Autonomous monitoring framework for resource-constrained environments

The availability of low-cost imaging devices for embedded applications has enabled development of wireless monitoring systems capable of acquiring and transmitting both image and video data. Remote deployment of such systems is often constrained by limited power resources, thus a system must operate autonomously, balancing operational needs against available resources. This paper describes a framework for the design and implementation of an autonomous embedded remote monitoring system employing information-driven sensing to conserve energy and extend the system deployment lifetime. The results from two case studies show improvements over a conventional system and other similar systems through the use of intelligent algorithms for reliable event detection and enhanced system operational lifetime by efficient utilisation of limited resources. The results are applicable to low-power battery-operated field devices offering better resource utilisation in disaster management systems, intelligent transportation and remote monitoring.