Mesh Network Topology Database and Routing Optimization
Solution Overview
Problem
Self-configuring wireless mesh networks face challenges in managing dynamic client additions and departures, maintaining efficient routing paths, and optimizing bandwidth distribution due to their complex and dynamic nature, particularly in multi-hop topologies with varying bandwidth and interference.
Innovation Solution
Implementing mechanisms for mesh members to join and leave the network, communicate topology information, and select optimal routing paths using attributes like distance, bandwidth, and signal quality, with a contention-free mode for inter-mesh node traffic transfer to prevent collisions, compatible with IEEE 802.11 protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If self-configuring mesh networks are deployed rapidly with little infrastructure support, then deployment speed and adaptability are improved, but network management complexity and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automatic mesh network formation where wireless clients autonomously discover mesh-capable peers, exchange capability information, and configure themselves into an extended service set without manual intervention or centralized infrastructure support
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where mesh clients continuously exchange capability information and topology data, allowing the network to dynamically adapt to changes in network conditions, client additions, or departures while maintaining optimal routing paths
2Quantity of substance
If mesh networks expand to accommodate more clients, then network coverage and capacity are improved, but tracking and managing clients becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal capability information exchange mechanism that works regardless of network size, where each mesh client uses standardized information elements to advertise and discover capabilities, enabling consistent tracking and management across networks of any scale
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses capability information elements as intermediaries that carry essential routing and topology data between mesh clients, allowing nodes to maintain awareness of network topology and client positions without requiring centralized tracking
3Reliability
If contention-free mode is used for inter-mesh node traffic, then collision probability is reduced, but network protocol complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments traffic into different categories (inter-mesh node traffic versus local client traffic) and applies different transmission modes accordingly, using contention-free mode for inter-mesh traffic while allowing standard contention-based access for local traffic, thereby reducing collisions without requiring protocol changes across the entire network
Data Source
AI summary
A system and methods for wireless computing devices to become mesh member nodes within a self-configuring mesh network includes mechanisms for neighbor discovery and sharing of a common topology database including mesh topology and mesh network information. Each mesh node may use the topology database to determine optimized routing paths within the mesh network. Mesh member nodes are configured to detect and communicate topology changes and measured mesh network attributes to other members of the self-configuring wireless network.