A Variable Threats Based Self-Organization Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks

Self-organization is an important issue in wireless sensor networks because of the inherent unreliability of the network. Besides, variable threats in the networks can not be ignored. Extending battery life and enhancing robustness under variable threats are two essential aspects which need to be considered when a self-organization scheme is explored. In order to address these issues, a redundant nodes selection scheme and a variable threats probability estimation scheme are proposed in this paper. RNS is able to select redundant nodes that can be switched off without affecting overall sensing coverage. TPE is able to help a sensor node to choose the most suitable path and avoid high-threat neighbors in order to reduce packet loss. The scenario with RNS extended battery life by 30% to 50%, and postponed the occurrence of first partitioning in the network by 27% to 140%. TPE decreased packet loss by 225% to 400% when a high threat level was involved.