Mesh Network Takeover via Controller Attribute Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless mesh networks, there is a need for a method to seamlessly take over nodes from one network to another, especially in scenarios like disaster recovery where network priority and configuration data must be dynamically managed to ensure efficient communication.
Innovation Solution
A system where a second mesh network can take over nodes from a first mesh network by comparing controller attributes, such as priority levels, backhaul connections, and uptime values, causing nodes to disassociate from the original network and join the new one, ensuring seamless integration and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If nodes are statically assigned to a mesh network, then network stability is maintained, but network adaptability and resilience during disasters or failures deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic node assignment where nodes can transition between networks based on real-time conditions. The controller compares attributes (priority, uptime, backhaul) and dynamically reassigns nodes from a first network to a second network when the second network becomes available and superior, enabling the system to adapt to changing disaster recovery scenarios while maintaining stability through structured comparison protocols
2Productivity
If manual network management is used, then configuration precision is maintained, but operation efficiency and response time deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the controller automatically discovers available networks, compares their attributes (priority levels, uptime values, backhaul connections), and reassigns nodes without human intervention. This automated decision-making process maintains configuration precision through systematic attribute comparison while dramatically improving management efficiency and response time to disaster scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by comparing multiple network attributes (priority, uptime, backhaul availability) and dynamically adjusting node assignments based on these parameter variations. This allows automated, precise decision-making that adapts to changing network conditions while maintaining configuration integrity through structured parameter evaluation
3Reliability
If nodes remain in the original network during disaster recovery, then network configuration stability is maintained, but communication reliability and access to superior networks deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares for disaster recovery by establishing a structured attribute comparison framework in advance. When a disaster occurs, the controller can immediately evaluate alternative networks using pre-defined criteria (priority, uptime, backhaul) and execute node reassignment without complex ad-hoc decision-making. This preliminary structuring simplifies the takeover process while ensuring communication reliability through systematic network evaluation
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for a mesh-network takeover are provided. In one embodiment, a first controller having a first attribute and a first group of nodes in its network receives a message from a node in the first group. The message indicates that the node in the first group received a signal from a node that is in a second group and associated with a second controller having a second attribute. Further, the message includes the second attribute. Responsive to receiving the message, the first controller compares the first attribute with the second attribute. As a result of comparing the first attribute with the second attribute, the first controller makes a determination that it has a lower priority than the second controller. Responsive to making the determination, the first controller no longer communicates with the first group, resulting in at least one node in the first group joining the second network.