Initialization and Routing Optimization for Ad Hoc Underwater Acoustic Networks

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss the design and testing of an underwater acoustic ad hoc network using OPNET Modeler/Radio. The network is intended for the long-term monitoring of a selected ocean area. The data flow of the network is mainly towards a master node, which is responsible for collecting data generated by sensor nodes. When the network is first deployed, an initialization algorithm is executed and preliminary routes are determined. Since the network nodes are battery powered, an important measure of effectiveness is power efficiency. Therefore, in addition to the initialization algorithm, a genetic algorithm based routing optimization that maximizes the network’s lifetime is employed. Simulation results are presented. I.