Wireless Communication Module Master Slave Role Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wireless communication technologies, such as Bluetooth and Bluetooth Low Energy, limit devices to operate as either masters or slaves in a communication relationship, restricting their ability to form mesh networks efficiently for data transmission and device-to-device interactions.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication module that operates as both a master and slave device using a time-division approach, enabling devices to switch between personas and form mesh networks for data token transmission without establishing full bond relationships, allowing for efficient data passing and device interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If devices operate as either master or slave in conventional wireless communication, then communication relationships are simplified, but the ability to form mesh networks is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The device dynamically switches between master and slave roles based on time-division multiplexing. The wireless communication interface alternates between operating as a master device and a slave device, allowing the same device to participate in multiple communication relationships with different devices at different times, thereby forming a mesh network topology without requiring complex simultaneous multi-role management
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs periodic switching between master and slave modes with defined time intervals. During master periods, the device transmits advertising data and establishes connections; during slave periods, it receives and forwards data from other devices. This periodic role switching enables mesh network formation while maintaining relatively simple communication protocols at any given moment
2Productivity
If devices establish full bond relationships for data transmission, then communication reliability is improved, but data transmission efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The data transmission process is segmented into discrete data tokens that are independently transmitted through the mesh network. Each data token is a self-contained unit that can be routed through different paths, allowing efficient transmission without requiring full bond relationships. The segmentation enables lightweight communication while maintaining reliability through token-based protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces data tokens as intermediary elements that facilitate communication between devices. Instead of establishing direct bond relationships, devices exchange data tokens that carry necessary information. The token acts as a mediator that enables reliable data transmission through the mesh network without requiring complex bonding procedures, thus improving transmission efficiency while maintaining reliability
3Adaptability or versatility
If devices switch between master and slave modes, then mesh network formation is enabled, but communication protocol complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication interface is designed with universal functionality to operate in both master and slave modes using the same communication protocol. The interface can seamlessly switch between roles without requiring separate protocol stacks or complex configuration, as the fundamental Bluetooth Low Energy protocol supports both roles. This multi-functionality enables mesh network formation while keeping the protocol implementation relatively simple and unified
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure teaches provision of a method that includes passing a data token from a first wirelessly connectable electronic nicotine delivery (END) device to a second wirelessly connectable END device. The method also includes using the token to control an aspect of the operation of a third wirelessly connectable device, the third wirelessly connectable device having an established communications relationship with the second wirelessly connectable END device.