Wireless Sensor Networks and LTE-A Network Convergence

In recent years, machine-to-machine (M2M) networks, which do not require direct human intervention, is increasing at a rapid pace. Meanwhile, the need of a wireless platform with a vast coverage and low network deployment cost for controlling and monitoring these M2M networks has not yet been met. Mobile cellular networks (MCNs) and wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are emerging as two heterogeneous networks that can meet the challenges of M2M communication through network convergence. In this paper, we propose a model for network convergence between a Long Term Evolution-Advance (LTE-A) cellular network and a wireless sensor network. Quality of service (QoS) issues are assessed by a comparative study of the network delay in tight coupling and loose coupling LTE-A configurations. Simulation results indicate that the network delay in our proposed converged network is acceptable for various M2M applications.