Method for Applying MIMO Technology to Data Collection in Mobile Sensor Networks

Abstract

The article is devoted to enhancing the efficiency of data collection in mobile sensor networks (MSNs) by employing multi-antenna MIMO technology at the physical and medium access control (MAC) layers. A cross-layer approach is proposed, in which MIMO modes (spatial diversity, beamforming, and spatial multiplexing) are aligned with the network topology, the mobility of nodes or the mobile aerial data collection platform, and the medium access scheme. The core concept involves adaptive switching between modes based on current radio channel conditions and control objectives: increasing reception reliability, reducing node energy consumption, or shortening the data collection time from MSN nodes. The proposed method integrates: 1) A channel state estimation methodology considering mobility and limited resources; 2) A MIMO mode selection methodology based on delay-energy-reliability criteria and dynamic flow allocation with prioritization of nodes in poor radio conditions; 3) A method for implementing a compact access scheduling scheme where slot and power parameters are synchronized with instantaneous MIMO capacity to avoid collisions.