Sensor Networks Performance in Harsh Environments

Sensor networks performance under harsh operating conditions is of growing concern, as redundant sensor networks rely on quasi-uniform distribution of nodes operability. Network operability is therefore hindered by localized energy depletion zones or environmental disturbs, affecting the whole network performance. In this paper, the authors introduce system metrics for measuring average or aggregate network performances as the topology degenerates and the environment changes throughout network lifetime. Through simulation of the network evolution, routing strategy and power management techniques are evaluated in terms of network performance in different environmental scenarios