HEHC: Heterogeneous-aware enhanced hierarchical clustered scheme for wireless sensor networks

In this paper, we are aiming to build an energy-efficient multi-level clustering hierarchy for heterogeneous wireless sensor networks. Conventional clustering protocols assume that all the sensor nodes are equipped with the same amount of energy and as a result, they cannot take the full advantage of the presence of node heterogeneity. Moreover, other existing clustering algorithms in both heterogeneous and homogeneous environments form one hop intra and inter cluster topology where each cluster head node can transmit directly to processing center. Consequently, it is not applicable to networks deployed in large regions. Adapting these approaches, we propose HEHC, a heterogeneous-aware enhanced hierarchical clustered scheme for wireless sensor networks based on weighted election probabilities of each node to become a cluster head according to the residual energy in each node, and then extend this algorithm to generate a multi-level hierarchical control of cluster head selection method based on Facility Location Problem (FLP) to gain better energy utilization. Finally, the simulation results demonstrate that our enhanced hierarchical clustering approach is more effective in prolonging the network life time.