Receiver scheduling in ad hoc wireless networks

• US 7,979,098 B1
• Filed: 08/06/2009
• Issued: 07/12/2011
• Est. Priority Date: 11/30/2001
• Status: Expired due to Fees

• Current Assignee: III Holdings 1, LLC
• Original Assignee: Tri-County Excelsior Foundation (Oso IP, LLC)
• Inventors: Elliott, Brig Barnum
• Primary Examiner(s): Edouard, Patrick N
• Assistant Examiner(s): PEREZ, JULIO R
• Application Number:
  US12/537,010
• Time in Patent Office: 705 Days
• Field of Search: 455/574, 455/343.2, 455/343.4, 455/419, 455/420
• US Class Current: 455/574
• CPC Class Codes: H04J 3/16 in which the time allocation to individual channels within a transmission cycle is variable, e.g. to accommodate varying complexity of signals, to vary number of channels transmitted H04J3/17, H04J3/24 take precedence
• CPC Class Codes: H04W 52/0216 using a pre-established activity schedule, e.g. traffic indication frame
• CPC Class Codes: H04W 52/0219 where the power saving management affects multiple terminals
• CPC Class Codes: H04W 56/00 Synchronisation arrangements
• CPC Class Codes: H04W 72/12 Wireless traffic scheduling
• CPC Class Codes: H04W 72/20 Control channels or signalling for resource management
• CPC Class Codes: H04W 84/18 Self-organising networks, e.g. ad-hoc networks or sensor networks
• CPC Class Codes: Y02D 30/70 in wireless communication networks

Abstract

A wireless network (100) includes a communications node (120) configured to periodically generate and transmit at least one reception definition. Each reception definition indicates a time and manner in which the node will operate to receive information messages.

Claims

1. An apparatus, comprising:

a node configured to;

periodically generate and transmit at least one reception definition, each of the at least one reception definition indicating a time in which the node will operate to receive information messages,

generate a local receiver schedule including the at least one reception definition,

periodically modify the local receiver schedule,

transmit a prevailing local receiver schedule to one or more network nodes,

receive incoming information messages in accordance with a first reception definition,

discontinue use of the first reception definition in association with the local receiver schedule,

generate a new reception definition, and

use the new reception definition in association with the local receiver schedule.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, when generating the at least one reception definition, the node is configured to derive parameters delineating each of the at least one reception definition via pseudo-random number generation.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, when generating the at least one reception definition, the node is configured to derive parameters delineating each of the at least one reception definition via physical random number generation.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the node transmits the new reception definition by including the new reception definition with information messages bound for other network nodes.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the node is further configured to receive and subsequently transmit reception definitions generated and transmitted by other nodes.

6. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein the node generates the at least one reception definition based on at least one of the received reception definitions.

7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the node includes a receiver message database configured to store the reception definitions generated by the node and the reception definitions received from the other nodes.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the receiver message database is configured to store a data structure including at least one node receiver schedule.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein each node receiver message in the data structure includes a node identification field and an array of reception definitions.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein each reception definition in the data structure includes a reception start time, a reception duration, and a reception channel.

11. An apparatus, comprising:

a node configured to;

periodically generate and transmit at least one reception definition, each of the at least one reception definition indicating a time in which the node will operate to receive information messages, and

receive and subsequently transmit reception definitions generated and transmitted by other nodes;

wherein the node includes a receiver message database configured to store the reception definitions generated by the node and the reception definitions received from the other nodes;

wherein, when periodically transmitting reception definitions, the node is configured to;

analyze the receiver message database to determine a next receiving node in a network,

determine whether any information messages are bound for the next receiving node, and

transmit at least a subset of the reception definitions stored in the receiver message database to the next receiving node.

12. A node, comprising:

a memory, and

a circuitry in communication with the memory, the circuitry configured to cause the node to;

generate one or more reception definitions, each reception definition indicating a time and manner associated with information message receipt by the node,

update the one or more reception definitions, and

cause a reception definition message to be transmitted to one or more other nodes in communication with a wireless network;

wherein, in association with the updating the one or more reception definitions, the circuitry is configured to cause the node to;

receive incoming information messages in accordance with a particular reception definition,

discontinue use of the particular reception definition, and

generate a new reception definition for use.

13. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable so as to identify a next receiving node from among the one or more other nodes.

14. The node of claim 13, wherein the node is operable so as to determine whether a particular information message is bound for the identified next receiving node.

15. The node of claim 14, wherein the node is operable such that, when the particular information message is bound for the identified next receiving node, the circuitry is configured to cause the reception definition message to be transmitted together with the particular information message to the identified next receiving node.

16. The node of claim 13, wherein the node is operable such that, when identifying the next receiving node, the circuitry is configured to analyze a database.

17. The node of claim 16, wherein the node is operable such that, when identifying the next receiving node, the circuitry is configured to analyze the database to determine an earliest start time among stored reception definitions associated with the one or more other nodes.

