DRRP: A dynamically reconfigurable routing protocol for WSN

In a wireless sensor network (WSN) platform, there are always many different applications. These applications usually have different quality of service (QoS) requirements. However, in most situations, these different requirements cannot be satisfied simultaneously in the same platform. In this paper, based on the concept of potential in physics, we propose DRRP, a routing algorithm with the ability of dynamic reconfiguration. By providing access for the user to construct different virtual hybrid potential fields, DRRP accomplishes the goal of meeting the need of different applications and different network conditions. To make the effect of our routing protocol more excellent, we set a parameter, which can be changed dynamically, to influence the virtual hybrid potential field. By regulating the parameter according to the situation, we can optimize the routing protocol constantly. Moreover, we provide a convenient method for the administrator of the WSN to reconfigure the routing protocol just by a remote desktop application. According to experiment results, it is demonstrated that DRRP can be reconfigured easily when it is running on the platform. Meanwhile, DRRP will perform better after being reconfigured.