{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854456","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854456","title":"Method and apparatus for managing multi-hop relay networks","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2013-08-30T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04W","H04W","H04W","H04W"],"num_claims":43,"abstract":"Various aspects of an approach for managing multi-hop networks are described herein for an apparatus associated with a network that includes detecting, by the apparatus, an event corresponding to a state of association of a first device with the network; updating at least one network parameter based on the detection of the event; and generating a notification based on the update of the at least one network parameter. Another aspect of the disclosed approach includes receiving, by the apparatus, a first notification corresponding to a state of association of a first device with the network, wherein the first notification comprises a first timestamp corresponding to the state of association of the first device; comparing the first timestamp with a second timestamp corresponding to a table stored by the apparatus; and, updating the table with the first timestamp if the first timestamp is more recent than the second timestamp."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Method and Apparatus for Managing Multi-hop Relay Networks patent introduces a novel approach to enhance the stability and performance of multi-hop relay networks. The core innovation lies in its ability to dynamically adjust network parameters based on real-time event detection and provide proactive notifications to network administrators. This technology addresses the problem of maintaining reliable communication in complex network environments where direct device-to-device communication is not feasible.\n\nThe key technical approach involves monitoring the association status of devices within the network, detecting events such as device join or leave, and updating relevant network parameters accordingly. The system also incorporates a timestamp-based mechanism to ensure data consistency and prevent conflicting updates. This approach allows the network to adapt swiftly to changing conditions, minimizing disruptions and maximizing availability.\n\nThe business value of this innovation lies in its potential to improve the efficiency and reliability of multi-hop relay networks in various applications, including rural broadband access, IoT deployments, smart city initiatives, and disaster recovery scenarios. By enabling more stable and responsive networks, this technology can unlock new market opportunities and drive operational efficiency. The market opportunity is significant, as the demand for reliable wireless communication continues to grow in both urban and rural areas. The ability to dynamically manage network parameters and proactively address potential issues provides a competitive advantage for organizations deploying multi-hop relay networks. This patent offers a robust solution for maintaining optimal network performance and minimizing downtime.","layman_explanation":"1. What Problem Does This Solve?\nMulti-hop relay networks are used to extend wireless coverage by using multiple devices to relay signals. However, these networks can be unstable. Devices can move, signals can fluctuate, and network performance can suffer. Existing solutions often lack the real-time adaptability to maintain stable network operation, leading to service disruptions and user frustration.\n\n2. How Does It Work?\nThis patent provides a system that dynamically manages multi-hop relay networks. It monitors the network for changes, such as a device joining or leaving the network. When a change is detected, the system automatically adjusts network parameters, like transmission power and routing paths, to optimize performance. Think of it like a smart traffic controller that reroutes cars when there's a road closure. The system also uses timestamps to ensure that the most current information is used, preventing conflicts and errors. This ensures the network adapts quickly and efficiently to changing conditions.\n\n3. Why Does This Matter?\nThis technology can significantly improve the reliability and performance of wireless networks. For businesses, this means fewer service disruptions, happier customers, and increased productivity. It opens up new opportunities for deploying wireless networks in challenging environments, such as rural areas or industrial settings. The competitive advantages include improved network stability, reduced downtime, and enhanced user experience. This translates to potential ROI through increased customer retention, lower support costs, and new revenue streams.\n\n4. What's Next?\nFuture applications could include integration with AI to predict network conditions and proactively optimize performance. Market adoption is expected to grow as businesses increasingly rely on wireless networks for critical operations. Investment implications include opportunities for companies developing and deploying this technology.","technical_analysis":"The Method and Apparatus for Managing Multi-hop Relay Networks patent details a system designed to enhance the performance and stability of multi-hop relay networks through dynamic parameter adjustment. The technical architecture comprises event detection modules, parameter update algorithms, and notification mechanisms. Event detection modules monitor the network for changes in device association status. Upon detecting an event, the system triggers the parameter update algorithms. These algorithms dynamically adjust network parameters, such as transmission power, routing paths, and channel allocation, to optimize network performance.\n\nImplementation involves integrating the system with existing network infrastructure. The system employs timestamp-based mechanisms to ensure data consistency and prevent conflicting updates. This is crucial for maintaining network stability in dynamic environments. Algorithm specifics involve machine learning techniques for predicting network conditions and proactively adjusting parameters. Integration patterns include APIs for seamless communication with existing network management systems.\n\nPerformance characteristics are optimized for low latency and high throughput. The system is designed to minimize the overhead associated with dynamic parameter adjustment. Code-level implications involve careful consideration of memory management and processing power. The system is designed to be scalable and adaptable to varying network sizes and topologies. The design choices made in this patent reflect a focus on real-time responsiveness and efficient resource utilization. This technology offers a robust solution for managing multi-hop relay networks in challenging environments.","business_analysis":"The Method and Apparatus for Managing Multi-hop Relay Networks patent presents a significant business opportunity in the rapidly growing market for wireless communication solutions. The market opportunity size is substantial, driven by the increasing demand for reliable and efficient multi-hop relay networks in various applications, including rural broadband access, IoT deployments, smart city initiatives, and disaster recovery scenarios. The competitive advantages of this technology lie in its ability to dynamically adjust network parameters based on real-time event detection and provide proactive notifications to network administrators. This allows for more stable and responsive networks, minimizing disruptions and maximizing availability.\n\nThe revenue potential is significant, as organizations can leverage this technology to improve the quality of their wireless communication services and attract more customers. The business models associated with this technology include licensing agreements, software subscriptions, and hardware sales. The strategic positioning of this technology is strong, as it addresses a critical need in the market for reliable and efficient multi-hop relay network management. ROI projections indicate a substantial return on investment for organizations that adopt this technology.\n\nThis innovation offers a robust solution for managing multi-hop relay networks in challenging environments. By enabling more stable and responsive networks, this technology can unlock new market opportunities and drive operational efficiency. The potential impact on the wireless communication industry is significant, as this technology can help to improve the overall quality and reliability of wireless services.","faqs":[{"question":"What is Method and Apparatus for Managing Multi-hop Relay Networks?"}],"topics":["multi-hop relay networks","network management","wireless communication","network optimization","event detection","method","apparatus","managing"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Multi-hop Network Management - Patent US-9854456","description":"Discover how this innovative multi-hop network management system dynamically optimizes network parameters. Full patent analysis, claims, and technical details.","keywords":["multi-hop relay networks","network management","wireless communication","network optimization","event detection","patent","patent US-9854456"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854456","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854456","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Method and apparatus for managing multi-hop relay networks\" (US-9854456). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854456","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854456","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854456","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T05:07:51.946Z"}