Strategies and Challenges for Interconnecting Wireless Mesh and Wireless Sensor Networks

Wireless sensor networks and wireless mesh networks are popular research subjects. The interconnection of both network types enables next-generation applications and creates new optimization opportunities. However, current single-gateway solutions are suboptimal, as they do not allow advanced interactions between sensor networks (WSNs) and mesh networks (WMNs). Therefore, in this article, challenges and opportunities for optimizing the WSN-WMN interconnection are determined. In addition, several alternative existing and new interconnection approaches are presented and compared. Furthermore, the interconnection of WSNs and WMNs is used to study challenges and solutions for future heterogeneous network environments. Finally, it is argued that the use of convergence layers and the development of adaptive network protocols is a promising approach to enable low end devices to participate in heterogeneous network architectures.

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