WO2017175216A1 - System and method for mesh interconnectivity across ad hoc wifi networks - Google Patents

System and method for mesh interconnectivity across ad hoc wifi networks Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2017175216A1
WO2017175216A1 PCT/IL2017/050400 IL2017050400W WO2017175216A1 WO 2017175216 A1 WO2017175216 A1 WO 2017175216A1 IL 2017050400 W IL2017050400 W IL 2017050400W WO 2017175216 A1 WO2017175216 A1 WO 2017175216A1
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Prior art keywords
node
network
communication
hoc
data
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PCT/IL2017/050400
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French (fr)
Inventor
Zvi KOMAROV
Idan NOTI
Uzi Hanuni
Gabriel ROZIC
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Maxtech Communication Networks Ltd.
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Publication of WO2017175216A1 publication Critical patent/WO2017175216A1/en

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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W40/00—Communication routing or communication path finding
    • H04W40/24—Connectivity information management, e.g. connectivity discovery or connectivity update
    • H04W40/32—Connectivity information management, e.g. connectivity discovery or connectivity update for defining a routing cluster membership
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W40/00—Communication routing or communication path finding
    • H04W40/02—Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing
    • H04W40/04—Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing based on wireless node resources
    • H04W40/08—Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing based on wireless node resources based on transmission power
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W40/00—Communication routing or communication path finding
    • H04W40/02—Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing
    • H04W40/20—Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing based on geographic position or location
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W84/00—Network topologies
    • H04W84/18—Self-organising networks, e.g. ad-hoc networks or sensor networks
    • H04W84/20—Master-slave selection or change arrangements
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02D—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES [ICT], I.E. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES AIMING AT THE REDUCTION OF THEIR OWN ENERGY USE
    • Y02D30/00—Reducing energy consumption in communication networks
    • Y02D30/70—Reducing energy consumption in communication networks in wireless communication networks

Definitions

  • the present invention relates in general to the fields of electronics, communication networks, mobile networks, ad hoc networking, and mobile ad-hoc networks (MANETs).
  • MANETs mobile ad-hoc networks
  • WiFi is commonly implemented as a means for devices to communicate by means of a dedicated network management device, such as a dedicated router.
  • Bluetooth is commonly implemented as a means of direct, short-range wireless communication between two devices, such as the communication between a computer and a wireless mouse.
  • these communication means are not commonly used to implement ad hoc communication networks.
  • the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] contains at least one device [200] configured to perform GO [415] functionality; wherein data communication from an origin node [410] or GO [415] to a destination node
  • At least one node [410] in the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] is configured such that data communicated between the at least one node [410] and the GO [415] most distant from the at least one node [410] shortest wireless network path to the most distant GO in the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] must traverse at least two hops; wherein each and every node [410] in the ad hoc WiFi network [600] is equipped to function as a GO [415]; network nodes [410] are dynamically assigned to be GOs [415] on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs; wherein network nodes [410] renegotiate connectivity with, and disconnect from, GOs [415] on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs; wherein GO [415] assignment is dynamically
  • AP WiFi-Direct access point
  • the at least one of the node [410] or GO [415] is configured to serve as an Internet-protocol (IP)-extending relay node [415] configured for: a) maintaining connectivity with an IP hosting network [700], and b) extending IP access to at least one other node [410] or GO
  • IP Internet-protocol
  • At least one of the computing devices [200] comprises electronic circuitry for configuring its digital data processing means [210] and wireless digital network communication means [220] for functioning as a node [410] or GO [415] in the mesh network [400] topology over the ad- hoc WiFi network [600].
  • the mesh network communication means [220] of at least one of the computer devices [200] comprises at least one specialized digital communication hardware component [150] for implementing communication functions for functioning as a node [410] or GO [415] in the mesh communication network [400] topology over the ad-hoc WiFi network [600].
  • the mesh network communication algorithm [310] calculates the path of a transmitted data message [350] for optimizing the speed of data transmission, the calculation including a set of factors comprising varying characteristics of each node [410] of the ad-hoc WiFi [600] network implementing a mesh network [400] topology.
  • the factors comprising varying characteristics of each node are selected from a group comprising: RF HW capabilities, computational power, specific logical role (e.g. base station, dedicated/preferred router), battery status, and geographical placement.
  • the mesh network communication algorithm [310] calculates the path of a transmitted data message [350] for avoiding non-functioning, malfunctioning, under-performing, and otherwise unavailable nodes [410] or GOs [415], the calculation including a set of factors comprising varying characteristics of each node [410] and GO of the ad-hoc WiFi network
  • factors comprising varying characteristics of each node are selected from a group comprising: RF HW capabilities, computational power, specific logical role (e.g. base station, dedicated/preferred router), battery status, and geographical placement.
  • Fig. la is a conceptual drawing illustrating a fully interconnected mesh topology.
  • Fig. lb is a conceptual drawing illustrating a partially interconnected mesh topology.
  • Fig. lc is a conceptual drawing illustrating a serial, daisy-chained topology.
  • Fig. 2 is a conceptual drawing illustrating an embodiment of the invention deploying nodes and ad hoc Group Owner (GO) nodes.
  • GO Group Owner
  • Fig. 3a is a conceptual drawing illustrating an ad hoc WiFi Direct network.
  • Fig. 3b is a conceptual drawing illustrating an ad hoc WiFi Direct network.
  • Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the layered network communication functions of the kernel driver software when activated by a calling Application, implementing a mesh network topological communication functions within the OSI model of computer networking in an embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the layered network communication functions of an embodiment of the invention in an implementation on a WiFi (802.11) physical layer.
  • Fig. 6 is a conceptual drawing illustrating an example embodiment of the invention as applied to an ad hoc network of computer workstations and peripheral devices in an office building.
