Energy Efficient Clustering Algorithm for Wireless Sensor Networks

In this paper, we propose a novel energy-aware and layering-based clustering and routing algorithm (EA-CRA) for gathering data in WSNs. EA-CRA employs an innovative multilayered architecture. More specifically, we divide the field into a number of layers where the width of a layer not only decreases towards the base station, but also is composed of a certain number of clusters (sub layers). The proposed design not only shortens the communication distance between nodes, but also decreases the amount of communication overhead required for setting up clusters. Performance of our proposed algorithm is examined through carrying out many MATLAB simulations. The effectiveness of EA-CRA is verified through comparing its results with those obtained from previous relevant algorithms. Interestingly, our experimental results show that EA-CRA has superior performance in term of network lifetime.