Location movement and multiplicity attributes of sink in query-based wireless sensor networks

The principal issue in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is the efficient use of finite energy of each sensor node as it predominantly influences the life time of WSN. In this work, we proposed four case studies on a typical square shape geographical area. In all these cases, the network architecture is hierarchical and same network environment is considered. These cases differ from each other on sink node(s) features viz. single/multiple, optimality of locations and stationary/moveable. As sink node plays an important role in a bridging the communication between the remote entities (sensor nodes) and access points/users; the proposed algorithms are formulated by keeping sink node(s) in centre stage. Further, the paper concludes by comparing various outcome measures like number of queries supported, average residual energy status (RES) estimation that directly impact the 'hot spot' phenomenon, thus enhances network life time while ensuring avoidance of 'islanding' and still adhere to energy efficient usage of network resources.