Uplink Node Mode Switching for PLC Network Redundancy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for connecting data-generating devices to a backbone network, such as SmartMeters, face high installation costs and unreliable connections due to the need for dedicated infrastructure and variable radio signal strength, especially in sparsely populated areas.
Innovation Solution
A system combining a primary network with a secondary PLC/BPL network, where uplink nodes can switch between repeater and headend modes based on connection quality, allowing data packets to be routed through the secondary network if the primary network connection is poor, without requiring dedicated infrastructure, and self-organizing to ensure redundancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a primary network with dedicated infrastructure is used to connect data-generating devices to the backbone network, then connection reliability is improved, but installation cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the primary network (radio access network) and secondary network (PLC/BPL network) into a unified communication system where uplink nodes can operate in multiple modes. This merging allows the system to leverage both networks simultaneously, using the primary network for normal operation and the secondary network as backup, thereby improving reliability without requiring completely separate dedicated infrastructure for each network type.
Solution Approach 2:
Uplink nodes are designed with multi-functionality, capable of operating in both normal mode (using primary network) and repeater mode (using secondary network). This universal design allows the same hardware to serve multiple purposes, reducing the need for dedicated infrastructure while maintaining reliable connectivity through adaptive mode switching based on connection quality.
2Ease of manufacture
If wireless network is used to connect SmartMeters to the backbone network, then installation cost is reduced, but connection reliability deteriorates due to insufficient field strength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces uplink nodes as intermediary devices that can switch between primary network (radio) and secondary network (PLC/BPL) modes. These intermediaries enable low-cost wireless installation while maintaining reliability by providing an alternative communication path through the power line network when radio field strength is insufficient, particularly in basement rooms or areas with poor wireless coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operational parameters by switching between different communication modes (normal mode and repeater mode) based on connection quality. When radio signal parameters indicate poor field strength, the system transitions to using the PLC/BPL network, thereby maintaining reliable connectivity without requiring expensive infrastructure modifications or dedicated lines.
3Stability of the object's composition
If headends are deployed to manage BPL networks for connecting devices to the backbone network, then connection stability is improved, but installation effort and administrative complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the headend functionality from a centralized infrastructure component and distributes it to individual uplink nodes. Each uplink node can independently operate in normal mode or repeater mode without requiring a dedicated headend, thereby reducing installation effort and administrative complexity while maintaining connection stability through autonomous mode switching based on local connection quality conditions.
4Reliability
If redundant connection paths are implemented to ensure backup connectivity, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and administrative effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic mode switching between normal mode and repeater mode based on real-time connection quality assessment. This dynamic approach provides redundant connection paths without requiring complex static infrastructure, as the system adaptively selects the appropriate communication mode based on current conditions, thereby improving reliability while minimizing device complexity and administrative effort.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach provides a flexible, cost-effective, and reliable connection to the backbone network with minimal administrative effort, as uplink nodes can adapt to maintain connectivity even when primary network quality drops, reducing the need for dedicated hardware and infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
a secondary network which is configured on an energy supply network using PLC - Power-Line Communication - or using BPL - Broadband Power-Line
Implementation Method 2
a secondary network which is configured on an energy supply network using PLC - Power-Line Communication - or using BPL - Broadband Power-Line
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system for the redundant connection of a data-generating device to a backbone network, comprising: a primary network that enables the exchange of data packets with the backbone network; a secondary network that is configured on a power supply network using PLC (Power Line Communication) or BPL (Broadband Power Line); at least one data-generating device configured to generate data packets for transmission to the backbone network; several uplink nodes, each having a first interface for communication with the primary network and a second interface for communication with the secondary network, wherein the uplink nodes are configured to switch to a repeater mode or a headend mode for the secondary network.wherein switching to repeater mode or head-end mode is negotiated between the uplink nodes, and wherein at least one of the uplink nodes operates in head-end mode, wherein each uplink node is also configured to send a data packet to be transmitted via the first interface to the primary network or – if a threshold is not reached due to the quality of the connection to the primary network – via the second interface to the secondary network, and wherein an uplink node in head-end mode forwards a data packet received via its second interface from another uplink node to the primary network via the first interface. A corresponding method, an uplink node, and a method for negotiating the operating mode of an uplink node are further disclosed.