Deep learning-based optimization techniques for network lifetime enhancement in wireless sensor networks

Abstract

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are integral to applications like environmental monitoring, healthcare, and surveillance, yet they face the critical challenge of limited energy resources, which shortens the network's operational lifespan. Addressing this issue, this paper explores deep learning-based optimization techniques as a solution to enhance network lifetime by efficiently managing energy consumption. We present a detailed review of the existing challenges in WSNs and examine various deep learning methods, including neural networks, deep reinforcement learning (DRL), and generative adversarial networks, specifically tailored for WSN optimization. In this study, we introduce a new reinforcement learning (RL) based optimization algorithm to prolong the network lifetime. The proposed technique is intended to smartly distribute the energy consumption among the network elements, leading to desirable performance with regard to the battery lifetime. The paper ends with a summary of design aspects and future research directions to improve the WSN performance further based on deep learning.