WO2016088302A1

WO2016088302A1 - Information processing apparatus, information processing method and non-transitory computer-readable medium in a mesh network

Info

Publication number: WO2016088302A1
Application number: PCT/JP2015/005619
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kenzoh Nishikawa; Natsuki Itaya; Kazuyuki Sakoda; Erika Saito; Chihiro Fujita
Original assignee: Sony Corporation
Priority date: 2014-12-05
Filing date: 2015-11-11
Publication date: 2016-06-09
Also published as: JP2016111488A

Abstract

An information processing apparatus included in a mesh network has circuitry that determines a processing load of the information processing apparatus, and that sets a network path quality value based on at least the processing load.

Description

INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIUM

The present technology relates to an information processing apparatus. Specifically, the present technology relates to an information processing apparatus and an information processing method handling information relating to radio communication and a program causing a computer to execute the method.

In related art, there are radio communication technologies for exchanging various kinds of data through radio communication. For example, a communication method autonomously making a connection with an information processing apparatus present on the periphery thereof (for example, ad hoc communication or an ad hoc network) has been proposed.

In addition, a communication method in which data transmission (a so-called bucket brigade) is executed using a relay node, and communication with an information processing apparatus located far is executed (for example, a multi-hop relay in a mesh network) has been proposed.

In a case where a multi-hop relay is executed as such, there are cases where a plurality of communication paths of multi-hops is present. Thus, in a case where a plurality of communication paths of multi-hops is present, it can be configured such that a sum of metric values of links passing each of the plurality of communication paths is acquired, and a link of which the sum is smallest is set as a communication path.

In addition, for example, a radio terminal has been proposed which sets route weighting factors in consideration of delay amounts and searches for an optimal route in consideration of a data transmission delay of a neighboring terminal (for example, see Patent Literature 1).

Furthermore, for example, a network path setting method of acquiring a path candidate for a session based on the number of hops has been proposed (for example, see Patent Literature 2). In this network path setting method, in a case where there is a plurality of path candidates, for each path candidate, a traffic tolerance of the path candidate is calculated, and the path of a session is selected and set by using the traffic tolerance as an evaluation parameter.

JP 2003-152786A JP 2007-74564A

Summary

In the related art described above, a technology for reducing the amount of consumption of radio resources and selecting a path decreasing the delay has been disclosed.

Here, for example, among relay apparatuses relaying (transmitting) data, a case may be also considered in which there is a relay apparatus executing a heavy-load process. In addition, for example, under a radio environment in which radio-frequency resources are shared with the other information processing apparatuses, a collision or interference occurs depending on the communication status of the other information processing apparatuses, and thus, the communication environment may be considered to be unstable. In addition, since there are various requests of applications that use the radio communication environment, there is concern that a communication path not satisfying a request from an application may be selected. Thus, in consideration of these, it is important to appropriately select a communication path.

The present technology is made in consideration of such situations, and it is desirable to appropriately select a communication path.

The present technology is for solving the above-described problems, and, according to a first aspect, there are provided an information processing apparatus including: a communication unit that exchanges information with each information processing apparatus configuring a network in which a plurality of information processing apparatuses is interconnected through one-to-one radio communication executed by the plurality of information processing apparatuses; and a control unit that controls a selection of a communication path used for exchanging the information based on a processing load amount of the information processing apparatus or a degree of congestion of the communication path between the information processing apparatus and the other information processing apparatuses, an information processing method thereof, and a program causing a computer to execute the method. Accordingly, an operation of selecting a communication path based on a processing load amount of the information processing apparatus or a degree of congestion of a communication path between the information processing apparatus and the other information processing apparatuses is acquired.

In addition, in the first aspect, the control unit may calculate a communication path quality value used at the time of selecting the communication path based on the processing load amount or the degree of congestion and selects the communication path based on the communication path quality value. In such a case, an operation of calculating a communication path quality value based on the processing load amount or the degree of congestion and selecting the communication path based on the communication path quality value is acquired.

In addition, in the first aspect, the control unit may acquire the processing load amount based on the number of communication paths passing through the information processing apparatus among communication paths of information exchanged between the information processing apparatuses configuring the network. In such a case, an operation of acquiring the processing load amount based on the number of communication paths passing through the information processing apparatus among communication paths of information exchanged between the information processing apparatuses configuring the network is acquired.

In addition, in the first aspect, the control unit may acquire the processing load amount based on a traffic volume that is transmitted or received by the information processing apparatus. In such a case, an operation of acquiring the processing load amount based on a traffic volume that is transmitted or received by the information processing apparatus is acquired.

In addition, in the first aspect, the control unit may acquire the processing load amount based on a result of a comparison between a traffic volume, which is received by the information processing apparatus, relating to information that is transmitted and received through the information processing apparatus among information exchanged between the information processing apparatuses configuring the network and a traffic volume transmitted by the information processing apparatus. In such a case, an operation of acquiring the processing load amount based on a result of a comparison between a traffic volume received by the information processing apparatus and a traffic volume transmitted by the information processing apparatus, relating to information that is transmitted and received through the information processing apparatus is acquired.

In addition, in the first aspect, the control unit may acquire the degree of congestion based on the number of times of retransmission executed by the information processing apparatus. In such a case, an operation of acquiring the degree of congestion based on the number of times of retransmission executed by the information processing apparatus is acquired.

In addition, in the first aspect, the control unit may acquire the degree of congestion based on the number of information processing apparatuses that are directly communicable with the information processing apparatus among the information processing apparatuses configuring the network. In such a case, an operation of acquiring the degree of congestion based on the number of information processing apparatuses that are directly communicable with the information processing apparatus among the information processing apparatuses configuring the network is acquired.

In addition, in the first aspect, the control unit may acquire the degree of congestion based on a variation amount of a communication delay in the information processing apparatus. In such a case, an operation of acquiring the degree of congestion based on a variation amount of a communication delay in the information processing apparatus is acquired.

In addition, according to a second aspect of the present technology, there are provided an information processing apparatus including: a communication unit that exchanges information with each information processing apparatus configuring a network in which a plurality of information processing apparatuses is interconnected through one-to-one radio communication executed by the plurality of information processing apparatuses; and a control unit that controls a selection of a communication path used for exchanging the information based on an application set in the information processing apparatus, an information processing method thereof, and a program causing a computer to execute the method. Accordingly, an operation of selecting a communication path based on an application set in the information processing apparatus is acquired.

In addition, in the second aspect, the control unit may change relative weights of elements used for calculating a communication path quality value used at the time of selecting the communication path based on the set application. In such a case, an operation of changing relative weights of elements used for calculating a communication path quality value based on the set application is acquired.

In addition, in the second aspect, the control unit may calculate the communication path quality value based on the relative weights after the change, a communication rate, a packet error rate, a delay amount, a processing load amount, a the degree of congestion and may select the communication path based on the communication path quality value. In such a case, an operation of calculating the communication path quality value based on the relative weights after the change, the communication rate, the packet error rate, the delay amount, the processing load amount, and the degree of congestion and selecting the communication path based on the communication path quality value is acquired.

In a third aspect, an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network includes circuitry that determines a processing load of the information processing apparatus, and that sets a network path quality value based on at least the processing load.

In a fourth aspect, an information processing method for an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, includes determining, with circuitry, a processing load of the information processing apparatus. The method also includes setting, with the circuitry, a network path quality value based on at least the processing load.

In a fifth aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable medium encoded with computer-readable instructions that, when executed by circuitry, cause the circuitry to perform an information processing method for an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network. The method includes determining a processing load of the information processing apparatus, and setting a network path quality value based on at least the processing load.

In a sixth aspect, an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, includes circuitry that determines a network path based on network path quality values included in received information, where the network path quality values are set based on processing load of other information processing apparatuses included in the mesh network.

In a seventh aspect, an information processing method for an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network. The method includes determining, with circuitry, a network path based on network path quality values included in received information, where the network path quality values are sent based on processing load of other information processing apparatuses included in the mesh network.

In an eighth aspect, A non-transitory computer-readable medium encoded with computer-readable instructions that, when executed by circuitry, cause the circuitry to perform an information processing method for an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network. The method includes determining a network path based on network path quality values included in received information, where the network path quality values are sent based on processing load of other information processing apparatuses included in the mesh network.

According to the present technology, a superior advantage of appropriately selecting a communication path is acquired. The advantages described here are not necessarily limited, and any one of the advantages described in the present disclosure may be achieved.

