Adaptive leading-edge detection in UWB indoor localization

Ultra wideband (UWB) localization systems have gained widespread use in indoor environments. Certain applications such as surgical navigation require high 3-D accuracy on the order of 1-2 mm. An adaptive leading-edge detection algorithm is proposed to obtain high 1-D ranging accuracy even in dense multipath conditions. This provides a robust sensing platform at the UWB base station for high accuracy detection of UWB signals even with low signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) conditions. The adaptive algorithm which includes a matched filter (MF) and first detect is outlined as well as comprehensive simulation results of the algorithm combined with the UWB localization system in realistic indoor environments.