μPnP-Mesh: The plug-and-play mesh network for the Internet of Things

Deploying and customizing networks of Internet of Things (IoT) devices remains extremely challenging. This complexity has two main sources. First, end-users must integrate diverse sensor and actuator peripherals with IoT devices to realize their application. Second, the resulting system must provide reliable mesh networking in harsh network environments at extremely low power. This paper addresses both problems by proposing μPnP-Mesh, which combines the ease of use of μPnP with the industrial performance of SmartMesh IP. μPnP provides a low-power and low-cost method for achieving plug-and-play integration of peripherals with embedded IoT devices; SmartMesh IP provides low-power reliable mesh networking. With a true plug-and-play user experience and a lifetime above 6.5 years on a pair of AA batteries, μPnP-Mesh is a ready-to-use game-changing solution for applications such as home, building and factory automation.