A Map-Based Method for Geolocation in Multipath Environments

Abstract

A geolocation approach applicable to multipath environments is considered that leverages map data and differential delays from channel impulse responses measured at one or more receiver locations. Measurements are made at one or more receiver sites without requirements for time synchronization. The approach requires knowledge of the receiver locations and plan-view map data that includes 2D outlines of major reflecting structures such as buildings. The approach can accommodate both cooperative and noncooperative sources, contingent on accurate estimation of differential delays contained within the channel impulse response. Simulation examples employing a map with multiple reflecting structures are considered to demonstrate the technique. Results are computed for a case involving the use of multiple simultaneous receivers that surround the source. Ambiguity regions are shown for up to five receiver locations, as well as for the combined results from all receiver ambiguity maps. Since the ambiguity regions with this approach are different than traditional ambiguity patterns, the technique can potentially be fused with other geolocation approaches to improve ambiguity resolution.