Multi-mode Mobile Ad-hoc Network with Dynamic Mode Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current mobile ad-hoc networks face challenges in maintaining reliable and continuous communications due to dynamic topology changes and unpredictable position and communication mode shifts among mobile devices, leading to lost and dropped connections.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for establishing a mobile ad-hoc network by transmitting signals in multiple communication formats, allowing devices to select and respond using appropriate formats, and utilizing a lookup table to store and manage communication modes for efficient data transfer between devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If mobile devices communicate using a single fixed communication mode, then device complexity is reduced, but communication reliability deteriorates when devices move or change conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication reliabilityVSAvoidcommunication mode management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically changes communication parameters by switching between multiple communication modes (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular) based on current network conditions, device mobility, and signal quality. This allows the system to adapt to changing environments and maintain reliable communication by selecting the optimal communication mode for each situation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The communication system transitions from a static single-mode approach to a dynamic multi-mode approach where devices can switch between different communication protocols and modes based on real-time conditions. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to respond to topology changes and maintain connectivity despite device movement and environmental variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If mobile ad-hoc networks use peer-to-peer communication without infrastructure, then network setup simplicity is improved, but communication stability deteriorates due to random device movement and topology changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork setup simplicityVSAvoidcommunication continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The mobile devices are equipped with multiple communication interfaces and protocols (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, etc.), enabling them to function in various communication roles and adapt to different network conditions. This multi-functionality allows devices to maintain communication continuity by switching between different communication pathways when topology changes occur.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements continuous monitoring of communication quality, signal strength, and network topology changes, using this feedback information to dynamically select and switch between communication modes. This feedback mechanism ensures that communication continuity is maintained by detecting degraded connections and transitioning to alternative communication paths.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If devices attempt to access the network using different communication modes, then device versatility is improved, but communication reliability deteriorates due to mode mismatches and protocol conflicts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication mode compatibilityVSAvoidconnection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts communication parameters by selecting appropriate communication modes and protocols based on the capabilities of communicating devices and current network conditions. This parameter adaptation resolves mode mismatches by ensuring that both devices use compatible communication protocols and settings for successful communication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces a communication mode selection and translation mechanism that acts as an intermediary between devices using different communication modes. This mediator translates and coordinates between different protocols and modes, resolving conflicts and enabling reliable communication between devices with varying communication capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8774036B2Multi-mode mobile networking device
Publication Date: 2014.07.08 AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I L P
  • US8774036B2 patent drawing
  • US8774036B2 patent drawing
  • US8774036B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Establishing a mobile ad-hoc network between mobile network devices may include transmitting a signal from a first mobile network device using a plurality of communications formats. One or more other mobile network devices may receive the broadcast signal, select a communications format from the plurality of communications formats and respond to the signal using the selected communications format.