An Enhanced Clustering Method for Extending Sensing Lifetime of Wireless Sensor Network

Extending the lifetime of a wireless sensor network is vital in ensuring continuous monitoring functions in a target environment. Many techniques have appeared that seek to achieve such prolonged sensing gains. Clustering and improved selection of cluster heads play essential roles in the performance of sensor network functions. Cluster head in a hierarchical arrangement is responsible for transmitting aggregated data from member nodes to a base station for further user-specific data processing and analysis. Minimising the quick dissipation of cluster heads energy requires a careful choice of network factors when selecting a cluster head to prolong the lifetime of a wireless sensor network. In this work, we propose a multi-criteria cluster head selection technique to extend the sensing lifetime of a heterogeneous wireless sensor network. The proposed protocol incorporates residual energy, distance, and node density in selecting a cluster head. Each factor is assigned a weight using the Rank Order Centroid based on its relative importance. Several simulation tests using MATLAB 7.5.0 (R2007b) reveal improved network lifetime and other network performance indicators, including stability and throughput, compared with popular protocols such as LEACH and the SEP. The proposed scheme will be beneficial in applications requiring reliable and stable data sensing and transmission functions.