Enhancement in Reliability of IEEE 802.15.4 WBAN Using Greedy Spider Monkey Algorithm

Abstract Wireless Body Area Networks (WBANs) hold immense potential in healthcare monitoring, but ensuring reliable data transmission is crucial. While the IEEE 802.15.4 standard offers low-power operation and basic security, its Contention-Based Access (CBA) mechanism can lead to packet collisions and reduced reliability, especially in congested scenarios. This paper proposes a novel approach to enhance reliability in 802.15.4 WBANs by incorporating a Greedy Spider Monkey Optimization Algorithm (GSMA). The GSMA mimics the intelligent foraging behaviour of spider monkeys, enabling dynamic channel selection and optimal transmission scheduling. Our approach aims to minimize packet collisions by selecting channels with lower traffic based on historical data and real-time network conditions; the GSMA reduces the likelihood of collisions and data loss. Secondly, the algorithm prioritizes critical data packets based on their urgency and channel availability, ensuring the timely delivery of essential medical information. Finally, by reducing collisions and optimizing scheduling, the GSMA helps maintain efficient data flow within the WBAN. This paper presents the design and implementation of the GSMA-based approach within the 802.15.4 framework. Simulation results are presented to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method in improving reliability, reducing packet loss, and enhancing overall network performance in WBANs. The findings demonstrate the potential of the GSMA to address the limitations of 802.15.4 and contribute to developing more reliable and efficient WBAN solutions for healthcare applications.