Mesh Network Route Optimization via Distributed Access Point
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mesh networks in Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) systems face vulnerabilities due to limited paths between mesh devices and potential failures at the mesh gate, which can disrupt communication and data transmission efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where an access point periodically calculates and transmits optimal paths to mesh devices using neighbor information tables, employing tree routing, source routing, and mesh routing to ensure efficient message transmission and route optimization based on performance factors such as signal quality and number of hops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mesh networks use a single mesh gate for centralized communication, then network management is simplified, but the network becomes vulnerable to gate failures and has limited paths between devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized mesh gate function into distributed routing capabilities across multiple mesh devices. Each device maintains routing tables and can independently determine optimal paths, eliminating the single point of failure while maintaining manageable network operations through standardized routing protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic route discovery and optimization where routing paths are not fixed but continuously adapted based on network conditions. Routes are established on-demand and can be recalculated when link quality degrades or nodes fail, enhancing reliability while keeping management simple through automated algorithms
2Reliability
If mesh networks establish multiple paths between devices, then network reliability improves, but route determination complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables mesh devices to autonomously perform route discovery and optimization without centralized control. Each device independently calculates routes using algorithms like AODV or TBRPF, exchanging routing information with neighbors to self-organize multiple paths without increasing operational complexity for network administrators
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where devices continuously monitor link quality, packet loss, and routing table changes. This feedback drives automatic route recalculation and optimization, maintaining reliable multi-path connectivity while keeping routing management simple through event-driven updates rather than continuous complex calculations
3Productivity
If optimal routes are dynamically calculated and optimized, then data transmission efficiency improves, but processing overhead and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic route optimization where full route recalculation occurs at scheduled intervals rather than continuously. Between periodic updates, devices use cached routing information for efficient data transmission, reducing computational energy consumption while maintaining high productivity during data transfer periods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary route discovery and optimization in advance before data transmission needs occur. Routes are pre-calculated and cached based on current network conditions, so when data transmission is required, devices can use the pre-established routes immediately without real-time computation, balancing efficiency with energy conservation
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and system facilitate communications between an unassociated device and a server via a mesh network and a wide area network. The method may include receiving transmissions from candidate proxy devices, wherein each candidate proxy device is associated with a mesh network. The method may include selecting a proxy device from the candidate proxy devices. The method may include communicating with a server via the proxy device and the associated mesh network.