18. The node of claim 13, wherein the circuitry is configured to cause the reception definition message to be transmitted together with a particular information message to the identified next receiving node, and additionally cause reception definitions associated with the one or more other nodes to be transmitted together with the particular information message to the identified next receiving node.

19. The node of claim 12, further comprising a database configured to store the one or more reception definitions generated by the node.

20. The node of claim 12, further comprising a database configured to store one or more of the reception definitions that are received by the node from the one or more other nodes.

21. The node of claim 20, wherein the circuitry is configured to cause the node to generate the reception definition message based on the one or more received reception definitions.

22. The node of claim 12, further comprising a database that is configured to store a data structure.

23. The node of claim 22, wherein the data structure includes a node identification field.

24. The node of claim 22, wherein the data structure includes an array of reception definitions.

25. The node of claim 24, wherein each reception definition in the array includes a reception start indicator.

26. The node of claim 25, wherein each reception definition in the array includes a reception duration.

27. The node of claim 25, wherein each reception definition in the array includes a reception channel.

28. The node of claim 12, wherein the circuitry includes hardware circuitry.

29. The node of claim 12, wherein the circuitry is part of an application-specific integrated circuit.

30. The node of claim 12, wherein the time includes a duration time period.

31. The node of claim 30, wherein the circuitry is configured to cause the node to power down a receiver after the duration time period has lapsed.

32. The node of claim 12, wherein the manner indicates a duration.

33. The node of claim 12, wherein the manner indicates a channel.

34. The node of claim 33, wherein the channel includes a carrier frequency.

35. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one aspect of the reception definition message is based on a pseudo-random number.

36. The node of claim 35, wherein the aspect includes the time.

37. The node of claim 35, wherein the aspect includes a channel.

38. The node of claim 35, wherein the aspect includes a duration.

39. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one aspect of the reception definition message is based, at least in part, on a physical random number.

40. The node of claim 39, wherein the aspect includes the time.

41. The node of claim 39, wherein the aspect includes a channel.

42. The node of claim 39, wherein the aspect includes a duration.

43. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable to receive the incoming information messages by powering up a receiver.

44. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable to receive the incoming information messages by tuning a receiver.

45. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is updated multiple times.

46. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is periodically updated.

47. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable to function in a network environment that includes a first node, an intermediate node, and a second node, wherein the first node is adapted to communicate with the second node via the intermediate node, where the node is adapted to operate as one of:

the first node, the second node, or the intermediate node.

48. The node of claim 12, wherein the time is included with the one or more reception definitions for power conservation purposes.

49. The node of claim 48, wherein the node is operable to function in a network environment that includes a plurality of nodes, where a node receiver of at least one of the plurality of nodes is powered off based on the one or more reception definitions for the power conservation purposes.

50. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a plurality of the reception definitions are included in the reception definition message, and the reception definition message includes a single message.

51. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a single one of the reception definitions is transmitted in a single message.

52. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message is a schedule message.

53. The node of claim 52, wherein the schedule message is accompanied by a checksum.

54. The node of claim 52, wherein the schedule message includes a plurality of the reception definitions associated with different nodes.

55. The node of claim 52, wherein the schedule message includes a plurality of the reception definitions associated with different communication mechanisms.

56. The node of claim 52, wherein the schedule message includes one or more reception definitions received from one or more different nodes.

57. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message includes an identifier of the node.

58. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message includes an identifier of at least one other node.

59. The node of claim 58, wherein the reception definition message includes another node reception definition which is associated with the at least one other node.

60. The node of claim 59, wherein the node is operable such that the another node reception definition is received from the at least one other node.

61. The node of claim 59, wherein the another node reception definition includes a reception start indicator associated with the at least one other node.

62. The node of claim 59, wherein the another node reception definition includes a reception duration associated with the at least one other node.

63. The node of claim 59, wherein the another node reception definition includes a reception channel associated with the at least one other node.

64. The node of claim 12, wherein the circuitry is configured such that the one or more reception definitions is transmitted together with at least one information message.

65. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is a component of a mobile phone.

66. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is adapted for being battery-powered.

67. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is a component of a laptop.

68. The node of claim 12, wherein the node includes a serial port.

69. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is capable of being notified when at least one other node is unavailable for communication.

70. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable to function in a network environment that includes an ad-hoc wireless network.

71. The node of claim 12, wherein a number of the reception definitions is dynamically determined.

72. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable to communicate via a plurality of antennae in an array.

73. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable to interface a plurality of antennae.

74. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message is a next message.

75. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message is a pending message.

76. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the reception definition message is transmitted along with data traffic.

77. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is transmitted along with at least one other reception definition received from another node.

78. The node of claim 77, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions and the at least one other reception definition received from another node, are independently generated.

79. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated without consideration for a predefined time slot plan.

80. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is capable of being flexibly generated without restrictive time slot limitations.

81. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated so that a receiver duty cycle is modified.

82. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated based on a type of activity the node is performing.

83. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated based on a prevailing data traffic rate.

84. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one aspect of the one or more reception definitions is based on a number of other nodes within communication range.

85. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated so that a duration of a reception interval is modified.

86. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated so that a duration of a reception interval is modified to accommodate transmissions of varying length.

87. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated to accommodate communications of varying length.

88. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated to accommodate transmissions of shorter control packets.

89. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated to accommodate transmissions of longer data packets.

90. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated to make it more difficult to monitor or jam communications.

91. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message includes a local reception definition message.

92. The node of claim 12, wherein the manner is that in which the node will operate to receive the incoming information messages.

93. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is capable of operating as an endpoint.

94. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is capable of operating as an intermediate node.

95. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is updated a plurality of instances.

96. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is updated periodically.

97. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message is a receiver schedule.

98. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically generated.

99. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one parameter value of at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined.

100. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one parameter value of at least one of the one or more reception definitions is preset.

101. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is capable of operating as a component of a router.

102. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is capable of operating as a component of a relay.

103. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is capable of operating as a component of an endpoint that is a source device.

104. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is capable of operating as a component of an endpoint that is a destination device.

105. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is designed to be stationary.

106. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is designed to be mobile.

107. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a plurality of transmitted information messages are transmitted by way of at least one data packet.

108. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a plurality of transmitted information messages are transmitted by way of at least one control packet.

109. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is capable of operating as a component of a system including a global positioning system.

110. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable to cooperate with a global positioning system for providing a local time base that is synchronized with a time base used by another network component.

111. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined.

112. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on a number of nodes participating or expected to participate in the wireless network.

113. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on a prevailing or expected volume of network traffic.

114. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined to maximize network efficiency for a given context.

115. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on a number of neighboring nodes.

116. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on a power remaining in a node battery.

117. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on one or more known schedules for the one or more other nodes in the network.

118. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on a pseudo-random number generator.

119. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on a random number generator.

120. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the reception definition message is transmitted to maintain synchronization.

121. The node of claim 12, wherein at least one of the one or more reception definitions includes at least one parameter that sufficiently describes a reception instance for a particular media.

122. The node of claim 12, wherein at least one of the one or more reception definitions includes at least one parameter that sufficiently describes a reception instance for a particular format.

123. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a use of the particular reception definition is discontinued by deleting the particular reception definition.

124. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that only a portion of a reception definition database is stored.

125. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that only a portion of a reception definition database is stored if the reception definition database exceeds a certain size.

126. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a complete set of reception definitions for all nodes in the wireless network is capable of being communicated in connection with a single schedule message.

127. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the reception definition message is transmitted in association with a beacon.

128. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the reception definition message is transmitted in association with a beacon that is transmitted at preset times.

129. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the reception definition message is transmitted in association with a beacon that is transmitted at pseudo-random times.

130. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the reception definition message is transmitted in association with a beacon to allow a newly arriving node that has yet to receive any reception definition message, to successfully receive or transmit a first information message.

131. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the reception definition message is transmitted in association with a beacon to allow a newly arriving node to functional normally in the wireless network.

132. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that incoming timing parameters are mapped to a time base of the node.

133. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable so as to generate a rolling window of reception definitions.

134. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable so as to generate a rolling window.

135. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message includes an error correction field.

136. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message includes a parameter count field.

137. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message includes a reception definition count field.

138. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message is encrypted.

139. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message includes a node identifier field.

140. The node of claim 12, wherein the transmission includes a broadcast communication.

141. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one aspect of at least one of the one or more reception definitions is independently generated.

142. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message includes at least one of the one more of the reception definitions having a next status.

143. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message includes at least one of the one more reception definitions having a pending status.

144. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message includes only a portion of the one more reception definitions.

145. The node of claim 144, wherein the node is operable such that the portion is selected based on the one or more other nodes to which the reception definition message is directed.

146. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a number of the one or more reception definitions is based on a number of nodes participating in a network.

147. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a number of the one or more reception definitions is based on a number of nodes expected to participate in a network.

148. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a number of the one or more reception definitions is based on a prevailing volume of network traffic.

149. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a number of the one or more reception definitions is based on an expected volume of network traffic.

150. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a number of the one or more reception definitions is selected to maximize network efficiency for a given context.

151. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a number of parameters of at least one of the one or more reception definitions is based on a format used to receive the incoming information messages.

152. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a type of parameters of the one or more reception definitions is based on a format used to receive the incoming information messages.

153. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that parameter values of the one or more reception definitions are selected based on a number of the other nodes.

154. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that parameter values of the one or more reception definitions are selected based on a power remaining in a node battery.

155. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that parameter values of the one or more reception definitions are selected based on a schedule for at least one of the other nodes.

156. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that generation or update of at least one of the one or more reception definitions occurs in parallel with transmission of the reception definition message inclusive of at least one other of the one or more reception definitions.

157. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that transmission of the reception definition message is inclusive of at least one of the one or more reception definitions that is selected based on a node ranking.

158. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that transmission of the reception definition message is inclusive of at least one of the one or more reception definitions that is selected based on a traffic flow.

159. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that transmission of the reception definition message is inclusive of at least one of the one or more reception definitions that is selected based on a path characteristic.

160. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that transmission of the reception definition message is inclusive of at least one of the one or more reception definitions located in a header.

161. The node of claim 12, wherein the time and the manner are those in which the node is to receive the incoming information messages.

162. The node of claim 12, wherein the time and the manner are those in which the node is capable of receiving the incoming information messages.

163. The node of claim 12, wherein the time includes a start time.

164. The node of claim 12, wherein the time is a relative time.

165. The node of claim 12, wherein the time is an absolute time.

166. The node of claim 12, wherein the manner includes at least one aspect other than the time.

167. The node of claim 12, wherein the manner includes at least one aspect that is not time related.

168. The node of claim 12, wherein the manner includes at least one aspect that is time related.

169. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the incoming information messages are received utilizing a time division multiple access format.

170. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the incoming information messages are received utilizing a frequency division multiple access format.

171. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the incoming information messages are received utilizing both a time division multiple access format and a frequency division multiple access format.

172. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the incoming information messages are received utilizing a pulse width modulation format.

173. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the incoming information messages are received utilizing a pulse code modulation format.

174. The node of claim 12, wherein the manner indicates a channel that includes at least one carrier frequency.

175. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the update includes modifying at least one of the one or more reception definitions.

176. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the update includes deleting at least one of the one or more reception definitions.

177. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the update includes replacing one reception definition with another reception definition.

178. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that the update includes adding a new reception definition.

179. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that a node ranking is dynamically determined.

180. The node of claim 12, wherein, when causing the reception definition message to be transmitted to the one or more other nodes in communication with the wireless network, the circuitry is configured to cause the node to:

identify a next receiving node from among the one or more other nodes in the wireless network,

determine whether an information message is bound for the identified next receiving node, and

when the information message is bound for the identified next receiving node, cause the reception definition message to be transmitted to the identified next receiving node.

181. The node of claim 180, further comprising a database configured to store the one or more reception definitions that are generated by the node and one or more other reception definitions received by the node from the one or more other nodes in the wireless network.

182. The node of claim 181, wherein the circuitry generates the reception definition message based on the other reception definitions.

183. The node of claim 181, wherein, when identifying the next receiving node, the circuitry is configured to cause the node to analyze the database to determine an earliest start time among stored reception definitions associated with other network nodes.

184. The node of claim 181, wherein, when causing the reception definition message to be transmitted to the identified next receiving node, the circuitry is configured to cause the node to additionally cause reception definitions associated with the one or more other network nodes to be transmitted to the identified next receiving node.

185. The node of claim 181, wherein the database is configured to cause the node to store a data structure including at least one node receiver schedule.

186. The node of claim 185, wherein each node receiver schedule in the data structure includes a node identification field and an array of reception definitions.

187. The node of claim 186, wherein each reception definition in the data structure includes a reception start time, a reception duration, and a reception channel.

188. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that generation or update of at least one of the one or more reception definitions occurs in parallel with transmission of the reception definition message.

189. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable to function in a network environment that includes a first node, an intermediate node, and a second node, wherein the first node is adapted to communicate with the second node via the intermediate node, where the node is adapted to operate as the first node, where the node is further adapted to operate as the second node, where the node is adapted to even further adapted to operate as the intermediate node.

190. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable to function in a network environment that includes a first stationary node and a second mobile node, where the node is adapted to operate as the first stationary node, where the node is further adapted to operate as the second mobile node.

191. The node of claim 12, wherein the circuitry is configured to power down a receiver based on the time of at least one of the one or more reception definitions.

192. The node of claim 12, wherein the circuitry is further configured to cause the node to store in at least one data structure a plurality of the reception definitions including one or more first reception definitions received by the node from the one or more other nodes and one or more second reception definitions generated by the node, the one or more first reception definitions and the one or more second one or more reception definitions being independently generated, each reception definition in the at least one data structure including a reception start indicator, a reception duration, and an identifier corresponding to at least one associated node;

wherein the node is operable to function in combination with an antennae array inclusive of a plurality of antennae capable of communicating with the circuitry;

wherein the node is capable of being notified when at least one other node is unavailable for communication;

wherein the reception definition message includes only a portion of the one more reception definitions that are stored in the at least one data structure;

wherein the circuitry is further configured with a capability to cause the node to power down a receiver based on at least the time of at least one of the one or more reception definitions;

wherein the reception definition message includes a reception definition count field.

193. The node of claim 192, wherein the circuitry is further configured to cause the node to be operable such that a plurality of the reception definitions are identified in the reception definition message, and the reception definition message includes a single message.