  • node refers in the present invention to either connection point, a redistribution point, or an endpoinl in a communication network. It is a device with computer network communication capability that can transmit, receive, and store digital data.
  • a mesh network refers in the present invention to a network topology in which each mesh node relays data for the network and otherwise cooperates in managing the distribution of data in the network.
  • a mesh network is characterized by its ability to dynamically change the route of a digital data message for both optimizing the speed of message transmission and rerouting data to bypass non-functioning nodes.
  • a mesh communication network topology is characterized by: a) each mesh node relaying data for the network and otherwise cooperating in managing the distribution of data in the network, b) multiple paths across nodes for transmitting data from origin to destination, and c) dynamic reconfiguration of data paths across nodes from origin to destination.
  • the dynamic aspect of data path reconfiguration facilitates an optimization of data paths for increased data transmission speeds and for network recovery upon the failure, malfunction, under-performance, or otherwise unavailability of one or more nodes in the mesh network.
  • Fig. la a conceptual drawing illustrating a fully interconnected mesh topology.
  • every node is connected to every other node. Therefore, there are almost always multiple node paths between message origin and destination within the network.
  • the mesh network can readily provide an alternative route using one or more intermediary nodes.
  • FIG. lb a conceptual drawing illustrating a partially interconnected mesh topology.
  • this topology is typical as moving nodes leave the range of interconnectivity with the relatively most distant nodes.
  • a break in a direct connection between any two specific nodes does not necessarily result in a complete break in communication between the two nodes, as long as there remains a viable, indirect node path between intermediary nodes.
  • Fig. lc a conceptual drawing illustrating a serial, daisy-chained topology.
  • Fig. lc a conceptual drawing illustrating a serial, daisy-chained topology.
  • the disconnection of any node from any other results in a break in communication between at least two nodes in the network.
  • data message and “data packet” refer in the present invention to a sequence of digital electronic signals representing binary values, to be transmitted from an origin to a destination, either in one network or across two or more networks.
  • hop refers in the present invention to the transmission of a data message from one node to an immediately connected node in a network.
  • multi-hop refers in the present invention to a characteristic of a network whereby a data message is transmitted from an origin node to a destination node via one or more intermediary nodes, thus requiring two or more hops between nodes.
  • WiFi refers in the present invention to a local area wireless computer networking technology that allows electronic devices to network, mainly using the 2.4 gigahertz (12 cm) UHF and 5 gigahertz (6 cm) SHF ISM radio bands as described in IEEE 802.11 standard.
  • peer-to-peer and "P2P” refer in the present invention to communication networking that utilizes a distributed application architecture that partitions tasks between peers; peers are equally privileged, equipotent participants in the network.
  • Wi-Fi Direct and “Wi-Fi P2P” refer in the present invention to a WiFi standard enabling devices to connect with each other without requiring a dedicated wireless access point, such as a WiFi router.
  • Wi-Fi Direct and Wi-Fi P2P standards are defined by Wi-Fi Alliance® industry association.
  • Group Owner or "GO” refer in the present invention to a node in a WiFi-Direct network that manages the communication and services within its group, as defined by Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Wi-Fi Direct ®.
  • the terms "access point” refer in the present invention to non-WiFi-Direct-compliant devices which implement functionality to communicate with a WiFi-Direct-compliant device.
  • the WiFi-Direct standard for P2P communication includes inter-compatibility with some devices which are not fully WiFi-Direct-compliant.
  • Bluetooth refers in the present invention to a wireless computer networking technology standard for exchanging data over short distances (using short- wavelength UHF radio waves in the ISM band from 2.4 to 2.485 GHz, as defined by Bluetooth Standard SIG.
  • frequency hopping and “FH” refer in the present invention to a technique of a data transmitter changing the carrier frequency of during its transmission of a data message.
  • wireless digital communication subnetwork refers in the present environment to a wireless digital communication network that is functionally integrated within a larger communication network environment.
  • the terms "MAC” and "Media Access Control” refer in the present invention to a data communication protocol conceptualized as a sublayer of the data link layer of the OSI model of computer networking.
  • the MAC sublayer functions as an interface between the logical link control (LLC) sublayer and the network's physical layer, emulating a full-duplex logical communication channel in a multi-point network.
  • LLC logical link control
  • NIC Network Interface Controller
  • NIC Network Interface Controller
  • IP Internet Protocol
  • Internet protocol refer in the present invention to the Internet protocol suite for internetworking or relaying datagrams across computer network boundaries.
  • ISP Internet Service Provider
  • Internet Service Provider refer in the present invention to an organization that provides services for accessing, using, or participating in the Internet.
  • the present invention provides a system [100] for managing data transmission among computing devices [200] connected to an ad-hoc WiFi network [600], the system [100] comprising a plurality of computing devices [200], each with digital data processing means
  • the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] contains at least one device [200] configured to perform GO [415] functionality; wherein data communication from an origin node [410] or GO [415] to a destination node
  • At least one node [410] in the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] is configured such that data communicated between the at least one node [410] and the GO [415] most distant from the at least one node [410] shortest wireless network path to the most distant GO in the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] must traverse at least two hops; wherein each and every node [410] in the ad hoc WiFi network [600] is equipped to function as a GO [415]; network nodes [410] are dynamically assigned to be GOs [415] on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs; wherein network nodes [410] renegotiate connectivity with, and disconnect from, GOs [415] on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs; wherein GO [415] assignment is dynamically
  • Some embodiments of the invention are characterized by GO [415] assignments being dynamically altered to accommodate any topology change of the WiFi network [600] to maintain network connectivity.
