A map matching algorithm based on a particle filter

Map matching is the process of finding a match for each GPS point in a vehicle´s trajectory to roads on a digital map. Extensive research has been conducted during the last years yielding many algorithms based on different approaches. One of the challenges that face those algorithms is the interruption of GPS signals that occurs specially in dense urban environments. In these cases on-board sensors like odometers and accelerometers can be used temporarily for positioning, however due to the poor accuracy of these methods, the quality of map matching decreases significantly. In this paper, we propose a method that improves the quality of map matching when GPS signals are not available. This method is based on a particle filter using heading and velocity measurement. We evaluate this method through its integration with an existing topological map matching algorithm. We compare the performances when this algorithm is used alone and when associated with the particle filter.