Improving Performance of Cluster Heads Selection in DEC Protocol Using K-Means Algorithm for WSN

Area of Science:

• Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN)
• Network Protocols
• Energy Efficiency

Background:

• Wireless sensor networks (WSN) are increasingly used for remote control and monitoring.
• Energy conservation is critical for WSN nodes due to limited power.
• Developing energy-efficient WSN protocols remains an open research challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a new clustering protocol, DEC-KM, for enhanced energy efficiency in WSNs.
• To improve upon existing protocols like DEC by integrating K-means clustering.
• To extend the network lifetime and stability period of WSNs.

Main Methods:

• The proposed DEC-KM protocol combines Deterministic Energy-efficient Clustering (DEC) with K-means clustering.
• Heuristic rules were incorporated for improved cluster head selection based on node energy and position.
• Simulations were conducted using MATLAB to evaluate protocol performance.

Main Results:

• DEC-KM demonstrated shorter distances between cluster heads and nodes compared to the original DEC protocol.
• The new protocol achieved reduced overall energy consumption.
• Simulations confirmed improved network stability and extended network lifetime.

Conclusions:

• The DEC-KM protocol offers a significant improvement in energy efficiency for WSNs.
• It enhances network stability and extends operational lifetime compared to the standard DEC protocol.
• The integration of K-means and heuristic rules optimizes cluster head selection and data transmission.