An Energy Efficient Clustering Scheme for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks

This paper proposes an Energy Efficient Clustering Scheme for mobile ad hoc networks. In the initial clustering stage, a node´s residual energy, nearby topology, relative location and relative mobility are used for determining whether the node is suitable for being a cluster head. In the cluster maintaining stage, a strategy called Distance Estimation Broadcasting is designed to help a cluster member to estimate the distance between itself and its cluster head. Thus, the cluster members can use less energy to accomplish the data transmission. Moreover, a dynamic calculated Off-Duty Threshold is proposed to trigger the re-clustering operation when needed. Simulation results show that the proposed clustering scheme performs better than the previous Weighted Clustering Algorithm and Distributed Weighted Clustering Algorithm.