The use of Multiwall model for reference RSSI data preparation for indoor localization purposes

Abstract

The article discusses the suitability of the multiwall radio wave propagation model for RSSI reference data preparation for fingerprinting-based indoor positioning applications. Localization system employs Bluetooth Low Energy beacons and mobile device to determine position of the user within the test area. The proposed system uses particle filter algorithm to estimate the user's current position from RSSI measurements and knowledge of reference electromagnetic field distribution computed for each beacon located in the building. The results of the comparison between the use of multiwall and ray tracing propagation models for indoor localization purposes has been shown. The relation between the time needed to prepare mentioned reference data was also demonstrated. Presented results show that for some cases it is possible to use less complex propagation models without losing sufficient localization accuracy but for the benefit of the time and complexity of calculations needed to prepare reference data for presented indoor localization application.