Router Selection Using Link Layer Metrics in Infinite Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Infinite link layer environments pose challenges in router selection due to limitations in packet replication, where devices may not be able to communicate with all available routers, making traditional methods ineffective for choosing an optimal router.
Innovation Solution
A method that identifies nearby routers using link layer metrics such as hop count, energy consumption, or radio path characteristics to select an optimal router for minimizing signal relays and conserving network resources, overriding network layer metrics when necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional router selection methods are used in infinite link layer networks, then devices can select from all available routers, but devices cannot communicate with routers beyond maximum hop limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by prioritizing routers based on their proximity to the device (local characteristic). Instead of treating all routers equally, the system evaluates link layer metrics such as hop count and signal strength to identify the最优 (best) router in the local vicinity, ensuring reliable communication within the device's reachable range.
2Ease of operation
If devices select routers without considering link layer metrics, then router selection is simple, but the number of signal relays increases and network resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the selection parameters from simple network layer information to link layer metrics including hop count, signal strength, and energy consumption. By evaluating these additional parameters, the system optimizes router selection to minimize signal relays and energy usage while maintaining automated operation.
3Loss of energy
If packet replication limits are enforced to conserve bandwidth, then network bandwidth is preserved, but devices cannot address every router on the network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by having devices evaluate and select only a subset of accessible routers based on link layer metrics, rather than attempting to communicate with all routers in the network. This approach maintains bandwidth conservation while providing sufficient router selection capability for reliable communication.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus and computer program product are therefore provided in order to provide for efficient selection of a router (206, 208) for providing network services in an infinite link network. A mobile terminal (202) may identify nearby routers (206, 208) using link layer distance metrics in order to select an optimal router. The link layer distance metrics may provide a number of “hops” or other measure of physical distance between the mobile terminal (202) and the router (206, 208) in order to route packets to a router that is physically closest to the mobile terminal, which may result in a minimized number of relays for a packet transmitted from the terminal to the router, and vice-versa.