A Research of the Optimal Number of Cluster Heads of Wireless Sensor Networks

Energy consumption is a vital factor of wireless sensor networks. Due to the fact that it may be inconvenient or impossible to recharge node batteries, these networks should try by every possible means to reduce energy consumption and prolong the lifetime of the system. This paper conducts theoretical analysis and studies on the relationship of between energy consumption and the optimal number of cluster heads. It provides the useful results that can guide the plan and design of wireless sensor networks.