  • Fig. 3a illustrates the embodiment of an ad hoc mesh network topology implemented over WiFi.
  • nodes A and C have both negotiated connectivity with Group Owner GOi.
  • node A has negotiated connectivity through Group Owners GOi and G0 2
  • Group Owner GO 2 also shares connectivity with node B.
  • node C has connectivity with node B by means of 4 mesh node hops, namely C-to-GOi, Gd-to-A, A-to-G02, and G02-to- B.
  • node C cannot communicate with node D.
  • Node D has a negotiated connection with Group Owner node GO3, but there is no shared connection between GO3 and node A - or any other Group Owner combination connected with node C.
  • the logical configuration of the ad hoc network must be renegotiated. This might entail new assignations of Group Owners and logical connections between specific network nodes specific Group Owners.
  • Fig. 3b illustrates a renegotiated network state different from the network state illustrated in Fig. 3a; node A has logically disconnected from Group Owner G0 2 and negotiated an ad hoc, logical connection with Group Owner GO3. As such, node C now has connectivity with node D by means of 4 mesh hops, namely C-to-GOi, GOi-to-A, A-to-G0 3 , and G0 3 -to-D.
  • Fig. 3c and 3d illustrates a dynamic GOs [415] alternation to accommodate network topology change; instead of link renegotiation of node A, the network may alternate GOs [415] assignment that enables full network connectivity of the new network topology.
  • former Group Owners namely GO]
  • GO2 and GO3 forfeit its Group Owner role assignment and become regular nodes
  • former nodes A, B, C and D forfeit its regular node assignment and become GOs [415]: GO10, GO20, GO30, and GO 0 respectively.
  • AP non-WiFi-Direct access point
  • the at least one of the node [410] or GO [415] is configured to serve as an Internet- protocol (IP)-extending relay node [415] configured for a) maintaining connectivity with an IP hosting network [700], and b) extending IP access to at least one other node [410] or GO
  • IP Internet- protocol
  • Some embodiments of the current invention to present a system further comprise a non- transitory, computer readable memory (CRM) [230] for providing programmed [300] instructions to at least one of the computing devices [200].
  • CRM computer readable memory
  • At least one of the computing devices [200] comprises electronic circuitry for configuring its digital data processing means [210] and wireless digital network communication means [220] for functioning as a node [410] or GO [415] in the mesh network [400] topology over the ad-hoc WiFi network [600].
  • the mesh network communication algorithm [310] dynamically reconstructs the mesh network [400] among the computer devices [200] at the start of each data transmission cycle [360] from one node [410] or GO [415] to the next as the data message [350] proceeds towards its destination.
  • the mesh network communication means [220] of at least one of the computer devices [200] comprises at least one specialized digital communication hardware component
  • the mesh network communication algorithm [310] calculates the path of a transmitted data message [350] for optimizing the speed of data transmission, the calculation including a set of factors comprising varying characteristics of each node [410] of the ad-hoc WiFi [600] network implementing a mesh network [400] topology.
  • the mesh network communication algorithm [310] calculates the path of a transmitted data message [350] for avoiding non-functioning, malfunctioning, under- performing, and otherwise unavailable nodes [410] or GOs [415], the calculation including a set of factors comprising varying characteristics of each node [410] and GO of the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] implementing a mesh network [400] topology.
  • the factors comprising varying characteristics of each node are selected from a group comprising: RF HW capabilities, computational power, specific logical role (e.g. base station, dedicated/preferred router), battery status, and geographical placement.
  • Computer peripheral equipment including printers and scanners, are located throughout an office building. All of the peripheral devices are WiFi-enabled, some with the WiFi Direct standard. WiFi-enabled computer workstations located throughout the office building must communicate with one another and with the peripheral devices.
  • the example embodiment of the invention provides a system for managing data transmission among the computing devices, including the computer workstations and peripheral devices.
  • the WiFi-Direct-enabled computing devices negotiate the implementation of an ad-hoc peer- to-peer WiFi network.
  • FIG. 6 a conceptual drawing illustrating the example embodiment of the invention as applied to an ad hoc network of computer workstations and peripheral devices in an office building.
  • the computing devices are configured to function as communication nodes [410] in an ad- hoc WiFi network [600] implementing a mesh network [400] topology; the mesh network
  • Network nodes [410] are dynamically assigned to be GOs [415] on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs.
  • mobile devices such as smartphones, notebook computers, tablets, and laptop computers, with WiFi capability can be added to the network and serve as nodes [410].
  • Mobile devices with WiFi Direct capability can further serve as GOs [415].

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  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
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Abstract

A system for managing data transmission among computing devices connected to an ad-hoc Wi Fi network is herein disclosed. A plurality of computing devices are configured to function as communication nodes in an ad-hoc WiFi network implementing a mesh network topology, with nodes arranged in groups. Groups are managed by nodes assigned on a temporary ad hoc basis to be "Group Owners."

Description

System and method for mesh interconnectivit across ad hoc WiFi
networks
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[1] The present invention relates in general to the fields of electronics, communication networks, mobile networks, ad hoc networking, and mobile ad-hoc networks (MANETs).
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[2] Computers and peripheral devices are commonly equipped with wireless communication means for wireless data transfers within short distance ranges. Two common standards for such short range communication are WiFi and Bluetooth.
[3] WiFi is commonly implemented as a means for devices to communicate by means of a dedicated network management device, such as a dedicated router. Bluetooth is commonly implemented as a means of direct, short-range wireless communication between two devices, such as the communication between a computer and a wireless mouse. However, these communication means are not commonly used to implement ad hoc communication networks.
