Mesh Network Nodes with Dynamic Energy Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mesh networks face reliability issues due to mobile nodes changing coverage areas and power disruptions, particularly in public settings, where inadequate power capabilities and node arrangements lead to service disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A system dynamically adjusts nodes in a mesh network by switching active and inactive states based on energy levels and status, using co-located nodes to maintain power and service reachability, with one node actively transmitting while the other passively stores energy, and vice versa, using renewable energy sources like solar or wind.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If nodes in a mesh network are made mobile to increase flexibility and coverage area, then adaptability is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to changing coverage areas and connection disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic node status adjustment where nodes can switch between active and inactive states based on power availability and network requirements. This dynamic adaptation allows the network to maintain reliable connections by deactivating nodes with insufficient power while preserving the ability to expand coverage when power is available.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of nodes by adjusting their status (active/inactive) based on power capabilities and network conditions. This parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction by allowing nodes to operate reliably within their power constraints while the overall network maintains adaptability through coordinated status changes.
2Reliability
If nodes maintain high power capabilities to ensure continuous service in public settings, then reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic status adjustment where nodes switch between active and inactive states based on real-time power availability and network requirements. This allows the network to maintain service continuity through coordinated node activation while minimizing overall energy consumption by keeping only necessary nodes active at any given time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic status adjustments and node activation patterns rather than continuous operation. Nodes are activated in cycles based on power availability and network demand, providing periodic service maintenance that ensures reliability while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous operation.
3Reliability
If more nodes are activated to maintain network coverage, then service reachability is improved, but power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic node status adjustment where the number of active nodes is continuously optimized based on power availability and coverage requirements. This allows the network to maintain adequate service reachability by activating only the necessary number of nodes with sufficient power while keeping other nodes inactive to conserve energy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by adjusting node status based on power capabilities and network demands. This parameter optimization resolves the contradiction by dynamically determining the minimum number of active nodes required to maintain service reachability while staying within available power constraints.
4Reliability
If nodes operate continuously to maintain mesh network connectivity, then reliability is improved, but duration of action is limited by power depletion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic status adjustment where nodes transition between active and inactive states based on power availability. This dynamic operation extends the overall duration of network action by allowing nodes to conserve power during inactive periods and activate when power is available, maintaining connectivity over extended timeframes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic node activation and deactivation cycles that extend operational duration. By alternating between active and inactive states based on power availability, nodes can sustain network connectivity over longer periods than continuous operation would allow, effectively extending the duration of action.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach ensures continuous network coverage and service reliability by optimizing energy usage and extending node operational times, reducing power-related disruptions and maintaining connectivity in high-service areas.
Implementation Method 1
The nodes can include solar panels, windmills, or other renewable energy sources, and batteries
Implementation Method 2
The nodes can include solar panels, windmills, or other renewable energy sources, and batteries
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and computer-readable storage media for dynamically adjusting nodes in a mesh network embedded in objects. The nodes, which are individually capable of sensing and/or transmitting data, are paired together such that when one node is active, the other node is collecting energy via solar, wind, or other energy collecting means. When a node reaches a certain energy level, the nodes can switch status, such that the passive node becomes active and vice versa. Exemplary objects in which the systems can be embedded include benches, receptacles, and light fixtures.