Centralized Tree Topology Formation in Wireless Mesh Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless mesh networks face inefficiencies in tree topology formation due to routing overhead and security implications, particularly with protocols like Adaptive Wireless Path Protocol (AWPP), which do not utilize Lightweight Access Point Protocol (LWAPP) for secure tunnel establishment and parent selection.

Innovation Solution

A method for forming a tree topology in wireless mesh networks using a controller that communicates with mesh access points via a lightweight access point protocol, such as LWAPP, where radio measurement reports are used to determine potential child and parent mesh points, and secure JOIN OFFER messages are sent to establish a secure link and tunnel to the controller, optimizing tree structure formation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If distributed tree formation protocols like AWPP are used, then mesh points can autonomously form topology, but routing overhead increases and security is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautonomous topology formationVSAvoidrouting overhead and security risks

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The controller acts as an intermediary between mesh points and the network core. It receives radio measurement reports from mesh points, performs centralized parent selection calculations, and sends JOIN OFFER messages to establish secure connections. This mediator approach eliminates the need for mesh points to autonomously negotiate topologies, thereby reducing routing overhead and enhancing security while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If centralized controller management is implemented, then security and control are improved, but network complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity and centralized controlVSAvoidnetwork architecture complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is designed as a universal management entity that performs multiple functions: receiving radio measurement reports, performing parent selection calculations, sending JOIN OFFER messages, and managing secure tunnel establishment. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single multi-functional controller, the system achieves improved security and reliability without proportionally increasing overall network complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If traditional tree formation methods are used, then topology can be established, but routing overhead and processing time increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetree topology formation speedVSAvoidtime for parent selection and topology establishment

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The controller performs parent selection calculations in advance by processing radio measurement reports before actual topology establishment is needed. By preparing parent selections preliminarily and sending JOIN OFFER messages proactively, the system reduces the time required for topology formation and increases productivity, as mesh points can quickly establish connections without prolonged negotiation delays.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP2052497B1Route tree building in a wireless mesh network

Publication Date: 2016.11.16 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC

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AI summary

In one embodiment, a tree-topology building method for a wireless mesh network includes using a centralized parent selection process to select a parent and join offer messages to a selected child of the selected parent.