Fig. 1 is a diagram that illustrates the system configuration of a communication system 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 2 is a block diagram that illustrates an example of the internal configuration of an information processing apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 3 is a diagram that schematically illustrates an example of a transmission destination information management table of relay paths that is maintained by each information processing apparatus configuring the communication system 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 4 is a diagram that schematically illustrates an example of a neighboring apparatus information management table that is maintained by each information processing apparatus configuring the communication system 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 5 is a diagram that illustrates an example of the relation between modes and weighting parameters set by each information processing apparatus configuring the communication system 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 6 is a flowchart that illustrates an example of the processing sequence of a communication path selecting process executed by the information processing apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 7 is a flowchart that illustrates an example of the processing sequence of the communication path selecting process executed by the information processing apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 8 is a flowchart that illustrates an example of the processing sequence of the communication path selecting process executed by the information processing apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 9 is a block diagram that illustrates an example of the schematic configuration of a smartphone. Fig. 10 is a block diagram that illustrates an example of the schematic configuration of a car navigation apparatus.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present technology (hereinafter, referred to as embodiments) will be described. Description will be presented in the following order.
1. Embodiment (Example of Selecting Communication Path Based on at Least One of Processing Load Amount of Apparatus, Degree of Congestion of Communication Path between Apparatus and Other Apparatuses, and Application)
2. Application Example

<1. Embodiment>
"Configuration Example of Communication System"
Fig. 1 is a diagram that illustrates the system configuration of a communication system 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

The communication system 10 includes information processing apparatuses 100 to 104. In Fig. 1, relations between information processing apparatuses that are directly communicable with each other are denoted by dotted-line arrows.

Each information processing apparatus (device) configuring the communication system 10, for example, is either a mobile-type information processing apparatus having a radio communication (for example, wireless local area network (LAN)) function or a fixed-type information processing apparatus. Here, the mobile-type information processing apparatus is a radio communication apparatus such as a smartphone, a mobile phone, or a tablet terminal, and the fixed-type information processing apparatus is an information processing apparatus such as a printer or a personal computer.

The communication system 10 is an example of a radio mesh network (for example, IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers) 802.11s). In other words, the communication system 10 is an example of a network in which a plurality of information processing apparatuses is interconnected through one-to-one radio communication executed by the plurality of information processing apparatuses. In addition, the communication system 10 is an example of a radio communication system in which each information processing apparatus acquires a communication path quality value (metric value) between the apparatus and each neighboring apparatus (an information processing apparatus located neighboring thereto) and determines a communication path based on a combined value of such values of multi-hop paths. Here, a neighboring information processing apparatus represents an information processing apparatus that is directly communicable, for example, by using radio communication. In an embodiment of the present technology, mainly, a communication path selection in a radio mesh network will be described.

Here, the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 configuring the communication system 10 can transmit information to be exchanged with the other information processing apparatuses in a bucket brigade manner instead of being autonomously connected to the other information processing apparatuses present on the periphery. In other words, each information processing apparatus not only can transmit/receive data (traffic) of the information processing apparatus but also can relay data (traffic) transmitted/received by the other information processing apparatuses.

For example, it is assumed that the information processing apparatus 101 is directly communicable with each of the

information processing apparatuses

103 and 104 but is not directly communicable with the

information processing apparatuses

100 and 102 due to no arrival of electric waves or the like.

Even in a case where direct communication is not executable as above, the information processing apparatus 103 that is directly communicable with the information processing apparatus 102 can transmit data of the information processing apparatus 101 to the information processing apparatus 102. Thus, by transmitting data in this way, the information processing apparatus 101 and the information processing apparatus 102 that is not directly communicable with the information processing apparatus 101 can exchange information thereof through the information processing apparatus 103. In other words, the information processing apparatus 101 is not directly communicable with the information processing apparatus 102 but can communicate with the information processing apparatus 102 as the information processing apparatus 103 or the like relays data of the information processing apparatus 101. Similarly, the information processing apparatus 101 can communicate with the information processing apparatus 100.

The method of communicating with a remote information processing apparatus by executing data transmission (a so-called bucket brigade) using a relay node as above is called a multi-hop relay. In addition, a network executing the multi-hopping is generally known as a mesh network.

As above, in a case where the multi-hop relay is executed, there are cases where a plurality of communication paths of multi-hopping is present. Thus, in a case where a plurality of communication paths of multi-hopping is present, a sum of metric values of links passing through each of the plurality of communication paths is acquired, and a link of which the sum is minimal may be selected as the communication path. A method of selecting a communication path based on metric values will be described.

First, a method of calculating a communication path quality value (metric value) used for the selection of a communication path will be described. This communication path quality value (metric value) Ca, for example, may be acquired by using the following Equation 1 according to the specification of IEEE 802.11-2012.
Ca = {O + (Bt/r)}/(1 - ef) ... Equation 1

Here, r is a value that represents a transmission rate (data rate) (Mb/S). In addition, ef is a value that represents a packet error rate (frame error rate). Bt is a value that represents a frame size. In addition, O is a value that is specific to a physical layer (PHY).

Each of the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 configuring the communication system 10 can acquire a communication path quality value (metric value) Ca for each communication link between neighboring information processing apparatuses by using Equation 1 described above. In Fig. 1, a communication path quality value (metric value) Ca in a communication link is represented near each dotted-line arrow. In addition, in Fig. 1, for the convenience of description, simplified numerical values are illustrated as communication path quality values (metric values) Ca in communication links.

Next, a radio mesh network in which a selection of a communication path can be made based on metric values will be described as an example. In this radio mesh network, data can be transmitted to an information processing apparatus that is a final destination through multi-hopping by executing a relay of a data packet by using each information processing apparatus. The metric values are used for a selection of a path through which the data packet is transmitted at that time.

For example, an information processing apparatus that is a data transmission source transmits a control signal PREQ used for selecting a communication path through broadcast. This PREQ is a control signal used for requesting a path evaluation. In the signal PREQ, an area in which information representing an information processing apparatus that is the final transmission destination of data is stored and an area in which metric values are stored are present.

In addition, an information processing apparatus that has received the signal PREQ (packet) calculates a metric value of a link with an information processing apparatus (neighboring information processing apparatus) that has transmitted the signal PREQ. Then, the information processing apparatus that has received the signal PREQ adds the calculated metric value to a metric value included in the received signal PREQ and transmits the signal PREQ including the metric value after the addition through broadcast.

As the signal PREQ is transmitted in that way, each information processing apparatus receives a plurality of signals PREQ passing through various communication paths.

Thus, an information processing apparatus that is the final destination of the data transmits a control signal PREP used for a notification of a path selection through unicast to an information processing apparatus (neighboring information processing apparatus) that has transmitted the signal PREQ having the minimal metric value among a plurality of received signals PREQ.

The information processing apparatus that has received the signal PREP records the information processing apparatus (neighboring information processing apparatus) that has transmitted the signal PREP (packet) in a memory (for example, corresponding to a memory unit 130 illustrated in Fig. 2) as a transmission destination of a case where the data is relayed to the final transmission destination of the data. In addition, the information processing apparatus that has received the signal PREP transmits the signal PREP to an information processing apparatus (neighboring information processing apparatus) that has transmitted the signal PREQ of which the metric value is minimal among a plurality of received signals PREQ through unicast.

As above, each information processing apparatus exchanges the signals PREQ and PREP with neighboring information processing apparatuses. As a result of the exchange, each information processing apparatus determines an information processing apparatus (neighboring information processing apparatus) of the transmission destination of a case where data is relayed to the final transmission destination of the data. In other words, each information processing apparatus selects a communication path of which a sum of metric values of each link is minimal and determines the information processing apparatus (neighboring information processing apparatus) of the transmission destination.

Here, for example, in a topology illustrated in Fig. 1, an example of a case of selecting a path in a case where data is transmitted from the information processing apparatus 100 to the information processing apparatus 101 through multi-hopping is illustrated. As described above, the metric value of each link is represented near a dotted-line arrow instructing two information processing apparatuses executing direct communication.

In this case, as communication paths of a case where data is transmitted from the information processing apparatus 100 to the information processing apparatus 101 through multi-hopping, four communication paths are considered. More specifically, a communication path passing through the information processing apparatus 102 -> the information processing apparatus 103 is set as a first communication path. In addition, a communication path passing through the information processing apparatus 102 -> the information processing apparatus 103 -> the information processing apparatus 104 is set as a second communication path. Furthermore, a communication path passing through the information processing apparatus 104 -> the information processing apparatus 103 is set as a third communication path. In addition, a communication path passing through the information processing apparatus 104 is set as a fourth communication path.

