Random Sensory Networks: A Delay Analysis

Abstract

A fundamental function performed by a sensory network is the retrieval of data gathered collectively by sensor nodes. The metrics that measure the efficiency of this data collection process are time and energy. In this paper, we study via simple discrete mathematical models, the statistics of the data collection time in sensory networks. Specifically, we analyze the average minimum delay in collecting randomly located/distributed sensors data for networks of various topologies when the number of nodes becomes large. Furthermore, we analyze the impact of various parameters such as size of packet, transmission range, and channel erasure probability on the optimal time performance. Our analysis applies to directional antenna systems as well as omnidirectional ones. This paper focuses on directional antenna systems and briefly presents results on omnidirectional antenna systems. Finally, a simple comparative analysis shows the respective advantages of the two systems.