel selection where nodes automatically switch between communication channels based on signal quality detection. The system transitions from static channel assignment to dynamic adaptation, allowing the network to respond to changing environmental conditions such as structural barriers and noise interference, thereby maintaining reliable transmission while preserving wireless installation flexibility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the communication parameter by switching between multiple frequency channels. When interference or barriers are detected on the current channel, nodes change to alternative channels, effectively adjusting the transmission parameters to overcome environmental obstacles and maintain reliable communication

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If wired networks are used for building automation, then transmission reliability is improved, but installation cost and complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetransmission reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with a wireless communication system that uses electromagnetic signals. By implementing dynamic channel selection and signal quality monitoring, the wireless system achieves reliability comparable to wired networks while eliminating the physical installation complexity and costs associated with wiring building automation devices

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of manufacture

If wireless networks are used for building automation, then installation cost is reduced, but noise from other radio frequency sources reduces communication quality

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation costVSAvoidnoise interference

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces channel selection as an intermediary mechanism between the wireless transmission system and the noisy electromagnetic environment. By detecting signal quality and switching to cleaner channels, the system mediates the harmful effect of noise interference, maintaining communication quality while preserving the cost advantages of wireless installation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8885482B2Dynamically enabling a channel for message reception in a mesh network

Publication Date: 2014.11.11 SILICON LABORATORIES INC

AI summary

In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for operating a node in a wireless mesh network to scan each one of a plurality of channels received at a processing node in a wireless mesh network in a predetermined order for a predetermined duration to detect a preamble; detect the preamble on one of the plurality of channels; remain on a current one of the plurality of channels to receive a message after the predetermined duration when the preamble includes a predetermined series of symbols; and resume scanning each one of the plurality of channels after the message is received.