A measurement procedure for the optimization of a distributed indoor localization system

Location-based services and indoor navigation are just two examples of applications that can draw big advantages from indoor localization systems. Although there are different mature technology for the outdoor scenarios, a single accepted and reliable solution for the indoor case still lacks. Many technology have been investigated but the one promising the best accuracy in the position estimation is based on ultrasound. A solution developed in this context in introduced is this paper. A localization system is briefly discussed and, an assessment procedure, aimed at determining the optimal choice in designing a specific node of a Wireless Sensor Network composing the localization system, is addressed. In particular, the experimental assessment, was aimed at finding the optimal circuit parameter maximizing both the operative range and the noise rejection of an anchor node by investigating the maximum reading range variation and the accuracy of the reading itself as functions of a threshold value of a comparator stage. Results show that, if the application of interest requires to optimize the operating range of the localization system, the optimal working condition could be defined as the one assuring the maximum system specificity guaranteeing the largest operating range.