Channel Analysis Based on Received Signal Strength in Wireless Body Sensor Network Systems

Abstract

In wireless body sensor network (WBSN) environments, diverse factors can affect channel environments. For example, the condition of the channel can be changed due to sensor mobility resulting from movements of the experimenter. In addition, the placement of the sensors can change the channel. In this paper, we analyzed the impact of different sensor placements and body movements on the channel environment by measuring the received signal strength indication (RSSI) and the packet delivery rate (PDR). Diverse experiments were conducted with real sensor devices in an office environment. The sensors were placed on the subject's stomach, back, and ankle, and data were obtained while the subject stood, walked, and ran. The experimental results showed that the RSSI decreased in accordance with an increase in the activity of the experimenter. They also revealed that the RSSI deviation varied depending on the placement of the sensors.