Method for transmitting data in a communications network

The invention relates to a method for transmitting data in a communications network comprising a plurality of nodes (S1, S2, , S7). The transmission of suitable configuration data between a node (S1, S2, , S7) and its neighbouring node ensures that the time slots (t2) used for the data transmission are used only by one node, thus preventing collision. The method is preferably used in wireless sensor networks, in which the individual sensor nodes exchange data between one another. The method guarantees reliable data transmission with low energy consumption by the individual sensor nodes. The method according to the invention can be combined with a decentralised pattern detection, for which mean values are decentrally determined in a suitable manner in the individual nodes (S1, S2, , S7) via protocols known per se, particularly via a consensus protocol or via a tree aggregation protocol. The method according to the invention is used particularly in a communications network for an automation system or a power network or a transport network.