Minimizing thermal effects of in vivo body sensors

Abstract

In sensor networks, energy availability is often viewed as a constraint in the long-term sustainability of the network. Duplicate message suppression and message aggregation are high-level layer approaches to reduce power consumption. Body sensor networks have similar constraints however the use of aggregator nodes may increase the heat dissipation in the tissue surrounding these nodes. Due to additional processing, this additional heat may raise the tissue temperature to a level damaging to the individual. We propose a model of data reporting that balances power consumption with body temperature thresholds. We present a generic algorithm along with implementation analysis via simulation.