Beacon Selection in PLC Networks Using Connection Time Thresholds
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Solution Overview
Problem
In communication networks, particularly Power Line Communications (PLC), existing systems face challenges in efficiently selecting beacons for subsequent connections based on connection time and signal quality, leading to suboptimal network performance and increased traffic.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for beacon selection in PLC networks that evaluates connection times, signal quality indicators, and beacon quality indexes to categorize beacons into preference lists, prioritizing those with longer connection times, higher signal quality, and better success probabilities, allowing for sequential selection of switch devices for optimal communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If beacon selection is based on simple signal strength alone, then device complexity is reduced, but network performance and connection reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the selection parameters from simple signal strength to a composite metric incorporating connection time, signal quality indicators, and beacon quality indexes. This multi-parameter approach improves connection reliability while maintaining manageable device complexity through systematic evaluation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary evaluation of beacons by categorizing them into preference lists before actual connection establishment. This advance assessment based on historical connection data and signal quality metrics ensures reliable connections without increasing real-time decision complexity.
2Reliability
If all beacons are evaluated in detail, then connection reliability improves, but network traffic and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments beacons into preference lists based on evaluation criteria, organizing them by connection time thresholds and signal quality categories. This segmentation allows efficient retrieval of suitable beacons without evaluating all beacons in detail, reducing selection time while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different evaluation criteria to different beacon categories within preference lists. Beacons are assessed based on their specific characteristics (connection time, signal quality) and placed in appropriate list portions, enabling targeted selection without uniform detailed evaluation of all beacons.
3Loss of energy
If connection time threshold filtering is applied, then network traffic is reduced, but beacon selection adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic threshold adjustment where connection time thresholds are adapted based on network conditions and historical performance data. The system can adjust the first and second threshold values to balance traffic reduction with selection adaptability, allowing the filtering mechanism to respond to changing network environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback from connection outcomes to refine beacon selection criteria. By monitoring connection success rates and adjusting preference list population strategies accordingly, the system maintains adaptability while benefiting from traffic reduction through threshold-based filtering.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for beacon selection in communication networks are described. In various implementations, these systems and methods may be applicable to Power Line Communications (PLC). For example, a method may include performing, using a terminal device deployed in a communications network, receiving a beacon transmitted by a switch device within the communications network and, in response to the terminal device having had a previous connection with the switch device, determining a connection time of the previous connection. The method may also include performing at least one of: adding the switch device to a blacklist in response to the connection time being smaller than a first threshold value, or selecting the switch device for subsequent communication in response to the connection time being greater than a second threshold value.