194. The node of claim 192, wherein the portion is selected based on the one or more other nodes to which the reception definition message is directed.

195. The node of claim 192, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated substantially without consideration for a predefined time slot plan.

196. The node of claim 192, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is capable of being flexibly generated substantially without restrictive time slot limitations.

197. The node of claim 192, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated based on a type of activity the node is performing.

198. The node of claim 192, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated to accommodate transmissions of varying length.

199. The node of claim 192, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated to accommodate transmissions of shorter control packets.

200. The node of claim 192, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated to accommodate transmissions of longer data packets.

201. The node of claim 192, wherein the node is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is generated so that a receiver duty cycle is modified.

202. The node of claim 192, wherein the reception definition count field indicates a count of reception definitions included with the reception definition message.

203. The node of claim 192, wherein the antennae are omni-directional.

204. The node of claim 192, wherein the antennae are multi-directional.

205. The node of claim 192, wherein the one or more reception definitions indicates a communication direction.

206. The node of claim 12, wherein the manner includes connection-related information.

207. The node of claim 12, wherein a node receiver of the node is adapted to be powered off based on the one or more reception definitions for power conservation purposes.

208. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message includes at least one of the one or more reception definitions that is associated with a plurality of different nodes.

209. The node of claim 12, wherein the reception definition message includes at least one of the one or more reception definitions that is associated with a plurality of different communication mechanisms.

210. The node of claim 209, wherein the different communication mechanisms include different communication channels.

211. The node of claim 12, wherein the one or more reception definitions indicates a communication direction.

212. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that different aspects of at least one of the one or more reception definitions are independently generated by different nodes.

213. The node of claim 12, wherein the node is operable such that at least one first aspect of at least one of the one or more reception definitions is generated by a first node, and at least one second aspect of the at least one of the one or more reception definitions is generated by a second node.

214. A method, comprising:

generating a receiver message at a node, the receiver message including one or more reception definitions, each reception definition indicating a time or manner in which the node is to receive information messages;

modifying the receiver message at the node; and

transmitting a prevailing receiver message from the node to one or more other nodes in communication with a wireless network;

wherein the modifying the receiver message includes;

receiving incoming information messages in accordance with a particular reception definition,

discontinuing use of the particular reception definition, and

generating a new reception definition for use in association with the prevailing receiver message.

215. The method of claim 214, wherein the transmitting the prevailing receiver message from the node to the one or more other nodes in communication with the wireless network includes:

identifying a next receiving node among the other nodes in the wireless network, and

transmitting the prevailing receiver message together with at least one information message bound for the identified next receiving node.

216. A computer program product embodied on a non-transitory computer readable medium, comprising:

computer code for generating a receiver message at a node, the receiver message including one or more reception definitions, each reception definition indicating a time or manner in which the node is to receive information messages;

computer code for modifying the receiver message; and

computer code for causing a prevailing receiver message to be transmitted to one or more other nodes in communication with a wireless network;

wherein the computer program product is operable such that the modifying the receiver message includes;

receiving incoming information messages in accordance with a particular reception definition,

discontinuing use of the particular reception definition, and

generating a new reception definition for use in association with the prevailing receiver message.

217. An apparatus, comprising:

a memory; and

circuitry in communication with the memory, the circuitry configured with a capability to cause the apparatus to;

store one or more reception definitions, each reception definition indicating a time and manner associated with information message receipt,

store one or more updated reception definitions, and

communicate a reception definition message with respect to one or more nodes in communication with a wireless network;

wherein, in association with the one or more updated reception definitions, the circuitry is configured with the capability to cause;

communication of information messages in accordance with a particular reception definition,

discontinuance of use of the particular reception definition, and

storage of a new reception definition for use.

218. The apparatus of claim 217, further comprising a database configured to store one or more of the reception definitions that are generated by the apparatus.

219. The apparatus of claim 217, further comprising a database configured to store one or more of the reception definitions that are received by the apparatus from the one or more other nodes.

220. The apparatus of claim 219, wherein the circuitry is configured to cause the apparatus to generate contents of the reception definition message based on the one or more received reception definitions.

221. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein a database is configured to store a data structure.

222. The apparatus of claim 221, wherein the data structure includes a node identification field.

223. The apparatus of claim 221, wherein the data structure includes an array of reception definitions.

224. The apparatus of claim 223, wherein each reception definition in the array includes a reception start indicator.

225. The apparatus of claim 224, wherein each reception definition in the array includes a reception duration.

226. The apparatus of claim 224, wherein each reception definition in the array includes a reception channel.

227. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the circuitry includes hardware circuitry.

228. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the circuitry is part of an application-specific integrated circuit.

229. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the time includes a duration time period.

230. The apparatus of claim 229, wherein the circuitry is configured to cause the apparatus to power down a receiver after the duration time period has lapsed.

231. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the manner indicates a duration.

232. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the manner indicates a channel.

