Integration of Wireless Sensor Networks in Pervasive Computing Scenarios

Using wireless sensor networks as part of pervasive computing scenarios is a difficult problem. It involves providing functionality and node behavior required by pervasive computing applications given the very limited capabilities and the constraints of wireless sensor nodes. The goal of this work is to investigate the problem of integrating wireless sensor nodes and wireless sensor networks in pervasive computing scenarios and to develop solutions that facilitate such an integration. Based on an analysis of both research areas, of their specific properties and requirements as well as the similarities and differences of the two fields, we identify and discuss a set of five fundamental problem areas that complicate the integration of sensor networks and pervasive computing: communication, network setup and configuration, user experience, security and flexibility and adaptability. In the main part of this work, we then introduce a total of six solution approaches that deal with different aspects of the identified problem areas.