VIKOR-Based Multi-Criteria Decision Making for Cluster-Based Routing in WSNs

Abstract

Clustering is the core concept essential for achieving sustained energy stability and extended lifetime in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). This clustering needs to be achieved by comprehensively deriving essential number of factors that help in determining the potential of nodes during cluster head (CH) selection process. In specific, multi criteria decision making approaches are highly suitable for CHs selection to maintain residual energy in the network. In this paper, VIKOR-based Multi-Criteria Decision Making is proposed for Cluster-based Routing for maximizing energy stability and packet delivery in WSNs. This multi-criterion decision-making strategy considered the factors of residual energy, packet forwarding potential, packet delay, number of hops and distance of communication during fitness evaluation. This fitness evaluation helps in selecting CHs such that frequent clustering and ideal number of clusters. It included the merits of fuzzy set theory for handling uncertainty included into the information being exchanged in the network. It combined fuzzy set theory and VIKOR for better clustering and energy stabilization process. The results of VIKORMCDA approach confirmed improved results based on Packet Delivery Rate (PDR), energy consumption, throughput and packet delay under varying number of Sensor Nodes (SNs) and rounds in the network.