Learning, self-scheduling TDMA (LeSS-TDMA) for wireless sensor networks

Abstract

This paper proposes a novel approach for scheduling TDMA activity in a sensor network, where nodes create their own schedules by learning from previous activity, called LeSS-TDMA. The protocol uses routing information to establish a schedule appropriate for periodical data gathering, which is the main traffic type in sensor networks. The schedule is determined by examining patterns that arise from data being sent in an incipient CSMA/CA, RTS/CTS phase. No extra control packets are needed, as is the case with existing TDMA solutions, so the power consumption is reduced. Our tests show a high data throughput and fast schedule establishment, in treelike topologies with relatively small neighborhoods.