Channel-aware distributed detection in wireless sensor networks

The emergence of wireless sensor networks (WSNs) has added a new dimension to distributed detection (DD) system design. While the need for distributed data compression is still the dominant issue, during the system design and, in particular, the development of signal processing algorithms, one is confronted with both the stringent resource constraints imposed by a typical WSN as well as the unreliable transmission channels among the sensors and between the sensors and the fusion center. This paper addresses classical decentralized detection theory in the light of these new constraints and requirements. It is emphasized that an integrated channel-aware approach needs to be taken for optimal detection performance given the available resources.