Sensor Network Route Control Using Group and Individual Calls

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing communication systems struggle to dynamically and flexibly configure sensor networks based on environmental changes and user needs, leading to inefficiencies in data collection.

Innovation Solution

A data collection apparatus that uses common and unique identification information to group terminals and repeaters, enabling flexible communication modes for collective and individual communication, and dynamically sets communication routes based on reception levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If a camera is disposed at each position to collect image data, then image data can be collected at multiple positions, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of camerasVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A single camera is made to perform multiple functions by capturing images from multiple positions sequentially. The mobile platform enables the camera to occupy different spatial positions and capture images of the same target from various angles and distances, replacing what would traditionally require multiple fixed cameras.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from static multiple-camera architecture to a dynamic single-camera architecture. The camera is mounted on a mobile platform that can move to different positions and orientations, dynamically changing its spatial relationship with the target object to capture comprehensive image data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If multiple cameras are deployed to capture images from different positions, then comprehensive image data is obtained, but the cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompleteness of image dataVSAvoidnumber of cameras
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary positioning and planning to determine the optimal path and positions for the mobile platform to capture all necessary images. By pre-planning the capture sequence and positions, the system ensures comprehensive image data collection with a single camera, avoiding the need for multiple cameras.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from the captured images and positioning data to adjust the mobile platform's movement and capture strategy. The processor analyzes the captured images and determines whether additional positions need to be visited to ensure complete coverage, enabling adaptive optimization of the data collection process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If images are captured from multiple positions sequentially, then comprehensive data is collected, but the time required increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompleteness of dataVSAvoiddata collection time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The mobile platform follows a periodic or cyclic movement pattern to visit multiple predetermined positions and capture images at each position. This structured approach to sequential capture optimizes the time required by establishing a systematic routine for data collection across different positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-determines the optimal capture positions and sequence before data collection begins. By calculating and planning the movement path in advance based on the target object's characteristics and required view angles, the system minimizes unnecessary movement and optimizes the total data collection time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP4398636B1Data collection apparatus and method for controlling same
Publication Date: 2026.05.20 T & D CORP
  • EP4398636B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4398636B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4398636B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A data collection apparatus (20) that acts as a base terminal of a network (65) includes a first communication device (51) capable of communicating directly, or via at least one repeater (30), with a plurality of remote terminals (50) and a first communication control device (56) that controls communication by the first communication device. The first communication control device includes: a first communication mode (56x) for calling remote terminals and repeaters collectively using first identification information (71) for grouping the remote terminals and the repeaters; and a second communication mode (56y) for individually calling the remote terminals and the repeaters using second identification information (72) that is unique to the remote terminals and the repeaters. The first communication control apparatus sets a route based on the second identification information and the reception level acquired by a collective call of the remote terminals and the repeaters using the first communication mode, and collects data by calling the individual remote terminals in a group using the second communication mode.