233. The apparatus of claim 232, wherein the channel includes a carrier frequency.

234. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one aspect of the reception definition message is based on a pseudo-random number.

235. The apparatus of claim 234, wherein the aspect includes the time.

236. The apparatus of claim 234, wherein the aspect includes a channel.

237. The apparatus of claim 234, wherein the aspect includes a duration.

238. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one aspect of the reception definition message is based, at least in part, on a physical random number.

239. The apparatus of claim 238, wherein the aspect includes the time.

240. The apparatus of claim 238, wherein the aspect includes a channel.

241. The apparatus of claim 238, wherein the aspect includes a duration.

242. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable to communicate the information messages by powering up a receiver.

243. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable to communicate the information messages by tuning a receiver.

244. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is updated multiple times.

245. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is periodically updated.

246. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable to function in a network environment that includes a first node, an intermediate node, and a second node, wherein the first node is adapted to communicate with the second node via the intermediate node, where the apparatus is adapted to operate as one of:

the first node, the second node, or the intermediate node.

247. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the time is included with the one or more reception definitions for power conservation purposes.

248. The apparatus of claim 247, wherein the apparatus is operable to function in a network environment that includes a plurality of nodes, where a node receiver of at least one of the plurality of nodes is powered off based on the one or more reception definitions for the power conservation purposes.

249. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that a plurality of the reception definitions are included in the reception definition message, and the reception definition message includes a single message.

250. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable to accommodate a single one of the reception definitions being in a single message.

251. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message is a schedule message.

252. The apparatus of claim 251, wherein the schedule message is accompanied by a checksum.

253. The apparatus of claim 251, wherein the schedule message includes a plurality of the reception definitions associated with different nodes.

254. The apparatus of claim 251, wherein the schedule message includes a plurality of the reception definitions associated with different communication entities.

255. The apparatus of claim 251, wherein the schedule message includes one or more reception definitions received from one or more different nodes.

256. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message includes an identifier of the apparatus.

257. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message includes an identifier of at least one other node.

258. The apparatus of claim 257, wherein the reception definition message includes another node reception definition which is associated with the at least one other node.

259. The apparatus of claim 258, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the another node reception definition is received from the at least one other node.

260. The apparatus of claim 258, wherein the another node reception definition includes a reception start indicator associated with the at least one other node.

261. The apparatus of claim 258, wherein the another node reception definition includes a reception duration associated with the at least one other node.

262. The apparatus of claim 258, wherein the another node reception definition includes a reception channel associated with the at least one other node.

263. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the circuitry is configured to accommodate the one or more reception definitions being accompanied by at least one information message.

264. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is adapted to be a component of a mobile phone.

265. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is adapted for being battery-powered.

266. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is adapted to be a component of a laptop.

267. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus includes a serial port.

268. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is capable of being notified when at least one other node is unavailable for communication.

269. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable to function in a network environment that includes an ad-hoc wireless network.

270. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable to accommodate a number of the reception definitions being dynamically determined.

271. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable to communicate via a plurality of antennae in an array.

272. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable to interface a plurality of antennae.

273. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message is a next message.

274. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message is a pending message.

275. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable to accommodate the reception definition message being communicated along with data traffic.

276. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is communicated along with at least one other reception definition received from another node.

277. The apparatus of claim 276, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the one or more reception definitions and the at least one other reception definition received from another node, are independently generated.

278. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that use of the one or more reception definitions avoids consideration for a predefined time slot plan, at least in part.

279. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that use of the one or more reception definitions provides flexibility by avoiding, at least in part, restrictive time slot limitations.

280. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the one or more reception definitions cause a receiver duty cycle to be modified.

281. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is based on a type of activity the apparatus is performing.

282. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the one or more reception definitions is based on a prevailing data traffic rate.

283. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one aspect of the one or more reception definitions is based on a number of other nodes within communication range.

284. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the one or more reception definitions cause a duration of a reception interval to be modified.

285. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the one or more reception definitions cause a duration of a reception interval to modified to accommodate transmissions of varying length.

286. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one aspect of the one or more reception definitions is adapted to be adjusted to accommodate communications of varying length.

287. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one aspect of the one or more reception definitions is adjusted to accommodate transmissions of shorter control packets.

288. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one aspect of the one or more reception definitions is adjusted to accommodate transmissions of longer data packets.

289. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the one or more reception definitions make it more difficult to monitor or jam communications.

290. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message includes a local reception definition message.

291. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the manner is that in which the apparatus will operate to communicate the information messages.

292. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is capable of operating as an endpoint.

293. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is capable of operating as an intermediate node.

294. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is updated a plurality of instances.

295. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is updated periodically.

296. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message is a receiver schedule.

297. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein at least one of the one or more reception definitions includes a dynamically-generated reception definition.

298. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one parameter value of at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined.

299. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one parameter value of at least one of the one or more reception definitions is preset.

300. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is capable of operating as a component of a router.

301. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is capable of operating as a component of a relay.

302. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is capable of operating as a component of an endpoint that is a source device.

303. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is capable of operating as a component of an endpoint that is a destination device.

304. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is designed to be stationary.

305. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is designed to be mobile.

306. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that a plurality of transmitted information messages are transmitted by way of at least one data packet.

307. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that a plurality of transmitted information messages are transmitted by way of at least one control packet.

308. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is capable of operating as a component of a system including a global positioning system.

309. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable to cooperate with a global positioning system for providing a local time base for synchronization purposes.

310. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined.

311. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on a number of nodes participating or expected to participate in the wireless network.

312. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on a prevailing or expected volume of network traffic.

313. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined to maximize network efficiency for a given context.

314. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on a number of neighboring nodes.

315. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on a power remaining in an apparatus battery.

316. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on one or more known schedules for the one or more other nodes in the network.

317. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on a pseudo-random number generator.

318. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is dynamically determined based on a random number generator.

319. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the reception definition message is adapted to maintain synchronization.

320. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein at least one of the one or more reception definitions includes at least one parameter that sufficiently describes a reception instance for a particular media.

321. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein at least one of the one or more reception definitions includes at least one parameter that sufficiently describes a reception instance for a particular format.

322. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that a use of the particular reception definition is discontinued by deleting the particular reception definition.

323. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that only a portion of a reception definition database is stored if the reception definition database exceeds a certain size.

324. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that a complete set of reception definitions for all nodes in the wireless network is capable of being included in a single schedule message.

325. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the reception definition message is communicated in association with a beacon.

326. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the reception definition message is communicated in association with a beacon that is communicated at preset times.

327. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the reception definition message is communicated in association with a beacon that is communicated at pseudo-random times.

328. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the reception definition message is adapted to allow a newly arriving node that has yet to receive any reception definition message, to successfully receive or transmit a first information message.

329. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the reception definition message is adapted to allow a newly arriving node to functional normally in the wireless network.

330. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that incoming timing parameters are mapped to a time base of the apparatus.

331. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable so as to utilize a rolling window of reception definitions.

332. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable so as to utilize a rolling window.

333. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message includes an error correction field.

334. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message includes a parameter count field.

335. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message includes a reception definition count field.

336. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message is encrypted.

337. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message includes a node identifier field.

338. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the communication includes a broadcast communication.

339. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one aspect of at least one of the one or more reception definitions includes an independently-generated aspect.

340. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message includes at least one of the one more of the reception definitions having a next status.

341. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message includes at least one of the one more reception definitions having a pending status.

342. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message includes only a portion of the one more reception definitions.

343. The apparatus of claim 342, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the portion is selected based on the one or more other nodes to which the reception definition message is directed.

344. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that a number of the one or more reception definitions is based on a number of nodes participating in a network.

345. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that a number of the one or more reception definitions is based on a number of nodes expected to participate in a network.

346. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that a number of the one or more reception definitions is based on a prevailing volume of network traffic.

347. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that a number of the one or more reception definitions is based on an expected volume of network traffic.

348. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that a number of the one or more reception definitions is selected to maximize network efficiency for a given context.

349. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that a number of parameters of at least one of the one or more reception definitions is based on a format used to communicate the information messages.

350. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that a type of parameters of the one or more reception definitions is based on a format used to communicate the information messages.

351. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that one or more parameter values of the one or more reception definitions are selected based on a number of the other nodes.

352. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that one or more parameter values of the one or more reception definitions are selected based on a power remaining in a battery.

353. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that one or more parameter values of the one or more reception definitions are selected based on a schedule for at least one of the other nodes.

354. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is generated in parallel with communication of the reception definition message inclusive of at least one other of the one or more reception definitions.

355. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the reception definition message is inclusive of at least one of the one or more reception definitions that is selected based on a node ranking.

356. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the reception definition message is inclusive of at least one of the one or more reception definitions that is selected based on a traffic flow.

357. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the reception definition message is inclusive of at least one of the one or more reception definitions that is selected based on a path characteristic.

358. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the reception definition message is inclusive of at least one of the one or more reception definitions that is located in a header of the reception definition message.

359. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the time and the manner are those in which the apparatus is to communicate the information messages.

360. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the time and the manner are those in which the apparatus is capable of communicating the information messages.

361. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the time includes a start time.

362. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the time is a relative time.

363. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the time is an absolute time.

364. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the manner includes at least one aspect other than the time.

365. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the manner includes at least one aspect that is not time related.

366. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the manner includes at least one aspect that is time related.

367. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the information messages are communicated utilizing a time division multiple access format.

368. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the information messages are communicated utilizing a frequency division multiple access format.

369. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the information messages are communicated utilizing both a time division multiple access format and a frequency division multiple access format.

370. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the information messages are communicated utilizing a pulse width modulation format.

371. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that the information messages are communicated utilizing a pulse code modulation format.

372. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the manner indicates a channel that includes at least one carrier frequency.

373. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that a node ranking is dynamically determined.

374. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein, when communicating the reception definition message with respect to the one or more other nodes in communication with the wireless network, the circuitry is configured to cause the apparatus to:

identify a next receiving node from among the one or more other nodes in the wireless network,

determine whether an information message is bound for the identified next receiving node, and

when the information message is bound for the identified next receiving node, cause the reception definition message to be communicated to the identified next receiving node.

375. The apparatus of claim 374, further comprising a database configured to store the one or more reception definitions that are generated by the apparatus and one or more other reception definitions received by the apparatus from the one or more other nodes in the wireless network.

376. The apparatus of claim 375, wherein the circuitry generates the reception definition message based on the other reception definitions.

377. The apparatus of claim 375, wherein, when identifying the next receiving node, the circuitry is configured to cause the apparatus to analyze the database to determine an earliest start time among stored reception definitions associated with other network nodes.

378. The apparatus of claim 375, wherein, when communicating the reception definition message with respect to the identified next receiving node, the circuitry is configured to cause the apparatus to additionally cause reception definitions associated with the one or more other network nodes to be communicated to the identified next receiving node.

379. The apparatus of claim 375, wherein the database is configured to cause the apparatus to store a data structure including at least one node receiver schedule.

380. The apparatus of claim 379, wherein each node receiver schedule in the data structure includes a node identification field and an array of reception definitions.

381. The apparatus of claim 380, wherein each reception definition in the data structure includes a reception start time, a reception duration, and a reception channel.

382. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one of the one or more reception definitions is generated in parallel with communication of the reception definition message.

383. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable to function in a network environment that includes a first node, an intermediate node, and a second node, wherein the first node is adapted to communicate with the second node via the intermediate node, where the apparatus is adapted to operate as the first node, where the apparatus is further adapted to operate as the second node, where the apparatus is adapted to even further adapted to operate as the intermediate node.

384. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable to function in a network environment that includes a first stationary node and a second mobile node, where the apparatus is adapted to operate as the first stationary node, where the apparatus is further adapted to operate as the second mobile node.

385. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the circuitry is configured to power down a receiver based on the time of at least one of the one or more reception definitions.

386. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the circuitry is further configured to cause the apparatus to store in at least one data structure a plurality of the reception definitions including one or more first reception definitions received by the apparatus from the one or more other nodes and one or more second reception definitions generated by the apparatus, the one or more first reception definitions and the one or more second one or more reception definitions being independently generated, each reception definition in the at least one data structure including a reception start indicator, a reception duration, and an identifier corresponding to at least one associated node;

wherein the apparatus is operable to function in combination with an antennae array inclusive of a plurality of antennae capable of communicating with the circuitry;

wherein the apparatus is capable of being notified when at least one other node is unavailable for communication;

wherein the reception definition message includes only a portion of the one more reception definitions that are stored in the at least one data structure;

wherein the circuitry is further configured with a capability to cause the apparatus to power down a receiver based on at least the time of at least one of the one or more reception definitions;

wherein the reception definition message includes a reception definition count field.

387. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the manner includes connection-related information.

388. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein a node receiver of the apparatus is adapted to be powered off based on the one or more reception definitions for power conservation purposes.

389. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message includes at least one of the one or more reception definitions that is associated with a plurality of different nodes.

390. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the reception definition message includes at least one of the one or more reception definitions that is associated with a plurality of different communication mechanisms.

391. The apparatus of claim 390, wherein the different communication mechanisms include different communication channels.

392. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the one or more reception definitions indicates a communication direction.

393. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that different aspects of at least one of the one or more reception definitions are independently generated by different nodes.

394. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the communication of the information messages includes receiving the information messages.

395. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the communication of the information messages includes transmitting the information messages.

396. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the communication of the reception definition message includes receiving the reception definition message.

397. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the communication of the reception definition message includes transmitting the reception definition message.

398. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the communication includes receiving and transmitting.

399. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the information message receipt relates to receipt of the information messages by the apparatus.

400. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the information message receipt relates to receipt of the information messages by the one or more nodes.

401. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the circuitry is further configured to cause the apparatus to store in at least one data structure a plurality of the reception definitions including one or more first reception definitions received by the apparatus from the one or more other nodes and one or more second reception definitions including at least one aspect capable of being controlled by the apparatus;

wherein the apparatus is operable to function in combination with an antennae array inclusive of a plurality of antennae;

wherein the circuitry is further configured with a capability to cause the apparatus to power down a receiver based on at least the time of at least one of the one or more reception definitions.

402. The apparatus of claim 401, wherein each reception definition in the at least one data structure includes a reception start indicator and a reception duration.

403. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that at least one first aspect of at least one of the one or more reception definitions is generated by a first node, and at least one second aspect of the at least one of the one or more reception definitions is generated by a second node.

404. The apparatus of claim 217, wherein the apparatus is operable such that only a portion of a reception definition database is stored.