Practical Approach on Communication Wireless Sensor Network Design for Engineering Education

Abstract

Wireless sensor networks are one of the foremost areas of research in computer networking. The increased interest in this new breed of networks has risen due to their immense potential in various areas of application ranging from tracking birds to sensing poisonous and potentially lethal gases in subways and bus stations, especially after the increased risks posed by such terrorist attacks. Due to the nature of most applications these networks require to consist of very small, energy efficient elements which are able to make the most of their resources. Many methods have been developed in order to reduce the amount of energy consumed in wireless sensor networks. This thesis examines one such method defined to help conserve energy while aggregating data. The method is examined with a standard wireless network standard, Pico radio and the amount of energy consumed in it is analyzed. The nature of pseudo stationary networks is discussed and then the role of a method like Data Funneling in conjunction with such networks is analyzed. An algorithm called Zone Efficient Localized Data Aggregation Algorithm is defined which undertakes the facts associated with pseudo stationary networks into consideration and uses the advantages of Data funneling in order to maximize energy conservation. It is the aim of this thesis to show how energy can be conserved by minimizing the number of nodes involved in communication in a pseudo stationary network.