Opportunistic direct interconnection and cooperation between co-located wireless sensor networks

Abstract

As more Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are deployed, cooperation between co-located networks becomes an increasingly important research topic. Existing WSN cooperation is based on traditional in-direct interconnection and data sharing has to rely on a backbone network. This is not flexible for co-located WSNs. In this thesis, the argument for a paradigm shift towards 'Opportunistic Direct Interconnection' (ODI) is made. Direct interconnection is referred to as the ability of a WSN to share information and resources with neighbouring networks without using additional facilities. As neighbouring networks will appear and disappear throughout the life of the network, such interconnection must be opportunistic as it cannot be conceived at design time.

The first contribution of this research is the proposal of a framework towards achieving ODI. To demonstrate the feasibility of this framework, OI-MAC (Opportunistic Interconnection MAC) based solutions are developed. ODI schemes for different layers are designed and implemented as part of the protocols. With these ODI schemes, both networking-level and application-level interconnection among co-located WSNs can be established.

The second contribution of this research is an in-depth analysis of ODI's effects and performance. Using simulation, the effect on energy, nodal operation and packet delivery of interconnected WSNs is quantified. Also, the relationship between configuration and interconnection performance is figured out.

The third contribution of this research is the development of cooperation case studies. These case studies reveal the potential benefits and performance of ODI-based cooperation. Results show that the cooperation among co-located WSNs cannot only bring functional benefits to the applications, but also economic benefits to the network stakeholders. The effect on the interconnected WSNs is also quantified and analysed. However, the side effects are believed to be outweighed by the potential applications and economic benefits.

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Identifiers

ORCID for Geoffrey Merrett: orcid.org/0000-0003-4980-3894

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