FESCO: A FUZZY-ENSEMBLE SCALABLE CLUSTERING PROTOCOL FOR PROLONGING LIFETIME OF WSN

Abstract

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) face critical challenges in energy efficiency and network longevity due to constrained node resources. This paper proposes FESCO (Fuzzy-Ensemble Scalable Clustering) ,  a novel protocol designed to address energy inefficiency and scalability challenges in heterogeneous Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). Integrating fuzzy logic for adaptive cluster head (CH) pre-selection and ensemble learning for robust CH finalization, it optimizes energy consumption while accommodating node heterogeneity. The protocol employs a three-tier architecture: (1) Fuzzy-based evaluation of residual energy, node density, and BS proximity to shortlist potential CHs; (2) Weighted ensemble voting among LEACH-SF, HEEC, and MR-SEP algorithms to ensure stable CH selection; and (3) Energy-aware multi-hop routing with mobile sink support to minimize transmission overhead. NS-3 simulations demonstrate FESCO’s superiority, achieving 40% longer network lifetime than LEACH-SF and 35% higher energy efficiency compared to HEEC in 500-node deployments. Notably, FESCO maintains a 94% packet delivery ratio under dynamic topologies, proving its scalability. The protocol’s synergy of computational intelligence and distributed coordination makes it ideal for large-scale, resource-constrained WSNs.