Dual head clustering scheme in wireless sensor networks

Energy efficient data aggregation is one of the key research areas of wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Many clustering techniques have been proposed for topology maintenance and routing in these networks. In addition to this, these techniques are also beneficial in prolonging the network life time. Clustering protocols proposed in existing literature use a single Cluster Head (CH) for a group of nodes (Cluster). In these protocols, the CH performs a number of activities, such as data gathering, data aggregation and data forwarding. As a result, the CH depletes its energy quickly as compared to its member nodes. Hence, re-clustering is required frequently, which consumes considerable energy. This paper proposes an energy efficient Dual Head Clustering Scheme (DHCS) for WSNs. DHCS selects two different nodes within the cluster for cluster management and aggregation namely Cluster Head (CH) and Aggregator Head (AH) respectively. Simulation results show that the DHCS outperforms conventional clustering protocols in terms of energy conservation, network life time and network latency.