Architecture and Data Routing Protocols for Heterogeneous IoT Systems in Difficult Terrains

Abstract

Using Internet of Things (IoT) sensor networks in places where it's hard to connect to the internet shows that traditional connectivity systems have big problems. This study shows a dual-tier heterogeneous routing architecture that combines terrestrial wireless sensor networks with Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) relays to reduce physical and energetic bottlenecks. Unlike traditional flat or completely static multihop setups, our method uses ZigBee to collect data at the ground level with low power and short range, and WiMAX to make high-bandwidth, long-range aerial connections that can get around big obstacles in the way. We talk about specific routing scenarios and better packet architectures that are meant to reduce delay and extend the life of node batteries. Later simulations show that using dynamic UAV relays instead of multi-hop ground links not only reduces signal loss but also greatly increases the network's lifespan and ensures stable throughput, even when there are major obstacles in the way of the central sink.