Wireless Communication Apparatus Mode Switching for Overhead Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
In ad hoc and mesh networks, the control-related overhead increases when connections are made with surrounding wireless communication apparatuses to extend the network, leading to inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication apparatus that switches between two communication modes: a first mode for communication within a predetermined range and a second mode for communication over a wider range, allowing the apparatus to detect and connect to a third apparatus that satisfies specific conditions, optimizing data transmission and reducing overhead.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If connections are made with surrounding wireless communication apparatuses to extend the network, then network coverage is improved, but control-related overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wireless network into multiple communication modes: a first communication mode for nearby apparatuses within a predetermined range, and a second communication mode for distant apparatuses beyond that range. This segmentation allows the system to manage network connections efficiently by using different communication protocols depending on the distance and relationship between apparatuses, thereby reducing control overhead while maintaining extensive network coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using a third wireless communication apparatus as a relay point. When a first apparatus needs to communicate with a second apparatus that is beyond its direct communication range, it can route data through a third apparatus that satisfies predetermined conditions. This intermediary relay mechanism enables extended network coverage without requiring direct connections between all apparatuses, thus reducing the control overhead associated with managing direct connections to every surrounding device.
2Length of stationary object
If multi-hop relay is used to forward information, then communication range is extended, but network efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the treatment of nearby versus distant wireless communication apparatuses. For apparatuses within the predetermined range, the system uses the first communication mode which prioritizes efficiency. For apparatuses beyond this range, the system switches to the second communication mode that accommodates extended reach. This localized differentiation ensures that multi-hop relay is used only when necessary, maintaining network efficiency while achieving extended communication range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key parameters of the communication system by switching between two distinct communication modes. The first mode operates with parameters optimized for short-range, high-efficiency communication, while the second mode uses parameters suited for long-range communication. This parameter change approach allows the system to extend communication range to distant apparatuses without compromising the efficiency of communications with nearby apparatuses, as each mode is optimized for its specific use case.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a wireless communication apparatus including a communication unit that transmits and receives data in at least one communication mode from among a first communication mode in which wireless communication is conducted with other wireless communication apparatuses present within a predetermined range, and a second communication mode in which wireless communication is conducted with other wireless communication apparatuses present within a wider range than the predetermined range; and a control unit that, when data is being transmitted and received with a second wireless communication apparatus via one or a plurality of other wireless communication apparatuses in the first communication mode, configures the second communication mode and conducts a control for detecting a third wireless communication apparatus that satisfies a predetermined condition.