Distributed estimation and synchronization in wireless networks: Coupled dynamical systems approach

This paper presents a method of distributed estimation and synchronization in wireless networks without dedicated fusion or centralized control centers. The suggested approach is based on local exchange of information in wireless networks that allows, under certain conditions, to reach a global decision based on locally available decisions/measurements. In particular, we consider network nodes as local dynamical systems with impulse-like coupling to establish time synchronization among the transmitted packets together with phase-coupling during packet durations to achieve distributed estimation/control. We analyze convergence properties of decentralized estimation in different network topologies with local connectivity and evaluate required coupling strength that ensures convergence of distributed estimation for different densities of nodes. Based on this approach we suggest a low power consumption method to resolve hidden terminal problem in self-organized cognitive radio networks.