Multi-Protocol Mesh Routing for Heterogeneous RF and PLC Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing routing metrics are not well-suited for heterogeneous mesh networks with nodes using different communication technologies, transmission media, modulation techniques, and data rates, leading to incompatibility issues and inefficiencies such as unnecessary delays due to the 'missing destination problem'.
Innovation Solution
Implementing multiple protocol receivers that determine the quality of links between nodes using various communication technologies and maintain a busy device list to route communications based on link quality and node availability, allowing for intelligent routing across diverse network conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If nodes of different generations with different communication technologies are deployed in the mesh network, then the network coverage and longevity are improved, but compatibility issues arise that prevent communication between nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal communication protocol that enables nodes of different generations and technologies to communicate through a common interface. The protocol layer abstracts the underlying hardware differences, allowing legacy nodes and modern nodes to interoperate seamlessly, thus maintaining node compatibility while extending network longevity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a protocol translation layer that acts as an intermediary between nodes with different communication technologies. This mediator converts messages between different protocols and the universal format, enabling compatibility between diverse node generations without requiring all nodes to use the same underlying technology
2Device complexity
If routing is based on fewest number of hops, then routing simplicity is improved, but transmission efficiency deteriorates due to varying data rates between links
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic routing metrics that adapt to current network conditions, including link quality, data rate, and node availability. Instead of static hop-count routing, the system continuously updates routing decisions based on real-time measurements, optimizing transmission efficiency while maintaining manageable routing complexity through standardized algorithms
3Adaptability or versatility
If nodes operate at different data rates, then communication flexibility is improved, but routing reliability deteriorates due to the missing destination problem and unnecessary delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary node availability checking and link quality assessment before data transmission. Nodes query the network status and determine optimal transmission paths in advance, preventing the missing destination problem by ensuring destinations are available before initiating communication, thus improving routing reliability while maintaining flexible data rate operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where nodes continuously report their availability status, link quality, and transmission success/failure. This feedback loop enables the routing system to adapt to changing conditions, identify and avoid problematic links, and improve overall routing reliability while preserving the flexibility of multi-rate communication
Data Source
AI summary
A node having a multiple protocol receiver may listen to multiple links in parallel and determine a quality of links having multiple communication technologies between the node and multiple neighbor nodes. The multiple communication technologies may include radio frequency (RF) communication technologies and one or more power line communication (PLC) communication technologies. The node determines a link quality metric for each link associated with an optimum communication technology and data rate, and maintains availability information of neighbor nodes. The node may then route communications to neighbor nodes using the link quality metric and the availability information.