A minimum-energy path-preserving topology control algorithm for wireless sensor networks

The topology control strategies of wireless sensor networks are very important for reducing the energy consumption of sensor nodes and prolonging the life-span of networks. In this paper, we put forward a minimum-energy path-preserving topology control (MPTC) algorithm based on a concept of none k-redundant edges. MPTC not only resolves the problem of excessive energy consumption because of the unclosed region in small minimum-energy communication network (SMECN), but also preserves at least one minimum-energy path between every pair of nodes in a wireless sensor network. We also propose an energy-efficient reconfiguration protocol that maintains the minimum-energy path property in the case where the network topology changes dynamically. Finally, we demonstrate the performance improvements of our algorithm through simulation. This work was supported by by National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 60702055), Program for New Century Excellent Talents in University (NCET-07-0914), the Science and Technology Research Project of Chongqing Municipal Education Commission of China (KJ070521). Jin-Zhao Lin received the B.A. degree in wireless engineering from Xi’an Jiaotong University, PRC in 1991, and the M.A. and Ph.D. degrees of circuit and system from Chongqing University, PRC in 1995 and 2001, respectively. He had also a 3 year post-doctor experience in automation science and engineering. He is now a full professor in Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications, and a part-time professor in Chongqing University. His research interests include signal processing, wireless communication, and mobile network. Xian Zhou received the M.A. degree in communication and information system from Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications, PRC in 2008. She is currently a Ph. D. candidate in Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, PRC. Her research interests include sensor networks and fiber communication. Yun Li received the B.A. and M.A. degrees from Southwest University and Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications, PRC in 1997 and 2000, respectively, and the Ph.D. degree from University of Electronic Science and Technology, PRC in 2004. He is currently a full professor in Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications. His research interests include wireless networks.