Survey on Clustered Routing Protocols Adaptivity for Fire Incidents: Architecture Challenges, Data Losing, and Recommended Solutions

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) significantly impact reliable data communications in environmental monitoring, health care, and transportation applications. Low-powered and small sensor nodes compose these networks, configured to perform specific tasks like detection, management, prediction, and monitoring. Clustering in WSNs is a reliable method of effectively transferring data within the network through routing. Thus, developing an effective routing algorithm to optimize network functionality is a big concern. Cluster Heads (CHs), selected through a range of metrics, are responsible for data aggregation and transmission to the Base Station (BS). Many clustered routing algorithms have been developed to address various issues like energy efficiency, network lifetime, and hotspot problems. However, several challenges still need to be addressed, including network segmentation, isolated node issues, and data routing failures. This survey offers a comprehensive review of various routing protocols and their different performance metrics. It evaluates the architectural challenges that caused network segmentations and data routing failures in the case of unexpected head node failures during high-stress events, particularly indoor fires. Recommended solutions to the mentioned issues are also explored. A new taxonomy for the CH-selection methods based on the technique used is proposed, along with a comparative review of other CH-selection surveys. Additionally, this survey scrutinizes the challenges and constraints inherent in current fault tolerance routing algorithms, evaluating their efficacy in fire-related incidents. The survey concluded that protocol designers must focus on the development and implementation of fire-adaptive routing protocols, incorporating optimal fault tolerance routing algorithms that adapt seamlessly to unforeseen environmental changes, including fire incidents. Such adaptability is pivotal in preserving network topology and preventing data loss.