Master Device Election in Neighborhood Aware Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Neighborhood Aware Networks (NAN), there is a lack of an efficient method to determine a master device that can effectively synchronize and manage other devices within a cluster, especially in scenarios where multiple devices contest for the master role based on varying numbers of peer devices and signal quality.
Innovation Solution
A method where devices calculate a master rank value based on the number of responding peer devices, signal quality measurements, and a random factor, with the device having the highest master rank value being designated as the master device within the NAN cluster.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If devices use a simple method to determine master role, then device complexity is reduced, but network stability and synchronization reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the master determination process from a simple role assignment to a multi-parameter evaluation system. Devices calculate master rank values based on multiple parameters including peer device count, signal quality metrics (RSSI, SNR), and communication reliability indicators. This parameter-based approach resolves the contradiction by maintaining low computational complexity while achieving high network stability through comprehensive device assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical master election methods (such as random selection or fixed hierarchy) with a signal-quality-based evaluation system. By substituting physical signal characteristics (RSSI, SNR measurements) for arbitrary master selection mechanisms, the system achieves both simplicity and reliability simultaneously.
2Measurement precision
If devices calculate master rank value based on multiple parameters, then network synchronization accuracy is improved, but calculation complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the master rank calculation into distinct modular components: peer device counting, signal quality measurement (RSSI/SNR), communication reliability assessment, and random factor integration. Each segment processes specific parameters independently, then combines results through weighted summation. This segmentation maintains measurement precision while reducing overall calculation complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a tiered calculation approach where devices perform mandatory basic parameter measurements (peer count, RSSI) and optional advanced measurements (SNR, communication reliability) based on network conditions. This partial action principle allows devices to achieve sufficient accuracy without always performing the complete set of complex calculations, thereby balancing precision with computational efficiency.
3Reliability
If devices use signal quality measurements for master determination, then network connectivity management is enhanced, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic signal quality measurements at discovery window boundaries rather than continuous monitoring. Devices measure RSSI and SNR parameters at these periodic intervals to update their master rank calculations, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining reliable connectivity management. The periodic action ensures network stability without the overhead of continuous measurement.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for determining a master device in a neighborhood aware network (NAN). The method includes identifying a number of peer devices located within communication range of a first device and that are capable of communicating via the NAN. A master rank value associated with a corresponding peer device is retrieved from each received response. A first master rank value is calculated for the first device, at least partially based on the number of responding peer devices. The first master rank value is compared with the received master rank values of the responding peer devices. In response to the first master rank value being greater than each of the received master rank values, the first device assumes a role of a master device within a NAN cluster that includes the first device and the responding peer devices.