An approach to reduce the risk of network dropouts through dynamic role assignments

ZigBee aims to be one of the major standards for short-range wireless networks. Based on IEEE 802.15.4, ZigBee inherits the concept of FFDs (Full Function Devices) and RFDs (Reduced Function Devices) and a network hierarchy of PAN Coordinators, Routers and End Devices. Furthermore, it features a reasonable amount of network nodes and security mechanisms inside a robust MAC layer. Nevertheless, some key features for network reliability are missing. Every Coordinator/Router represents a single point of failure and in case of a breakdown End Devices end up as orphans without network connection. In our work we present possible solutions against network dropouts in certain cases, based on methods designed for use with meshed sensor networks and adapted for ZigBee.