[4] There remains a long-felt and unmet need for a system for implementing versatile, failure tolerant, and convenient ad-hoc communication networks, utilizing electronic means common to computers and computer peripherals.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[5] It is thus one object of the present invention to disclose a system [100] for managing data transmission among computing devices [200] connected to an ad-hoc WiFi network [600], the system [100] comprising a plurality of computing devices [200], each with digital data processing means [210] and WiFi network communication means [220]; wherein the computing devices [200] are configured to function as communication nodes
[410] in an ad-hoc WiFi network [600] implementing a mesh network [400] topology; the mesh network [400] topology arranging nodes [410] in groups [420]; the node groups [420] managed by nodes assigned on a temporary ad hoc basis to be "Group Owners" or "GOs;"
[415]; wherein the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] contains at least one device [200] configured to perform GO [415] functionality; wherein data communication from an origin node [410] or GO [415] to a destination node
[410] or GO [415] within a group is facilitated by one or more data transmissions, or "hops," from the origin node to the destination node; wherein at least one node [410] in the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] is configured such that data communicated between the at least one node [410] and the GO [415] most distant from the at least one node [410] shortest wireless network path to the most distant GO in the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] must traverse at least two hops; wherein each and every node [410] in the ad hoc WiFi network [600] is equipped to function as a GO [415]; network nodes [410] are dynamically assigned to be GOs [415] on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs; wherein network nodes [410] renegotiate connectivity with, and disconnect from, GOs [415] on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs; wherein GO [415] assignment is dynamically altered on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs.
It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein data communication from an origin node [410] or origin GO [415] from one group to a destination node [410] or destination GO [415] belonging to a different group [425] is facilitated by data hops from the origin node [410] or origin GO [415] to at least one intermediary node [410] or intermediary GO [415] connected to at least one other node [410] or GO [415] of the different group [425]; additional hops to intermediary nodes [410] and intermediary GOs [415] routed as necessary to transmit the communicated data message to the destination node [410] or destination GO [415] belonging to the different group [425]. [7] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein at least one of the computing devices [200] functioning as a network node [410] is WiFi- Direct-compliant and configured for performing GO [415] functions.
[8] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein at least one of the computing devices [200] functioning as a network node [410] is a non- WiFi-Direct access point (AP) legacy device.
[9] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein multi-hop routing enables logical network connections within node groups and between node groups via a cloud computing infrastructure.
[10] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein the at least one of the node [410] or GO [415] is configured to serve as an Internet-protocol (IP)-extending relay node [415] configured for: a) maintaining connectivity with an IP hosting network [700], and b) extending IP access to at least one other node [410] or GO
[415] within the mesh network [400] topology implemented on the ad-hoc WiFi network
[600].
[11] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein at least one of the computing devices [200] is configured for frequency hopping in its function as a node [410] or GO [415] in the mesh network [400]; the frequency hopping characterized by a data-transmitting node [410] or GO [415] changing the carrier frequency during transmission of a data message [350].
[12] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein at least one of the computing devices [200] comprises electronic circuitry for configuring its digital data processing means [210] and wireless digital network communication means [220] for functioning as a node [410] or GO [415] in the mesh network [400] topology over the ad- hoc WiFi network [600].
[13] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein the mesh network communication means [220] is implemented, in a non-limiting manner, by means of a software driver [320] embedded in the operating system kernel [250] of the computer device [200]. [14] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein me software driver [320] instructs the computing device [200] to reconfigure its wireless digital communication firmware for operating as a mesh network node [410] or GO [415]. The reconfiguration of wireless digital communication firmware modifying the computing device's [200] wireless digital communication radio beacon's [270] operation; the modification of the wireless digital communication radio beacon's [270] operation configured for changing the computing device's [200] scanning behavior and creating an ad-hoc WiFi network [600] implementing a mesh network [400] topology.
[IS] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein the mesh network communication algorithm [310] dynamically reconstructs the mesh network [400] among the computer devices [200] at the start of each data transmission cycle
[360] from one node [410] or GO [415] to the next as the data message [350] proceeds towards its destination.
[16] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein the mesh network communication means [220] of at least one of the computer devices [200] comprises at least one specialized digital communication hardware component [150] for implementing communication functions for functioning as a node [410] or GO [415] in the mesh communication network [400] topology over the ad-hoc WiFi network [600].
[17] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein the selection and assignment of one or more nodes [410] to function as GOs [415] are performed on a dynamic basis for maintaining levels of network connectivity in response to topological changes to the WiFi network [600]; the levels of network connectivity selected from a group of characteristics comprising: average time of message transmission from source to destination, average number of message packet node hops from source to destination, mean time between failure for a GO, average degree of data path redundancy in the network, and any combination thereof.
[18] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein the mesh network communication algorithm [310] calculates the path of a transmitted data message [350] for optimizing the speed of data transmission, the calculation including a set of factors comprising varying characteristics of each node [410] of the ad-hoc WiFi [600] network implementing a mesh network [400] topology. [19] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein the factors comprising varying characteristics of each node are selected from a group comprising: RF HW capabilities, computational power, specific logical role (e.g. base station, dedicated/preferred router), battery status, and geographical placement.
[20] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein the mesh network communication algorithm [310] calculates the path of a transmitted data message [350] for avoiding non-functioning, malfunctioning, under-performing, and otherwise unavailable nodes [410] or GOs [415], the calculation including a set of factors comprising varying characteristics of each node [410] and GO of the ad-hoc WiFi network
[600] implementing a mesh network [400] topology.
[21] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein the factors comprising varying characteristics of each node are selected from a group comprising: RF HW capabilities, computational power, specific logical role (e.g. base station, dedicated/preferred router), battery status, and geographical placement.
