Modular Sensor Node Segmentation for Power Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless sensor network nodes are either inflexible and power-efficient for single applications or flexible but power-hungry for multiple applications, and they inefficiently utilize central processors for various tasks.
Innovation Solution
A modular sensor network node design featuring a system bus connected to sensor modules, a communication module, and a processing module, with a resource-specific low-power processor for module management and a distributed controller to regulate power and communication, separating data and control buses for efficient power use and task distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a powerful general-purpose central processor is used to support multiple applications, then adaptability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processing functionality is segmented into two distinct processors: a general-purpose processor for complex tasks and data analysis, and a resource-specific processor for routine sensor management and control. This segmentation allows the system to use only the necessary processing power for each task, avoiding the continuous high power consumption of a single powerful processor while maintaining adaptability through the general-purpose processor when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically allocates tasks between the two processors based on requirements. The resource-specific processor handles routine operations continuously, while the general-purpose processor activates only when complex processing is needed. This dynamic task allocation optimizes power consumption by keeping the high-power processor in low-power states during idle periods while maintaining system adaptability.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a low-power optimized processor is used for a specific application, then power consumption is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The processing functionality is segmented into two distinct processors: a general-purpose processor for complex tasks and data analysis, and a resource-specific processor for routine sensor management and control. This segmentation allows the system to use only the necessary processing power for each task, avoiding the continuous high power consumption of a single powerful processor while maintaining adaptability through the general-purpose processor when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The general-purpose processor provides universal processing capability that can handle multiple applications and complex tasks, while the resource-specific processor handles application-specific routine operations. Together, they create a multi-functional processing system that achieves both low power consumption for routine operations and high adaptability when the general-purpose processor is engaged.
3Device complexity
If a central processor handles all tasks including simple sensor management, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates due to inefficient processor utilization
Solution Approach 1:
The processing workload is segmented and distributed between two specialized processors. The resource-specific processor is dedicated to sensor management, data acquisition, and control functions, while the general-purpose processor handles complex data analysis, processing, and decision-making. This segmentation improves productivity by ensuring that simple tasks are handled efficiently by the specialized processor without being bottlenecked by the general-purpose processor's higher-level operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The resource-specific processor acts as an intermediary between the sensors and the general-purpose processor. It manages the sensors directly, performs preliminary processing, and communicates with the general-purpose processor only when complex processing is required. This intermediary role improves overall system productivity by reducing the communication overhead and task switching required if a single processor handled all functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A distributed wireless sensor network node is disclosed. The wireless sensor network node includes a plurality of sensor modules coupled to a system bus and configured to sense a parameter. The parameter may be an object, an event or any other parameter. The node collects data representative of the parameter. The node also includes a communication module coupled to the system bus and configured to allow the node to communicate with other nodes. The node also includes a processing module coupled to the system bus and adapted to receive the data from the sensor module and operable to analyze the data. The node also includes a power module connected to the system bus and operable to generate a regulated voltage.