Virtual force field coverage algorithms for wireless sensor networks in water environments

Abstract

Methods for underwater wireless sensor networks (UWSNs) currently lack the ability to monitor different zones in a water area. The coverage of the main area does not produce good results when fewer nodes are deployed. An UWSN algorithm based on the virtual force field algorithm is designed, termed the focus virtual force field method (FVFF). The concept of the key focus area is proposed. By adjusting the force and parameters of the virtual force field algorithm nodes, the monitored waters are partitioned The virtual force field algorithm has better coverage for water with fewer nodes and guarantees the coverage rate of the main area. Moreover, the cost of the system is reduced because of the use of nodes with restricted mobility. The simulation results show that the FVFF algorithm has a higher coverage rate than the virtual force field algorithm and the random deployment node method when the number of nodes is small. FVFF has better coverage in the main area of water.