In this case, a sum of metric values of a communication link among the information processing apparatuses configuring the first communication path is 450 (200 + 100 + 150). In addition, a sum of metric values of a communication link among information processing apparatuses configuring the second communication path is 950 (200 + 100 + 150 + 500). Furthermore, a sum of metric values of a communication link among the information processing apparatuses configuring the third communication path is 400 (100 + 150 + 150). In addition, a sum of metric values of a communication link among the information processing apparatuses configuring the fourth communication path is 600 (100 + 500).

Such sums are included in signals PREP (signals PREP corresponding to the signals PREQ transmitted by the information processing apparatus 100) received by the information processing apparatus 100 through the first to fourth communication paths. Thus, the information processing apparatus 100 evaluates each sum, and selects a communication path of which the sum has a minimum value. In the example illustrated in Fig. 1, a sum (400) of the third communication path (passing through the information processing apparatus 104 -> the information processing apparatus 103) has a minimum value. For this reason, the third communication path (passing through the information processing apparatus 104 -> the information processing apparatus 103) is selected as a communication path of a case where data is transmitted through multi-hopping from the information processing apparatus 100 to the information processing apparatus 101.

Here, in a relay process of relaying (transmitting) data, there are many cases where the relay apparatus executes a transmission process for another relay path (communication path) and a process of consuming the other computer resources at the same time. For this reason, a case may be also considered in which a relay apparatus executing a heavy-load process is present among relay apparatuses included in the communication path selected through a path selection that is based on the above-described index (a sum of metric values of a communication link). In other words, in a case where a path selection is executed based on the above-described index (a sum of metric values of a communication link), there is concern that a communication path passing through the relay apparatus executing a heavy-load process may be selected. In such a case, there is concern that an increase in the communication delay, an increase in the jitter of the communication delay, and a decrease in the throughput may be caused.

In addition, in a radio environment sharing radio frequency resources with the other information processing apparatuses, a collision or interference occurs based on the communication status of the other information processing apparatuses, and thus, the communication environment is considered to be unstable. For example, even in a communication environment in which the average throughput is the same, there may be an environment in which a constant throughput is provided and an environment in which the throughput is violently changed. For this reason, in a case where a path is selected based on the above-described index (a sum of metric values of a communication link), there is concern that an unstable path in which the radio environment is congested is selected. In such a case, an increase in the communication delay, an increase in the jitter of the communication delay, and a decrease in the throughput may be caused. In addition, switching between communication paths frequently occurs, and there is concern that unstable communication or transmission interruption may occur.

Furthermore, there are various application requests for using a provided radio communication environment. For example, for an application for streaming reproduction, a stable communication path having no instantaneous transmission interruption is requested. In addition, for an application for reproduction of theater music, a communication path having a low delay so as to cause no deviation from a video is requested. In addition, for a user datagram protocol (UDP), since there is no retransmission, a communication path having a small packet loss is desirable. For this reason, for an application executing UDP communication, a communication path having a small packet loss is requested. In addition, for a file transfer protocol (FTP) application, a communication path having a high throughput is requested. Furthermore, for an application using a battery-operated information processing apparatus, a communication path having low power consumption is requested.

However, in a case where a path selection is executed based on the above-described index (a sum of metric values of a communication link), a communication path is selected based on a predetermined index. For this reason, there is concern that a communication path not satisfying a request from an application may be selected. In other words, the communication path is selected based on an index different from the request of the application.

Thus, in this embodiment of the present technology, in consideration of these, an example will be illustrated in which the communication path is appropriately selected.

"Example of Configuration of Information Processing Apparatus"
Fig. 2 is a block diagram that illustrates an example of the internal configuration of the information processing apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. The internal configuration of each of the other information processing apparatuses (the information processing apparatuses 101 to 104) is the same as that of the information processing apparatus 100, and thus, here, only the information processing apparatus 100 will be described, but description of the other information processing apparatuses will not be presented.

The information processing apparatus 100 includes: a communication unit 110; a control unit 120; a memory unit 130, and a power supply unit 140. In Fig. 2, mainly, only a configuration relating to radio communication is illustrated, but illustration of the other configurations and the description thereof will not be presented.

The communication unit 110 is a module (for example, a wireless LAN modem) used for transmitting/receiving electric waves through an antenna (not illustrated in the figure). For example, the communication unit 110 can execute radio communication according to a wireless LAN communication system. In addition, for example, the communication unit 110 exchanges information with each information processing apparatus configuring a network (for example, a mesh network) in which a plurality of information processing apparatuses is interconnected through one-to-one radio communication under the control of the control unit 120.

For example, the communication unit 110 can execute radio communication through millimeter wave communication (60 GHz or the like), a 900 MHz/2.4 GHz/5 GHz wireless local area network (LAN), or an ultra-wide band (UWB). In addition, for example, the communication unit 110 can execute radio communication through visible light communication, near field communication (NFC), zigbee, Bluetooth (BT; registered trademark) or Bluetooth low energy (BLE).

For example, the communication unit 110, under the control of the control unit 120, exchanges the signals PREQ and PREP used for generating or updating a multi-hop communication path with another information processing apparatus through radio communication.

The communication unit 110 may execute radio communication using electric waves (electromagnetic waves) or radio communication (for example, radio communication executed using a magnetic field) using a medium other than electric waves.

The control unit 120 controls each unit of the information processing apparatus 100 based on a control program that is stored in the memory unit 130. For example, the control unit 120 executes signal processing of information that is transmitted or received. The control unit 120, for example, is realized by a central processing unit (CPU).

In addition, the control unit 120 can predict or observe the computer processing load amount of the information processing apparatus 100. Furthermore, the control unit 120 can predict or observe the degree of congestion of a communication path between the information processing apparatus 100 and each information processing apparatus neighboring thereto. In addition, the control unit 120 can measure a transmission/reception traffic amount at a constant interval (or irregularly). Furthermore, the control unit 120 can measure a total amount of transmission waiting data that is stored in a transmission buffer. In addition, the control unit 120 can measure the average number of times of retransmission of a packet at a constant interval for each transmission destination apparatus. Furthermore, the control unit 120 can receive and acquire a signal of an information processing apparatus neighboring to the information processing apparatus 100 through a scanning operation.

Furthermore, the control unit 120 can observe a communication delay regularly (or irregularly). Here, as a method of measuring a delay, for example, an observation method using a packet internet groper (PING) response of an internet control message protocol (ICMP). In addition, for example, an observation method using a PREP response time for a PREQ frame that is exchanged in selecting a path in a mesh may be employed.

In addition, the control unit 120 has a function for predicting or observing a transmission process delay amount, a computer processing load amount, and the degree of congestion of a communication path between the information processing apparatus 100 and each neighboring apparatus. Furthermore, the control unit 120 can set an application in the information processing apparatus 100 based on a user's operation (or automatically).

In addition, for example, the control unit 120 executes control for selecting a communication path used for exchanging information based on the processing load amount of the information processing apparatus 100 and the degree of congestion of a communication path between the information processing apparatus 100 and any other information processing apparatus. Furthermore, for example, the control unit 120 executes control for selecting a communication path used for exchanging information based on an application set in the information processing apparatus 100.

The memory unit 130 is a memory in which various kinds of information are stored. For example, in the memory unit 130, various kinds of information (for example, a control program) that are necessary for the information processing apparatus 100 to execute a desired operation are stored. In addition, for example, the memory unit 130 includes a transmission buffer that is used when the information processing apparatus 100 transmits data.

The power supply unit 140 supplies power to each unit of the information processing apparatus 100 under the control of the control unit 120. The power supply unit 140, for example, is a battery built in the information processing apparatus 100 or a battery that is attachable to the information processing apparatus 100. In addition, the control unit 120 includes a function for estimating the remaining amount of the battery and can occasionally acquire the estimated remaining amount of the battery.

"Example of Content of Transmission Destination Information Management Table of Relay Path"
Fig. 3 is a diagram that schematically illustrates an example of a transmission destination information management table of relay paths that is maintained by each information processing apparatus configuring the communication system 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 3 illustrates the transmission destination information management table 200 of relay paths that is maintained by the information processing apparatus 104.

