Multicast Bridge Node for Cross-Network Data Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Multicast communication in tree-like networks often leads to network congestion and battery consumption due to unnecessary data forwarding, and members of a multicast group may not receive data as nodes are only configured for intra-network communication, especially when members are spread across multiple networks.

Innovation Solution

The techniques involve forming a Point-to-Multipoint Sub-Tree (PST) by intelligently forwarding multicast data along paths where group members are located, using a pruning state to limit unnecessary data forwarding and bridging communication between multiple networks to facilitate data distribution to members across separate networks by designating a node as a virtual member of the multicast group.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If nodes forward multicast data through the entire DODAG to the root node and back, then all members of the multicast group can receive data, but network congestion increases and battery consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulticast data deliveryVSAvoidbattery consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the DODAG into a Point-to-Multipoint Sub-Tree (PST) that includes only the necessary paths to reach multicast group members. By dividing the full tree structure into a smaller sub-tree containing only relevant branches, the system reduces unnecessary data forwarding while maintaining reliable delivery to all members.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts unnecessary branches from the full DODAG to form a minimized PST. By removing nodes and branches that do not lead to multicast members, the system eliminates redundant communications and reduces energy consumption while preserving the essential multicast delivery function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Adaptability or versatility

If nodes are configured for intra-PAN communication only, then network simplicity is maintained, but members of a multicast group spread across multiple networks cannot receive data

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecross-network multicast supportVSAvoidcommunication configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a bridge node that acts as an intermediary between different PANs. The bridge node receives multicast data from one network and forwards it to members in another network, enabling cross-network communication without requiring complex configuration changes to individual nodes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the bridge node multi-functional by enabling it to operate in both its home network and the remote network simultaneously. The bridge node can forward data between different PANs while maintaining its original function, thus adding cross-network capability without requiring every node to be reconfigured.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11290295B2Multi-network operation with member node for multicast groups

Publication Date: 2022.03.29 ITRON INC

AI summary

Techniques for bridging communication between multiple networks to facilitate distribution of multicast data are described herein. For example, a node that is able to communicate with its network and an adjacent network may send a subscription message indicating that the node is a member of a multicast group. The subscription message may be forwarded up both networks. The node may then forward, between the networks, data that is destined for members of the multicast group.