Mobile sensing systems based on improved GDOP for target localization and tracking

In mobile sensing for target localization and tracking, the geometric relationship between sensor nodes and a target may affect the positioning accuracy, of which the effect may be indicated by geometric dilution of precision (GDOP). In the paper, a target localization scheme based on GDOP for time-difference of arrival mobile sensing systems is presented. To attain the best sensor formation for maintaining good GDOP values, a time-varying function based on the GDOP curved surface is defined. Based on the derived function, path planning and relocation of mobile sensor nodes (MSNs) at each time cycle are discussed. Simulation results show that location accuracy improves when the MSNs steadily move toward the best deployment for tracking the target.