[22] It is another object of the present invention to disclose the system mentioned above, wherein at least one of the computer devices [200] is selected to be a mobile computing device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention is herein described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
Fig. la is a conceptual drawing illustrating a fully interconnected mesh topology.
Fig. lb is a conceptual drawing illustrating a partially interconnected mesh topology.
Fig. lc is a conceptual drawing illustrating a serial, daisy-chained topology.
Fig. 2 is a conceptual drawing illustrating an embodiment of the invention deploying nodes and ad hoc Group Owner (GO) nodes.
Fig. 3a is a conceptual drawing illustrating an ad hoc WiFi Direct network. Fig. 3b is a conceptual drawing illustrating an ad hoc WiFi Direct network. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the layered network communication functions of the kernel driver software when activated by a calling Application, implementing a mesh network topological communication functions within the OSI model of computer networking in an embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the layered network communication functions of an embodiment of the invention in an implementation on a WiFi (802.11) physical layer.
Fig. 6 is a conceptual drawing illustrating an example embodiment of the invention as applied to an ad hoc network of computer workstations and peripheral devices in an office building.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[24] The following description is provided, alongside all chapters of the present invention, so as to enable any person skilled in the art to make use of the invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out this invention. Various modifications, however, are adapted to remain apparent to those skilled in the art, since the generic principles of the present invention have been defined specifically to provide a system for managing data transmission among computing devices connected to an ad-hoc WiFi network.
[25] The term "node" refers in the present invention to either connection point, a redistribution point, or an endpoinl in a communication network. It is a device with computer network communication capability that can transmit, receive, and store digital data.
[26] The terms "mesh," "mesh communication network," "mesh network," and "dynamic mesh network" refer in the present invention to a network topology in which each mesh node relays data for the network and otherwise cooperates in managing the distribution of data in the network. A mesh network is characterized by its ability to dynamically change the route of a digital data message for both optimizing the speed of message transmission and rerouting data to bypass non-functioning nodes. A mesh communication network topology is characterized by: a) each mesh node relaying data for the network and otherwise cooperating in managing the distribution of data in the network, b) multiple paths across nodes for transmitting data from origin to destination, and c) dynamic reconfiguration of data paths across nodes from origin to destination. The dynamic aspect of data path reconfiguration facilitates an optimization of data paths for increased data transmission speeds and for network recovery upon the failure, malfunction, under-performance, or otherwise unavailability of one or more nodes in the mesh network.
[27] Reference is now made to Fig. la, a conceptual drawing illustrating a fully interconnected mesh topology. In a fully interconnected topology, every node is connected to every other node. Therefore, there are almost always multiple node paths between message origin and destination within the network. In the situation of wirelessly connected nodes, when one mobile node moves out of range of its most remote fellow node the mesh network can readily provide an alternative route using one or more intermediary nodes.
[28] Reference is now made to Fig. lb, a conceptual drawing illustrating a partially interconnected mesh topology. In wireless mesh communication networks, in which most nodes are mobile, this topology is typical as moving nodes leave the range of interconnectivity with the relatively most distant nodes. A break in a direct connection between any two specific nodes, however, does not necessarily result in a complete break in communication between the two nodes, as long as there remains a viable, indirect node path between intermediary nodes.
[29] Reference is now made to Fig. lc, a conceptual drawing illustrating a serial, daisy-chained topology. In such topologies, the disconnection of any node from any other results in a break in communication between at least two nodes in the network.
[30] The terms "data message" and "data packet" refer in the present invention to a sequence of digital electronic signals representing binary values, to be transmitted from an origin to a destination, either in one network or across two or more networks.
[31] The term "hop" refers in the present invention to the transmission of a data message from one node to an immediately connected node in a network.
[32] The term "multi-hop" refers in the present invention to a characteristic of a network whereby a data message is transmitted from an origin node to a destination node via one or more intermediary nodes, thus requiring two or more hops between nodes.
[33] The term "WiFi" refers in the present invention to a local area wireless computer networking technology that allows electronic devices to network, mainly using the 2.4 gigahertz (12 cm) UHF and 5 gigahertz (6 cm) SHF ISM radio bands as described in IEEE 802.11 standard. [34] The terms "peer-to-peer" and "P2P" refer in the present invention to communication networking that utilizes a distributed application architecture that partitions tasks between peers; peers are equally privileged, equipotent participants in the network.
[35] The terms "WiFi Direct" and "Wi-Fi P2P" refer in the present invention to a WiFi standard enabling devices to connect with each other without requiring a dedicated wireless access point, such as a WiFi router. Wi-Fi Direct and Wi-Fi P2P standards are defined by Wi-Fi Alliance® industry association.
[36] The terms "Group Owner" or "GO" refer in the present invention to a node in a WiFi-Direct network that manages the communication and services within its group, as defined by Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Wi-Fi Direct ®.
[37] The terms "access point" (AP) refer in the present invention to non-WiFi-Direct-compliant devices which implement functionality to communicate with a WiFi-Direct-compliant device. The WiFi-Direct standard for P2P communication includes inter-compatibility with some devices which are not fully WiFi-Direct-compliant.
[38] The term "Bluetooth" refers in the present invention to a wireless computer networking technology standard for exchanging data over short distances (using short- wavelength UHF radio waves in the ISM band from 2.4 to 2.485 GHz, as defined by Bluetooth Standard SIG.
[39] The terms "frequency hopping" and "FH" refer in the present invention to a technique of a data transmitter changing the carrier frequency of during its transmission of a data message.
[40] The terms "interoperable" and "interoperability" refer in the present invention to characteristics of a system, device, or method that provides functionality across a range of different operating environments.
[41] The term "wireless digital communication subnetwork" refers in the present environment to a wireless digital communication network that is functionally integrated within a larger communication network environment.
