PLC-RF Frequency Hopping Synchronization During RF Interruptions
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Solution Overview
Problem
In PLC-RF integrated networks, temporary RF communication interruptions cause misalignment of frequency hopping timings, leading to network instability and the need for additional control information transmission, which introduces delays and routing changes.
Innovation Solution
A method for wireless channel frequency hopping synchronization in PLC-RF integrated networks, where nodes transmit and receive frequency hopping data via PLC or RF media to ensure consistent broadcast frequency hopping timings across the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If nodes continuously exchange frequency hopping data via RF media to maintain synchronization, then frequency hopping timing alignment is improved, but network stability deteriorates due to additional control information transmission during RF interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces PLC media as an intermediary channel to transmit frequency hopping data. When RF media experiences interruptions, nodes can alternatively exchange synchronization information through PLC media, which is less susceptible to RF interference. This dual-media approach ensures continuous synchronization without relying solely on RF control information transmission, thereby maintaining network stability while preserving timing alignment.
2Speed
If nodes use RF media for all frequency hopping data transmission, then communication speed is improved, but loss of information occurs during RF interruptions causing timing misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a redundancy mechanism where frequency hopping data can be transmitted through both RF and PLC media simultaneously or alternatively. This beforehand cushioning ensures that if RF media fails to deliver the data due to interruptions, the information is already available through PLC media, preventing data loss and timing misalignment while maintaining high communication speed during normal RF operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for wireless channel frequency hopping synchronization in a PLC-RF integrated network having a first node, a second node, at least one PLC media and a RF media includes one of following characteristics: the first node uses the PLC media to transmit first frequency hopping data, and the second node receives the first frequency hopping data and then uses the first frequency hopping data to transmit or receive a packet on the RF media; the first node uses the PLC media to transmit second frequency hopping data, and the second node receives the second frequency hopping data and then transmits the second frequency hopping data on the PLC media; and the first node uses the RF media to transmit third frequency hopping data, and the second node receives the third frequency hopping data and then transmits the third frequency hopping data on the PLC media.