Title: User-centric data gathering multi-channel system for IPv6-enabled wireless sensor networks

Authors: Paulo A.C.S. Neves, Andre Esteves, Rui Cunha, Joel J.P.C. Rodrigues

Addresses: Instituto de Telecomunicacoes, University of Beira Interior, Covilha, Portugal; Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco, Castelo Branco, Portugal. ' University of Beira Interior, Covilha, Portugal. ' University of Beira Interior, Covilha, Portugal. ' Instituto de Telecomunicacoes, Portugal; University of Beira Interior, Covilha, Portugal

Abstract: Wireless sensor networks provide sensing services through wireless connection of smart sensor nodes, featuring highly constrained hardware. Research has been focused on dedicated routing and transport protocols, namely validated through simulation, with the lack of real deployments. Recently, IPv6 caught some research interest by introducing a unified technology vision between the internet and sensor networks, integrating a stack for internal IPv6 operation at the smart sensor level. Although a good approach for internet connectivity, IPv6-based wireless sensor networks still lack the tools to enable ubiquitous computing, thus presenting the user with interfaces and capabilities to fully take advantage of sensing services for other applications. This paper presents a multi-channel data gathering solution with support for web visualisation, local computer application and mobile application. As a result, sensed data can be disseminated and consumed through various channels simultaneously, with adequate features and user interfaces. Moreover, the system features a Plug-and-Play like experience by abstracting hardware details and zero user configuration.

Keywords: WSNs; wireless sensor networks; wireless networks; user-centric approach; IPv6; 6LoWPAN; multi-channel systems; data gathering; plug-and-play; ubiquitous computing; web visualisation; mobile applications.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSNET.2011.037301

International Journal of Sensor Networks, 2011 Vol.9 No.1, pp.13 - 23

Published online: 02 Dec 2010 *

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