Method and apparatus for a communication network with nodes capable of selective cluster head operation
US7203729B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 27, 2002 |
| Grant date | Apr 10, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 8, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02D30/70
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A communication device (111) determines whether to operate as a cluster head in a network of communication devices (100). The device performs a self-assessment regarding its ability to operate as a cluster head based on a formula that assigns weights to factors related to its capabilities and preferably its environment (410, 420, 430). The ability of the device is combined with a random value component in determining whether to operate as a cluster head (440). In the preferred embodiment, upon assumption of cluster head status, the device communicates with neighboring devices to signal its cluster head status, and to invite others to participate in the formation of a cluster.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.