NAN Mesh Data Path for Inter-Cluster Transmission
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Neighbor Awareness Networking (NAN) technologies lack an interface for transmitting data between clusters, limiting communication to multi-hop methods within the same cluster and preventing inter-cluster data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for establishing a mesh data path by updating the channel active period for NAN devices across different clusters based on a discovery beacon, enabling inter-cluster data transmission through the formation of NAN mesh data paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If multi-hop communication is used within the same cluster, then communication coverage is extended, but inter-cluster data transmission capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication system into multiple clusters, each maintaining its own multi-hop communication capabilities. Simultaneously, it introduces inter-cluster mesh data paths that act as bridges between these segmented clusters, allowing devices in different clusters to communicate while preserving the benefits of cluster-level segmentation for local communication efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces mesh data paths as intermediary communication channels between clusters. These mesh data paths serve as mediators that enable data transmission between devices in different clusters without requiring direct communication links, thus extending inter-cluster connectivity while maintaining the existing cluster structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If channel active period is updated for inter-cluster communication, then inter-cluster data transmission is enabled, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic channel active periods for NAN devices, where devices wake up at scheduled intervals to exchange discovery beacons and data. This periodic operation allows inter-cluster communication to occur only when necessary, rather than maintaining continuous communication channels, thereby reducing overall power consumption while enabling inter-cluster data transmission during active periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the channel active period based on communication requirements. When inter-cluster communication is needed, the active period is extended or triggered; when no communication is required, devices return to low-power states. This dynamic adjustment balances the need for inter-cluster connectivity with power conservation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mesh data path is established between clusters, then service discovery across clusters is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the mesh data path mechanism to serve multiple functions: it enables inter-cluster data transmission, supports service discovery across clusters, and maintains backward compatibility with existing intra-cluster communication. By making the mesh data path multi-functional, the system achieves enhanced versatility without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where devices automatically discover and establish mesh data paths with devices in other clusters without requiring manual configuration. The discovery beacon protocol enables devices to autonomously identify available inter-cluster paths and initiate communication, reducing the operational complexity for users while enabling cross-cluster service discovery.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A method for transmitting and receiving data between a first cluster and a second cluster by a first device of the first cluster, the first device, and a second device are provided. The method includes notifying a second device of the second cluster of a presence of the first device through a discovery beacon, transmitting information about a service that the first device provides to the second device, receiving a data path setup request from the second device that updates a channel active period to be equal to a channel active period of the first device based on the discovery beacon, and transmitting a data path setup response to the second device in response to the data path setup request, wherein a data path is established between the first device and the second device and is used to transmit or receive data to/from the second device.