Wireless Sensor Networks : Technology, Protocols, and Applications

EXAMPLES OF CATEGORY 1 WSN APPLICATIONS 59
2.5 EXAMPLES OF CATEGORY 1 WSN APPLICATIONS
In this section we discuss a number of WSN applications that either fall in the
C1WSN category or have a strong research–scientific focus. The applications
discussed below are just a few examples of the many possible applications that
exist or are evolving. The ability to deploy WSNs that interconnect in an effective
manner with unattended WNs is expected to have a significant bearing on the efficacy
of military and civil applications such as, but not limited to, combat field surveillance,
security, and disaster management. These WSNs process data assembled from multiple
sensors in order to monitor events in an area of interest. For example, in a disaster
management event, a large number of sensors can be dropped by a helicopter; networking
these sensors can assist rescue operations by locating survivors, identifying
risky areas, and making the rescue crew more aware of the overall situation and
improving overall safety. Some WSNs have camera-enabled sensors; one can have
aboveground full-color visible-light cameras as well as belowground infrared
cameras. The use of WSNs will limit the need for military personnel involvement
in dangerous reconnaissance missions. Security applications include intrusion detection
and criminal hunting [2.43]. Some examples of WSN applications are [2.6]:
1. Military sensor networks to detect and gain as much information as possible
about enemy movements, explosions, and other phenomena of interest
2. Law enforcement and national security applications for inimical agent
tracking or nefarious substance monitoring (e.g., see Figure 2.9)
Figure 2.9
Law enforcement–national security application.