Modeling and Optimization of Parallel and Distributed Embedded Systems

Chapter 10A Lightweight Dynamic Optimization Methodology for Embedded Wireless Sensor Networks^*

Advancements in semiconductor technology, as predicted by Moore's law, have enabled high transistor density in a small chip area resulting in the miniaturization of embedded systems (e.g., embedded sensor nodes). Embedded wireless sensor networks (EWSNs) are envisioned as distributed computing systems, which are proliferating in many application domains (e.g., defense, health care, surveillance systems), each with varying application requirements that can be defined by high-level application metrics (e.g., lifetime, reliability). However, the diversity of EWSN application domains makes it difficult for commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) embedded sensor nodes to meet these application requirements.

Since COTS embedded sensor nodes are mass-produced to optimize cost, many COTS embedded sensor nodes possess tunable parameters (e.g., processor voltage and frequency, sensing frequency), whose values can be tuned for application specialization [69]. The EWSN application designers (those who design, manage, or deploy the EWSN for an application) are typically biologists, teachers, farmers, and household consumers that are experts within their application domain, but have limited technical expertise. Given the large design space and operating constraints, determining appropriate parameter values (operating state) can be a daunting and/or time-consuming task for nonexpert application managers. ...