Patent ID: 8203999
Filing Date: 2012-06-19
Classification: H04W,Y02D

Abstract:
1. A method of operating a communications network having a plurality of nodes, at least some of the nodes being selfish users, the method comprising: requiring each of the selfish users to make an election to join or to not join a mesh network at predetermined election times at least one selfish user sending messages that are forwarded through other nodes in the mesh network, wherein the selfish user saves power relative to sending messages without forwarding; the at least one selfish user consuming power forwarding messages for other nodes in the mesh network; and the at least one selfish user accumulating a debt equal to the power saved by having messages forwarded less the power consumed forwarding messages, wherein the at least one selfish user is required to forward messages for other nodes if the accumulated debt is greater than zero, and wherein the at least one selfish user comprises a device including a battery and the predetermined election times are every time the battery is fully charged.