Energy-Balanced Clustering Routing Algorithm Based on Distance Vector in WSN

Due to the restricted communication range and high network density, events forwarding in Wireless sensor networks is very challenging, and require multi-hop data forwarding. Improving network lifetime and network reliability are the main factors to consider in the research. In this paper, we propose an Energy-balanced Clustering Routing Algorithm based on Distance Vector, called ECRD. The operation of ECRD is divided into rounds and each round contains three phases: cluster formation phase, cluster-based routing establishment phase and data transmission phase. By calculating the appropriate number of clusters in advance, cluster head’s energy consumption is balanced. In cluster head competition stage, clusters are formed by virtual cells, and energycontrol factor helps to select the suited cluster heads to avoid the nodes with low residual energy becoming cluster heads. Energy-Distance Function plays important roles in cluster formation phase and cluster-based routing establishment phase. Experiment results show our method can effectively reduce and balance energy consumption and prolong the lifetime of Wireless sensor networks. Copyright © 2013 IFSA.