Dense Mesh Network Node Assignment for RF Interference Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless automation systems for smart homes and buildings face challenges due to high costs and power intensity of devices using proprietary standards like IEEE 802.11 and Bluetooth, which are not suitable for controlling dozens of devices efficiently, and dense mesh networks experience radio frequency interference and routing complexities.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for distributing communications in a dense mesh network by calculating node locations, assigning nodes to separate gateway controllers based on proximity and radio frequency interference levels, and using spread spectrum encoding to reduce interference, allowing for efficient and cost-effective automation of devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If nodes are densely deployed to control dozens of devices in a building, then device coverage and automation capability are improved, but radio frequency interference between nodes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the dense mesh network into multiple geographic clusters, each managed by a separate gateway controller. Nodes are assigned to specific gateways based on their physical location, which divides the network into smaller sub-networks. This segmentation reduces radio frequency interference by spatially separating nodes operating on the same channel while maintaining comprehensive device coverage through distributed gateway coverage.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If nodes are assigned to separate gateway controllers based on proximity, then radio frequency interference is reduced, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where nodes automatically determine their optimal gateway assignment based on their calculated geographic locations and interference levels. The system performs self-organization by autonomously forming geographic clusters and assigning nodes to appropriate gateways without requiring manual configuration. This self-service approach reduces network complexity by eliminating the need for complex manual provisioning while maintaining interference reduction benefits.
3Productivity
If spread spectrum encoding is used to reduce interference, then network efficiency is improved, but device power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies spread spectrum encoding selectively rather than uniformly across all nodes. Geographic clustering allows the system to concentrate spread spectrum resources within each cluster while using simpler communication modes between clusters. This local quality approach optimizes network efficiency within clusters where interference management is critical, while reducing overall power consumption by not applying the more power-intensive spread spectrum technique network-wide.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for distributing communications through a dense mesh network having a plurality of nodes coupled to one of at least two gateway controllers is disclosed. A node location of each node is calculated relative to other nodes in the mesh network. Nodes that are less than a predetermined distance of each other are assigned to separate gateway controllers. Radio frequency interference levels between the nodes in the mesh network are measured and channels or PN codes of nodes having interference levels greater than a predetermined amount are changed.