Abstract: A cluster-based multipath routing protocol (CBMRP) was proposed, which is used for data gathering in a kind of event driven sensor networks. Firstly, the nodes in the event area compete for becoming a clusteread according to the distribution of theirs neighbors and residual energy. Secondly, the CBMRP utilizes ant colony algorithm to search for multiple paths,and presents a load balancing function to distribute the traffic along the multiple paths discovered. The simulation results show that CBMRP can balance the load of the network, reduce the energy consumption of nodes and prolong the network lifetime.

Key words: Wireless sensor networks,Cluster,Multipath,Ant colony algorithm