Energy Efficient Routing Protocol for Sensor Networks

"The U.S. Army requires a novel protocol to route data in sensor networks for the Future Combat System (FCS). Current protocols, and those in development, are either suited for Ad Hoc networks or energy efficient systems but not both. Nova's proposedprotocol will combine the features of a fully distributed Ad Hoc routing algorithm with the techniques found in finite energy communications systems. The result is a networking protocol that allows the Army to reliably deploy arrays of self-organizingsensor networks in an energy efficient manner in hostile environments, thereby meeting system mission life objectives.In this Phase I effort, the energy efficient Ad Hoc routing protocols and methods most applicable to the sensor network environment willbe evaluated. The routing protocol models will be adapted to contain energy monitoring metrics, applicable sensor network traffic/mobility patterns, and a deployable system configuration description. The data published in the technical reports in Phase Iwill allow the selection of the routing methods to be put into practice in the implementation phase. Nova's prior experience in the development of wireless mobile Ad Hoc network devices and low power RF sensor nodes will be leveraged to guarantee asuccessful program. Deployable sensor arrays which collect information often in areas, which are hostile to humans, and connecting that information stream to the Internet is an expanding requirem