Robust Time-Difference-of-Arrival (TDOA) Localization Using Weighted Least Squares with Cone Tangent Plane...

Area of Science:

• Signal Processing
• Array Signal Processing
• Geospatial Positioning

Background:

• Time-difference-of-arrival (TDOA) is crucial for source localization in sonar, radar, and sensor networks.
• Existing positioning methods struggle with edge cases, high noise, and initial position bias, often deviating from the Cramer-Rao-Lower-Bound (CRLB).

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a robust and accurate hyperbolic positioning algorithm for radiative sources.
• To address limitations of current methods in challenging environmental conditions.

Main Methods:

• A novel weighted-least-squares (WLS) algorithm incorporating a cone tangent plane constraint for hyperbolic positioning.
• Establishing a space-range frame by adding source-reference sensor range as a dimension.
• Linearizing the cone constraint via a tangent plane and iterative updates.

Main Results:

• The proposed WLS algorithm demonstrates high accuracy and robustness across various source positions and noise levels.
• Simulations show superior performance compared to state-of-the-art algorithms, especially under adverse conditions.
• The method effectively handles scenarios where sources are at array edges or initial positions are biased.

Conclusions:

• The developed algorithm offers a significant improvement for hyperbolic positioning using TDOA measurements.
• It provides a reliable solution for accurate source localization in complex and noisy environments.
• The cone tangent plane constraint approach enhances positioning performance beyond traditional methods.