A parasitic antenna array for directive multi-hop sensor communication

Abstract

Due to the strict size and power constraints of wireless sensor nodes, the design of a compact and energy efficient antenna module with adaptive directive gains is an extremely crucial problem. Conventional solutions are often prohibitive for such applications, as they require multiple radiofrequency (RF) chains that increase dramatically the hardware complexity and the power consumption. Motivated however by the benefits of adaptive antennas, which reflect to significant performance gains in a sensor network, this paper proposes an alternative design with pattern-switching ability, built on parasitic antenna elements that overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks. Indeed, it will be shown that the proposed compact antenna design might be a strong candidate for small-sized sensor nodes with low power constraints, since it requires a single RF chain and provides high directive gain. This implies remarkable hardware and energy savings, but without compromising the performance gains of the sensor network.

Directive and Reconfigurable Loaded Antenna Array for Wireless Sensor Networks

“…This covers all directions via a switch control; however, it does not present a narrow beam in the azimuth plane, which may create an overlapping area for energy-saving purposes. The solution proposed in this article can also be compared to those presented by Yang et al [12], Giorgetti et al [13], Kim et al [14], Catarinucci et al [3], Barousis et al [5], Lizzi et al [15] and listed in Table 1. All these antennas can be reconfigured in terms of radiation pattern using electronic components such as switches, PIN diodes, Digitally Tuned Capacitors (DTCs), ....…”

“…One promising solution for overcoming this issue is the use of a directive and reconfigurable antenna design at the hardware level of the sensor node [4,5]. This permits a significant reduction in collision and interference packets [6,7].…”