[42] The terms "MAC" and "Media Access Control" refer in the present invention to a data communication protocol conceptualized as a sublayer of the data link layer of the OSI model of computer networking. The MAC sublayer functions as an interface between the logical link control (LLC) sublayer and the network's physical layer, emulating a full-duplex logical communication channel in a multi-point network.
[43] The terms "NIC" and "Network Interface Controller" refer in the present invention to a computer hardware component that connects a computer to a computer network, implementing electronic circuitry required to communicate using a specific physical layer and data link layer standard such as Ethernet, Fiber Channel, Wi-Fi..
[44] The terms "IP" and "internet protocol" refer in the present invention to the Internet protocol suite for internetworking or relaying datagrams across computer network boundaries.
[45] The terms "ISP" and "Internet Service Provider" refer in the present invention to an organization that provides services for accessing, using, or participating in the Internet.
[46] The present invention provides a system [100] for managing data transmission among computing devices [200] connected to an ad-hoc WiFi network [600], the system [100] comprising a plurality of computing devices [200], each with digital data processing means
[210] and WiFi network communication means [220]; wherein the computing devices [200] are configured to function as communication nodes
[410] in an ad-hoc WiFi network [600] implementing a mesh network [400] topology; the mesh network [400] topology arranging nodes [410] in groups [420]; the node groups [420] managed by nodes assigned on a temporary ad hoc basis to be "Group Owners" or "GOs;"
[415]; wherein the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] contains at least one device [200] configured to perform GO [415] functionality; wherein data communication from an origin node [410] or GO [415] to a destination node
[410] or GO [415] within a group is facilitated by one or more data transmissions, or "hops," from the origin node to the destination node; wherein at least one node [410] in the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] is configured such that data communicated between the at least one node [410] and the GO [415] most distant from the at least one node [410] shortest wireless network path to the most distant GO in the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] must traverse at least two hops; wherein each and every node [410] in the ad hoc WiFi network [600] is equipped to function as a GO [415]; network nodes [410] are dynamically assigned to be GOs [415] on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs; wherein network nodes [410] renegotiate connectivity with, and disconnect from, GOs [415] on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs; wherein GO [415] assignment is dynamically altered on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs.
[47] Some embodiments of the invention are characterized by GO [415] assignments being dynamically altered to accommodate any topology change of the WiFi network [600] to maintain network connectivity.
[48] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein data communication from an origin node [410] or origin GO [415] from one group to a destination node [410] or destination GO [415] belonging to a different group [425] is facilitated by data hops from the origin node [410] or origin GO [415] to at least one intermediary node [410] or intermediary GO [415] connected to at least one other node [410] or GO [415] of the different group [425]; additional hops to intermediary nodes [410] and intermediary GOs [415] routed as necessary to transmit the communicated data message to the destination node [410] or destination GO [415] belonging to the different group [425].
[49] Reference is now made to Fig. 3a, which illustrates the embodiment of an ad hoc mesh network topology implemented over WiFi. In this network state, nodes A and C have both negotiated connectivity with Group Owner GOi. In Fig. 3a, node A has negotiated connectivity through Group Owners GOi and G02, and Group Owner GO2 also shares connectivity with node B. Thus, in the network state of Fig. 3a, node C has connectivity with node B by means of 4 mesh node hops, namely C-to-GOi, Gd-to-A, A-to-G02, and G02-to- B.
[50] In the network state of Fig. 3a, node C cannot communicate with node D. Node D has a negotiated connection with Group Owner node GO3, but there is no shared connection between GO3 and node A - or any other Group Owner combination connected with node C. For node C to communicate with node D, the logical configuration of the ad hoc network must be renegotiated. This might entail new assignations of Group Owners and logical connections between specific network nodes specific Group Owners.
[51] Fig. 3b illustrates a renegotiated network state different from the network state illustrated in Fig. 3a; node A has logically disconnected from Group Owner G02 and negotiated an ad hoc, logical connection with Group Owner GO3. As such, node C now has connectivity with node D by means of 4 mesh hops, namely C-to-GOi, GOi-to-A, A-to-G03, and G03-to-D.
[52] Fig. 3c and 3d illustrates a dynamic GOs [415] alternation to accommodate network topology change; instead of link renegotiation of node A, the network may alternate GOs [415] assignment that enables full network connectivity of the new network topology. As such, former Group Owners, namely GO], GO2 and GO3, forfeit its Group Owner role assignment and become regular nodes whereas former nodes A, B, C and D forfeit its regular node assignment and become GOs [415]: GO10, GO20, GO30, and GO 0 respectively.
[53] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein at least one computing devices [200] functioning as a network node [410] is WiFi- Direct-compliant and configured for performing GO [415] functions.
[54] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein at least one of computing devices [200] functioning as a network node [410] is a non-WiFi-Direct access point (AP) legacy device.
[55] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein multi-hop routing enables logical network connections within node groups and between node groups via a cloud computing infrastructure.
[56] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein the at least one of the node [410] or GO [415] is configured to serve as an Internet- protocol (IP)-extending relay node [415] configured for a) maintaining connectivity with an IP hosting network [700], and b) extending IP access to at least one other node [410] or GO
[415] within the mesh network [400] topology implemented on the ad-hoc WiFi network
[600]. [57] Some embodiments of the current invention to present a system further comprise a non- transitory, computer readable memory (CRM) [230] for providing programmed [300] instructions to at least one of the computing devices [200].
[58] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein at least one of the computing devices [200] is configured for frequency hopping in its function as a node [410] or GO [415] in the mesh network [400] ; the frequency hopping characterized by a data-transmitting node [410] or GO [415] changing the carrier frequency during transmission of a data message [350].