As illustrated in Fig. 3, the transmission destination information management table 200 of relay paths is recorded in a memory unit (corresponding to the memory unit 130 illustrated in Fig. 2) in a record format.

In addition, in the transmission destination information management table 200 of relay paths, an entry is present for each set relay path (communication path). Furthermore, each entry is configured by transmission source apparatus information 201, final transmission destination apparatus information 202, and next transmission destination apparatus information 203.

In Fig. 3, for the convenience of description, "0" to "4" will be used as identification information representing information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 in the description. In other words, identification information representing the information processing apparatus 100 is set as "0", identification information representing the information processing apparatus 101 is set as "1", identification information representing the information processing apparatus 102 is set as "2", identification information representing the information processing apparatus 103 is set as "3", and identification information representing the information processing apparatus 104 is set as "4".

In the transmission source apparatus information 201, the identification information of the information processing apparatus (transmission source apparatus) that transmits data to be transmitted first is stored.

In the final transmission destination apparatus information 202, the identification information of an information processing apparatus (final transmission destination apparatus) that transmits the data to be transmitted last is stored.

In the next transmission destination apparatus information 203, in a case where data to be transmitted is transmitted to the information processing apparatus of which the identification information is stored in the final transmission destination apparatus information 202, the identification information of the information processing apparatus (neighboring information processing apparatus) to which the data is transmitted next is stored.

In addition, it is preferable that the information recorded in the transmission destination information management table 200 of relay paths is updated with latest information for every predetermined time. As above, by updating the information with latest information for every predetermined time, information of a communication path (relay path) that is not used for the relay can be sequentially removed from the transmission destination information management table 200 of relay paths.

"Example of Content of Neighboring Apparatus Information Management Table"
Fig. 4 is a diagram that schematically illustrates an example of a neighboring apparatus information management table that is maintained by each information processing apparatus configuring the communication system 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 4 illustrates a neighboring apparatus information management table 210 maintained by the information processing apparatus 100.

As illustrated in Fig. 4, the neighboring apparatus information management table 210 is recorded in the memory unit 130 (illustrated in Fig. 2) in a record format.

In addition, in the neighboring apparatus information management table 210, there is an entry for each neighboring information processing apparatus (the information processing apparatus that is directly communicable) among information processing apparatuses participating in the mesh network. Furthermore, each entry is configured by neighboring apparatus information 211, KEY 212, RSSI (received signal strength indicator) 213, a SYNC OFFSET 214, and RxRate 215. In Fig. 4, similarly to Fig. 3, for the convenience of description, "0" to "4" will be respectively used as identification information representing the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 in the description.

In the neighboring apparatus information 211, identification information of a neighboring information processing apparatus (an information processing apparatus that is directly communicable) among information processing apparatuses participating in the mesh network is stored.

In the KEY 212, KEY relating to a neighboring information processing apparatus is stored. Here, the KEY, for example, is a security key (password key).

In the RSSI 213, an RSSI relating to a neighboring information processing apparatus is stored.

In the SYNC OFFSET 214, a SYNC OFFSET relating to a neighboring information processing apparatus is stored. Here, since it is necessary to synchronize the clock with the other information processing apparatuses, the SYNC OFFSET is used as a time representing the degree of a deviation from the synchronization with the other information processing apparatuses.

In the RxRate 215, an RxRate relating to a neighboring information processing apparatus is stored.

In addition, the KEY 212, the RSSI 213, the SYNC OFFSET 214, and the RxRate 215 are an example of information relating to a neighboring information processing apparatus (an information processing apparatus that is directly communicable). For this reason, some of these may be omitted, or other information may be recorded. In Fig. 4, for the convenience of description, such information is illustrated in a simplified manner.

In addition, it is preferable that the information recorded in the neighboring apparatus information management table 210 is updated with latest information for every predetermined time.

"Example of Relation between Mode and Weighting Parameter"
Fig. 5 is a diagram that illustrates an example of the relation between modes and weighting parameters set by each information processing apparatus configuring the communication system 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Such information, for example, is recorded in a memory unit (corresponding to the memory unit 130 illustrated in Fig. 2) in a record format.

A mode 221 is a mode that is set by an application. For example, "Stable" corresponds to an application (for example, a moving image reproduction application) requesting stability. In addition "Low Latency", for example, corresponds to an application (for example, an application for a theater audio) requesting a low-delay communication path. Furthermore, "High Throughput", for example, corresponds to an application (for example, an FTP application) requesting a high-throughput communication path. In addition, "Battery", for example, corresponds to an application (for example, an application (for example, a web browser) of a mobile apparatus) using a battery-operated information processing apparatus.

Here, W0 222, W1 223, W2 224, and W3 225 are weighting parameters set according to modes set to each information processing apparatus. In other words, W0 222, W1 223, W2 224, and W3 225 are weighting parameters changing according to a request from an application. In addition, W0 222, W1 223, W2 224, and W3 225 will be described in detail with reference to Equation 11. In Fig. 5, for the convenience of description, values of W0 222, W1 223, W2 224, and W3 225 will be illustrated in a simplified manner.

"Example of Calculation of Metric Value Based on Processing Load of Relay Apparatus"
First, an example of a case where an information processing apparatus (relay apparatus) relaying data calculates a metric value is illustrated. Here, an example is illustrated in which a metric value is calculated based on the processing load of the relay apparatus. As described above, each of the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 has a function for predicting or observing a computer processing load amount thereof. In such a case, the metric value ML (Metric Link) 1 can be calculated by using the following Equation 2.
ML1 = fm(r, ef) x (1.0 + (PL1/C1)) ... Equation 2

Here, PL1 is a value representing the processing load amount of the apparatus. In addition, C1 is a constant.

In addition, fm(r, ef) is Ca that is represented in Equation 1 described above. In other words, fm(r, ef) = Ca. In addition, r is a value that represents the transmission rate, and ef is a value that represents a packet error rate. In addition, fm(r, ef) is similarly represented in Equations 3 to 11.

In this way, a metric value calculated using the parameters of the transmission rate r and the packet error rate ef can be corrected using the processing load amount PL1. Accordingly, in accordance with an increase in the processing load amount of the relay apparatus, a metric value of the relay apparatus can be increased.

As above, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 can calculate a metric value (communication path quality value) used when a communication path is selected based on the processing load amount of the information processing apparatus 100. In addition, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 can select a communication path based on the metric value (communication path quality value). In other words, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 can select a communication path based on the processing load amount of the information processing apparatus 100.

In this way, by correcting the metric value of the relay apparatus to be increased according to an increase in the processing load amount of the relay apparatus, it is possible to make it difficult for a communication path passing through a relay apparatus of which the processing load is high to be selected.

"Example in Which Processing Load Amount Is Acquired Based on Number of Relay Paths"
Next, an example is illustrated in which the processing load amount is acquired based on the number of relay paths.

As described above, the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 store the transmission destination information management table (for example, the transmission destination information management table 200 of relay paths illustrated in Fig. 3) of relay paths in a memory unit (corresponding to the memory unit 130 illustrated in Fig. 2).

Thus, the number EN1 of entries of the transmission destination information management table of relay paths can be used as an index of the processing load of a relay apparatus. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 3, the number EN1 of entries of the transmission destination information management table 200 of relay paths maintained by the information processing apparatus 104 is four.

In addition, a metric value ML3 can be calculated by using the following Equation 3.
ML2 = fm(r, ef) x (1.0 + (EN1/C2)) ... Equation 3

Here, C2 is a constant.

In this way, a metric value calculated using the parameters of the transmission rate r and the packet error rate ef can be corrected by using the number EN1 of entries of the transmission destination information management table of relay paths. Accordingly, the metric value of a replay apparatus can be increased according to an increase in the processing load amount of the relay apparatus.

In this way, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 can acquire the processing load amount of the information processing apparatus 100 based on the number of communication paths passing through the information processing apparatus 100 among communication paths of information exchanged between the information processing apparatuses configuring the mesh network.

"Example in Which Processing Load Amount Is Acquired Based on Traffic Volume"
Next, an example is illustrated in which the processing load amount is acquired based on the traffic volume. Here, the traffic volume represents the transmission amount and the reception amount of data. As described above, the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 can measure the transmission/reception traffic volume at a predetermined interval (or irregularly). In addition, based on the traffic volume measured as such, the traffic volume QT1 per unit time can be acquired.

