Predictive Connectivity Diagnostics for Wireless Mesh Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional hardwired I/O communication networks in process control systems are prone to degradation due to environmental stresses, are costly, and difficult to reconfigure, while wireless mesh networks lack predictive diagnostics for potential connectivity issues that could impact the entire network.
Innovation Solution
Implement predictive diagnostics in wireless mesh networks to identify potential connectivity issues such as pinch points, low battery conditions, and communication path instability, simulating network failures to predict affected nodes and generate predictions for pinch points and required additional neighbors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hardwired I/O communication networks are used, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional hardwired mechanical communication infrastructure with wireless mesh network technology. WirelessHART field devices communicate via wireless mesh networks instead of physical wiring, eliminating the need for complex hardwired I/O communication infrastructure while maintaining communication reliability through redundant wireless paths and automatic route selection.
2Ease of manufacture
If wireless mesh networks are deployed, then ease of installation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to lack of predictive diagnostics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements predictive connectivity diagnostics that proactively identify potential communication failures before they occur. The system performs preliminary assessments of wireless signal strength, pinching points, and battery conditions to anticipate connectivity issues, enabling preventive maintenance actions that maintain network reliability while preserving the installation simplicity of wireless mesh networks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes continuous feedback loops where wireless field devices report connectivity metrics (signal strength, battery status, route stability) to the control system. This feedback enables real-time monitoring and predictive analysis of network health, allowing the system to adapt and maintain reliability without compromising the ease of wireless deployment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wireless mesh networks are used, then adaptability is improved, but reliability worsens due to connectivity issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary predictive analysis to identify potential connectivity problems such as pinching points and unstable communication paths before they affect network operations. By anticipating these issues in advance, the system can take preventive measures to maintain reliable communication while preserving the adaptability of wireless mesh networks for various deployment scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
Predictive wireless connectivity diagnostics for a wireless mesh network in a process control system includes generating predicted pinch points and potential pinch points in response to a connectivity condition. The connectivity condition is an anticipated failure of a communication ability within the wireless mesh network. The predicted pinch points are generated as a function of the failure of the communication ability and communication paths within the wireless mesh network. The potential pinch points are generated as a function of the failure of the communication ability and the number of neighbors in direct wireless communication for each wireless node. The potential pinch point is a wireless node that has less than a threshold number of neighboring wireless communication devices in direct wireless communication with the wireless node.