Multi-Protocol Coordinator for Single Physical Layer Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Different network types using the same physical layer often interfere with each other's transmissions, as they operate with incompatible protocols, making it challenging to coordinate their use without causing interference.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that employs a coordinator device to manage the resources of multiple network types by determining and allocating required resources for each network type, allowing them to share a single physical layer without interference through synchronized transmission cycles and protocol compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple network types share the same physical layer, then resource utilization is improved, but transmission interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The physical layer is segmented into distinct time slots for different network types. The coordinator divides transmission resources temporally, allocating specific time windows to each network type (e.g., HPNA and G.HN networks) so that they do not transmit simultaneously, thereby eliminating interference while maintaining high resource utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic transmission cycles where each network type is granted access to the physical layer in alternating periods. The coordinator establishes regular time-division multiplexing schedules, creating periodic transmission opportunities for each network type, which ensures structured resource sharing without conflict.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different network protocols operate simultaneously on the same physical layer, then network versatility is improved, but coordination complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A coordinator device is introduced as an intermediary between multiple network types sharing the physical layer. The coordinator translates resource allocation decisions into protocol-specific commands for each network type, managing the complexity of coordinating incompatible protocols while enabling versatile multi-network operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coordinator device is designed with multi-functional capabilities to handle multiple network protocols simultaneously. It can interpret and manage resources for different network types (HPNA, G.HN, etc.) using a universal resource allocation framework, reducing the need for separate coordination mechanisms for each protocol.
3Ease of operation
If networks allocate resources independently, then network autonomy is improved, but resource conflicts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coordinator implements feedback mechanisms where each network type reports its resource requirements and transmission status to the coordinator. Based on this feedback, the coordinator dynamically adjusts resource allocation to prevent conflicts while allowing each network to operate autonomously within its allocated resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The coordinator performs preliminary resource allocation before transmission cycles begin, pre-assigning time slots and bandwidth to each network type based on predicted requirements. This preliminary action prevents resource conflicts by establishing clear resource boundaries in advance, while networks maintain operational autonomy during their allocated periods.
Data Source
AI summary
A coordinator for coordinating the use of a physical layer between a first network operating using a first network protocol and a second network operating using a second network protocol different from the first network protocol, the network protocols being non-interoperable and supporting centralized management of nodes by a master device in each network respectively, including a receiver, a transmitter, a coordinator first network type device (CNTD1) and a coordinator second network type device (CNTD2), both coupled with the receiver and the transmitter, and a synchronizer and coordinator (SAC) coupled with the CNTD1 and CNTD2, the SAC including a required resources determinator, for determining the required resources of both networks for the next transmission cycle and for providing the required resources of one network to the other, wherein the master device of one network allocates resources to the other network and vice-versa.