[59] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein at least one of the computing devices [200] comprises electronic circuitry for configuring its digital data processing means [210] and wireless digital network communication means [220] for functioning as a node [410] or GO [415] in the mesh network [400] topology over the ad-hoc WiFi network [600].
[60] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein the mesh network communication means [220] is implemented, in a non-limiting manner, by means of a software driver [320] embedded in the operating system kernel [250] of the computer device [200].
[61] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein the software driver [320] instructs the computing device [200] to reconfigure its wireless digital communication firmware for operating as a mesh network node [410] or GO
[415]. The reconfiguration of wireless digital communication firmware modifying the computing device's [200] wireless digital communication radio beacon's [270] operation; the modification of the wireless digital communication radio beacon's [270] operation configured for changing the computing device's [200] scanning behavior and creating an ad-hoc wireless digital communication network [600] implementing a mesh network [400] topology.
[62] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein the mesh network communication algorithm [310] dynamically reconstructs the mesh network [400] among the computer devices [200] at the start of each data transmission cycle [360] from one node [410] or GO [415] to the next as the data message [350] proceeds towards its destination. [63] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein the mesh network communication means [220] of at least one of the computer devices [200] comprises at least one specialized digital communication hardware component
[150] for implementing communication functions for functioning as a node [410] or GO
[415] in the mesh communication network [400] topology over the ad-hoc WiFi network
[600].
[64] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein the selection and assignment of one or more nodes [410] to function as GOs [415] are performed on a dynamic basis for maintaining levels of network connectivity in response to topological changes to the WiFi network [600]; the levels of network connectivity selected from a group of characteristics comprising: average time of message transmission from source to destination, average number of message packet node hops from source to destination, mean time between failure for a GO, average degree of data path redundancy in the network, and any combination thereof.
[65] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein the mesh network communication algorithm [310] calculates the path of a transmitted data message [350] for optimizing the speed of data transmission, the calculation including a set of factors comprising varying characteristics of each node [410] of the ad-hoc WiFi [600] network implementing a mesh network [400] topology.
[66] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein the factors comprising varying characteristics of each node are selected from a group comprising: RF HW capabilities, computational power, specific logical role (e.g. base station, dedicated/preferred router), battery status, and geographical placement.
[67] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein the mesh network communication algorithm [310] calculates the path of a transmitted data message [350] for avoiding non-functioning, malfunctioning, under- performing, and otherwise unavailable nodes [410] or GOs [415], the calculation including a set of factors comprising varying characteristics of each node [410] and GO of the ad-hoc WiFi network [600] implementing a mesh network [400] topology. [68] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein the factors comprising varying characteristics of each node are selected from a group comprising: RF HW capabilities, computational power, specific logical role (e.g. base station, dedicated/preferred router), battery status, and geographical placement.
[69] It is according to a preferred embodiment of the current invention to present a system wherein at least one of the computer devices [200] might be a mobile computing device.
EXAMPLE
[70] The following non-limiting examples are used to further illustrate embodiment claimed in the present invention. The examples describe the manner and process of the present invention and set forth modes contemplated by the inventors for carrying out the invention, but are not to be construed as limiting the invention.
Example: Building-wide computer peripheral sharing
[71] Computer peripheral equipment, including printers and scanners, are located throughout an office building. All of the peripheral devices are WiFi-enabled, some with the WiFi Direct standard. WiFi-enabled computer workstations located throughout the office building must communicate with one another and with the peripheral devices.
[72] The example embodiment of the invention provides a system for managing data transmission among the computing devices, including the computer workstations and peripheral devices. The WiFi-Direct-enabled computing devices negotiate the implementation of an ad-hoc peer- to-peer WiFi network.
[73] Reference is made to Fig. 6, a conceptual drawing illustrating the example embodiment of the invention as applied to an ad hoc network of computer workstations and peripheral devices in an office building.
[74] The computing devices are configured to function as communication nodes [410] in an ad- hoc WiFi network [600] implementing a mesh network [400] topology; the mesh network
[400] topology arranging nodes [410] in groups [420]; the node groups [420] managed by nodes assigned on a temporary ad hoc basis to be "Group Owners" or "GOs" [415]. In this example, the printer/scanner peripherals serve as the GOs [415] and the computer workstations serve as nodes [410]. [75] The data communication from an origin node [410] to a destination node [410] within a group is facilitated by multiple data transmissions, or "hops," from origin node to GO to destination node.
[76] Each and every WiFi-Direct-enabled node [410], including every printer and scanner, in the ad hoc WiFi network [600], is equipped to function as a GO [415]. Network nodes [410] are dynamically assigned to be GOs [415] on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs.
[77] If a peripheral device is disabled, its node [410] connections may be reconfigured to other peripherals or one of the workstations may serve as GO [415].
[78] It is noted that mobile devices, such as smartphones, notebook computers, tablets, and laptop computers, with WiFi capability can be added to the network and serve as nodes [410]. Mobile devices with WiFi Direct capability can further serve as GOs [415].

