Uneven virtual grid-based clustering routing protocol for wireless sensor networks

Abstract

In order to improve energy efficiency and balance network load in wireless sensor network, an uneven virtual grid-based clustering routing protocol (VGCR) is proposed. VGCR divides network region into different rings through the base station-assisted positioning. According to optimal number of cluster heads, the rings are divided into grids furthermore. Cluster heads election and cluster formation are carried out in one grid. Finally, cluster is rotated to change the relative location of nodes in order to balance network load. Simulation results show VGCR effectively balances energy consumption among nodes and achieves obvious improvement on the network lifetime.