MESH NETWORKS FOR USE IN THE PROCESSES CONTROL INDUSTRY

摘要

Self-Organizing Mesh Networks are a way to combine high reliability of wired networks with the flexibility and low cost of wireless networks. The premise of this network topology is that every device is considered a router and passes messages between neighbors along to a destination. Each device can see multiple neighbors providing multiple paths for redundant message routing. The goal is to allow the network to configure and route packets of information automatically, without human determination, to create the concept of self organization. The self organization removes the requirement for line of sight connectivity from device to control room and allows flexible installation of devices where ever they are needed with no need for a detailed site survey. The paper will highlight the advantages of this network topology as it pertains to the process control industry. Topics covered are network design, implementations, and troubleshooting. It also covers how mesh networks overcome environmental signal degradation due to weather and infrastructure as well as signal disruption.