Thus, the traffic volume QT1 per unit time can be used as an index of the processing load of a relay apparatus. In such a case, a metric value ML3 can be calculated by using the following Equation 4.
ML3 = fm(r, ef) x (1.0 + (QT1/C3)) ... Equation 4

Here, C3 is a constant.

In this way, a metric value calculated using the parameters of the transmission rate r and the packet error rate ef can be corrected using the traffic volume QT1 per unit time. Accordingly, in accordance with an increase in the processing load amount of the relay apparatus, a metric value of the relay apparatus can be increased.

As above, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 can acquire the processing load amount of the information processing apparatus 100 based on the traffic volume transmitted/received by the information processing apparatus 100.

"Example of Acquiring Processing Load Amount Based on Transmission Waiting Traffic Volume"
Next, an example is illustrated in which the processing load amount is acquired based on the transmission waiting traffic volume. As described above, each of the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 can measure a total amount of transmission waiting data stored in the transmission buffer.

Thus, a total amount of the transmission waiting data (transmission waiting data amount QD1) can be used as an index of the processing load of the relay apparatus. In such a case, a metric value ML4 is calculated by using the following Equation 5.
ML4 = fm(r, ef) x (1.0 + (QD1/BS1)) ... Equation 5

Here, BS1 is a value that represents the size of the transmission buffer. In addition, the transmission waiting data amount QD1 represented in Equation 5 can be acquired by subtracting a data mount of reception data (here, data addressed to the current apparatus is excluded) from a data amount of transmission data (here, data of which the transmission source is the current apparatus is excluded).

In this way, a metric value calculated using the parameters of the transmission rate r and the packet error rate ef can be corrected using the transmission waiting data amount QD1 and the size BS1 of the transmission buffer. Accordingly, in accordance with an increase in the processing load amount of the relay apparatus, a metric value of the relay apparatus can be increased.

As above, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 can acquire the processing load amount based on the traffic volume of information exchanged through the information processing apparatus 100 among information exchanged between information processing apparatuses configuring the mesh network. In other words, the control unit 120 can acquire the processing load amount of the information processing apparatus 100 based on a result of a comparison between the traffic volume, which is received by the information processing apparatus 100, of the information passing through the information processing apparatus 100 and a traffic volume transmitted by the information processing apparatus 100.

"Example of Calculation of Metric Value Based on Degree of Congestion of Communication Path"
Next, an example is illustrated in which a metric value is calculated based on the degree of congestion of a communication path. As described above, each of the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 has a function for predicting or observing the degree of congestion of a communication path between the information processing apparatus and each neighboring information processing apparatus. In such a case, a metric value ML5 can be calculated by using the following Equation 6.
ML5 = fm(r, ef) x (1.0 + (CD1/C5)) ... Equation 6

Here, CD1 is a value that represents the degree of congestion of a communication path. In addition, C5 is a constant.

In this way, a metric value calculated using the parameters of the transmission rate r and the packet error rate ef can be corrected using the degree of congestion CD1 of the communication path. Accordingly, in accordance with the height of the degree of congestion of the communication path, the metric value can be increased.

As above, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 can calculate a metric value (communication path quality value) used when a communication path is selected based on the degree of congestion of a communication path between the information processing apparatus 100 and the other information processing apparatus. In addition, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 can select a communication path based on the metric value (communication path quality value). In other words, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 can select a communication path based on the degree of congestion of a communication path between the information processing apparatus 100 and the other information processing apparatus.

In this way, by correcting the metric value to be increased according to the height of the degree of the congestion of the communication path, a communication path having a low degree of congestion of the communication path can be easily selected.

"Example in Which Degree of Congestion of Communication Path Is Acquired Based on Number of Times of Retransmission"
Next, an example in which the degree of congestion of a communication path is acquired based on the number of times of retransmission is illustrated. For example, in a case where the number of times of retransmission is large, the number of collisions can be estimated to be large, and accordingly, the degree of congestion of a communication path can be estimated to be high.

As described above, each of the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 can measure an average number of times of retransmission of a packet at a predetermined interval for each transmission destination apparatus. In addition, based on the average number of times of retransmission of a packet measured as such, the average number PT1 of times of retransmission of a packet per unit time can be acquired.

Thus, the average number PT1 of times of retransmission of a packet per unit time can be used as an index of the degree of congestion of a communication path. In such a case, a metric value ML6 can be calculated by using the following Equation 7.
ML6 = fm(r, ef) x (1.0 + (PT1/C6)) ... Equation 7

Here, C6 is a constant.

In this way, a metric value calculated using the parameters of the transmission rate r and the packet error rate ef can be corrected using the average number PT1 of times of retransmission of a packet per unit time. Accordingly, in accordance with the height of the degree of congestion of the communication path, the metric value can be increased.

As above, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 can acquire the degree of congestion of a communication path between the information processing apparatus 100 and the other information processing apparatus based on the number of times of retransmission executed by the information processing apparatus 100.

"Example in Which Degree of Congestion of Communication Path Is Acquired Based on Number of Information Processing Apparatuses"
Next, an example in which the degree of congestion of a communication path is acquired based on the number of neighboring information processing apparatuses is illustrated. For example, in a case where the number of neighboring information processing apparatuses is large, the degree of congestion of a communication path can be estimated to be high.

As described above, each of the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 configuring the communication system 10 stores a neighboring apparatus information management table (for example, the neighboring apparatus information management table 210 illustrated in Fig. 4) in a memory unit (for example, corresponding to the memory unit 130 illustrated in Fig. 2).

Thus, the number EN2 of entries of the neighboring apparatus information management table can be used as an index of the degree of congestion of a communication path. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 4, the number EN2 of entries of the neighboring apparatus information management table 210 maintained by the information processing apparatus 100 is four.

A metric value ML7 can be calculated by using the following Equation 8.
ML7 = fm(r, ef) x (1.0 + (EN2/C7)) ... Equation 8

Here, C7 is a constant.

In this way, a metric value calculated using the parameters of the transmission rate r and the packet error rate ef can be corrected using the number EN2 of entries of the neighboring apparatus information management table 210. Accordingly, in accordance with the height of the degree of congestion of the communication path, the metric value can be increased.

In this way, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 can acquire the degree of congestion of a communication path between the information processing apparatus 100 and the other information processing apparatus based on the number of information processing apparatuses that are directly communicable with the information processing apparatus 100 among the information processing apparatuses configuring the mesh network.

"Example in Which Degree of Congestion of Communication Path Is Acquired Based on Number of Neighboring Information Processing Apparatuses"
Next, an example in which the degree of congestion of a communication path is acquired based on the number of neighboring information processing apparatuses is illustrated. As described above, each of the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 can receive a signal transmitted from a neighboring information processing apparatus through a scanning operation. For this reason, each of the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 can recognize the presence of an apparatus (signal-transmitting neighboring apparatus) of a basic service set (BSS) not participating in the mesh network.

Thus, the number BT1 of signal-transmitting neighboring apparatuses of the BSS not participating in the mesh network can be used as an index of the degree of congestion of a communication path. In such a case, a metric value ML8 can be calculated using the following Equation 9.
ML8 = fm(r, ef) x (1.0 + (BT1/C8)) ... Equation 9

Here, C8 is a constant.

In this way, a metric value calculated using the parameters of the transmission rate r and the packet error rate ef can be corrected using the number BT1 of signal-transmitting neighboring apparatuses of the BSS not participating in the mesh network. Accordingly, in accordance with the height of the degree of congestion of the communication path, the metric value can be increased.

"Example in Which Degree of Congestion of Communication Path Is Acquired Based on Jitter of Communication Delay"
Next, an example in which the degree of congestion of a communication path is acquired based on the variation amount (jitter) of the communication delay is illustrated. As described above, each of the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 can observe a communication delay regularly (or irregularly). For this reason, each of the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 can acquire a standard deviation of the observed communication delay and recognize the magnitude of the variation amount from the average.

Thus, the value of the standard deviation VS1 of the communication delay can be used as an index of the degree of congestion of a communication path. In such a case, by using the following Equation 10, a metric value ML9 can be calculated.
ML9 = fm(r, ef) x (1.0 + (VS1/C9)) ... Equation 10

Here, C9 is a constant.

In this way, a metric value calculated using the parameters of the transmission rate r and the packet error rate ef can be corrected using the standard deviation VS1 of the communication delay. Accordingly, in accordance with the height of the degree of congestion of the communication path, the metric value can be increased.

