3D fingerprint-based localization for wireless sensor networks

The position information of the nodes in a WSN has become crucial for many advanced features such as routing, clustering, and context-based applications. If the localization algorithm is distributed, the sensor nodes are able to calculate the position on their own without the help of a central computer. In this case the design of localization algorithms is a challenge due to the fact that the nodes are limited in relation to the memory capacity, processing power and energy consumption. In this paper we analyze the suitability of a distributed fingerprint-based localization algorithm, where sensor nodes store relevant information called fingerprints in order to use this knowledge during the position calculation. The localization algorithm has been evaluated in a three dimensional scenario using the framework MIXIM of the simulator tool OMNET++.