Dynamic Traffic Class Capacity Allocation in LLNs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Low Power and Lossy Networks (LLNs) face challenges such as lossy links, low bandwidth, limited memory and processing capabilities, dynamic link and node metrics, and the need for constraint-routing, which affect packet delivery rates and routing stability in smart grid and smart city applications.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism for dynamic traffic class capacity allocation in LLNs, where devices identify traffic classes, determine routing requirements, and generate channel assignments to allocate channels based on these requirements, allowing nodes to route traffic efficiently across the network using channel-hopping schedules and multiple next-hop routes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If dynamic traffic class capacity allocation is implemented, then network capacity allocation efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network traffic into different traffic classes (e.g., high-priority and low-priority traffic) and allocates channel capacity dynamically based on traffic class. This segmentation allows the system to improve overall network capacity allocation efficiency by treating different traffic types differently, while the complexity is managed through standardized classification rules rather than complex individual processing for each packet
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic channel capacity allocation where the amount of channel capacity assigned to different traffic classes changes based on current network conditions and traffic requirements. This dynamic adjustment improves network productivity by adapting to varying demands, while the allocation follows systematic patterns that prevent excessive device complexity
2Loss of time
If high-priority traffic is prioritized, then communication latency for critical traffic is reduced, but overall network resource utilization may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of channel capacity allocation dynamically based on traffic class priority. High-priority traffic receives allocated channel capacity that guarantees low latency, while low-priority traffic receives remaining capacity. This parameter adjustment ensures critical traffic meets latency requirements while the system maintains overall resource utilization by efficiently utilizing available channel capacity across different priority levels
3Reliability
If channel hopping schedules are used, then the hidden-terminal problem is minimized, but synchronization requirements and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements channel hopping schedules where devices periodically switch between different channels according to predetermined patterns. This periodic channel switching mitigates the hidden-terminal problem by reducing the probability of simultaneous transmissions causing collisions. The synchronization complexity is managed through standardized hopping patterns that all devices in the network can follow, transforming a potentially complex coordination problem into a manageable periodic routine
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a device in a network identifies one or more traffic classes used by one or more nodes in the network. The device determines routing requirements for a particular traffic class of the one or more traffic classes. The device generates a channel assignment that assigns the particular traffic class to a particular channel based on the routing requirements for the particular traffic class. The device provides the channel assignment to the one or more nodes. The one or more nodes use the channel assignment to route traffic of the particular traffic class within the network.