A multi-channel frame-slot assignment algorithm for real-time MACs in wireless sensor networks

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a multi-channel frame-slot assignment algorithm to reduce the total number of slots required for data packet transmissions and enable a slot reuse against the irregular interference caused by the gradual signal fading. This becomes possible thanks to the efficient scheduling scheme of multiple channels. In our approach, each node determines a sending channel and a receiving channel based on the channel selection rule in a totally distributed manner. The channels are scheduled to the nodes at different depths such that any vertically two-hop away nodes can use the same slot without causing any inference. We evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithm by resorting to simulation. The simulation results show that our proposed approach significantly improves network throughput, packet latency and superframe size. © 2014 Springer International Publishing Switzerland.