Phase synchronization algorithms for distributed beamforming with time varying channels in wireless sensor networks

In a wireless sensor network, distributed beamforming is a cooperative technique that enables a group of nodes to emulate a virtual array and to steer a beam in a particular direction in space. This allows for shared message delivery to a distant receiver in a condition where typically communication range is limited due to power consumption constraints. Potential gains in terms of received power are compelling, but one of the main challenges is to achieve coherence of the transmitted signals at the destination in such a distributed scenario. This work presents innovative phase synchronization algorithms for a wireless sensor network that not only prove to be very efficient in terms of energy consumption, but also present good channel tracking capabilities in a time varying scenario.