Scientific Reports (Oct 2024)

An adaptive hexagonal deployment model for resilient wireless sensor networks in precision agriculture

  • Zhang Yinjun

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-75571-2
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 14, no. 1
pp. 1 – 23

Abstract

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Abstract This study presents an innovative hexagonal deployment model designed specifically for wireless sensor networks (WSNs) with a primary application in precision agriculture. The proposed protocol integrates advanced features, notably an adaptive frequency-hopping spread spectrum (AFHSS) mechanism and a decentralized real-time adaptation strategy to optimize data transmission in dynamic agricultural environments. The simulation study, conducted in diverse terrains with realistic sensor node distributions, meticulously evaluates the protocol’s performance using comprehensive Quality of Service (QoS) metrics. The hexagonal deployment model operates by strategically positioning sensor nodes in a hexagonal grid pattern, ensuring uniform coverage of the agricultural field. The AFHSS mechanism dynamically adjusts frequency channels, mitigating interference and fortifying the network’s robustness against external disruptions. Complementing this, the decentralized real-time adaptation empowers individual nodes to autonomously respond to the ever-changing environmental conditions, optimizing data transmission efficiency. Quantitative results from the simulations exhibit outstanding performance metrics. The protocol achieves an average latency of 50 milliseconds, a packet loss rate below 2%, a success rate exceeding 95%, and highly efficient obstacle management, with adjusted nodes accounting for less than 5%. These compelling outcomes underscore the protocol’s exceptional ability to deliver responsive and reliable data transmission, positioning it as a promising solution for enhancing environmental monitoring in precision agriculture. This study provides quantitative evidence of the protocol’s prowess and delves into the nuanced working mechanisms, offering a deeper understanding of its potential impact. The findings contribute significant insights to the field, serving as a robust foundation for researchers and practitioners engaged in designing and implementing resilient WSNs tailored for precision agriculture applications.

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