Per-Node Packet Loss Measurement in Wireless Mesh Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current test methodologies for wireless networks, such as Ethernet, are inadequate for ad hoc wireless networks as they assume a uniform transmission medium and do not account for per-node packet loss, leading to inaccurate network viability assessments and potential battery drain due to excessive re-transmissions.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that measures per-node packet loss in wireless networks by using a node client element to generate packets with unique identifiers and a server element to parse and calculate packet loss, allowing for individual node testing and identification of overloaded nodes, thereby improving network configuration and battery life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current test methodologies are used to measure packet loss in wireless networks, then the testing process is simple and follows standard Ethernet procedures, but the measurement accuracy is insufficient because they assume a uniform transmission medium and do not account for per-node packet loss characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network testing function by introducing separate client elements at each node and a dedicated server element. Each client element independently measures packet loss for its specific node, while the server aggregates results. This segmentation enables per-node measurement accuracy without requiring a completely complex centralized system, as each node performs localized measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary server element that receives packet loss data from multiple client elements and performs centralized calculation and aggregation. This intermediary handles the complexity of combining per-node measurements into overall network viability assessment, allowing individual nodes to maintain simple measurement functions while achieving comprehensive network analysis through the mediating server.
2Reliability
If per-node packet loss measurement is implemented to improve network viability assessment, then accurate identification of overloaded nodes is achieved, but the device complexity and implementation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement function is segmented and distributed to client elements at each network node, allowing each node to independently measure its own packet loss characteristics. This segmentation enables reliable per-node assessment without requiring a complete redesign of the network infrastructure, as each node maintains its own measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The server element receives packet loss measurements from client elements and provides feedback about network viability and node performance. This feedback mechanism enables reliable network assessment by continuously monitoring and reporting on packet loss conditions, allowing network administrators to identify and address overloaded nodes based on objective measurement data.
3Loss of energy
If packet loss is not accurately measured at each node, then the testing methodology remains simple and follows standard procedures, but battery drain occurs due to excessive re-transmissions from overloaded nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary measurement of packet loss at each node before excessive re-transmissions occur. By continuously monitoring packet loss characteristics and identifying overloaded nodes through the server element, the system can detect problems early and enable corrective actions before battery drain becomes significant, preventing energy waste rather than responding after the fact.
Solution Approach 2:
The server element provides feedback about packet loss conditions to network administrators, enabling them to take corrective actions on overloaded nodes. This feedback loop prevents excessive re-transmissions by allowing timely intervention, thereby reducing battery drain on battery-powered devices in the network.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for configuring a wireless network, e.g., an ad hoc wireless network having a plurality of nodes and at least one server. In the wireless network, among other things, mesh network viability is maintained as packet loss information is recorded at a plurality of individual nodes in the wireless network during packet transmission from each of the plurality of nodes. The packet loss information may be stored at the at least one server for access at a period of time other than the moment when the packet is received at the at least one server from one of the plurality of nodes.