AI-enabled energy-aware routing approach for future-wireless sensor networks

Abstract

Next-generation wireless sensor networks (WSNs) demand intelligent, energy-aware communication mechanisms capable of sustaining long-term operation in environments with varying conditions and strict resource limitations. Traditional routing protocols often fail to optimize energy consumption under varying network densities, heterogeneous traffic patterns, and environmental uncertainties. This research proposes an AI-enabled energy-efficient routing protocol (AI-EERP) designed to enhance network lifetime, stability, and data delivery performance in next-generation WSNs. The protocol integrates machine learning–based node selection, adaptive clustering, and predictive residual-energy estimation to make optimized routing decisions in real time. Using AI-driven models, AI-EERP dynamically adjusts routing paths based on energy patterns, link quality, and network topology changes. The simulation outcomes clearly indicate that the proposed approach achieves notable gains in energy efficiency, packet delivery reliability, and network lifetime when compared with traditional routing protocols, including LEACH, PEGASIS, and HEED. The proposed approach establishes a robust and scalable framework for future intelligent WSN deployments across applications including smart cities, precision agriculture, environment-focused applications and automated industrial operations.