Multi-hop Wireless Network Path Management with Redundant Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current IEEE 802.16 wireless communication networks lack support for multi-hop networks with relay nodes, particularly in terms of congestion control, topology learning, and path diversity, leading to unreliable communication environments when relay stations are added or removed.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that implement a tree topology with active and redundant communication paths, using a Relay Station MAC layer to manage path selection and preamble transmission, allowing relay nodes to monitor and transmit preambles without disrupting normal operations, and incorporating congestion control mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If relay nodes are added to extend wireless network range, then communication distance is improved, but network reliability deteriorates due to lack of congestion control and topology management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where relay nodes monitor network conditions including congestion levels and topology changes. The congestion control system uses feedback from queue status and transmission success rates to dynamically adjust transmission parameters, while topology learning uses feedback from preamble monitoring to adapt to network reconfigurations, thereby maintaining reliability in extended multi-hop networks
Solution Approach 2:
Relay nodes autonomously perform self-configuration and self-optimization by monitoring their own network conditions and adjusting their behavior accordingly. The nodes independently implement congestion control based on local queue status and perform topology learning by monitoring preambles from other relay nodes, enabling the network to maintain reliability without centralized control in extended configurations
2Adaptability or versatility
If relay nodes dynamically join or leave the network, then network adaptability is improved, but communication reliability deteriorates due to topology changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary actions through proactive preamble transmission and monitoring before actual topology changes occur. Relay nodes continuously monitor preambles from potential joining nodes and prepare alternative paths in advance. When topology changes occur, the pre-configured monitoring and path selection mechanisms enable seamless transitions, maintaining communication reliability during dynamic network reconfigurations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic path selection and topology adaptation where relay nodes continuously adjust their communication paths based on real-time network conditions. The system dynamically reconfigures routes when relay nodes join or leave, using monitored preamble information to quickly establish new paths and maintain reliable communication despite ongoing topology changes
3Reliability
If sophisticated control protocols are implemented for multi-hop networks, then network reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex control functions into separate, modular components: congestion control operates independently at each relay node based on local queue status, while topology learning operates separately through preamble monitoring. This segmentation allows each function to be implemented with simple local logic rather than complex global protocols, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
Each relay node autonomously implements both congestion control and topology learning functions using locally available information. Nodes independently monitor their own queue status for congestion control and monitor preambles from other nodes for topology learning, eliminating the need for complex centralized control protocols and reducing system complexity while ensuring reliable communication
4Loss of information
If relay nodes monitor preambles for topology learning, then topology awareness is improved, but normal preamble transmission for mobile stations is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by having relay nodes monitor preambles only during specific time intervals rather than continuously. Relay nodes alternate between monitoring mode (for topology learning) and transmission mode (for serving mobile stations), using periodic monitoring cycles that allow both functions to operate without mutual disruption, maintaining both topology awareness and mobile station communication quality
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless communication system and method for a network having a tree topology. An initial path from a base station to an end relay node is selected. The path selection includes an active communication path and a redundant communication path. The path selection is based on at least one policy factor. The at least one policy factor is monitored and the path is updated based on a change to the monitored at least one policy factor.