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed:
1. A system [100] for managing data transmission among computing devices [200] connected to an ad-hoc WiFi network [600], said system [100] comprising a plurality of computing devices [200], each with digital data processing means [210] and WiFi network communication means [220]; wherein said computing devices [200] are configured to function as communication nodes
[410] in an ad-hoc WiFi network [600] implementing a mesh network [400] topology; said mesh network [400] topology arranging nodes [410] in groups [420]; said node groups
[420] managed by nodes assigned on a temporary ad hoc basis to be "Group Owners" or "GOs;" [415]; wherein said ad-hoc WiFi network [600] contains at least one device [200] configured to perform GO [415] functionality; wherein data communication from an origin node [410] or GO [415] to a destination node
[410] or GO [415] within a group is facilitated by one or more data transmissions, or "hops," from said origin node to said destination node; wherein at least one node [410] in said ad-hoc WiFi network [600] is configured such that data communicated between said at least one node [410] and the GO [415] most distant from said at least one node [410] shortest wireless network path to the most distant GO in said ad-hoc WiFi network [600] must traverse at least two hops; wherein each and every node [410] in said ad hoc WiFi network [600] is equipped to function as a GO [415]; network nodes [410] are dynamically assigned to be GOs [415] on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs; wherein network nodes [410] renegotiate connectivity with, and disconnect from, GOs
[415] on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs; wherein GO [415] assignment is dynamically altered on an ad hoc basis according to immediate communication needs.
2. The system [100] of claim 1, wherein data communication from an origin node [410] or origin GO [415] from one group to a destination node [410] or destination GO [415] belonging to a different group [425] is facilitated by data hops from said origin node [410] or origin GO [415] to at least one intermediary node [410] or intermediary GO [415] connected to at least one other node [410] or GO [415] of said different group [425]; additional hops to intermediary nodes [410] and intermediary GOs [415] routed as necessary to transmit said communicated data message to said destination node [410] or destination GO [415] belonging to said different group [425].
3. The system [100] of claim 1, wherein at least one of said computing devices [200] functioning as a network node [410] is WiFi-Direct-compliant and configured for performing GO [415] functions.
4. The system [100] of claim 3, wherein at least one of said computing devices [200] functioning as a network node [410] is a non-WiFi-Direct access point (AP) legacy device.
5. The system [100] of claim 1, wherein multi-hop routing enables logical network connections within node groups and between node groups via a cloud computing infrastructure.
6. The system [100] of claim 1, wherein said at least one of said node [410] or GO [415] is configured to serve as an Internet-protocol (IP)-extending relay node [415] configured for: a) maintaining connectivity with an IP hosting network [700], and b) extending IP access to at least one olher node [410] or GO [415] within said mesh network [400] topology implemented on said ad-hoc WiFi network [600].
7. The system [100] of claim 1, wherein at least one of said computing devices [200] is configured for frequency hopping in its function as a node [410] or GO [415] in said mesh network [400]; said frequency hopping characterized by a data-transmitting node [410] or GO [415] changing the carrier frequency during transmission of a data message [350].
8. The system [100] of claim 1, wherein at least one of said computing devices [200] comprises electronic circuitry for configuring its digital data processing means [210] and wireless digital network communication means [220] for functioning as a node [410] or GO [415] in said mesh network [400] topology over said ad-hoc WiFi network [600].
9. The system [100] of claim 1, wherein said mesh network communication means [220] is implemented, in a non-limiting manner, by means of a software driver [320] embedded in the operating system kernel [250] of said computer device [200].
10. The system [100] of claim 9, wherein said software driver [320] instructs said computing device [200] to reconfigure its wireless digital communication firmware for operating as a mesh network node [410] or GO [415]. The reconfiguration of wireless digital communication firmware modifying said computing device's [200] wireless digital communication radio beacon's [270] operation; said modification of said wireless digital communication radio beacon's [270] operation configured for changing said computing device's [200] scanning behavior and creating an ad-hoc WiFi network [600] implementing a mesh network [400] topology.
11. The system [100] of claim 1, wherein said mesh network communication algorithm [310] dynamically reconstructs the mesh network [400] among said computer devices [200] at the start of each data transmission cycle [360] from one node [410] or GO [415] to the next as the data message [350] proceeds towards its destination.
12. The system [100] of claim 1, wherein said mesh network communication means [220] of at least one of said computer devices [200] comprises at least one specialized digital communication hardware component [150] for implementing communication functions for functioning as a node [410] or GO [415] in said mesh communication network [400] topology over said ad-hoc WiFi network [600].
13. The system [100] of claim 1, wherein the selection and assignment of one or more nodes
[410] to function as GOs [415] are performed on a dynamic basis for maintaining levels of network connectivity in response to topological changes to the WiFi network [600]; said levels of network connectivity selected from a group of characteristics comprising: average time of message transmission from source to destination, average number of message packet node hops from source to destination, mean time between failure for a GO, average degree of data path redundancy in the network, and any combination thereof.
14. The system [ 100] of claim 1 , wherein said mesh network communication algorithm [310] calculates the path of a transmitted data message [350] for optimizing the speed of data transmission, said calculation including a set of factors comprising varying characteristics of each node [410] of said ad-hoc WiFi [600] network implementing a mesh network
[400] topology.
15. The system [100] of claim 14, wherein said factors comprising varying characteristics of each node are selected from a group comprising: RF HW capabilities, computational power, specific logical role (e.g. base station, dedicated/preferred router), battery status, and geographical placement.
16. The system [100] of claim 1, wherein said mesh network communication algorithm [310] calculates the path of a transmitted data message [350] for avoiding non-functioning, malfunctioning, under-performing, and otherwise unavailable nodes [410] or GOs [415], said calculation including a set of factors comprising varying characteristics of each node
[410] and GO of said ad-hoc WiFi network [600] implementing a mesh network [400] topology.
17. The system [100] of claim 16, wherein said factors comprising varying characteristics of each node are selected from a group comprising: RF HW capabilities, computational power, specific logical role (e.g. base station, dedicated/preferred router), battery status, and geographical placement.
18. The system [100] of claim 1, wherein at least one of said computer devices [200] is selected to be a mobile computing device.
PCT/IL2017/050400 2016-04-03 2017-04-03 System and method for mesh interconnectivity across ad hoc wifi networks WO2017175216A1 (en)

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