FLAG: fuzzy logic augmented game theoretic hybrid hierarchical clustering algorithm for wireless sensor networks

Stability of the wireless sensor network (WSN) is the most critical factor in real-time and data-sensitive applications like military and surveillance systems. Many energy optimization techniques and algorithms have been proposed to extend the stability of a wireless sensor network. Clustering is a well regarded method in the research communities among them. Hence, this paper presents hybrid hierarchical artificial intelligence based clustering techniques, named FLAG and I-FLAG. The first phase of these algorithms use game-theoretic technique to elect suitable cluster heads (CHs) and later phase of the algorithms use fuzzy inference system to select appropriate super cluster heads (SCHs) among CHs. The I-FLAG is an improved version of FLAG where additional parameters like energy and distance are considered to elect CHs. Simulations are performed to check superiority of the proposed algorithms over the existing protocols like LEACH, CHEF, and CROSS. Simulation results show that the average stability period of WSN is better in FLAG and I-FLAG compared to other protocols, and so is the throughput of WSN during the stability period.