Survey on cluster-based routing protocols for cognitive radio sensor networks

Routing protocols could achieve efficient convergecast transmission of sensed data in cognitive radio sensor network (CRSN),and it is of vital importance for the whole network performance.In particular,cluster-based routing protocols could further lower routing selection complexity and improve scalability.Therefore,an overview of cluster-based routing protocols for CRSN was provided.Firstly,after a brief introduction to the concept and advantages of clustering in CRSN,the major factors concerning clustering algorithm design were pointed out.Secondly,the challenges faced by routing protocol design in CRSN and basic design principles were explored.Thirdly,the previous work of cluster-based routing protocols for CRSN was systematically analyzed and summarized.Finally,issues that require urgent solutions and future research directions were suggested.