Self-Forming Mesh Network Parameter Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional peer-to-peer networks without pre-existing infrastructure face challenges in providing addressing schemes and management services due to the absence of dedicated computing devices.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for self-forming mesh networks where mesh nodes cooperatively manage network services, including addressing and performance monitoring, by identifying and synchronizing parameters among members, updating them as needed, and sharing these updates across the network, effectively creating a distributed logical server to manage network parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional DHCP servers are used to manage network addressing, then addressing and configuration services are provided reliably, but dedicated computing devices and pre-existing network infrastructure are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling mesh nodes to autonomously discover each other, generate network parameters, and manage addressing services without external DHCP servers. Each node independently performs configuration tasks that traditionally required dedicated infrastructure, allowing the network to self-organize and self-manage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple dedicated servers into the mesh nodes themselves. Each node combines data transfer, resource sharing, and network management capabilities, eliminating the need for separate infrastructure components and consolidating services within the peer-to-peer network structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If ad-hoc self-forming networks are created without pre-existing infrastructure, then network deployment flexibility is improved, but addressing scheme provision becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having mesh nodes pre-generate and cache network parameters, addressing schemes, and configuration data before actual network operation begins. This allows nodes to immediately participate in network formation and addressing without waiting for external configuration services.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach where mesh nodes act as mutual mediators for addressing and configuration services. Instead of relying on external DHCP servers, nodes exchange and validate addressing information peer-to-peer, with each node serving as both client and service provider for network management functions.
Data Source
AI summary
Infrastructure services such as addressing, directory services, performance monitoring, and diagnostic capabilities are shared among nodes of an ad-hoc mesh network without a designated network manager. A first mesh node creates parameters corresponding to the services to be provided. As each new mesh node joins the network, parameters are update, synchronized among the mesh nodes, and stored in a virtual database shared by the mesh nodes. For some of the services such as performance monitoring, a designated representative may be elected by a group of mesh nodes once a predetermined number of connected mesh nodes is exceeded. The representative nodes may share performance monitoring information among themselves and act as redundant back-up servers.