As above, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 can acquire the degree of congestion of a communication path between the information processing apparatus 100 and the other information processing apparatus based on the variation amount of the communication delay relating to the information processing apparatus 100.

"Example in Which Weighting Factor Used for Calculation of Metric Value Is Changed According to Mode"
Next, an example is illustrated in which a weighting factor (relative weight) used for the calculation of a metric value is changed according to the mode set by the information processing apparatus. As described above, each of the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 has a function for predicting or observing a transmission process delay amount, a computer processing load amount, and the degree of congestion of a communication path between the information processing apparatus 100 and each neighboring apparatus.

In addition, for example, in accordance with a request from an application, modes are set in the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104. In a case where modes are set in this way, the weighting factor (relative weight) used for the calculation of a metric value is changed according to the set mode.

For example, a metric value ML10 can be calculated by using the following Equation 11.
ML10 = fm(r, ef) x W0 x 1.0 + W1 x (QO1/C10) + W2 x (1.0 + (PL1/C11)) + W3 x (1.0 + (CD1/C12)) ... Equation 11

As described above, PL1 is a value that represents the processing load amount of the current apparatus. In addition, CD1 is a value that represents the degree of congestion of a communication path.

In addition, QO1 is a value that represents a delay amount. This delay amount, for example, represents a delay time that is determined based on a process delay, a buffer delay, a delay of the control unit (for example, the CPU), and the like.

Here, C10, C11, and C12 are constants. In addition, C11 may have the same value as that of C1 illustrated in Equation 2 or a value different therefrom. Furthermore, C12 may have the same value as that of C5 illustrated in Equation 6 or a value different therefrom.

For example, in the information processing apparatus 100, a mode (communication quality mode) is set by an application. In a case where the mode is set in this way, the parameter is changed according to the set mode. Then, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 calculates a sum of metric values of each communication path by using a new parameter after the change, re-evaluates the calculated sums, and selects a communication path of which the sum is minimal.

In this way, a metric value calculated using the parameters of the transmission rate r and the packet error rate ef can be corrected using the delay amount QO1, the processing load amount PL1, and the degree of congestion CD1 of a communication path. Accordingly, in accordance with an increase in the delay amount, the processing load amount, and the degree of congestion of the communication path, the metric value can be increased.

In this way, the control unit 120 of the information processing apparatus 100 can change the relative weights of elements used for calculating the communication path quality value used when a communication path is selected based on the application set in the information processing apparatus 100. For example, the control unit 120 can calculate a communication path quality value based on the relative weights after the change, a communication rate, a packet error rate, a delay amount, a processing load amount, a the degree of congestion. Then, the control unit 120 can select a communication path based on the communication path quality value. In other words, the control unit 120 can select a communication path used for exchanging information based on an application set in the information processing apparatus 100.

In this way, by correcting the metric value to be increased according to an increase in the delay amount, the processing load amount, and the degree of congestion of a communication path, a communication path according to the request of the communication quality mode from the application can be easily selected. In other words, an appropriate path selection of a relay path according to an application can be made.

"Example of Operation of Information Processing Apparatus"
Next, an example of the operation of the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 will be described. Since the operation of each of the information processing apparatuses 101 to 104 is the same as that of the information processing apparatus 100, here, only the operation of the information processing apparatus 100 will be described, but description of the other information processing apparatuses will not be presented.

"Example of Selection of Communication Path Based on Processing Load of Relay Apparatus"
Fig. 6 is a flowchart that illustrates an example of the processing sequence of a communication path selecting process executed by the information processing apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 6 illustrates an example of a case where the information processing apparatus 100 serves as a relay apparatus. In addition, Fig. 6 illustrates an example of a case where the metric value is calculated based on the processing load of the information processing apparatus 100.

First, the control unit 120 calculates a communication path quality value (metric value) based on the transmission rate and the packet error rate (step S801). For example, the control unit 120 calculates the communication path quality value (metric value) by using Equation 1 (step S801).

Subsequently, the control unit 120 measures the processing load amount of the information processing apparatus 100 (step S802). For example, the control unit 120 can measure the processing load amount of the information processing apparatus 100 based on at least one of the number of relay paths, the traffic volume, and the transmission waiting traffic volume (step S802).

Subsequently, the control unit 120 corrects the calculated communication path quality value (metric value) based on the processing load amount of the information processing apparatus 100 (step S803). For example, the control unit 120 can correct the calculated communication path quality value (metric value) by using Equations 2 to 5 (step S803).

Subsequently, the control unit 120 exchanges information including the communication path quality value (metric value) after the correction with information processing apparatuses that are present on the periphery thereof (step S804). For example, the control unit 120 may transmit the communication path quality value (metric value) after the correction with being included in a signal (step S804). Step S804 is an example of a communication sequence described in the present disclosure.

Subsequently, the control unit 120 executes a communication path selecting process based on the communication path quality value (metric value) acquired by exchanging information with the information processing apparatuses that are present on the periphery thereof (step S805). Step S805 is an example of a control sequence described in the present disclosure.

Subsequently, the control unit 120 determines whether or not an instruction for ending radio communication is present (step S806). In a case where the instruction for ending the radio communication is present (step S806), the operation of the communication path selecting process ends. On the other hand, in a case where the instruction for ending the radio communication is not present (step S806), the process is returned to step S801.

"Example of Selection of Communication Path Based on Degree of Congestion of Communication Path"
Fig. 7 is a flowchart that illustrates an example of the processing sequence of the communication path selecting process executed by the information processing apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 7 illustrates an example of a case where a metric value is calculated based on the degree of congestion of a communication path. The example illustrated in Fig. 7 is a modification of a part of the example illustrated in Fig. 6. In other words, steps S811 and S814 to S816 illustrated in Fig. 7 correspond to steps S801 and S804 to S806 illustrated in Fig. 6. For this reason, hereinafter, the description thereof will not be presented.

The control unit 120 measures the degree of congestion of a communication path (step S812). For example, the control unit 120 can measure the degree of congestion of a communication path based on at least one of the number of times of retransmission, the number of neighboring information processing apparatuses, and the jitter of the communication delay (step S812).

Subsequently, the control unit 120 corrects the calculated communication path quality value (metric value) based on the degree of congestion of the communication path (step S813). For example, the control unit 120 can correct the calculated communication path quality value (metric value) by using Equations 6 to 10 (step S813).

"Example of Selection of Communication Path of Case Where Weighting Factor Is Changed According to Mode"
Fig. 8 is a flowchart that illustrates an example of the processing sequence of the communication path selecting process executed by the information processing apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 8 illustrates an example of a case where the weighting factor used for calculating the metric value is changed according to the mode. The example illustrated in Fig. 8 is an example acquired by modifying a part of the example illustrated in Fig. 6. In other words, steps S822 and S826 to S828 illustrated in Fig. 8 correspond to steps S801 and S804 to S806 illustrated in Fig. 6. For this reason, hereinafter, the description thereof will not be presented.

First, the control unit 120 sets an application in the information processing apparatus 100 (step S821). According to the setting of the application, various modes (communication quality mode) are set (step S821).

In addition, the control unit 120 sets a weighting factor (constant; parameter) corresponding to the set mode (step S824). For example, the control unit 120 sets the weighting factor based on the setting example illustrated in Fig. 5 (step S824).

Subsequently, the control unit 120 corrects the calculated communication path quality value (metric value) by using the set weighting factor (step S825). For example, the control unit 120 can correct the calculated communication path quality value (metric value) by using Equation 11 (step S825).

In the embodiment of the present technology, the example has been illustrated in which C1 to C12 are constants. However, C1 to C12 may be configured to be changed according to the use form of the information processing apparatus.

As above, according to an embodiment of the present technology, in the communication path selection of a mesh network, together with consideration of the communication rate, the packet error rate, the delay, and the number of hops, the communication path can be selected in consideration of the degree of congestion of the radio environments and the processing load of the relay apparatus.

For example, it is possible to make it difficult for a communication path passing through a relay apparatus executing a heavy-load process to be selected, and accordingly, a decrease in the communication delay, a decrease in the communication delay jitter, and an increase in the throughput can be realized.

In addition, since a link having a low degree of congestion of the radio environment is selected, the quality of the communication path can be stabilized, and a decrease in the communication delay, a decrease in the communication delay jitter, and an increase in the throughput can be realized. Furthermore, the frequency of the switching between communication paths is decreased, whereby a stable communication environment in which the instantaneous transmission interruption or the variation is decreased can be realized.

