Support for hybrid network in RPL

The Smart Grid is based on Advanced Metering Infrastructure that mostly relies on Narrow Band Power Line Communication (PLC). In such network, using a single communication interface does not fulfill the primary requirement of 99.99% reading rates and coverage. Hybrid communication, by adding an additional radio interface, is a solution to provide the quality of service required by Smart Grid applications. However, dedicated routing protocols usually operate with a single communication technology. In this paper we present three solutions to enhance the IPv6 Routing Protocol for Low-Power and Lossy Networks (RPL) - a well-known routing protocol for smart grid application - for handling multi-interface devices called the Multiple RPL Instances, the Interface Oriented and the Parent Oriented. By means of simulation we show how the network can provide a higher quality of service and a better resilience to failure.