Wireless Mesh Routing via RF Distance Virtual Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network routing methods face inefficiencies and inaccuracies, particularly in wireless mesh networks, due to the need for precise geographic location information of nodes, which can be burdensome and unreliable, especially when nodes have asymmetrical or obstructed range patterns.
Innovation Solution
A system for automatic and centralized coordinate assignment in wireless networks, where a central computer computes and assigns geographical coordinates, using RF distance information to determine virtual node locations, reducing the reliance on accurate geographic data and improving routing efficiency by using RF-distance-based topology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If geographic location information is used for routing decisions, then routing efficiency may be improved, but the burden of obtaining accurate geographic data increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of geographic locations that represent RF communication characteristics without requiring actual geographic coordinates. Each node receives a virtual location that copies the essential routing information needed for geo-routing while eliminating the need for GPS or manual location entry, thus improving both efficiency and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/GPS-based location determination system with an RF-based virtual location assignment system. Instead of using physical geographic coordinates obtained through GPS or manual entry, the system uses RF distance measurements and central computer assignment to create virtual locations that function equivalently for routing purposes
2Ease of operation
If actual geographic coordinates are used for all nodes, then routing decisions can be made, but the complexity of obtaining and maintaining accurate location data for each node increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables nodes to self-configure with virtual locations through automated RF measurements and central computer processing. Nodes automatically provide RF distance information to their neighbors, and the central computer automatically assigns virtual locations, eliminating the need for manual configuration and reducing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual location system serves multiple functions: it provides routing information, represents RF communication characteristics, and eliminates the need for GPS or manual location entry across all node types in the network, simplifying the overall system
3Productivity
If nodes are assigned virtual locations based on RF distance, then routing efficiency improves by avoiding dead ends, but the accuracy of location representation relative to physical position decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter used for location representation from physical geographic coordinates to virtual RF-based coordinates. This parameter change allows the system to optimize for RF communication characteristics rather than physical position, improving routing efficiency by aligning location data with actual communication paths
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods used in a wireless network employing geographical routing using virtual node locations. Such virtual node locations can be computed by a central computer that gathers information from some or all of the nodes. Each node may, for example, identify itself and its neighbors and provide a value indicative of the radio frequency (RF) distance to such neighbors. Examples of RF distance indicators include, but are not limited to, received signal strength indication (RSSI) and packet success rate (PSR). Geographic coordinates for none or some of the nodes may also be used to determine the virtual coordinates.