Furthermore, for example, the use of the computer resources is distributed to each apparatus, and a multi-hop path having distributed paths can be formed by avoiding the formation of a multi-hop path in which a specific relay apparatus becomes a bottle neck. Accordingly, the total communication capacity can be increased.

In addition, for example, since the use of the radio resources is distributed, the radio resources can be efficiently used. Accordingly, the total communication capacity can be increased.

Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present technology, in the communication path selection of the mesh network, in consideration of the communication rate, the packet error rate, the delay, the number of hops, the degree of congestion, and the processing load of the relay apparatus, a communication path of a quality corresponding to a request from an application can be selected.

For example, a communication environment corresponding to a different request of each application can be provided such as focusing on the stability of the communication path, focusing on a low delay, focusing on a high throughput, focusing on a low loss, or focusing on low power consumption.

As above, according to the embodiment of the present technology, a communication path selection criterion can be expanded. Thus, a communication path can be appropriately selected.

<2. Application Example>
The technology according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is applicable to various products. For example, the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 may be realized as a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet personal computer (PC), a notebook PC, a mobile gaming terminal, or a digital camera, a fixed terminal such as a television set, a printer, a digital scanner, or a network storage, or an in-vehicle terminal such as a car navigation apparatus. In addition, the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 may be realized as a terminal (also referred to as a machine type communication (MTC) terminal) that executes machine to machine (M2M) communication such as a smart meter, an automatic vending machine, a remote monitoring apparatus or a point of sale (POS) terminal. Furthermore, the information processing apparatuses 100 to 104 may be a radio communication module (for example, an integrated circuit module configured by one die) mounted on each of the terminals.

"2-1. First Application Example"
Fig. 9 is a block diagram that illustrates an example of the schematic configuration of a smartphone 900 to which the technology relating to the present disclosure is applied. The smartphone 900 includes: a processor 901; a memory 902; a storage 903; an external connection interface 904; a camera 906; a sensor 907; a microphone 908; an input device 909; a display device 910; a speaker 911; a radio communication interface 913; an antenna switch 914; an antenna 915; a bus 917; a battery 918; and an auxiliary controller 919.

The processor 901, for example, may be a central processing unit (CPU) or a system on chip (SoC) and controls the functions of an application layer and the other layers of the smartphone 900. The memory 902 includes a random access memory (RAM) and a read only memory (ROM) and stores programs executed by the processor 901 and data. The storage 903 may include a storage medium such as a semiconductor memory or a hard disk. The external connection interface 904 is an interface that is used for connecting an externally-attached device such as a memory card or a universal serial bus (USB) device to the smartphone 900.

The camera 906, for example, includes imaging devices such as charge coupled devices (CCD) or complementary metal oxide semiconductors (CMOS) and generates a captured image. The sensor 907, for example, may include a sensor group of a positioning sensor, a gyro sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, and the like. The microphone 908 converts speech input to the smartphone 900 into an audio signal. The input device 909, for example, includes a touch sensor detecting a touch on a screen of the display device 910, a keypad, a keyboard, a button, a switch, or the like and receives an operation or an information input from the user. The display device 910 includes a screen of a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, or the like and displays an output image of the smartphone 900. The speaker 911 converts an audio signal output from the smartphone 900 into speech.

The radio communication interface 913 supports one or more wireless LAN standards such as IEEE802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11n, 11ac, and 11ad and executes radio communication. The radio communication interface 913 can communicate with the other apparatuses through a wireless LAN access point in an infrastructure mode. In addition, in a direct communication mode such as an ad hoc mode or a Wi-Fi Direct mode, the radio communication interface 913 can directly communicate with other apparatuses. In the Wi-Fi Direct mode, while one of two terminals operates as an access point, differently from the ad hoc mode, the communication process is directly executed between the terminals. The radio communication interface 913, typically, may include; a baseband processor; a radio frequency (RF) circuit, a power amplifier, and the like. The radio communication interface 913 may be a one-chip module in which a memory storing a communication control program, a processor executing the program, and related circuits are integrated. The radio communication interface 913 may support a radio communication system of a different type such as a near field radio communication system, a proximity wireless communication system, or a cellular communication system in addition to the wireless LAN system. The antenna switch 914 switches a connection destination of the antenna 915 among a plurality of circuits (for example, circuits for mutually-different radio communication systems) included in the radio communication interface 913. The antenna 915 includes one or a plurality of antenna devices (for example, a plurality of antenna devices configuring a MIMO antenna) and is used for transmitting and receiving a radio signal through the radio communication interface 913.

In addition, the smartphone 900 is not limited to the example illustrated in Fig. 9 but may include a plurality of antennas (for example, an antenna used for wireless LAN, an antenna used for the proximity wireless communication system, and the like). In such a case, the antenna switch 914 may be omitted from the configuration of the smartphone 900.

The bus 917 interconnects: the processor 901; the memory 902; the storage 903; the external connection interface 904; the camera 906; the sensor 907; the microphone 908; the input device 909; the display device 910; the speaker 911; the radio communication interface 913; and the auxiliary controller 919. The battery 918 supplies power to each block of the smartphone 900 illustrated in Fig. 9 through a feed line that is partially illustrated using a broken line in the figure. The auxiliary controller 919, for example, in a sleep mode, operates minimum necessary functions of the smartphone 900.

In the smartphone 900 illustrated in Fig. 9, the communication unit 110 and the control unit 120 described with reference to Fig. 2 may be mounted in the radio communication interface 913. In addition, at least some of the functions may be mounted in the processor 901 or the auxiliary controller 919.

In addition, the smartphone 900 may operate as a radio access point (software AP) as the processor 901 executes an access point function in an application level. Furthermore, the radio communication interface 913 may have the radio access point function.

"2-2. Second Application Example"
Fig. 10 is a block diagram that illustrates an example of the schematic configuration of a car navigation apparatus 920 to which the technology relating to the present disclosure is applied. The car navigation apparatus 920 includes: a processor 921; a memory 922; a global positioning system (GPS) module 924; a sensor 925; a data interface 926; a content player 927; a storage medium interface 928; an input device 929; a display device 930; a speaker 931; a radio communication interface 933; an antenna switch 934; an antenna 935; and a battery 938.

The processor 921, for example, is a CPU or a SoC and controls the navigation function and the other functions of the car navigation apparatus 920. The memory 922 includes a RAM and a ROM and stores programs executed by the processor 921 and data.

The GPS module 924 measures the position (for example, the longitude, the latitude, and the altitude) of the car navigation apparatus 920 by using GPS signals received from GPS satellites. The sensor 925, for example, may include a sensor group of a gyro sensor, a geo magnetic sensor, an atmosphere pressure sensor, and the like. The data interface 926, for example, is connected to an in-vehicle network 941 through a terminal not illustrated in the figure and acquires data such as vehicle speed data that is generated on the vehicle side.

The content player 927 reproduces a content stored on a storage medium (for example, a CD or a DVD) inserted in the storage medium interface 928. The input device 929, for example, includes a touch sensor detecting a touch on the screen of the display device 930, a button, a switch, or the like and receives an operation or an information input from the user. The display device 930 includes the screen of an LCD, an OLED display, or the like and displays an image of the navigation function or a reproduced content. The speaker 931 outputs an audio of the navigation function or the reproduced content.

The radio communication interface 933 supports one or more wireless LAN standards such as IEEE802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11n, 11ac, and 11ad and executes radio communication. The radio communication interface 933 can communicate with the other apparatuses through a wireless LAN access point in an infrastructure mode. In addition, in a direct communication mode such as an ad hoc mode or a Wi-Fi Direct mode, the radio communication interface 933 can directly communicate with other apparatuses. The radio communication interface 933, typically, may include; a baseband processor; an RF circuit, a power amplifier, and the like. The radio communication interface 933 may be a one-chip module in which a memory storing a communication control program, a processor executing the program, and related circuits are integrated. The radio communication interface 933 may support a radio communication system of a different type such as a near field radio communication system, a proximity wireless communication system, or a cellular communication system in addition to the wireless LAN system. The antenna switch 934 switches a connection destination of the antenna 935 among a plurality of circuits included in the radio communication interface 933. The antenna 935 includes one or a plurality of antenna devices and is used for transmitting and receiving a radio signal through the radio communication interface 933.

In addition, the car navigation apparatus 920 is not limited to the example illustrated in Fig. 10 but may include a plurality of antennas. In such a case, the antenna switch 934 may be omitted from the configuration of the car navigation apparatus 920.

