Wireless Mesh Node Addition via Automatic Proxy Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for adding new nodes to a wireless network are either costly and time-consuming due to the need for human intervention or cause significant disruption to the network by temporarily changing network settings of all nodes.
Innovation Solution
The use of a site controller to automatically identify and select cover nodes that can act as proxies to update the network settings of a new target node, minimizing human intervention and network disruption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual proxy selection is used, then network stability is maintained, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic proxy selection where the wireless network itself identifies and assigns a suitable proxy node without human intervention. The site controller automatically selects a proxy node based on network topology and communicates configuration details to the target node, eliminating the need for manual proxy identification while maintaining network stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of physically locating and selecting a proxy node with an automated electronic system. The site controller uses electronic communication to identify suitable proxy nodes and transmit configuration data, substituting the manual visual inspection and physical selection process with automated digital operations.
2Extent of automation
If all nodes attempt communication with target node, then automation increases, but network disruption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into distinct roles: site controllers that manage configuration and target nodes that need joining. The site controller centrally coordinates the proxy selection process, preventing all nodes from simultaneously attempting communication. Instead, only selected proxy nodes perform the configuration task, segmenting the automated action to minimize network disruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The site controller performs preliminary actions by pre-identifying suitable proxy nodes and preparing configuration data before the target node joins the network. This advance preparation allows the proxy node to be ready with correct network settings, eliminating the need for all nodes to simultaneously attempt communication and reducing network disruption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If proxy node changes network settings, then target node can join network, but network stability temporarily decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a site controller as an intermediary between the target node and the proxy node. The site controller mediates the configuration process by selecting an appropriate proxy node and communicating the correct network settings to the target node. This intermediary coordination ensures that proxy nodes change settings only when necessary and return to normal operation quickly, minimizing impact on network stability while enabling successful node joining.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for selecting a suitable proxy to be used for adding a new node to an existing wireless mesh network and quickly finding the new node and bringing it into a wireless mesh network. More specifically, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, a neighbor of the target node can be automatically and quickly found and used as a proxy to update the network settings of the target node, enabling the target node to communicate on an existing network. In some embodiments, a proxy node can be selected based on relative locations of the new and existing nodes, as indicated by a site map.