Sensor Data Collection via Mobile Relay Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data collection from sensors using wireless communication often results in reduced battery life due to long-range data broadcasting, necessitating more robust and expensive devices, which is unjustified for applications requiring only periodic data collection, as they often involve unnecessary real-time messaging infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a mobile device to collect data at short ranges and upload it to a central repository, employing Bluetooth Low Energy technology for low-power communication, allowing sensors to transmit data intermittently and reducing the need for long-range communication, thereby extending battery life and minimizing upfront investment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If sensors broadcast data over long distances using wireless communication, then data can be collected from remote locations, but battery life of the sensors is drastically reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces wireless access points as intermediary devices that collect data from sensors at short range and relay it to the central repository. This mediator approach allows sensors to communicate only over short distances while still achieving long-range data collection through the intermediary access points.
Solution Approach 2:
The data collection system is segmented into multiple components: sensors that collect data locally, wireless access points that collect from sensors and relay to central repository, and a central repository. This segmentation allows each component to operate at optimal ranges, with sensors using only short-range transmission.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the number of wireless access points is increased to optimize battery life, then sensors can transmit information shorter distances, but upfront investment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless access points serve multiple functions: they act as data collectors from sensors, as relay nodes to the central repository, and potentially as power sources or data validation points. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows sensors to autonomously transmit data to the nearest accessible wireless access point without requiring centralized coordination or complex infrastructure planning. The sensors self-manage their data transmission to available access points along their deployment route.
3Length of stationary object
If robust sensors with long-range communication capabilities are used, then data collection coverage is extended, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive, simple sensors that lack long-range communication capabilities. These sensors are deployed in large numbers at strategic locations along anticipated sensor routes, providing cost-effective coverage without requiring each individual sensor to have robust long-range transmission hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system are disclosed that collect data from various devices, such as sensors, to a mobile device traveling in proximity to such devices. The mobile device may travel with a user who is traveling a regular-scheduled route. The devices may output a signal at a low frequency to preserve battery power. The mobile device may form an ad hoc connection with the devices using Bluetooth Low Energy, for example, and retrieve the data while the mobile device is in proximity to each of the devices. In this manner, the devices do not need to transmit data over long ranges or at a high speed, thereby preserving batter power for the devices.