Mesh Path Selection Using Dual Tables and Signal Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mesh networks experience packet loss due to inadequate path updates, which are often slow and may choose suboptimal paths, leading to inefficient communication in dynamic environments with mobile stations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a mesh network architecture with an originator station and target station that maintain first and second path tables, allowing for the selection of the best path based on signal parameters such as SNR, RSSI, and packet loss, and using a Weak Path Indicator to adjust path request rates dynamically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If periodic path requests are broadcasted regularly to maintain paths in mesh networks, then path updates are performed, but the reaction to bad or broken links is too slow resulting in packet loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements proactive path quality assessment by monitoring signal parameters (RSSI, SNR, packet loss) before paths actually break. The system performs preliminary actions by continuously evaluating alternative paths and preparing backup routes in advance, so when a link deteriorates, the switch to an alternative path can occur immediately without waiting for periodic PREQ/PREP cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring path quality metrics (signal strength, packet loss rates) and using this information to dynamically adjust path selection. The system receives feedback about link quality from intermediate stations and uses this feedback to trigger path updates only when necessary, rather than relying on slow periodic updates.
2Reliability
If multiple alternative paths are stored and evaluated based on signal parameters, then the best path can be selected, but the device complexity increases with multiple path tables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments path information storage by maintaining separate path tables for different types of path data (current active paths, alternative paths, path quality metrics). This segmentation allows the system to manage complexity by organizing path data into distinct categories that can be independently processed and updated, rather than managing all path information in a single complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter-based path selection by evaluating multiple signal parameters (RSSI, SNR, packet loss rate) to determine path quality. Instead of complex path management, the system changes the approach by using simple parameter comparisons to select the best path from stored alternatives, reducing the complexity of path decision-making while maintaining high reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A mesh network comprising an originator station and a target station wherein each station comprises a controller and memory for storing a first path table for storing one or more paths to be used for sending data packets and a second path table for storing one or more alternative paths for sending data packets. The originator station is configured to broadcast a path request data packet for the target station and receive a first path reply data packet comprising a first alternative path to the target station.Then the originator station is further configured to store the first alternative path in the second path table of the originator station and receive at least one second path reply data packet comprising at least one second alternative path to the target station.Then the originator station is further configured to retrieve a best path, based on one or more signal parameters pertaining to each path, to the target station from the second path table of the originator station, store the best path to the target station in the first path table of the originator station and use the best path for sending data packets to target station.An originator station, an intermediate station and a target station in a mesh network is also disclosed. As well is a method of a station in a mesh network and a computer program product.