Lifetime enhancement in Wireless Sensor Networks using fuzzy approach and A-star algorithm

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are used in many applications to gather sensitive information which is then forwarded to an analysis centre. Resource limitations have to be taken into account when designing a WSN infrastructure. Unbalanced energy consumption is an inherent problem in WSNs characterized by multi-hop routing and many-to-one traffic pattern. This uneven energy dissipation can significantly reduce network lifetime. This paper proposes a new routing method for WSNs to extend the network lifetime using a combination of Fuzzy approach and A-star algorithm. The proposal is to determine the optimal routing path from the source to the destination by favouring the highest remaining battery power, minimum number of hops, as well as minimum traffic loads. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in terms of balancing energy consumption and maximization of network lifetime, we compare our approach with A-star search algorithm and Fuzzy approach using the same routing criteria. Simulation results demonstrate that the network lifetime is significantly increased by employing the proposed routing method.