The battery 938 supplies power to each block of the car navigation apparatus 920 illustrated in Fig. 10 through a feed line that is partially illustrated using a broken line in the figure. The battery 938 accumulates power supplied from the vehicle side.

In the car navigation apparatus 920 illustrated in Fig. 10, the communication unit 110 and the control unit 120 described with reference to Fig. 2 may be mounted in the radio communication interface 933. In addition, at least some of the functions may be mounted in the processor 921.

In addition, the technology relating to the present disclosure may be realized as an in-vehicle system (or a vehicle) 940 that includes one or more blocks of the car navigation apparatus 920 described above, the in-vehicle network 941, and a vehicle-side module 942. The vehicle-side module 942 generates vehicle-side data such as vehicle speed, engine revolution speed, or malfunction information and outputs the generated data to the in-vehicle network 941.

The embodiment described above illustrates an example for implementing the present technology, and an item of the embodiment and a specified item of claims have a correspondence relation. Similarly, a specified item of the claims and an item of the embodiment of the present technology, to which the same name is assigned, have a correspondence relation. However, the present technology is not limited to the embodiment but may be realized by applying various changes to the embodiment in a range not departing from the concept thereof.

In addition, the processing sequence described in the above-described embodiment may be perceived as a method having such a series of the sequence and may be perceived as a program causing a computer to execute such a series of the sequence or a recording medium storing the program. As the recording medium, for example, a compact disc (CD), a MiniDisc (MD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a memory card, a Blu-ray (registered trademark) disc, or the like can be used.

The advantages described here are merely examples, and the advantages are not limited thereto, but other advantages may be acquired.

The present technology may take the following configurations as well.
(1)
An information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, comprising: circuitry configured to determine a processing load of the information processing apparatus; and set a network path quality value based on at least the processing load.
(2)
The information processing apparatus of (1), wherein the circuitry is further configured to store a management table that identifies a transmission path in the mesh network between the information processing apparatus and at least one destination information processing apparatus.
(3)
The information processing apparatus of (2), wherein the management table includes identification of at least one other information processing apparatus between the information processing apparatus and the at least one destination information processing apparatus.
(4)
The information processing apparatus of (3), wherein the management table further includes path quality values for each of the at least one other information processing apparatus and the at least one other destination information processing apparatus.
(5)
The information processing apparatus of (4), wherein the circuitry is further configured to adjust the path quality values in the management table in accordance with the processing load.
(6)
The information processing apparatus of (5), wherein the circuitry is further configured to transmit the path quality values after adjustment with the processing load to at least one other information processing apparatus.
(7)
The information processing apparatus of any one of (1) to (6), wherein the circuitry is further configured to determine the processing load based on at least one of traffic volume or an amount of information awaiting transmission.
(8)
The information processing apparatus of any one of (1) to (7), wherein the mesh network is a wireless local area network.
(9)
An information processing method for an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, the method comprising: determining, with circuitry, a processing load of the information processing apparatus; and setting, with the circuitry, a network path quality value based on at least the processing load.
(10)
A non-transitory computer-readable medium encoded with computer-readable instructions that, when executed by circuitry, cause the circuitry to perform an information processing method for an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, the method comprising: determining a processing load of the information processing apparatus; and setting a network path quality value based on at least the processing load.
(11)
An information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, comprising: circuitry configured to determine a network path based on network path quality values included in received information, the network path quality values being set based on processing load of other information processing apparatuses included in the mesh network.
(12)
The information processing apparatus of (11), wherein the circuitry is further configured to store the network path quality values in a management table.
(13)
The information processing apparatus of (11) or (12), wherein the circuitry is further configured to adjust the network path quality values based on a determined processing load of the information processing apparatus.
(14)
The information processing apparatus of any one of (11) to (13), wherein the network path values are determined based on a degree of communication path congestion.
(15)
The information processing apparatus of (13) or (14), wherein the circuitry is further configured to determine the processing load of the information processing apparatus based on at least one of traffic volume or an amount of traffic awaiting transmission.
(16)
The information processing apparatus of (14) or (15), wherein the circuitry is further configured to determine the degree of communication path congestion based on a number of neighboring information processing apparatuses that neighbor the information processing apparatus.
(17)
The information processing apparatus of any one of (14) to (16), wherein the circuitry is further configured to determine the degree of congestion based on an amount of variation in a communication delay.
(18)
The information processing apparatus of any one of (11) to (17), wherein the network path quality values are determined based on a weighted value corresponding to the processing load of the other communication processing apparatuses, and weights used to generate the weighted value are changed based on a communication quality mode.
(19)
An information processing method for an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, the method comprising: determining, with circuitry, a network path based on network path quality values included in received information, the network path quality values being sent based on processing load of other information processing apparatuses included in the mesh network.
(20)
A non-transitory computer-readable medium encoded with computer-readable instructions that, when executed by circuitry, cause the circuitry to perform an information processing method for an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, the method comprising: determining a network path based on network path quality values included in received information, the network path quality values being sent based on processing load of other information processing apparatuses included in the mesh network.

10 Communication system
100 to 104 Information processing apparatus
110 Communication unit
120 Control unit
130 Memory unit
140 Power supply unit
900 Smartphone
901 Processor
902 Memory
903 Storage
904 External connection interface
906 Camera
907 Sensor
908 Microphone
909 Input device
910 Display device
911 Speaker
913 Radio communication interface
914 Antenna switch
915 Antenna
917 Bus
918 Battery
919 Auxiliary controller
920 Car navigation apparatus
921 Processor
922 Memory
924 GPS module
925 Sensor
926 Data interface
927 Content player
928 Storage medium interface
929 Input device
930 Display device
931 Speaker
933 Radio communication interface
934 Antenna switch
935 Antenna
938 Battery
941 In-vehicle network
942 Vehicle-side module

Claims

An information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, comprising:
circuitry configured to
determine a processing load of the information processing apparatus; and
set a network path quality value based on at least the processing load.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the circuitry is further configured to store a management table that identifies a transmission path in the mesh network between the information processing apparatus and at least one destination information processing apparatus.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the management table includes identification of at least one other information processing apparatus between the information processing apparatus and the at least one destination information processing apparatus.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the management table further includes path quality values for each of the at least one other information processing apparatus and the at least one other destination information processing apparatus.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the circuitry is further configured to adjust the path quality values in the management table in accordance with the processing load.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the circuitry is further configured to transmit the path quality values after adjustment with the processing load to at least one other information processing apparatus.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the circuitry is further configured to determine the processing load based on at least one of traffic volume or an amount of information awaiting transmission.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the mesh network is a wireless local area network.
An information processing method for an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, the method comprising:
determining, with circuitry, a processing load of the information processing apparatus; and
setting, with the circuitry, a network path quality value based on at least the processing load.
A non-transitory computer-readable medium encoded with computer-readable instructions that, when executed by circuitry, cause the circuitry to perform an information processing method for an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, the method comprising:
determining a processing load of the information processing apparatus; and
setting a network path quality value based on at least the processing load.
An information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, comprising:
circuitry configured to
determine a network path based on network path quality values included in received information, the network path quality values being set based on processing load of other information processing apparatuses included in the mesh network.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the circuitry is further configured to store the network path quality values in a management table.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the circuitry is further configured to adjust the network path quality values based on a determined processing load of the information processing apparatus.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the network path values are determined based on a degree of communication path congestion.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the circuitry is further configured to determine the processing load of the information processing apparatus based on at least one of traffic volume or an amount of traffic awaiting transmission.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the circuitry is further configured to determine the degree of communication path congestion based on a number of neighboring information processing apparatuses that neighbor the information processing apparatus.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the circuitry is further configured to determine the degree of congestion based on an amount of variation in a communication delay.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the network path quality values are determined based on a weighted value corresponding to the processing load of the other communication processing apparatuses, and weights used to generate the weighted value are changed based on a communication quality mode.
An information processing method for an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, the method comprising:
determining, with circuitry, a network path based on network path quality values included in received information, the network path quality values being sent based on processing load of other information processing apparatuses included in the mesh network.
A non-transitory computer-readable medium encoded with computer-readable instructions that, when executed by circuitry, cause the circuitry to perform an information processing method for an information processing apparatus included in a mesh network, the method comprising:
determining a network path based on network path quality values included in received information, the network path quality values being sent based on processing load of other information processing apparatuses included in the mesh network.