Patent ID: 7120681
Filing Date: 2006-10-10
Classification: H04L,H04W

Abstract:
1. A method for controlling the clustering of nodes implementing a cluster-based routing protocol in a data communications network system comprising a plurality of such nodes which are interconnectable to form a plurality of ad hoc networks, the method comprising: for each node which is a member of a cluster, maintaining cluster control information dependent on the size of at least the cluster of which that node is a member; on connection of two nodes which are members of two respective clusters, in each of the two nodes transmitting the cluster control information maintained for that node to the other of the two nodes, determining whether a clustering condition, dependent on the cluster control information maintained for that node and the cluster control information received from the other node, is satisfied and, if so, communicating a clustering agreement to the other node; and if the clustering condition of each of the two nodes is satisfied for said two clusters, in each of the two nodes exchanging routing information with the other node and merging the two clusters.