Abstract

The propagation model is an essential component in the design and deployment of a wireless sensor network (WSN). Although much attention has been given to near-ground propagation models, few studies place the transceiver directly on the ground with the height of antennas at the level of a few centimeters, which is a more realistic deployment scenario for WSNs. We measured the Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) of these truly near-ground WSNs at 470 MHz under four different terrains, namely flat concrete road, flat grass and two derived scenarios, and obtained the corresponding path loss models. By comprehensive analysis of the influence of different antenna heights and terrain factors, we showed the limit of existing theoretical models and proposed a propagation model selection strategy to more accurately reflect the true characteristics of the near-ground wireless channels for WSNs. In addition, we implemented these models on Cooja simulator and showed that simplistic theoretical models would induce great inaccuracy of network connectivity estimation.

Highlights

  • A wireless sensor network (WSN) is composed of sensor nodes that are able to communicate with each other through wireless channels [1,2]

  • Much attention has been given to near-ground propagation models, few studies place the transceiver directly on the ground, with the antenna height at the level of a few centimeters, which is a more realistic deployment scenarios for WSNs

  • We explored the impact of near-ground propagation models on network connectivity by simulations

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Summary

Introduction

A wireless sensor network (WSN) is composed of sensor nodes that are able to communicate with each other through wireless channels [1,2]. An increasing number of practical applications prompts WSN research to be more realistic in every aspect. As with any other wireless communication system, the propagation model is an essential and critical tool for WSN planning and deployment [3]. The propagation model describes the radio channel characteristics, which are closely linked with the environment and physical parameters. Wireless channels can be affected by interference, noise and other factors, and the fading characteristics are closely related to the communication environment. The WSN would not perform as expected under realistic scenarios if simplistic or idealized propagation models are adopted. Since WSNs are often deployed in specific areas to monitor various environmental indicators in real-time [5], especially in harsh areas for emergency

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