A clustering algorithm to provide interoperability to local area wireless networks

We propose a simple algorithm that allows mobile nodes to create clusters autonomously to minimize power consumption. We then provide a routing protocol to integrate clusters into a mixed wired/wireless network. We have kept our proposal as simple as possible while also providing it with sufficient robustness and auto-recoverability to enable simple and fast node reconfiguration. We analyze the overall protocol architecture and we show that, in general, the CERA (cluster-based energy-saving routing algorithm) implementation allows up to 25% energy saving while keeping the overhead extremely low.