A Novel Single Anchor Localization Mechanism Employing Target Movement

Unlike traditional multilateration techniques which usually require multiple anchor nodes to participate in localization process, this paper proposes a novel Single Anchor Localization (SAL) scheme employing target movement. The scheme requires the anchor node to only measure its distance to the target node and the target node to measure its moving distance along straight lines. Two algorithms, i.e., SAL based on two rectilinear movings and a triangular moving, are proposed depending on whether the target node also needs to measure its turning angle or not. The moving distance of the target can be estimated using human step or height, geographical indication, vehicle wheel, etc. Some targets may be able to exactly measure its moving distance, e.g., a vehicle equipped with speed sensors. The turning angle of the target can be obtained by using an angle measurement or compass application installed in a mobile phone or a steering wheel angle sensor installed in a vehicle. Especially, a 90° turning angle can be easily achieved through human eye estimation if the terrain allows a right-angle turn. Extensive simulations are conducted to evaluate the performance of the algorithms, investigating the effects of a set of parameters. The proposed SAL scheme not only reduces the complexity and cost of the localization system, but also provides targets with a localization opportunity in a harsh environment where only one anchor can be attached.