Meshed Network Control for Directional Communication Robustness

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Solution Overview

Problem

Directional communication media, such as millimeter waves, are susceptible to shielding and disturbance due to their directionality, making it challenging to achieve robust and adaptive communication networks.

Innovation Solution

A communication system comprising multiple communication apparatuses capable of configuring a meshed network, each equipped with directional communication means for scanning and connecting to candidates, and a control apparatus that manages connections to ensure robustness and adaptability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If directional communication media are used to achieve large capacity and low delay, then communication capacity and speed are improved, but the system becomes susceptible to shielding and disturbance due to directionality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication capacityVSAvoidcommunication robustness
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic connection management where the control apparatus continuously monitors connection states and automatically reconfigures the meshed network topology. When directional communication experiences shielding or disturbance, the system dynamically establishes alternative connections through other nodes, transforming the static directional link into a dynamic adaptive network that maintains reliability while preserving high-capacity communication capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters by managing connection states (established, suspended, terminated) and adapting network topology based on communication conditions. The control apparatus monitors and adjusts connection parameters dynamically, allowing the network to transition between different operational states to maintain robustness while utilizing directional communication for high capacity when conditions permit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If adaptive changes in node subscription and position are implemented, then network robustness is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork robustnessVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a control apparatus as an intermediary that centralizes the management of connection states and network topology. This intermediary handles the complexity of adaptive reconfiguration, monitoring connection establishment, suspension, and termination while managing node subscriptions. By concentrating control functions in a dedicated apparatus, the system achieves robust adaptive capabilities without distributing complexity across all communication nodes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If meshed network configuration is implemented with multiple connection options, then adaptability is improved, but the difficulty of managing connection states increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork adaptabilityVSAvoidconnection state management
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control apparatus continuously monitors connection states (established, suspended, terminated) and uses this information to make intelligent routing and topology decisions. The system receives feedback about connection quality and node availability, then adapts the meshed network configuration accordingly. This feedback loop simplifies state management by providing real-time visibility into connection status, enabling automated decisions without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20240090055A1Communication system, control device, and method for controlling communication system
Publication Date: 2024.03.14 NEC CORP
  • US20240090055A1 patent drawing
  • US20240090055A1 patent drawing
  • US20240090055A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A communication system (1) includes a plurality of communication apparatuses (10) and a control apparatus (20), the control apparatus (20) including a control unit (21), the control unit (21) including a management unit (21a) that manages, for each of the plurality of communication apparatuses (10), the number of connections that are capable of being established, and the number of established connections.