A novel self-localization algorithm based on RSS for wireless sensor networks

Self-localization is one of the basic problems in wireless sensor networks. In this paper, we propose a new localization algorithm using received signal strength (RSS) with seven anchors in order to balance the complex technology for distance estimation and the accuracy of the localization. First, based entirely on comparison of received signal strength transmitted by mobile anchors, the static nodes can acquire their positions without estimating these distances directly from other nodes. Then the unknown nodes can estimate the path loss exponent nearby with the estimated positions. Finally, the more accurate positions are achieved through log-distance path loss model. This proposed algorithm decreases the complexity of the hardware equipment, and improves the accuracy of localization result.