Multi-constrained routing in wireless multimedia sensor networks

In this paper, we propose a novel routing model that can comprehensively depict multiple service requirements in multimedia sensor networks, and on the basis of this model, we design a new multi-constrained routing algorithm MCRA for multimedia communications. MCRA not only can provide end-to-end delay and packet loss ratio guarantees, but also can optimize and balance the energy consumption in sensor nodes. Compared to the congener algorithms, in MCRA, neither the acquisition of target location nor the route discovery requires any extra measurement equipment or coordinate system based on location message exchange. Besides, MAC differentiation service may optionally be applied in MCRA so as to differentiate forwarding priority levels for real-time and best-effort data in MAC layer. Theoretical analysis and simulation experiments are provided to validate our claims.