Ions Motion Optimization-Based Clustering Routing Protocol for Cognitive Radio Sensor Network

Cognitive radio sensor network (CRSN) is an intelligent and reasonable combination of cognitive radio and wireless sensor networks. Clustering is an effective method to manage the network topology of CRSN. In order to solve the optimal cluster head selection problem in clustering which is proved to be NP-hard, inspired by ions motion optimization (IMO) algorithm, a novel centralized clustering routing protocol, i.e., IMO-based clustering routing protocol (IMOCRP) which can adapt to the dynamic characteristics of CRSN is presented in this paper. Optimal number of clusters and identity of cluster heads are automatically determined by combining the excellent characteristics of IMO algorithm and the rich resource, comprehensive information at the sink together. Thanks to its centralized structure, IMOCRP proposed in this paper avoids excessive overhead in cluster head selection and cluster formation, which in turn helps conserve energy. Available channel list at each living node is taken into consideration to perform reasonable channel allocation for clusters, and the probability of collisions with primary users can be reduced, which promotes more successful information delivery. Simulation results have shown that IMOCRP can balance network lifetime and effective information collection capability, and it is superior to other competing protocols.