Effective coverage and connectivity preserving in wireless sensor networks

In this paper, we address the problem of finding an optimal coverage set by effectively eliminating redundant nodes with guaranteed connectivity without using centralized control and accurate location information. Using a fully distributed approach, we propose an effective redundant node elimination method that considers even the smallest overlapping regions to establish a coverage set. Further, an extension scheme is presented that finds the minimum number of sensors among the coverage set, where the network connectivity is guaranteed. We present the simulation results to illustrate achievable coverage set while preserving connectivity, and energy saving to verify our approaches.