Hierarchical Sensor Network Dynamic Level Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hierarchical networks with sensor nodes are inflexible and cannot adapt to changing reception conditions, such as movement or changes in furniture, leading to potential 'island' formations where sensor nodes cannot communicate with the central network node due to broken communication paths.
Innovation Solution
A method where sensor nodes are commissioned one after the other with an initial hierarchical level and synchronization information, allowing them to communicate and adjust their levels based on the hierarchical level of other nodes, optimizing communication paths dynamically by changing levels if certain communication properties are met, such as signal strength or noise ratio, and using a temporary central network node to facilitate data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If sensor nodes are assigned fixed hierarchical levels during installation, then the network structure is initially established, but the network cannot adapt to changing reception conditions and may form communication islands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic hierarchical level adjustment where sensor nodes can change their hierarchical levels based on communication quality metrics. The system transitions from static fixed levels to dynamic adaptive levels, allowing nodes to move between levels to optimize communication paths and prevent island formations when reception conditions change
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where sensor nodes continuously monitor communication properties (signal strength, noise ratio) and use this information to adjust their hierarchical levels. This feedback loop enables the network to self-optimize and adapt to changing conditions, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and adaptability
2Productivity
If sensor nodes communicate using synchronization telegrams with hierarchical level information, then communication paths can be optimized, but additional communication overhead is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization telegram serves multiple functions simultaneously: it synchronizes communication timing between nodes, conveys hierarchical level information for path optimization, and enables level comparison for dynamic adjustment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate communication messages, minimizing overhead while maintaining productivity
3Adaptability or versatility
If sensor nodes dynamically change hierarchical levels based on communication properties, then the network becomes adaptable to changing conditions, but the complexity of level management increases
Solution Approach 1:
Sensor nodes autonomously determine their own hierarchical levels by comparing received level information with their current level and evaluating communication properties. Each node independently makes adjustment decisions without requiring centralized control, reducing management complexity while maintaining high adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The system manages complexity by focusing changes on a single critical parameter - the hierarchical level - rather than managing multiple communication parameters simultaneously. Nodes adjust their level parameter based on communication quality, simplifying the adaptation process while maintaining network flexibility
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for installing a hierarchical network with multiple sensor nodes, which communicate sensor measurements directly or indirectly to a central network node via sensor nodes, wherein sensor nodes are put into operation successively, and wherein a sensor node has an initial hierarchical level upon commissioning, in particular this level is assigned, and wherein a sensor node has synchronization information stored upon commissioning in order to be able to communicate with at least some, in particular with all, sensor nodes located in its reception area and in particular previously commissioned sensor nodes, and wherein at least one sensor node forms a central network node at least temporarily, in particular the one(s) with the lowest hierarchical level, and wherein a synchronization telegram is sent during communication between two sensor nodes or between a sensor node and a central network node.by which the hierarchical level of the sending node is communicated to the receiving node, and that during or after communication, one of the sensor nodes changes its hierarchical level depending on the hierarchical level of the other sensor node, wherein the execution of the change depends on at least one property of the communication.